Showcasing My Kimono Coordinations

Today, I’d like to share some of my kimono coordinations with you! While I don’t claim to have exceptional styling skills, I hope these examples inspire you with ideas on what works and what may look a bit unconventional.

A Sheer Kimono from My Dance Instructor

This is a light, sheer black kimono with what seems to be a traditional shikishi (square card) pattern, which gives it an airy feel despite the dark color. The obi was originally a fukuro obi that I repurposed as a half-width obi.

A Versatile Beige Kimono

Another piece from my dance instructor, this is an unlined kimono (hitoe), very easy to wear, and the neutral beige color makes it versatile. I paired it with a half-width polyester obi.

A Western-Patterned Kimono in Polyester

This polyester kimono has a cute, slightly Western pattern on a pink base. It’s slightly muted, so I feel comfortable wearing it despite its brightness. I paired it with a simple white obi

White Obi Variation

Here, I paired the same pink kimono with an even whiter obi and added a gray obiage that I really like.

A Washable Crepe-Style Kimono

This washable kimono has a crepe-like texture. I used the same obi as in the first photo and tied the obijime in the “Fuji knot” style to add an accent.

Dark Polyester Kimono with a Different Side of the Obi

This is the same kimono from the second coordination, but I used the reverse side of the obi for a more subdued and earthy look.

Subtle Hakata Obi Variation

Again, the same kimono, but with a half-width Hakata obi, giving it a simple and slightly subdued impression.

Muted, Coordinated Colors for a Balanced Look

Since I’m on the shorter side, I often stick to unified colors, which gives a calm, balanced feel to my look.

Full-Patterned Komon with Black Obi

This full-patterned komon pairs well with a black obi to add structure, and I matched the green obiage with a color from the kimono pattern.

Bargain Crepe-Style Kimono

This washable kimono has a crepe feel and was quite a bargain at around 500 yen. However, it has a unique scent that seems embedded in the fibers, so it’s currently airing out. The obidome used here was originally a hair accessory, which I converted after the comb broke. It’s a cherished keepsake from a family trip during my childhood.

Another Full-Patterned Favorite

This is one of my favorite full-patterned kimonos, though it’s quite large and a bit challenging to style. A white obi adds a nice contrast.

Mandarin Duck Pattern Kimono

This kimono has a traditional mandarin duck (oshidori) motif. I chose the obi and obiage colors to complement the kimono’s pattern, giving it a truly classic look.

Looking back, I notice I frequently use the same kimonos and obi combinations. I have a few other pieces that I’ve purchased but haven’t yet worn, so I’m hoping to give them some attention soon. I hope these examples offer you a bit of inspiration!