You know how you see something once, dear readers, then you see it again, then it seems like it’s everywhere you look and you just can’t escape it? That’s been me this month with kimonos. I’ve seen them all over the place: on YouTubers, in magazines, and of course on fabulous fashionistas. They’re being sold everywhere from Bloomingdale’s to Forever 21, so it seems like they are one of the it trends this summer and we just had to talk about them, right?
Ok, if you’re like me, you’re wondering what’s with the name, because these really look nothing like traditional Japanese kimonos. I did some Googling and couldn’t figure it out, so if you know, leave me the details in the comments. Basically we’re talking about a very thin, elbow length or longer cardigan made out of any number of fabrics. Most are imitation silk, but I’ve seen cotton as well. What makes them kimonos and not cardigans is the shape. They’re very boxy and flowy, not form fitting at all, and the hem can be anything from waist to floor length. I’ve seen all kinds of different fabrics, usually patterned, and often with embellishments, like lace or fringe on the sleeves or hem.
I think I’m kinda on the fence on this trend. On the one hand, they’re cute and flowy, on the other hand, it’s summer, so I don’t really need to be wearing extra fabric and I have a feeling this trend will be over by fall, so I don’t know that I want to spend money on it. I like that they’re any easy way to add dimension to an outfit and will look great on any body type or age. I could definitely see myself wearing a kimono around the house when I’m feeling like I want to dress up my usual t-shirt and leggings. Ok, now I’m talking myself into getting one!
To get the most wear out of your kimono, make sure you get a color that works with the clothes you have. I can’t say this enough, savvy shopping means knowing your closet and buying what works with what you already have, not what you wish you had. Real silk is your best bet because it will keep you the coolest in the summer heat. When it comes to length, think about what flatters your body. A floor-length kimono will make you look taller and one that hits at the hips will lengthen your torso. I’d stay away from fringe on the sleeves because that’s just going to be dangling and getting in the way of everything I touch. Go for embellishments at the hem so you get the cute look, but it’s not getting in your way. Let me see how you’re rocking your kimono by tagging them on Instagram with #mygoodwillfind!
Fellow fashionistas, are you jumping on this trend bandwagon? Where will you wear your kimonos? And can you answer my very important question of why these are even called kimonos? Sound off in the comments!
i managed to thrift one recently, though i wondered if i would ever wear it. i ended up with the perfect opportunity — on an extremely hot day, i was attending an event where i wanted to look casual, yet put together. the heat meant i wanted to wear a tank top, but that was a little TOO casual, so i threw my newly-thrifted kimono over top. perfect! it was such a light layer that it didnt really add much warmth to what i was wearing (plus i could remove it when outside) and the extra visual layer and pattern provided just the extra visual interest i needed to look like i tried harder than i really did.
so while it may not be a look for the office or even for every day, if you manage to snag one for a great deal like i did, it can be a fun addition to your wardrobe! perhaps thinking of it as an accessory rather than an article of clothing would help open up the possibilities of how to wear it?
Love the idea of thinking of it as an accessory!
I agree with EvaNadine. In particular, I think print kimonos are great for jazzing up a party outfit or summer outfit. I also think they’re good for lounging around, poolside.
I have one kimono-like top that I pair with a tank top and skirt for the summer; I accessorize with a belt to give the top some shape. or I can swap out the skirt for a pair of jeans.