KIMONOCHICExquisite antique kimono + a contemporary fashion of East meets West

Sorry!

2009-12-12T21:17:00.005+09:00

Sorry that I have been unable update this blog.
I`ve been preoccupied with other things and I will need more time to get back to the cycle of blogging.

In the meantime, please feel free to email me if you have any questions regarding the artists or their works.

Thank you for visiting my blog.

KIMONOCHIC

Colorful Zori

2009-08-20T22:26:00.005+09:00

Colorful Zori
By: Ketoy
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Matrial: cotton, cork
Size: various sizes available

I love Asakusa. Those familiar with Tokyo recognize it as one of the oldest districts which also retains some of its traditional, pre-20th Century flair. The creator of these cute zori, Katoy, is also based in Asakusa.

Both design and materials distinguish these zori. I love the color schemes. Each of them sensibly matches the color of its thongs and soles. Another unique feature is the material used for the soles: cork. That makes these zori super light and comfy! Personally, I enjoy wearing these zori with just a T-shirt and jeans.

Japanese Style Tie - Running Water With Five Different Colors

2009-08-06T02:34:00.003+09:00

Japanese Style Tie - Running Water With Five Different Colors
By: Amus Tokyo
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: pure silk

One frequently sees this motif used in traditional dance costumes. When translated, “Goshikiryusui” means “running water with five different colors.” The red lining forms a beautiful contrast to the outer material. I am amazed by how these traditional motifs are transformed into modern fashion statements.

Japanese Style Tie - Chrysanthemums and Drums

2009-08-03T23:56:00.005+09:00

Japanese Style Tie - Chrysanthemums and Drums
By: Amus Tokyo
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: pure silk

The pattern on this chic tie incorporates Japanese chrysanthemums and drums. Although this design uses traditional motifs, the tie projects a very modern image. This tie reflects one of the tenets of Japanese aesthetics: “simple is best.”

Japanese Style Tie - Elegant Flowers

2009-08-03T23:52:00.002+09:00

Japanese Style Tie - Elegant Flowers
By: Amus Tokyo
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: silk brocade

The fabric of this tie is called “Kinran,” which originates from Nishijin ? a popular brocade style in Japan. Kinran is woven using either gold thread or threadlike strips of gilded paper, resulting in gorgeous cloth. It is high in quality and one of the most luxurious cloths widely used for obi. This elegant tie goes surprisingly well with jeans.

Elegant Kimono Dress

2009-07-28T22:48:00.007+09:00

Elegant Kimono Dress
By: MEDAA and wayomix
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material:
Outer: polyester 100%
Lining: cupra 100%

Size:
Length: approx 48.4 inches
Width: approx 15 inches
Sleeves: approx 21.6 inches
Waist: approx 17.7 inches
Hip: approx 24.4 inches
*measured with the belt untied.

Please note the superb fabric used in this dress. The dynamic pattern of red rolling waves conjures-up images of woodblock printings by the famous Katsushika Hokusai. The blue flowers sprinkled over those waves help project a strikingly eclectic image. As for the cutting, the neckline and the belt reflect a style closer to that of a kimono. This dress exemplifies the concept of "East meets West." This elegant dress is a collaboration of MEDAA and wayomix.

Drawstrting Bag - Paper Balloon

2009-07-16T22:12:00.007+09:00

Drawstring Bag - Paper Balloon
By: Aya
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Size: 7 x 7 x 7 inches

This is also a drawstring bag made of patches taken from an antique kimono and a piece of leather. They are carefully and neatly stitched together to form a shape of "Kaimifusen," which is a traditional Japanese paper balloon. This bag is practical, durable, and beautiful!

Modern Yukata Style

2009-07-14T10:15:00.004+09:00

Modern Yukata Style
By: Shimaiya
(click to see the profile of the boutique)

There are different kimono for different seasons in Japan. Strictly speaking, yukata is not "kimono" but is a casual wear which is used to be worn only in the indoors in the old times (these days, a lot of people wear it in the outdoors). Yukata is for summer and made of cotton or hemp. It is very light, comfortable, and above all, very easy to wear. Traditionally, yukata come in indigo blue or white. White yukata are for the daytime because white absorbs less heat; blue yukata are for the night-time because the dye works as mosquito repellent. They are beautiful and practical but they could be a wee bit dull. In these yukata styles suggested by Shimaiya are very colorful and fun!

Items:
Left
Gingham check x tulip yukata
Vermilion red x yellow reversible obi
Hemp drawstring bag

Right
Flower x navy blue checkered yukata
Yellow x orange x white bordered reversible obi
Straw basket bag

Pink Yukata

2009-07-13T01:01:00.007+09:00

Pink Yukata
By: Shimaiya
(click to see the profile of the boutique)

This pink yukata is a modern-day yukata and it is perfect even for a beach outing! Sunflower, which is a symbolic flower of summer, is scattered all over the it. The vermilion bordered obi complements the yukata. A fun yukata style suggested by Shimaiya.

Items:
Pink x sunflower yukata
Yellow x vermilion red obi

MOGA Party Bag

2009-07-10T23:43:00.004+09:00

MOGA Party Bag
By: Aya
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Size: 5.1 x 5.5 x 2.3 inches

The combination of a bronze pine tree and pink and back stripes is striking. It imparts a retro-modern atmosphere to this bag. As you can see in the picture, the size of the bag is relatively small and it is just big enough to hold a cell phone, handkerchief, and rouge. This elegant petite bag is perfect for a cocktail party.

Emerald Bag

2009-07-10T23:38:00.004+09:00

Emerald Bag
By: Aya
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Size:11.8 x 9.8 x 1.9 inches

This bag is made of beautiful antique emerald obi fabric, English tweed fabric, and premium French lace. The lining uses rose patterned antique fabric from France. This bag stands out due to the way in which it incorporates materials from three different countries and blends them together exquisitely.

Drawstring Bag - Rabbit

2009-07-05T21:18:00.007+09:00

Drawstring Bag - Rabbit
By: Aya
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Size:8.6 x 6.2 x 3.1 inches

This adorable fabric must have been a children`s kimono for "Shichigosan," that is a series of celebrations for kids when they turn 3, 5, and 7. They put on a kimono and visit a shrine and participate in special ceremonies. The fabric of the lining is a green dotted pattern on white cotton. Drawstring bags are very common in Japan and are very practical.

Hyotan Bag - Bangasa

2009-07-01T11:01:00.004+09:00

Hyotan Bag - Bangasa
By:mikigolon
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Size:8.2 x 8.6 x 3.7 inches

This is another Hyotan Bag. In this picture, you can see how the handles are attached to the body. How clever! This is a very minimalistic approach and it provides the best shape. The fabric features Bangasa, a traditional Japanese umbrella made of bamboo and paper. It looks as if the umbrellas are floating on the surface of a river. The contrast between the reddish lining and purplish body is absolutely beautiful.

Aoi Bag

2009-07-01T10:54:00.004+09:00

Aoi Bag
By:mikigolon
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Size: 11.4 x 8.8 x 2.7 inches

As you can see, the bag is hanging on a branch of a tree in this photo. Often, bags by this designer are photographed in outdoor settings: on grass, on a tree trunk, and other locations. Her bags have a naturalistic feel to them. She cherishes all the materials she uses. In this streamlined bag, nothing is wasted. Her bags are handcrafted with attention to detail. This bag is another such example. The circles on the fabric flow with the beautiful heart-shape of the bag. The combination of white background and red flowers are simple but elegant.

Hyotan Bag – Hanabishi

2009-06-28T01:44:00.005+09:00

Hyotan Bag - Hanabishi
By:mikigolon
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Size:8.2 x 8.6 x 3.7 inches

The fabric features Hanabishi, which is a traditional Japanese emblem that consists of four petals forming a flower in an argyle shape. The emblem was used widely by merchants in the Edo period. The shape of the bag was created with a Hyotan (a vegetable) in mind. It has a beautiful outline which connects the body and the handles seamlessly. White flowers are lined up neatly and purple background compliments them. This is a truly unique bag!

Bird and Camellia Dress

2009-06-15T22:37:00.016+09:00

Bird and Camellia Dress
By: SERAPHIM
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: cotton
Length: 44 inches
Bust: 33 inches
Sleeves: 6 inches

This elegant dress features cute little birds and camellia blossoms. The perfect cut of the dress is consistent with other pieces created by SERAPHIM. However, the fabric of this Japanese dress truly stands out. Traditional subjects dominate the fabric, which are recognized by Japanese, but other might not realize. I guess that its true beauty is left to the beholder.

Colorful Antique Makeup Bags

2009-06-14T00:09:00.011+09:00

Colorful Antique Makeup Bags
By: MONJA
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: antique obi fabric
Size:4.7 x 5.1 x 1.1 inches

I find this a collection of makeup bags striking. I adore the excellent taste of MONJA. Each is made from an antique obi and looks like work of art. The fabric used in the lining of each is different too.

Antique Obi Cocktail Bag

2009-06-13T22:04:00.002+09:00

Antique Obi Cocktail Bag
By: MONJA
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: antique lace
Size:5 x 7.8 x 2 inches

In this bag, the best part of an antique obi is carefully trimmed out and positioned perfectly in the center. The traditional Japanese pattern and the vivid color are accentuated by white antique lace.

Onihei

2009-06-11T22:19:00.010+09:00

Onihei
By: RION
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Size: L

This stylish men`s zori uses tenugui which is a traditional hand towel made of cotton. For the last few years, there has been a revival of tenugui in Japan. Modern-day tenugi comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Thus, they combine trendiness with practicality. This zori is a very unique piece as men`s zori tend to be plain in comparison to ladies` zori.

Kimono Babydoll

2009-05-29T22:54:00.004+09:00

Kimono Babydoll
By: MONJA
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: antique obi fabric

This is one of the most popular items at MONJA. Modern and traditional styles blend carefully to create this top. The upper portion is made of antique kimono fabric. MONJA applied one of the methods used in couture design on this part, which uses no pleats to accentuate the beautiful prints of the fabric.

Antique Obi Bag - Bird

2009-05-29T22:52:00.008+09:00

Antique Obi Bag - Bird
By: MONJA
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: antique obi fabric
Size: 6 x 10 x 2 inches

This is the very first bag made by MONJA. It was handcrafted using an exquisite antique obi. The very intricate embroidery of the bird makes this bag a true one-of-the-kind piece.

Antique Obi Bag - Flower

2009-05-29T07:54:00.010+09:00

Antique Obi Bag - Flower
By: MONJA
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: antique obi fabric
Size: 6.6 x 12 x 4.3 inches

This bag was also handcrafted using a luxurious antique obi, which has a very smooth and soft surface. The same fabric is used on the handles. The pattern used on this obi projects a classy image. This elegant bag goes well with a formal kimono as well as a formal dress.

Crane Dress

2009-05-24T10:36:00.005+09:00

Crane Dress
By: SERAPHIM
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: polyester
Size:
Length: 40 inches
Bust: 35 inches
Sleeves: 20 inches

One this dress, it looks as if cranes are flying over plum blossoms under the moonlight. Both cranes and plum blossoms are considered to bring good fortune. So you could also call this a lucky dress. Despite the traditional motif used in the fabric, the overall image of this dress is contemporary and cute! The black ribbon is detachable.

Floral Dress

2009-05-24T10:33:00.008+09:00

Floral Dress
By: SERAPHIM
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: polyester
Size:
Length: 40 inches
Bust: 35 inches
Sleeves: 21 inches

This feminine dress uses Chirimen, which is traditional a Japanese heavy crape cloth for kimono. Chirimen is not only beautiful, it is also practical: wrinkle-resistant! The fabric has prints of elegant flowers scattered all over it. As with other dresses by SERAPHIM, this dress is handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Chrysanthemum Dress

2009-05-15T01:20:00.009+09:00

Chrysanthemum Dress
By: SERAPHIM
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: cotton
Size:
Length: 38 inches
Bust: 35 inches
Sleeves: 6 inches

A chic & classy black dress.

Although the fabric itself looks like those used in a traditional kimono, the way this dress is put together projects a more modern image. I like the vivid contrast of black background and the colorful flower prints. The V-shaped neckline and the flared skirt provide a feminine touch to the dress.

Konpeito Dress

2009-05-15T01:16:00.013+09:00

Konpeito Dress
By: SERAPHIM
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: polyester
Size:
Length: 38.5 inches
Bust: 35 inches
Sleeves: 22 inches

Konpeito are Japanese traditional small candies come in a variety of colors.

This gorgeous dress looks as if colorful Konpeito have been spilled all over it. The fabric has beautiful prints of peonies and chrysanthemums. The cutting is beautifully done. The elegant white lace and the balloon sleeves add elegance to the dress.

Antique Rose Dress

2009-05-15T01:01:00.007+09:00

Antique Rose Dress
By: Maison de Couture KIMONO Antiquite
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: antique silk kimono
Size: 6
Length: 31 inches
Cuffs: 10 inches
Sleeves: 14 inches

An elegant short dress with beautiful rose patterned silk fabric from an antique kimono.

What makes this dress unique is that the lining from the same kimono is used for the cuffs and neckline. The contrast of the colors is striking. If you are interested in how the original antique kimono was transformed into this dress, click this link:　
http://kimono-antiquite.ocnk.net/page/9

Modern Pink Scarf

2009-05-15T01:00:00.003+09:00

Modern Pink Scurf
By: Maison de Couture KIMONO Antiquite
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: silk
Size: 40x3.5 inches

A simple yet stylish scarf with a beautiful floral pattern. It will blend well with your existing wardrobe. It uses 100% silk on both sides and is handcrafted.

Elegant Makeup Bag

2009-05-12T07:07:00.009+09:00

Elegant Makeup Bag
By: MONJA
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: antique lace, silk fabric, antique kimono textile
Size; 5.1 x 6.6 x 2 inches

Another makeup bag with a twist. This versatile bag can hold your cosmetics or serve as a small clutch bag when the occasion calls for it. The outer material is elegant pink silk fabric accompanied by beautiful antique lace; the lining is made of antique kimono textile.

Italian x Japanese Silk Bag

2009-05-12T07:03:00.008+09:00

Italian x Japanese Silk Bag
By: MONJA
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: Italian wool, antique obi textile, antique lace, wood
Size: 8.6 x 12 x 4.3 inches

Italian wool meets Japanese textile. Black Italian wool contrasts with a colorful pattern made of antique obi textile and antique lace. Cute flower carvings on the wood handles are an additional pleasing detail. This gorgeous, one-of-a-kind bag goes as well with Western clothing as it does with traditional kimono.

Butterflies Clutch

2009-05-12T06:58:00.006+09:00

Butterflies Clutch
By: MONJA
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: antique obi, steel
Size: 7 x 12 x 4 inches

An elegant clutch bag is suitable for almost any occasion. For this bag, the artist has used an antique obi textile with an exquisite two butterfly pattern. The handle is made of the same material. Like all of our items, it is handmade and one-of-a-kind.

Romantic Obi

2009-05-12T06:34:00.005+09:00

Romantic Obi
By: Shimaiya
(click to see the profile of the store)

Material: polyester, sequins

It looks as if flowers are floating on running water and butterflies are flying over them. I like the way silver is used to create an image of running water and the way sequins are used to form the butterflies. As you might have noticed, this obi is rather contemporary as compared to the other two obis. The kimono is not a forgotten tradition. Although Western clothing is the mainstream in Japan, new styles and trends of kimono are still being created.

Tsubaki Obi

2009-05-12T06:31:00.009+09:00

Tubaki Obi
By: Shimaiya
(click to see the profile of the store)

Material: polyester

I love this beautiful blue obi. Ttsubaki means camellia in English, which is a type of flower widely used in kimono design. Ttsubaki is a winter flower. When it is cold and no other flowers blooms, people can still enjoy the beauty of Tsubaki. The interesting hexagon shapes represent the turtle, which is a symbol of longevity and is often incorporated in traditional craft design in Japan.

Silk Obi - Shiose

2009-05-12T06:15:00.012+09:00

Silk Obi – Shiose
By: Shimaiya
(click to see the profile of the store)

Material: silk

This is a beautiful silk obi (a belt for kimono) with a intricate embroidery of flowers. I like the strong contrast of colors and the minimalistic design. I`m not sure what you can do with this obi if you don`t own a kimono. Perhaps you could think of some creative ways in chich to use this obi. At the same time, isn`t it beautiful just to look at?

PINK LADY

2009-03-18T06:35:00.008+09:00

PINK LADY
By: RION
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Size M (size 6 ~7)
Handmade

Here is a trivia question: when did Japanese start wearing zori?

The history of Zori dates back to the 8th century in Japan. Zori were typical footwear up until the 19th century. Zori have been loved by the Japanese people because they are simple and comfortable. This pair of Zori, to me, is like the next generation . It`s very pop and cute. I have never seen anything like it. It goes well with Kimono or even Jeans.

Hanamomen

2009-03-18T06:29:00.008+09:00

Hanamomen Hairpin
By: RION
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Antique Kimono fabric
Diameter1: 0.8 inches
Length of the pin: 1.8 inches
Handmade

Run out of hair styling ideas? How about this hair pin to spice up your hair style?

The cute little flower is made of antique Kimono textile. The motif is the plum flower. Plums were brought to Japan from China more than 1,000 years ago and they became one of the most popular flowers secondarily to Sakura. They are widely used in Kimono design.

Modern Rose Girl

2009-03-16T19:03:00.010+09:00

Modern Rose Girl Zori+Bag+Corsage
By: RION
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Clutch Bag
8.6 x 4.7 x 1.1 inches
Two pockets inside
Length of the chain is 17 inches

Rose
Diameter is 3 inches

Zori
Size M (size 6 ~7)

This ensemble features a tailor made Japanese style clutch bag, a corsage, and a pair of zori.

Black and white stripes have never really been used in Kimono accessories. Therefore, the way they are used in these items is very unique. Probably old-school Japanese women wouldn`t know what to do with them but modern day Kimono gals know how to incorporate these fabulous items into their wardrobe!

Delicious book cover

2009-03-15T03:51:00.002+09:00

Book Cover
By: wonderwonderdesign
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Antique kimono, lace, spangles, beads, cotton
Size: 6 x 11 inches

This very special book cover is one-of-a-kind. You are not likely to encounter anything like it.

The cover features cute ribbons, flowers, and shooting stars. Beads, spangles and lace add a playful touch to this cover, which will make your reading time a bit more special. The kimono textile in this piece is subtly and skillfully blended in with the ornamentation.

Modern Matsu

2009-03-15T03:50:00.003+09:00

Modern Matsu Bag
By: wonderwonderdesign
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Antique kimono, lace, spangles, beads, cotton
Size: 10.4 x 8 inches (handles: 6.2 inches)

Pine trees represent longevity in Japan. Another symbol that calls traditional Japan to mind, they have been incorporated into kimono design since ancient times. This piece of antique kimono textile reminds me of the painted pine trees that are seen on traditional Kabuki stages. I love the combination of colors on this bag. It`s just beautiful and complete.

Makeup bag Japonesque Style 2

2009-03-15T03:49:00.017+09:00

Dark Red Chrysanthemum Makeup Bag
By: wonderwonderdesign
(click to see the profile of the artist)

1st row: white lace on black. Red spangles
2nd row: purple ribbon lace
3rd row: antique Kimono textile (chirimen)
4th row: black and white stripes
5th row: black flowering grasses on pansy
The lining is white dots on red
One small pocket inside
Size: 5 x 6.2 x 2 inches

This is another makeup bag which uses antique Kimono fabric.

Japanese women in the old days loved chrysanthemums. It is a symbol for the imperial family in Japan. They are one of the most popular motifs used in Kimono design. This piece of antique Kimono textile is very feminine and absolutely gorgeous! The dot pattern and the stripes somehow compliments it.

Makeup bag Japonesque Style 1

2009-03-12T19:51:00.018+09:00

Blue Stripes Makeup Bag
By: wonderwonderdesign
(click to see the profile of the artist)

1st row: blue stripes with black lace
2nd row: blue, purple, and white spangles on black
3rd row: purple ribbon lace
4th row: antique Kimono textile
The lining is white dots on navy blue
One small pocket inside, Size: 5 x 6.2 x 2 inches

Unless you are a kind of a person who can take note of small details, it will look just another makeup bag. I like it because this makeup bag uses antique Kimono textile in a very subtle way.

Just so that you know, traditionally, the color purple has been associated with nobleness, elegance, mysterious beauty, etc. in Japan. Back in the Edo period (17th-19th century), it was a color which only high-ranking monks were allowed to wear. Japanese women in the ancient times loved this color and it is still one of the favorite colors of modern day Japanese gals.

Gamaguchi - coin purse

2009-03-09T18:34:00.002+09:00

Gamaguchi - Coin Purse
By: Chi
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: silk antique kimono textile (front), genuine leather (back)
Size: 4 x 4 inches

This elegant purse features beautiful prints of chrysanthemum. The flower which represents the Imperial family; the flower which represents elegance and culture of Japan. Chrysanthemums are typically more than 7 inches in diameter; they are usually used as ornaments. In this purse, the beauty of the kimono fabric is tastefully complemented by the vivid yellow color of the lining and the leather.

Kimono mini tote

2009-03-09T06:35:00.003+09:00

Kimono Mini Tote
By: Chi
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Material: silk antique kimono fabric, canvas (lining), genuine leather (the handles)
Size: 11 x 11 inches (handles: 16 inches)

The antique kimono material used to make this tote bag has a beautiful peony pattern, a popular floral pattern used in kimono designs. This piece is unusual in its use of leather with kimono textile. The designer, Chi, combines material with a cool shade of blue with practical and durable leather straps to create a perfect, fashionable bag for a beach outing.

Cocktail bag with a kimono touch

2009-03-09T06:32:00.011+09:00

Sankaku BAG
By: Chi
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Outer material: antique kimono fabtic
Lining: polyester
Size: 8 x 13 x 16 inches
Handmade

Tired of your old cocktail bag?

This is also a combination of old and new. The dot patterned, triangular bag is accentuated with a swatch of kimono fabric. It goes well with a kimono as well as a dress.

One-of-a-kind antique kimono bag

2009-03-09T06:26:00.012+09:00

Sakiori BAG
By: Chi
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Outer material: antique silk kimono fabric
Handle: leather
Size: 16 x 20 x 20 inches

Can you imagine how this bag was made? Torn pieces of antique kimono fabric were woven together. The edges of each torn kimono swatch are like fringes creating an interesting fluffy effect. The beautiful mixture of colors is created coincidentally during the pains-taking process of weaving kimono pieces together. It is definitely a one-of-a-kind bag.

When antique kimono meets...

2009-03-09T05:59:00.024+09:00

Petanko BAG
By: Chi
(click to see the profile of the artist)

Outer material: antique silk kimono fabric with interlining
Handles: enamel
Lining: polyester
Size: 12 x 9 x 20 inches

This bag is the very essence of spring time!
It was created with a little painting in mind. In a way, this bag is a small painting itself because it is made of unique and original antique kimono fabric from the Showa period.
The combination of the kimono fabric and the enamel handles creates an blend of classic and contemporary.

The artist: Ketoy

2009-03-09T04:19:00.003+09:00

The artist: Ketoy

Here is what Ketoy says:
"Our zori combine the essence of old and new. It is not just design but materials that make each of our zori one-of-a-kind. We use cork for soles; and soft, comfortable cotton for thongs and the surface of the soles. Our zori are handcrafted by highly-skilled artisans. We aim to make the most of tradition; and create new cultural/fashion trends through our creations."

Ketoy: http://www.ketoy.net/

The artist: Amus Tokyo

2009-03-09T04:18:00.007+09:00

The artist: Amus Tokyo

Here is what Amus Tokyo says:
"Is it possible to assimilate the `KIMONO culture` into modern day life with a modern-day interpretation without losing it`s classical beauty? This thought has become the starting point. Dress `Wa` fashionably, without forcing your fashion. For all those who love `Wa`."

Amus Tokyo: http://www.amus.co.jp/english/index.html

The boutique: wayomix

2009-03-09T04:18:00.001+09:00

The boutique: wayomix

Here is what wayomix says:
"Clothing, accessories, food and furniture. These are basic necessities in our lives. At some point in my life, I came to realize that all of these objects that we surround ourselves with have some of the essence of Wa, Japanese style. However, very few things truly blend the modern and the traditional in a balanced way. This was the premise from which we started. In our fashion creations, we feature people, object and trends that blend the modern and the traditional in a harmonious way."

wayomix: http://www.wayomix.com/

The artist: MEDAA

2009-03-09T04:17:00.002+09:00

The artist: MEDAA

Here is what MEDAA says:
"The concept behind my clothing is "elegant and witty design for women with positive minds." My clothing emphasizes the use of all three dimensions in order to compliment a woman`s delicate body line. Therefore, it looks much more beautiful when worn than when on display. I love fabric from '70s with beautiful prints. Most of my works are handcrafted using dead stock or antique fabrics."

MEDAA: http://www.medaa.net/

Artist: Aya

2009-03-09T04:16:00.006+09:00

The artist: Aya

Here is what Aya says:
"My bags incorporate such precious materials as antique kimono and obi found in old closets; antique lace found at flea markets in France; glass beads, corsages made of berries; and other unique materials. The bags are all handcrafted with serious attention to detail. Most of them are one-of-a-kind. I hope that more people can enjoy and cherish them."

Kanoko(English Site):
www.kanokohandmadebags.com

Artist: Chi

2009-03-09T04:15:00.009+09:00

The artist: Chi

Here is what Chi says:
"Sense of humor is very important to me. Humor is a blend of whimsy and reality. California rolls are the perfect example of what I`m trying to say (where avocados being whimsy and rice balls being reality). My bags consist of kimono fabric which is very Japanese therefore very real (for us), and polyester and other materials which are synthetic. By combining them, I am trying to embody lighthearted approach to life through my bags."

CHI-Bag: http://www.chi-bag.com/about_en.html

Artist: mikigolon

2009-03-09T04:00:00.007+09:00

The artist: mikigolon

Here is what mikigolon says:
"I handcraft bags and tools for tea ceremony using elegant fabric, which I found at antique stores in Japan, as well as materials such as wood, bamboo and Japanese wisteria. The bags incorporate subjects such as flowers, animals, and sundry articles in a unique way making them quite distinct from conventional bags. I hope that more people can enjoy delicate beauty of kimono fabric and Japanese design through my works."

mikigolon:http://homepage.mac.com/mikigolon/index.html

Artist: wonderwonderdesign

2009-03-08T19:43:00.011+09:00

The artist: wonderwonderdesign

Here is what wonderwonderdesign says:
“I incorporate laces, beads, spangles, French ribbons along with antique kimono fabric in my design. All products are handmade. Antique Kimono fabric is very interesting. It can make the end product either pop or chic depending on how it is mixed with other materials. Our items are cute and have a playful touch. The aim of wonderwonderdesign is to transform antique kimono into cute accessories which you can enjoy in your everyday life!”

wonderwonderdesign: http://www.wonderwonder.net/

Artist: RION

2009-03-08T19:08:00.013+09:00

The artist: RION

Here is what RION says:
"Although kimono and zori are part of our culture, not so many Japanese wear kimono and zori on a daily basis. However, it seems that things are changing slowly. Some Japanese once again regard the kimono as a fashion option on equal footing with dresses. Others put on zori like flip-flops. I make tailor-made zori for those who are not restricted by old Wafuku (traditional Japanese clothing) standars. They can either send me textiles of their choosing or I can pick something that fits their taste. Tailoring zori is great fun for me. I hope my design will get modern day gals even more excited about Wafuku and encourage them to continue exploring new styles."

RION: http://rion.ocnk.net/

Artist: SERAPHIM

2009-03-08T18:31:00.009+09:00

The artist: SERAPHIM

Here is what SERAPHIM says:
"I use fabric with traditional patterns to make modern clothing. I am quite particular when it comes to choosing fabric. I love fabric with traditional patterns with exquisite use of colors that is reminiscent of the Taisho period (1912–1926) and the Showa period (1926–1989) . I am particularly interested in patterns which have a sense of delicacy as well as a subtle flair."

SERAPHIM: http://www.k-seraphim.com/

Artist: MONJA

2009-03-08T18:30:00.007+09:00

The artist: MONJA

Here is what MONJA says:
"I love antique kimono and antique lace but I am very interested in the latest fashions, too. I have studied Fashion both in Japan and France, and I have done exhibit in both countries as well. A lot of my works are greatly influenced by Japanese culture as well as European Culture."

MONJA: http://yaplog.jp/monja2010/category_2/

Artist: Maison de Couture KIMONO Antiquite

2009-03-08T18:00:00.006+09:00

The artist: Maison de Couture KIMONO Antiquite

Here is what Maison de Couture KIMONO Antiquite says:
"I use kimono, which is one of beautiful Japanese traditions, to make Western clothing and accessories. I aim to give a new life to antique kimono most of which comes in luxurious fabric, stylish patterns and colors. I would like for more people to enjoy elegant and chic kimono."

Maison de Couture KIMONO Antiquite:
http://kimono-antiquite.ocnk.net/

Boutique: Shimaiya

2009-03-08T16:00:00.007+09:00

The boutique: Shimaiya

Here is what Shimaiya says:
"The kimono is no longer common in a daily wear like western clothing. It is sad that there are so many old kimono hidden away in closets. We would like more people to wear kimonos in their daily lives in the same way that they wear vintage dresses. We offer affordable and cute kimonos and obis, along with other fashion options for modern-day girls."

Shimaiya: http://shimaiya.shop-pro.jp

The aim of this blog

2009-03-02T10:46:00.010+09:00

Dear visitors,

Thanks very much for finding this blog!

I`m a 30 something Japanese girl living in NYC.

This blog is about antique Kimono and contemporary fashion items made of Kimono textiles. I simply want more people to know about Kimono, a beautiful creation of our ancestors.

I didn`t really care about our culture when I was younger. I preferred living in outside Japan and spent quite sometime in foreign countries. I didn`t exactly love our culture. But ironically, living in foreign countries made me realize some of the good things about our culture.

So now I`m a changed person! I`m proud of our culture and now I`m even determined to promote it.

Since I started a research for this little project of mine, I`ve come to know some of the great young Japanese creators with similar visions as mine . They make a fashion of East meets West. While I truly value our old culture and its traditions, I also think it is important for us to move forward and create something new from old. It will be my pleasure to introduce to you to their fashion.

Sincerely,
KIMONOCHIC
Email: kimonochicnyc at yahoo.co.jp