Archive for the ‘kimono male’ Category

Why Kimono Manufacturing Has Become a Challenge in Japan

Friday, January 5th, 2024

Japan is world-renowned for its exquisite textile arts and particularly for creating stunning kimono and yukata garments. These traditional Japanese clothing styles are more than just clothing. They represent the cultural history and traditions of the nation. But, Japan is facing a challenge in the manufacturing of kimono and yukata. A shortage of labor and skilled sewers coupled with the rising cost of fabrics due to Covid-19 have caused many businesses to shut down. Plus, the pandemic safety measures imposed by the government have put many other companies out of business. In this blog post, we’ll explore why kimono manufacturing has become so difficult in Japan.

First, let’s discuss the shortage of labor and skilled sewers. The average age of kimono and yukata sewers is around 60 years old. Since younger generations are not taking interest in sewing as a career choice, many manufacturers struggle to find workers. It is also a highly skilled trade that requires years of apprenticeship and practice. Furthermore, the pandemic has brought a halt to training and new hires because of social distancing and lockdowns.

Secondly, the cost of fabric has continued to increase since Covid-19. Many businesses rely on imported fabrics or silk, which has become more expensive because of shipping restrictions. This has caused some manufacturers to cut costs by using cheaper and lower quality materials or find alternative ways to source the materials. Some businesses may have to change their strategy and focus more on the domestic market to save costs.

Thirdly, many businesses shut down because they couldn’t survive the lockdowns and precautions Japan initiated during the pandemic. The pandemic has caused a huge economic impact in Japan, and many small businesses and manufacturers have been forced to shut down. For kimono manufacturers, the cultural significance of the garment may have made it difficult to pivot to more fashionable, modern garments.

Lastly, Japan was under tight scrutiny for several years. Specifically, the government restricted the export of some materials and manufacturing processes to prevent imitation from other countries. It’s not only the manufacturing process, but the silk and fabrics are heavily controlled and monitored. While these measures have maintained the quality of kimono manufacturing, it has also made it difficult for companies to innovate and adapt to changing market demands.

As we have learned, the manufacturing of kimono and yukata has become increasingly difficult in Japan because of a shortage of labor and skilled workers as well as the rising costs of fabrics due to Covid-19. Plus, the pandemic safety measures imposed by the government have put many other companies out of business. Japan prides itself on its traditional textile arts and crafts, and it’s a shame that this art form is slowly diminishing.

However, it’s not all bad news. Some manufacturers are finding success with modern designs and materials that cater to a younger audience. It is the creative minds who will bring the new and old together and create the perfect balance for the future. It is up to us to preserve this distinct part of Japan’s culture by continuing to support its production and encourage future generations to learn and take an interest in it.

Chopa stands by it’s producers and manufacturers. Changes have been made but with integrity and quality at the top of our goal. Materials have been maintained, not cheapened. Locating and maintaining quality, skilled, veteran sewers is a must. We would rather forfeit some styles for a period of time rather than accept inferior. We are grateful for our longstanding relationships and the efforts of our partners. Long Live the Kimono and Yukata.  See our entire remarkable collection of Japanese robes at www.chopa.com.

kimono sewing business

Sewing Kimonos

Buying a Japanese Men’s Yukata?

Thursday, May 5th, 2022

If you’re looking for a way to spice up your loungewear wardrobe, then look no further than the Japanese yukata.

Do you find yourself looking for the best of both worlds? Comfort and style? That’s exactly how the yukata feels. Fashionable, yet functional. The Japanese yukata is more than just a robe. A yukata is a lighter-weight robe that can be worn during celebrations or festivals to show off its beauty while also serving as loungewear at home.

These Japanese robes have been around since ancient times for hundreds if not thousands of years. In modern times, the yukata has become a dominant factor in the world of loungewear. Made of high-quality soft cotton fabrics, it is breathable, not too heavy, and easy to wear and care for.

The gorgeous patterns and designs of authentic Japanese robes are created by distinguished artists in Japan. The designs incorporate original works with historic and traditional patterns. From tigers, Mt. Fuji, hawks, flowers, fish, mountains, trees, scenery, and similar nature-inspired objects, the result is a work of art that you can wear.

One of our more popular men’s yukata robes is the Dragon and Hawk design.   This men’s robe displays the dragon and hawk taking flight among Japanese Tsuri pines. Accented in gold and white and set against a black background. The robe has butterfly sleeves and a matching belt is included.

The Dragon is a powerful creature that can be found in different corners of the world. They are wise creatures that can be found all over our planet. Dragons are seen as guardians with destructive potential, but their protective nature symbolizes strength and bravery for those willing to take them on or need it most. This may explain why this animal has been associated so strongly over time by many cultures around our globe.

The way we see it now? Dragons represent intelligence and thus knowledge, creativity skills like artistry and design; moreover, they’re modest too: meaning shyness and modesty will come up when dealing directly with outside forces.

Because these dragons have been known fighters in battles past, long before any man was born, their spirit remains today among us humans because each one knows what bravery means.  They are bold fighters, and dragons represent a fighting spirit and nobility.

The Hawk is a bird of high spirits, great courage, and bravery. An old proverb says that “a wise hawk hides its talents.” Thus, the hawk is a clever creature that represents someone who’s successful but doesn’t believe in showing off all they have done. Instead, they maintain an airy estimation of what they can do best.

The Hawk pairs well with Dragons because they’re able to utilize these qualities for them not to get noticed by others. This aligns with what it means when paired together; the dragon symbolizes boldness alongside strength while also representing intelligence; this makes one a very talented but modest person!

Our authentic Dragon and Hawk yukata are skillfully crafted in Japan of high-quality 100% cotton with a shrink-resistant finish. This yukata is easy to care for and is comfortable to wear. We recommend cold water washing to extend the life of your robe and the beautiful design. It is available in four men’s sizes; Small/Medium, Large, Large/Tall, and XL/Wide.

Chopa – Your Kimono Source has been a leading online retailer since 1994. We are located in the USA and ship quickly from the northwest panhandle of Florida. Most orders ship within one business day. As a USA-based retailer, we have taken the hassles out of online Kimono shopping.

You can shop our Online Kimono Shop 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We offer a large selection of Japanese Kimono and Yukata robes for men, women, and kids. As a direct importer, we respond quickly and provide fast shipping.  Orders of $75 or more ship Free anywhere in the USA, including Alaska and Hawaii.

You will never pay customs, duties, or import taxes when shopping with us. We often hear the stories of customers who bought online from a dealer in Asia only to discover that shipping was not fast, but rather it took several weeks (if lucky) or months. Then they were faced with customs, duties, and import processing fees which added as much as 50% of the cost of the robe.

We also make returns simple and easy.  Don’t be fooled by the promise made by overseas dealers. A common complaint we hear is how they never respond or answer emails or worse yet, they refuse returns. Shipping a kimono back to Asia is expensive.

Shop our online store now!

dragon and hawk kimono yukata

              Dragon and Hawk Kimono Yukata