Archive for the ‘Plus size kimono robe’ Category

The Misconception of Revealing Japanese Kimonos

Sunday, July 23rd, 2023

Kimonos have been a symbol of Japanese tradition and culture for centuries. They are not only fashionable garments but are steeped in cultural significance. The kimono is a reflection of the wearer’s personality and can transform a person’s silhouette. However, there is a common misconception that these traditional garments are revealing, leading to cultural misunderstandings for outsiders. In this article, we will discuss the historical context of the kimono and dispel the idea that they are supposed to be revealing.

The kimono has been a dominant fashion outfit in Japan for over a thousand years. The garment’s traditional design focuses on modesty and simplicity, with the least amount of skin exposure. Traditional kimonos feature long and wide sleeves, worn with a waist belt called an obi, which is designed to be modest. This means that a properly tied obi should not expose any skin, even when the wearer is moving. Contrary to the popular belief of revealing kimonos, they are designed to upstage skin exposure.

Given the kimono’s long history and cultural significance, it’s essential to understand its evolution. In the past, kimono styles offered a variety of designs, with some fabric styles and designs representing a particular class or profession. As a result, certain kimonos had different styles of long and wide sleeves. However, even then, revealing any skin was considered inappropriate, and the kimonos’ sleeves were designed to highlight the wearer’s elegance and grace.

In recent years, there has been an emergence of ‘modern kimonos’, featuring attractive prints and shorter lengths. These modern kimonos are commonly worn as everyday clothing or for special occasions outside of Japan. However, the shorter lengths and decorative designs do not make the garment any less modest. Instead, the kimonos’ modern design offers a more comfortable style without sacrificing the garment’s cultural significance.

The kimono’s uniqueness is that it is a versatile piece of artwork. Since its introduction in Japan, it has been adapted to modern tastes without sacrificing its heritage. Today, many people wear kimonos for different occasions such as weddings, funerals, tea ceremonies, and festivals. Each kimono is tailored to reflect the wearer’s personality and style while still adhering to its cultural significance.

The Japanese kimono embodies tradition, grace, and modesty. With their long history of over a thousand years, these cultural garments continue to captivate people worldwide. Current popular culture has interpreted their elegance as the ability to reveal, leading to numerous cultural misunderstandings.

As we have discussed above, the traditional kimono design focuses on modesty and simplicity, highlighting the wearer’s elegance and grace and adorned with culturally significant accessories. From the trend-setting modern kimonos to the authentic traditional designs, the Japanese kimono is a piece of art and fashion that will continue to represent significant aspects of Japanese culture for centuries to come.

You can view the many styles, colors, prints and sizes of kimonos and yukatas available, a great source is Chopa.com.  Their online store is open 24 hours a day. They are a direct importer and cater to all sizes of customers. Besides a great selection, they ship quickly from the USA and orders of $75 or more receive free shipping to anywhere in the USA.

Gorgeous silk kimono in purple featuring iris flowers

Silk feels good on the body.

Understanding the Significance of the Japanese Obon Festival – A Guide to Kimono Yukata

Tuesday, July 18th, 2023

Japan is a land of rich culture, fascinating traditions, and unique festivals. One event that is very popular is called the Obon festival. This annual commemoration honors one’s ancestors. It remains an integral part of Japanese culture and tradition. This is a time for people to reconnect with their roots and remember their loved ones who have passed on. If you’re planning on visiting Japan for the Obon festival in 2023, or simply curious about the festival, this is a must-read for you. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the meaning, traditions, and dates of the Japanese Obon festival.

The Obon festival takes place across Japan in mid-August. The dates vary depending on the region and usually last for three days. This includes one day set aside for visiting gravesites and offering gifts to one’s ancestors. This particular day is known as Hoyo and is a time for introspection and reflection. The other two days of the festival are dedicated to feasting, drinking, and celebrating with family and friends.

One of the most defining features of the Obon festival is the bon odori dance. This dance is performed to welcome back ancestral spirits and dates back to the 16th century. It features unique music and choreographed dance that everyone can participate in. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, you’re always welcome to join in the festivities. Bon Odori dances have become so popular that they are now performed in many countries across the world.

The lighting of chochin lanterns is another significant aspect of the Obon festival. These paper lanterns are used to light the way for ancestral spirits as they return to the world of the living. They are also used to decorate the streets and homes during the festival. These lanterns are colorful and add to the vibrant atmosphere of the celebrations.

Another tradition associated with the Obon festival is the making and displaying of Obon altars. These altars are created in households and shrines across Japan. They serve as a place for family members to pray and offer gifts to their ancestors. Obon altars may include offerings of food, drinks, flowers, and candles.

The Obon festival is an important time for Japanese people. This is a time to reconnect with their heritage and remember their loved ones who have passed away. From feasting and dancing to lighting lanterns and offering gifts to ancestors, the festival is full of traditions that celebrate the spirits of the dead. If you happen to be in Japan during the Obon festival, make sure you take part in the festivities and witness the magic of this enchanting event.

If you are not visiting Japan, check your local entertainment guides for an Obon Celebration near you. In the USA, Obon Festivals are gaining in popularity and are held in most major cities. Festivities usually take place in Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, New York, Charlotte, San Diego, Philadelphia, Oakland, St. Paul, and many, many more.

It is common practice to wear a new Yukata robe for the celebration. If you are looking for a new robe, check out Chopa – Your Kimono Source. Chopa has been a leading online provider of authentic Japanese kimonos and yukata robes since 1994. They have perfected the art of online Kimono shopping.

Their Kimono Shop is open online 24 hours a day. They are a direct importer and ship quickly from Northwest Florida. They offer a large selection of garments in many styles, colors, and patterns as well as plus-sized, Big and Tall, Petite, full-length, and short-length robes.

Tokyo, Japan Obon Festival

The Top Five Kimonos and Yukatas That Everyone is Raving About This June

Sunday, July 9th, 2023

Are you tired of constantly searching for the perfect kimono or yukata? Look no further! We have created a list of the top five best-selling kimonos and yukatas for June 2023. This list has been compiled based on real customer sales. Therefore, you can be confident in knowing that these items are right on the pulse of what’s in style. So, if you want to be in the know, keep reading to find out just what those trending items are.

Yukata – Tree of Life: Introducing the Tree of Life Yukata from our Premium Collection! This men’s yukata showcases a unique Japanese tortoise print that has been cherished for centuries. Dating back to 2000 B.C., this timeless geometric pattern symbolizes stability and has been adored by samurais for over 200 years. Now, you can add this elegant and enduring style to your wardrobe!

With its captivating design, this yukata features a crisp color palette of black, gray, and white. Made from 100% cotton, it offers both comfort and durability. The traditional butterfly sleeves add a touch of authenticity to this exquisite robe.

Yukata – Warrior Kanji Seal: Experience the spirit of ancient Japanese warriors with our Yukata – Warrior Kanji Seal. This stunning yukata pays homage to the robes worn by Shogun warriors, combining traditional white kanji symbols with a striking haiku design. Set against a rich navy blue backdrop, gold Kanji seals add an extra touch of warrior flair.

Crafted in Japan from 100% cotton, this yukata offers both style and convenience. Its shrink-resistant finish ensures easy care, so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying. With contemporary straight sleeves and a matching belt included, this yukata combines traditional charm with modern comfort.

Yukata – Great Wave: Experience the Yukata – Great Wave from our Premium Collection. This men’s yukata, inspired by the iconic work of Japanese art, The Great Wave off Kanagawa, is a must-have. Created by renowned artist Katsushika Hokusai, this design has sparked waves of inspiration for artists worldwide.

Immerse yourself in the powerful currents of the ocean with the classic wave pattern, beautifully depicted in shades of gray, black, and white with soft purple highlights. Crafted with care in Japan using 100% cotton, this yukata is not only stylish but also easy to maintain. Simply machine wash cold for the best results. Complete your look with the included matching belt.

Yukata – Shokaku Navy: Introducing the Shokaku Navy Yukata – a must-have from our Premium Collection. This navy blue loungewear features elegant flying cranes, a symbol of good fortune and prosperity in Japan. Made with comfort and style in mind, this yukata will elevate your lounging experience to a spa-like level. Crafted from 100% soft cotton, it will keep you cool during hot summer nights. Easy to care for and luxurious to look at, this yukata is machine washable for your convenience. Complete with a matching belt, it is expertly made in Japan by skilled artisans.

Yukata – Iris Garden: Experience the beauty of nature with our Yukata – Iris Garden. This stunning Japanese floral yukata showcases vibrant irises against a chic navy blue and white striped backdrop. Crafted in Japan from soft 100% cotton, it offers both comfort and easy care. Simply machine wash cold for optimal results.

Our floral yukata is not only fashionable, but also versatile. Whether you want to relax at home or need a stylish cover-up after a bath or shower, this is the perfect choice. Featuring traditional butterfly sleeves and a matching belt, it adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. Choose from our range of sizes, including plus-sized options for those with fuller figures. Embrace the grace of iris gardens in the utmost style and comfort with our Yukata – Iris Garden.

There you have it, the top five best-selling kimonos and yukatas for June 2023. These top picks are based on what real customers prefer and are therefore ideal for this season’s fashion trends. These kimonos and yukatas are all available on our website, with different colors and sizes to choose from. So why not try out one or two? Add them to your collection and elevate your style instantly. With our unique patterns and comfortable fabrics, you will be sure to make a lasting impression at every event you attend. Shop our online Kimono Shop today, and get ready to strut your stuff.

kimono-robes

Beautiful Japanese Kimono

Unveiling the Spiritual Significance of the Kimono

Saturday, June 10th, 2023

The kimono is a unique and distinctive garment in Japan and abroad. It is made from simple materials, yet its design is one of the most intricate and refined in the world. The kimono is more than just a piece of clothing. Rather, it has a far-reaching cultural significance. In this article, we will explore the spiritual symbolism of the kimono and the meanings attached to its design and motifs.

The kimono has a rich history spanning over a thousand years. Its design has evolved, reflecting society’s changing tastes and culture. However, the kimono has always been associated with spiritual and cultural beliefs. In Japanese culture, longevity and good fortune are highly valued, and the kimono represents both. The design includes motifs such as cranes, tortoises, and pine trees that symbolize and bestow good fortune and long life upon the wearer.

Moreover, each kimono design contains character traits and virtues for the wearer to embody. The motifs represent traits like humility, loyalty, and elegance. For example, the plum blossom symbolizes strength and resilience. The cherry blossom represents new beginnings and renewal. The wearer chooses a kimono with a motif that resonates with their character and goals. Thus identifying closely with the virtue and attributes embodied in the fabric.

Additionally, the kimono’s design changes with the season and occasion. For example, a kimono with maple leaves is worn during the autumn to represent the beauty of the changing leaves. A bridal kimono features a phoenix and dragon, representing the harmony and balance between the new couple. It is believed that wearing a kimono with a specific motif during a particular season or occasion attracts good fortune and positive energy.

The kimono is a work of art that requires skill, time, and precision to create. When a new kimono is purchased, it must be worn with care and respect. Japanese culture places significant importance on the presentation of oneself and the kimono. The wearer must convey a natural sense of grace and elegance, embodying the traits and virtues the design represents. Such a high standard of presentation reflects society’s appreciation of beauty and the value of cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the kimono is more than just a piece of clothing. It is a symbol of longevity and good fortune. It embodies traits and virtues for the wearer to cultivate. The design includes motifs that represent the season, and occasion and convey positive energy and goodwill. Wearing a kimono requires skill, care, and respect, embodying Japanese culture’s beauty and value of cultural heritage. Next time you see a kimono, take a moment to appreciate its symbolic significance and the craftsmanship behind it.

If you are interested in shopping online and exploring some of the many patterns available, visit Chopa.com to view their vast selection. Chopa has been a leading online provider of quality, authentic Japanese kimonos and yukata robes since 1994. They are a USA-based company that is 100% employee-owned. Their staff ranks among the best in the business when it comes to Kimonos. They ship quickly from within the USA and orders of $75 or more receive free shipping to anywhere in the United States including Alaska and Hawaii.

Kimonos offer cultural significance and beauty.

Get Your Kimono on!

Find Your Authentic Style with Japanese Kimonos

Saturday, February 4th, 2023

If you’re looking to add a unique, authentic touch to your wardrobe, look no further than Chopa’s collection of handcrafted, traditional Japanese kimonos and yukata robes. These luxurious garments are made from the highest quality materials, making them perfect for everyday wear or special occasions. Let’s explore why these exquisite pieces will effortlessly transform your wardrobe!

What Makes Chopa Different?
Chopa is the premier source for traditional Japanese kimonos and yukata robes. For more than 30 years, we’ve been providing our customers with the highest quality apparel at affordable prices. Our products are handmade in Japan by skilled artisans using only high-quality fabrics and materials available. This ensures that each garment is of the utmost quality and has an exquisite finish that will last for years to come. Most of our robes are produced in high-quality 100% cotton. This allows for easy care, and machine washing and it feels great against your skin.

Our Collection
At Chopa, we offer a wide selection of kimonos and yukata robes to choose from. Whether you’re looking for something casual or more formal, we have something to suit every style. Our traditional garments feature beautiful patterns and designs inspired by Japan’s rich culture and history. We also carry a range of more modern styles that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whatever your preference may be, you’re sure to find something perfect in our collection!

It’s Easy To Get Started!    
Getting started is easy! Simply select a style from our collection, place your order online, and wait for your new look to arrive within a few days. We provide detailed sizing information on all of our products so you can be sure you get the right fit every time. And if there’s ever an issue with your order, simply contact us. Our friendly customer service team will be happy to help you out. Returns or exchanges are simple. We are based in the USA, so there are no long delays.

Show off Your Unique Style with Chopa’s Kimonos & Yukatas.
Ready to take your wardrobe to the next level? Look no further than Chopa’s collection of traditional Japanese kimonos and yukata robes. Our handcrafted garments feature exquisite details that are sure to turn heads wherever you go. Plus, with our wide selection of styles, from classic prints to contemporary designs, you’ll always have something new and exciting in your closet. Shop now and experience true authenticity today!

The beauty of Kimonos

The Beauty of Kimonos

Happy New Year…Lunar New Year that is!

Saturday, January 21st, 2023

Celebrate the start of good fortune and luck as we approach Lunar New Year 2023                                                                   

Sunday, January 22nd will mark the start of a new lunar year. With it comes optimism for those born in the Year of The Rabbit. This 15-day celebration is commonly known as Chinese New Year. It is also known as the Spring Festival. The day is one of the most important holidays across Asia. This time symbolizes fresh starts and renewal to bring prosperity, happiness, and health into people’s lives.

The rabbit is one of the twelve zodiac animals featured throughout this holiday. Rabbits embody an air of peace along with long life due to their docile nature. It is considered extremely lucky amongst these twelve mythical creatures! Those born in the said zodiac are believed to be wise beyond their years with shrewd judgment. May they find prosperity during this auspicious time.

Now’s your chance to welcome abundance into your life. Act before another powerful cycle begins anew at the lunar calendar’s next turn. Make sure you don’t miss out! Let us all join in wishing good fortune upon our friends and family entering the world on such auspicious days. Happy (Lunar) New Years everyone!

Many people believe that what you do at the start of a new year affects your luck for the rest of the year. On Chinese New Year’s Eve, many people stay up late to wish their friends and family after the clock strikes twelve. People also exchange red packets to bring good luck and positivity. Another popular way to celebrate the New Year is to wear a new Japanese Kimono or Yukata to a party. You can shop our online store to find the right one for you.

Happy New Year!

What is a Yukata?

Thursday, January 12th, 2023

A Short Guide to Japanese Yukata.

Have you ever heard of a yukata? In Japan, yukata are a type of casual summer kimono. They are often seen at festivals or worn during special occasions. These robes are also great for lounging around the house, especially in the warm summer months. Read on to learn more about this traditional fashion item.

What Is a Yukata?
A yukata is a traditional piece of clothing worn in Japan during the hot summer months. It is made from lightweight cotton fabric and is usually printed with bright colors and artistic patterns. The design of the yukata can vary depending on the individual’s preference. The traditional yukata is full-length. There is also a short-length version known as a Happi Coat. Today, because of their popularity they are worn throughout the year, especially at home.

Yukatas are worn by both men and women, but some designs are gender-specific. Traditionally, men’s yukatas feature bolder colors with simpler patterns. Women’s yukatas tend to be softer in color and feature more intricate patterns. Additionally, men’s yukatas usually have longer sleeves than women’s.  However, there are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to wearing a yukata. What matters most is that you feel comfortable and look good!

How To Wear a Yukata
Wearing a yukata is simple. While some people prefer to wear an under-robe or garment, others do not. Most people if attending a ceremony or festival will wear lightweight and form-fitting clothing under the robe. Slip the yukata over your shoulders and insert your arms. It is just like putting on a bathrobe or jacket. Fold the left side panel over the right. This is important in Japanese culture. Always wear the left side over the right side. Wearing the right side over the left is used for funerals and signifies death.

Once you have adjusted your robe to the proper and comfortable fit, tie the sash or obi around your waist. This belt can be in a matching fabric pattern or if you seek contrast and want to appear more formal, you can wear a contrasting color. Obis are frequently offered in solid colors as a kimono or yukata accessory. Tie the sash in front to keep the robe closed.

You are now ready to relax, enjoy the ceremony or attend the festival and have some fun. If you are attending a festival, Japanese headbands are commonly worn. It adds a festive appearance to your outfit and will help you get in the spirit of the event. These are usually available from any reputable kimono yukata dealer and cost less than ten dollars each.

Yukatas have been a part of Japanese culture for centuries. The robes remain popular today among people of all ages. Whether you’re attending a festival or just want something comfortable and stylish to wear around your home consider investing in one. With its lightweight fabric and vibrant patterns, wearing a traditional Japanese yukata is sure to keep you cool (and looking great) all season long. Select a yukata made with high-quality cotton fabric for easy care including machine-washable.  Visit Chopa – Your Kimono Source for a wide selection of yukatas and kimonos in many sizes for men, women, and kids.

                       Women’s Japanese Yukata

Japanese Kimono Yukata Advice – Top Five Sellers

Saturday, December 10th, 2022

Are you looking for a new way to express your style? Do you want to show off the best version of yourself? Whether you prefer subtle or bold, there’s no denying that kimonos are an amazing way to stand out. Our customers have gone above and beyond to share their favorite choices. This provides us with insight into the ones they love the most.

From classic designs to modern silhouettes, kimonos come in an incredible variety of styles. To help you with your own wardrobe decisions, we tallied our customers based on actual sales. This is a great way to share their top five favorite kimono picks for November. Whether you’re looking for something unique and eye-catching, or prefer a more classical approach, it’s all here waiting to be discovered.

Check out our monthly list to find inspiration for your looks. Tailored for any occasion or aesthetic, we have the right style for you.

Read on to find our top five customer-loved kimonos!

Yukata – Tree of Life – This timeless geometric pattern has been a source of inspiration since the days of ancient Japan. Worn by warriors for special occasions like holidays and battles. It is one of the oldest symbols known today. Show your appreciation for a style that stands true to its legacy with this fantastically fashionable look.  You’ll be sure to love wearing this symbol of stability in your wardrobe for years on end.

Yukata – Eternal Chain – The beauty of eternal chains is that they signify something greater. Life, hope, strength, and love! They form a never-ending circle which can be interpreted in many ways. These timeless symbols can represent the joy we find in our everyday lives. They may inspire us to work towards meaningful goals. It’s even possible for them to evoke everlasting bonds with those closest to us like spouses and partners. Whatever your understanding may be, these powerful circles have much potential within their infinite boundaries!

Yukata – Dragon and Bamboo – Embrace the strength, beauty, and prosperity of Japanese culture with this stunning robe. Featuring vibrant navy blue and white hues to complement a symbolic water deity. The design is inspired by both dragon and bamboo – two revered symbols throughout Japan’s history. Rejoice in an endless source of luck as you do on your piece of cultural exchange from East to West.

Yukata – Blue Koi – Get ready to experience the beauty of this Japanese yukata. With its spectacular blue and white hues, this fabulous robe features a delightful Koi fish design that’s steeped in symbolism. As per regional tradition, these colorful swimmers symbolize affection, love, and courage. Woven into one gorgeous garment crafted from 100% cotton. With the shrink-resistant finish, it’s perfect for keeping you looking your best while feeling incredible comfort. So step out in style today.

Yukata – Plum Blossom and Finch – This exquisite Japanese robe captures the magnificent beauty of a picturesque garden. Its cobalt blue hue serves as an ideal backdrop to highlight its vibrant plum blossoms. The graceful finches bring their charm with them in cascades of colorful plumes. Their darling presence is representative of hope, renewal, and kindness – making this garment truly one-of-a-kind.

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to be so difficult. Our customers have made it easy for you by letting us know through their purchases which kimonos and yukatas they like the best. If you’re still unsure about which one would be best for you or your gift recipient, take a look at our customer favorites and let us help you decide. Our five customer-favorite kimonos and yukatas are chosen by customers through actual sales. Sales speak louder than words when it comes to fashion. We make it easy to shop for gifts because we have something for everyone on your list. Shop our online store today.

koi fish yukata from Japan

                           Blue Koi Yukata

Top Selling Kimonos in April 2022.

Sunday, May 8th, 2022

With Father’s Day approaching, students’ graduations, birthdays, and weddings abound, why not make your life easier and give a Japanese kimono or Yukata as a gift?

Chopa is Your Kimono Source and the perfect place to find an authentic Japanese kimono robe as a gift for any occasion. Our online selection has something for everyone, with dozens of colors, patterns, and sizes to choose from. Plus, we offer free shipping on orders of $75 or more to anywhere in the USA. This includes Alaska and Hawaii.

A Kimono Yukata make the perfect gift because it can be worn for all sorts of occasions. Whether special events like weddings and graduations to everyday activities like running errands or lounging around the house. With our huge selection of kimonos and yukatas, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your loved ones. Japanese kimonos are the perfect way to show your loved ones how much you care.

If you are uncertain about which kimonos or Yukata to buy, we invite you to read on and see what our customer’s favorite choices are.  Each month, we publish the Top five selling kimonos list.  This allows all of our customers the chance to see what is hot, what is popular, and what others think was the best that month. Remember, the best thing about kimono shopping is that it is an individual decision.  No one person can decide what you should wear. Often customers think about their own personal traits or the gift recipients and that helps them decide what theme would be most meaningful.

Here are the TOP 5 SELLING KIMONO and YUKATA for April 2022:

Yukata – Navy Tsuru – This beauty is actually being retired.  The producer of the fabric has decided it has done its job and it was time to move on. We disagree because it was a long-time favorite of ours and many customers, but it is what it is. It is also on clearance, so long-time customers took advantage of the discount. It is still available in two sizes until they are gone forever.

Blue Koi Yukata – This blue and white yukata has a unique design of Koi fish swimming in the water. The fish is highly respected in Japan and translates to affection and love. In Buddhism koi represent courage. A long term favorite of customers, it frequently makes the top ten list. This style is also a favorite of interior decorators who like to frame them under glass and display on a wall.  It really sets off a discussion when people come to visit. Nothing says Japan like a kimono.

Yukata – Eternal Chain – Symbolic in so many ways, this yukata has always been a core fixture in our online kimono shop. Chains that form a never-ending circle symbolize eternity. Eternal chains are symbolic of life, hope, and strength. The connectivity has no beginning or end and will go around in a circle forever. It may reflect your happiness with life, a situation in your career, a mantra you recite, something motivational, or our never-ending love for someone close to us, perhaps a spouse or significant other.

Yukata – Dragon and Bamboo – The story behind a kimono pattern often resonates with the buyer or the wearer in a special way. This cotton yukata is no different. The dragon and bamboo have been considered symbols of beauty and endurance throughout Japanese history into modern times. The dragon symbolizes water and is known for strength. Bamboo represents endurance and is believed to attract luck and prosperity. The navy blue and white color palette complements the water deity design of this robe

Yukata – Dragon and Hawk – If you want history and a lesson in life, this is the robe for you. This Japanese robe features two highly symbolic characters: the dragon and the hawk. The men’s yukata can be worn during celebrations, festivals, or lounging at home while cooling down from an afternoon of work in the sweltering heat! Yukata are versatile and can be used as a cover-up at the pool or after a bath or shower.

We invite you to shop our online store for dozens of patterns, colors, and sizes including plus-size and short-length robes. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect robe.

koi fish yukata from Japan

                              Blue Koi Yukata

Kimonos In Flight

Tuesday, April 12th, 2022

It’s a long process.  Starting in the farm fields, cotton seeds are planted and soon sprout. The tender plants are well cared for, nourished, watered, and grown to mature plants. The cotton is harvested and processed and woven into a giant blank canvas. From the multi-stage dying process and careful printing of the fine virgin cotton fabrics, it is on to the buyer’s markets.  Our buyers are meticulously seeking out the best of the best. Fabrics must pass their vigorous inspections and only the best are purchased. The fabric bolts are delivered to the sewing rooms where production begins.

The talented seamstresses and tailors cut panels from the large bolts of materials. From there, the panels are sent to experienced artisans and sewing teams where careful attention is given to every stitch.  As the process continues, what once looked like stacks of fabric jigsaw puzzle pieces, a Japanese Kimono started to take shape in the traditional form we know.  Further inspections and finishing touches are checked not once or twice, but three or more times to make the final cut or approval. Once the quality assurance team gives their approval, the Kimonos and Yukatas are neatly pressed and folded, and individually packaged.

Once packaged, team members sort and stack the finished robes into boxes where they are labeled and processed for shipment. This process varies in detail depending on whether the shipment contains hundreds or thousands of Japanese robes. The method of how the goods are transported to the United States also plays into the equation. Chopa – Your Kimono Source has opted for air cargo for some time now especially because of the Covid Pandemic.

Shipping on container ships became very expensive and major delays are now the norm. We pride ourselves on offering a full selection as best as we can and air cargo eliminates many delays.  Air transport isn’t cheap, but sometimes a company absorbs additional costs to serve their customers and this is something we strive to do.

While air travel is relatively quick, goods must still go through customs, and taxes and duties must be paid. Once they arrive at a major hub in the USA, our carriers work on delivering the shipment to our warehouse as quickly as possible.  This normally encompasses a few shorter flights from a few states away and then finally “the last mile delivery” as it is known in the shipping world is made.  Freight trucks roll up to our doors and the unloading begins.

This process includes opening boxes, and scanning and entering data into our inventory database. The reports are forwarded to our web team where they go into the back end of our website and add the new sizes, colors, and other pertinent information.  Little by little over the next 3-5 days, the website is updated and dozens and dozens of sizes, styles, and colors are instantly back in stock.

We are often amazed at how quickly orders begin coming in that selected new items we just added. We have a complimentary electronic notification list if a customer wants to be notified of an out-of-stock item coming back in stock. But many customers regularly check our website and are ready to hit the BUY button when it is posted.

With social media, we announce when a new shipment is arriving. Most customers get alerted of this fact through Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. If you don’t follow us on social media, we recommend you do.  Besides announcements of new shipments, we also alert subscribers to special sales, closeouts, price reductions, and overstock deals. We also share simple news items about something of interest to our Kimono Loving Family of customers.

We try to keep it fresh and never beat anyone up with multiple posts per hour like some stores do.  We want it to be relevant and interesting. As a 100% employee-owned business, we want to treat our customers the same we like to be treated. We understand what a turn-off it is to be bombarded by solicitations and advertisements. This is simply something we do not participate in.

With that said our work is cut out for us.  Planes left Japan over the weekend and trucks already delivered the first shipment of many this morning.  We expect more truckloads throughout the week.  Our warehouse was in full operational mode this past weekend prepping for the deliveries. Our priority is to always process customer orders as soon as possible, so this doesn’t hinder getting orders out.  It is an art and science but since we have been doing this for 28 years, we think we know a thing or two and make it as painless as possible. Now Go Get Your Kimono On…SHOP NOW!! 

 

Kimonos In Flight