Posts Tagged ‘kimono yukata’

Kimonos For Christmas Gifts

Sunday, November 27th, 2022

It’s that time of year again. The time when stores are filled with holiday shoppers, and the post office is flooded with long lines and packages. If you’re one of those people who always seem to end up with at the stores when the selection is poor and arrive at the Post Office when the lines are out the door, relax.  We have a solution for you.

Visit the Online Kimono Shop. Chopa.com is Your Kimono Source.  They carry a large selection of over 100 styles, patterns, colors, and sizes of authentic Japanese kimonos and Yukata robes. Founded in 1994, Chopa has been a leading online provider of Kimonos for 28 years. They are a direct importer of garments that are meticulously handcrafted by Japanese artisans in Japan. As a direct importer, they stock ample supplies of beautiful kimonos that are ready to ship, assuring that you won’t face long waits or lost mail from overseas.

Most orders ship within one business day of order receipt. The average transit time is 2-4 days. This applies to anywhere in the USA. With the holidays approaching and a vast increase of packages being shipped, it is always recommended to shop early.  Chopa also extends its Holiday Gift return policy to January 20th, 2023. This allows you to enjoy the holidays with friends and family.

Right now Chopa is offering a 10% discount on any purchase. Use coupon code 10OFF at checkout. The offer is for a limited time so take advantage of this savings offer now. Orders of $75.00 or more receive Free Shipping to anywhere in the USA, including Alaska and Hawaii. Orders below this threshold pay a nominal and reasonable charge of just $6.95 – $8.95. Unlike many other retailers, Chopa has no membership club, or membership fees and does not make you register to become a customer.

Kimonos and yukatas are two traditional Japanese garments that are gaining in popularity each year. They are made of crisp, airy fabrics that help to keep the wearer cool and comfortable all year round. Kimonos and yukatas make excellent holiday gifts. If you are looking for a unique gift for a friend or family member, consider giving a kimono or yukata. These garments are beautiful and festive, and they will definitely be appreciated by the recipient. Best of all, kimonos and yukatas can be enjoyed for many years to come.

These Japanese garments are the perfect gift for anyone who loves Japanese culture or wants to try something new. They are stylish and come in many distinctive patterns and prints. And while clothing is sometimes difficult to find the right size or style for, Chopa has a wide range of kimonos and yukatas to choose from. So whether you’re looking for a gift or you’re treating yourself, we have the perfect kimono or yukata for you. And because we want you to have the best possible experience with your purchase, we do everything we can to make your shopping experience simple.

Shop the online store. Select the size and print you desire. Enter your information and shipping instructions as well as payment through major a major credit card or PayPal and let Chopa do the rest.

 

koi fish yukata from Japan

                           Blue Koi Yukata

 

Supporting Knowledge and Charity

Monday, November 21st, 2022

Did you know that Chopa – Your Kimono Source, donates to charities throughout the year?

We just donated to Wikipedia and we’re feeling really good about it! We believe that knowledge is power and everyone deserves access to accurate information. Chopa is on a mission to help others!

Our donation to Wikipedia marks its 20th anniversary. Will you join us in our journey of helping others? Chopa is committed to making donations throughout the year to charities that help others. It’s our way of giving back to those who could benefit. So far, we’ve donated to causes like Wikipedia, education, and animal rescue and welfare. From now through the end of the year, we will make additional donations to a plethora of causes.

But it doesn’t stop there. Beginning in January, we make donations throughout the year to charities that help others. We seek out causes that we believe give the most to those who will benefit. Sometimes it is a local group, sometimes nationwide. It isn’t about the geography as much as the greater will and ability to help and make a difference. It isn’t just about Christmas time but all the time.

We believe Wikipedia is one of those groups. Wikipedia was founded 20 years ago. Since then, their beloved encyclopedia has grown a lot, through good times and hardships, and today, more than ever, it is serving its true purpose. It helps millions of people study, discover, explore, and research. Each day, Wikipedia gives readers a new chance to acquire the knowledge that is so rightfully theirs, no matter what their circumstances might be.

Wikipedia doesn’t accept ads so donations to this non-profit group are vital to its existence.  Financial support allows edits to be made, and articles to reach new readers; it gives their non-profit the means to stay true to its mission, even as Wikipedia has become one of the most visited websites in the world. Nearly a day goes by when we hear someone mention something they saw or found on Wikipedia. We, as an organization have used it for research. It is a truly valuable resource and one of the few remaining that is free…to everyone.

If you have the resources and feel charitable, now is a great time to look around your own community to find a worthy cause. Because we are nearing the end of year, many charities are running thin on resources and it becomes a great time to help. It also makes you feel good knowing you diod something to help someone else, whether it is an individual, a group or our furry friends.

If you want to go one step further, check with your own office or employer. Many employers will generously match employee contributions: please check with your employer to see if they have a corporate matching gift program.

You can be a part of our mission by simply shopping with us. Every purchase you make helps us give back to those in need. Shop now and feel good knowing that you’re helping make the world a better place! Our online Kimono Shop is open 24 hours a day. Shop our large selection of authentic Japanese Kimonos, yukatas and short-length Happi Coats.

Happy Holidays!  Happy Giving!!

 

Chopa gives to charity.

 

 

Authentic Japanese Kimono Store

Sunday, October 30th, 2022

Chopa – Your Kimono Source is a leading provider and online Kimono shop offering authentic Japanese Kimonos and Yukata in the USA.  We are passionate about helping our customers experience the beauty and elegance of traditional Japanese kimonos. Established in 1994, we continue to offer a wide selection of kimonos and yukata in a variety of styles, fabrics, and sizes. This makes it easy to find the perfect kimono for any occasion.

Our kimonos are made from high-quality fabrics and are expertly crafted to ensure that they are beautiful, durable, and comfortable to wear. We also offer accessories to complete your kimono look, including obi and tabi socks also known as toe socks. Whether you’re looking for a kimono for a special event or wedding, a more casual yukata for a summer festival, or just want to add a touch of elegance to your everyday wardrobe, we have something to suit your needs. Chopa is your one-stop shop for all things kimono.

Visit us today and start shopping online for your perfect kimono!  Our goal is to provide our customers with the best possible shopping experience, whether you’re buying your first kimono or adding to your collection. Chopa sells tens of thousands of kimonos and yukatas to customers throughout the United States and around the world. Customers often say “shop with confidence” when recommending us. We offer a wide variety of kimonos and yukata for both men and women, as well as children.

For centuries, the kimono has been worn by men and women and is considered a Japanese icon around the world. These robes are often called wearable art displaying distinctive beauty, and sophisticated elegance and they are rich in symbolism. Chopa is your Kimono Source when you seek a fine robe. They are comfortable to wear, and easy to care for. The holidays are approaching and kimonos and yukatas make great gifts for anyone on your list. Our customers regularly purchase our robes for business gifts, wedding presents, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, graduations, and more.

We recently received our last shipment of the year. The Holidays are approaching and we are stocking our inventories as best as we can.  Watch for special Holiday offers throughout the season and if you are on a tight budget, see our selection of Open-Bag kimonos and yukatas.  These are brand-new robes opened by customs during an import inspection. They are refolded and bagged, but are not as crisply pressed and creased as they were before opening.

Chopa offers Free Shipping on orders of $75.00 or more to anywhere in the USA including Alaska and Hawaii. We offer easy returns and great customer service. Check out our Online Kimono Shop and see for yourself why people recommend and trust us.

kimono-robes

Beautiful Japanese Kimonos

Deeply Discounted Kimonos

Saturday, October 22nd, 2022

Japanese kimonos and yukatas are beautiful, traditional garments. They are becoming increasingly popular with fashion-conscious Westerners. However, importing these items from Japan can be a challenge. Customs inspections are often strict and have many hurdles to entry. Government agencies can flag partial or entire shipments for inspection.  Inspection levels range from simple x-rays to intense. X-rays are self-explanatory. Cartons or entire containers go through x-ray machines.  If anything unusual appears, agents refer the goods for further scrutiny.

Inspection levels consist of minimal, general, customs holds, and intensive exams. Minimal inspections include opening a few cartons, whereas intensive exams can be extremely thorough and very disruptive to the importer. All inspections come with a price tag. Costs are billed to the importer and if unpaid, the merchandise is confiscated and sold at auction to recover the inspection fees.  An x-ray or minimal inspection can cost a few hundred dollars whereas an intense inspection can cost thousands and thousands of dollars.

During an intense inspection, containers are transported to a secure yard and any number of cartons in the container are unloaded.  Depending on the amount authorized by customs, a few boxes or hundreds are removed from the container. The cartons are opened and customs agents, walk through picking, poking, unwrapping, and inspecting goods. Care of the goods isn’t of much concern. Items are left behind and contracted staff place goods back inside the cartons, and reseal their load back onto the container.  For items like clothing, the damage is minimal, but new goods are now open and are not folded or pressed like they were upon arrival.

There are difficulties involved in importing kimonos and yukatas from Japan. Customers that desire these robes are fortunate that some businesses meet the challenge and accept this as part of doing business. But what is done with the opened Kimonos and Yukatas? At Chopa – Your Kimono Source, we work with several third-party sellers that purchase the robes at discounts.  The discount helps to offset the cost of pressing, repackaging, and remarketing the goods to their customers.

Recently, after several new shipments arrived, Chopa had the idea to offer these “open-bag” kimonos to their customers. After all, the robes are new, unworn, and ready to wear. Why not offer these discounts to loyal followers? They are still bagged and refolded, however, they are not crisply pressed and folded like they were from the factory. Once out of the bag, a light ironing will remove any wrinkles. This isn’t any different than when robes are direct from the production facility. Often customers will press their newly arrived kimonos because of the folds and creases that show with any new garment.

The discounts on these kimonos and yukatas are as much as 40% off. That is quite the bargain. We initially have several dozen, but they will sell quickly. It’s a perfect time to shop if you are seeking a Christmas gift. You can iron, and fold one neatly into a gift box with some tissue and your recipient will be highly pleased to receive such a gift.  If you are not in the gift-buying market, then treat yourself and enjoy the savings.

You can find our current selection on the CLEARANCE page at www.chopa.com.

There are many barriers to importing Kimonos.

Learn About Kimonos From A Pro

Friday, September 2nd, 2022

Kimonos are a popular item of clothing in Japan, and they can be quite versatile. If you’re interested in learning more about kimonos, or in buying one for yourself, it can be helpful to get some advice from a pro. In this blog post, we’ll learn about kimonos from a professional who knows all there is to know about them.

Ron Irving is the Managing Partner of Chopa – Your Kimono Source. Established in 1994, Chopa continues to be a leading provider of authentic Japanese Kimonos and Yukata robes.  Ron recently sat down for a one-on-one interview for a live audience at a business trade exhibition.  We are proud to publish some excerpts from this fascinating interview.

How did you first get interested in Japanese kimonos?

“I first became interested in Japanese kimonos when I saw one in a store. It was so beautiful and different from anything else I had seen before. It was amazing the way it flowed when the woman wearing it moved. I was curious about the culture and history behind it, so I did some research and found out that Japanese kimonos are made of silk and are worn for special occasions.

While researching these robes, I learned that there are two types of kimonos: yukata and kimono yukata. Yukata are made of lighter fabric and are usually worn during summer festivals, while kimono yukata are made of heavier fabric and are worn during winter festivals. I was fascinated by all the different colors and patterns, and I knew that I wanted to learn more about Japanese kimonos. Even though I don’t live in Japan, I decided to buy a yukata so that I could experience the culture for myself. Every time I put on my yukata; I feel like I’ve been transported to another world.”

What is your favorite thing about Japanese kimonos?

“There are so many things to love about Japanese culture, but Japanese kimonos are my favorite thing.  I love the way they are both traditional and modern, and I love the way they can be either simple or ornate. I also love the way that kimonos can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. My favorite kimono is my yukata, which is a casual kimono made of cotton. I love how comfortable it is, and I love how many compliments I receive.

My closet also contains a few semi-formal kimonos, which I wear for special occasions. Putting one on always makes me feel like a warrior or elite statesman when I wear them. Japanese kimonos are truly a work of art, and I am grateful to be able to wear them. I am even more grateful to be able to share my love of the kimono with others by operating Chopa – Your Kimono Source.”

Do you think kimonos will continue to be popular in the future?

“The Japanese kimono is a traditional garment with a long history. dating back to the 8th century. Because kimonos have been around for centuries, it is highly doubtful they will be going out of style any time soon. Today, kimonos are not only an iconic part of Japanese history, but they are also part of world history.

While they were once only worn on special occasions, nowadays it is not uncommon to see people wearing kimonos as everyday clothing. Many Japanese fashion brands have begun releasing their lines of kimonos, which has helped to increase their popularity even further. They have also been embraced by the youth culture in Japan and overseas.”

How Often Do You Wear Them?

“I love wearing yukata, and I wear one at least five times a week during the summer months. It is a treat to come home from work or a day out, take a soothing shower, and slip into my yukata. It instantly relaxes me and any stress I had is gone. It’s a great way to stay cool while still looking stylish.

Plus, it’s always fun to get dressed up in traditional Japanese clothing In the cooler months it varies, but most people that know me are never surprised when they pop over and I am in my kimono or yukata when I answer the door. I love the short-length Happi Coats in the summer.  Whether I am watering my plants on the patio, doing a little clean-up around the house, or sitting by the pool, it becomes a part of me.”

This is Part one in a series. Ron Irving has been managing Chopa for many years and his understanding of the kimono has been so beneficial to our company and our customers.  Shop our online store 24 hours a day. Check back again soon for Part 2 of his interview.

mens shodo yukata in 100% cotton

                   Let’s Talk About Kimonos

Kimono or Yukata?

Saturday, August 20th, 2022

We receive questions about Japanese Kimonos and Yukatas daily. Periodically we like to share some of these to help educate others that are shopping for these wonderful robes.

What is the difference between a kimono and a yukata?

Japanese kimonos and yukatas are both traditional Japanese garments. Kimonos are more formal than yukatas and are often worn for special occasions, such as weddings or tea ceremonies. Yukatas are less formal and are often worn to outdoor events, such as festivals or fireworks displays. Both kimonos and yukatas can be either long or short. The length of a kimono or yukata is determined by the season and the occasion for which it is worn.

Kimonos are commonly made of both silk and cotton. Yukatas are made of cotton. Kimonos are typically worn in cooler months, while yukata are worn in warmer months.  Today, these traditions still exist but it has become a personal choice. Yukatas are popular year-round in many parts of the world, especially in warmer climates. Kimonos are worn anytime as well. It depends on the weight of the fabric. Both are often referred to as the Best Loungewear you can find.

What is the best way to wash a kimono or yukata?

We suggest you check with the manufacturer or dealer where you purchase your garment. At Chopa – Your Kimono Source, all cotton kimonos, and yukatas are machine washable. We recommend using cold water, in a gentle cycle. This not only maintains the colors but extends the life of your robe. Many customers drip dry their robe on a hanger although it’s possible to machine dry on a low-temperature setting. Drip drying will prolong the life of the fabric.

How long does it take to receive my kimono?

We ship quickly because we know how important fast shipping is today. At Chopa, most orders are shipped within one business day, and many orders ship the same day. The earlier you place your order in the day increases the odds of shipping the same day. Your kimono ships from a warehouse in the Panhandle of Florida. We import all of our robes directly from Japan so you don’t have to wait 4-6 weeks to receive your order. Over 95% of our orders arrive at our customer’s doorstep within 3 business days, many in just two. We like to say that we give our customers the benefits of an Amazon Prime membership without the $149.00 annual fee. It’s our gift to you.

What if I don’t like the Fit of my Kimono?

That is not a problem. We offer exchanges or refunds with no questions asked. Simply contact us within 14 days of receiving your order. We will send you the simple instructions and provide you with a 14-day window to return the item. Of course, we require that the robe is unworn and in new condition.

How much is shipping?

Shipping is very reasonable. We charge a low fee of $6.95 for one kimono or yukata but provide Free Shipping anywhere in the USA if your purchase is $75.00 or more. Unlike many retailers, we don’t have exclusions. Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico are included.

Do we ship to Post Office Boxes?

We do ship to PO Boxes, however in most cases since we have to use USPS, we can often ship it quicker if you have a street address for delivery.

How do I tell which length is right for me?

We offer a great selection of kimono and yukata sizes including long, short, and plus-sizing for both men and women. For the length, we suggest using a  tape measure and start at your shoulder and allow the tape to drop down your side. This is where the robe will fall on you.

Occasionally customers ask where the length should fall, but this is a personal choice. Some people like it to their ankles while others prefer it above the foot. There are also those who like shorter-length robes like our Happi Coats which fall just above, too, or below the knees. The length will be different for every person depending on your height. Buy what you like and be comfortable, that is what matters the most. Your comfort, your decision, and your kimono!

If you want to see what sizes, styles, prints, and colors are available, take a look at our online Kimono Shop. It is open 24 hours a day!

        Get Your Kimono on!

Best Selling Kimono and Yukata

Saturday, July 9th, 2022

Our Top Five List of Best-Selling Kimonos and Yukatas for June 2022.

It’s finally summertime, and that means it’s time to break out the yukatas and short-length Happi Coats. Whether you’re looking for a traditional yukata to wear to a festival or a colorful kimono to add to your wardrobe, we’ve got just what you need. Check out our top five selling kimonos and yukatas for June and get ready to enjoy the warm weather in style!

If you’re looking for a classic yukata, our number one best seller is a perfect choice. This beautiful red crane and tree yukata feature traditional Japanese pine trees in shades of blue and green. Elegant cranes flying above making it perfect for any summer occasion.

Looking for something a little more modern? Our second and third bestsellers in June are the vibrant Blue Dawn Yukata for women and the distinguished Dragon and Mt Fuji in Navy Blue for men.  The Blue Dawn has always been a popular pick among the ladies.  Blooming peonies are bursting in color against a rich shade of blue. The Japanese design highlights the print with swirls of gold for a classic look.

The Dragon and Mt. Fuji yukata stand on their own for character and eye-catching looks. This particular yukata is offered with a black or red background and each rise to the top of the charts throughout the year. The magnificent Mt Fuji is shown in the background while the respected and iconic dragon intertwines throughout the design. In Japan, the dragon symbolizes wealth, wisdom, and strength with its mastery over all elements of nature.

Coming in at number four is the Blue Koi Yukata. This lightweight cotton robe is popular throughout the year for both men and women. Our exclusive design was created many years ago by a true Japanese artist and still thrives and captures attention today. Fish patterns are very popular during Obon Festivals and outdoor events as well as for lounging inside. Koi represent courage and this robe will give you the spark you need to take on a challenge. This print is also available in the ever-popular Happi Coat.  Happi Coats are short-length versions of yukatas and kimonos and are perfect for Summertime!

Rounding out our monthly best-seller list is Dragon and Bamboo Yukata. This designer print features the powerful dragon among rows of bamboo.  Dragon and bamboo are considered symbols of beauty and endurance throughout Japanese history into modern times. Made of 100% cotton with a shrink-resistant finish, the navy blue and white color palette complement the water deity design of this robe.

To summarize, here is the complete list:

  1. Yukata – Red Crane and Tree
  2. Yukata – Blue Dawn
  3. Yukata – Dragon and Mt. Fuji – Navy
  4. Blue Koi Yukata
  5. Dragon and Bamboo Yukata

It is no surprise that this month’s list is all yukatas since they are lighter weight and are very popular in the hot summer months.

If you are looking for a kimono or yukata that will make you stand out from the crowd, then look no further than Chopa, your go-to source for all things kimono and yukata related. We offer over 100 kimonos and yukatas featuring some truly stunning creations that are sure to turn heads wherever you go. From sleek and modern designs to traditional and ornate ones, we have something for everyone on your list.

Chopa has been selling Kimonos online since 1994. Our reputation is amongst the best in the business. Fast shipping, fair pricing, easy returns, and best of all, we are headquartered in the USA. Your order ships from our central warehouse in Northwest Florida. Shop online 24 hours a day from the comfort of your home or office. Visit our online Kimono Shop today.

blue dawn yukata

                       Blue Dawn Yukata

Best Kimonos – May 2022

Friday, June 10th, 2022

Are you looking to purchase a new Kimono or Yukata?  Let us help you.  Each month, we publish our Top Five Best Selling Kimono Yukata List. We provide you the opportunity to see what is selling well right now.

Feel confident that you are buying something that other people have loved and enjoyed. Stay up to date on the latest trends. Become part of our community of Kimono Lovers everywhere. We are a friendly group that loves and appreciates Japanese Kimonos and Yukatas.

Here are the TOP FIVE BEST SELLERS for May 2022:

  • Yukata – White Moji
  • Yukata – Dragon and Hawk
  • Happi Coat – Blue Koi
  • Kimono – Black Dragon and Tiger
  • Black Kimono – Samurai Robe

What do all of these have in common?  They are generally men’s robes, but it coincides with Father’s Day, so it isn’t unusual.  Before Mother’s Day, women’s robes outsell men’s by about five to one. Seasonal factors play a part in buying patterns. The main point we get out of it is that kimonos and Yukata always make great gift choices.

These beautiful robes aren’t something that is often purchased by an individual until they see one or are presented as a gift. Then all bets are off as customers see firsthand how comfortable and regal they make you feel. The history behind Japanese Kimonos is fascinating. Tie this in with cultural significance, styles, patterns, and symbolism and it is a wonder why everyone in America isn’t wearing one today.

Chopa carries a wide selection of robes in 100% cotton. This is very popular among our customers because they love the easy-care feature and the fact they are machine washable. If you are searching for a kimono or yukata, you have come to the right place. Our online Kimono Shop is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  We never close. Shop online now.

                        White Moji 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

Fabrics Used in Kimonos

Saturday, April 2nd, 2022

Japanese kimonos are comfortable and stylish to wear. Kimonos are traditional Japanese clothing that was originally worn by a woman to cover their bodies during the Edo era. They have evolved somewhat over the many years and revived as a fashion trend now, especially in Tokyo where you can find many stores offering kimonos with all sorts of other trendy pieces.

Made from long pieces of fabric, Kimonos are sewn together along straight seams. A collar is attached to give it shape around the neck. The kimono is not cut specifically for each wearer but rather folds and drapes over them like a bathrobe and is held in place by tying an obi or sash around the hips and waist.

What is a common fabric used to make a kimono? Answers will vary but the most common ones made for today are cotton, cotton sateen, cotton slub,  broadcloth, and silk sateen.

Cotton:

Cotton fabric is a favorite among many for its natural qualities. Cotton fibers are derived from seeds surrounding the flower of the cotton plants. These fiber strands come out in rounded formation when mature in colors ranging from white to light brown depending on geography and growing conditions.

This textile doesn’t contain any synthetic compounds, which means that it’s chemically organic. Cotton fabric is one of the most commonly used fabrics in the world. This material is very appealing because it can be used to make light or heavyweight clothing like shirts, sheets, pajamas, dresses, blouses, jackets, and especially Japanese kimono and yukata robes.

Cotton Sateen:

Sateen is a cotton fabric with a luster resembling that of satin. This fabric has the smoothness and glossiness that you would expect from satin. Cotton sateen is produced with the highest quality threads. It is among the most expensive cotton materials available.

It is highly breathable and has increased wear resistance because it has higher thread counts which give them durability without being too thin like some cheaper options. This material is often used to make sheets, pillowcases, and other items like the kimono yukata.

Cotton Slub:

Shantung or Slub cotton fabric has a unique look and feel. It contains spun cotton fibers providing a ribbed design effect. Slubbed yarns are woven into the material. This produces a durable, nubby fabric that maintains an airy feel with a textured and visual attraction.

Slub cotton is also called Tianzhu cotton in Japanese. This natural linen possesses better breathability than ordinary plain-knit cotton, making it an excellent choice for hot summer days and nights. Many customers like the look of this fabric for its retro appearance. It is more expensive than traditional cotton.

Broadcloth:

This fabric is typically used for clothing. It’s a sturdy, yet thin and medium weight fabric that can be found on everything from shirts to blouses or even bed sheets. Broadcloth fabric can be used for many different things. It’s tightly woven and very sturdy, making it perfect to use in the crafting industry or as an everyday shirt material because of its quality construction. High-end dress shirt makers often turn to broadcloth to make their best dress shirts.

Broadcloth clothing typically doesn’t need to be dry-cleaned. However, may need ironing or steaming to maintain its crisp, smooth appearance. Broadcloth will release odors easily in the wash. It is recommended to wash in cold water on the gentle cycle or washing by hand and tumble dry on low.

Silk Sateen:

Cherished for centuries, Silk Sateen has long been a popular choice. It’s made from the finest fibers and has long been respected as a finer fabric because it is woven from silk filament fibers. A Sateen Weave refers to a weaving technique in which three threads are woven over one thread.

This results in a smooth and sensual feel when running across the hand or body. Sateen fabric isn’t cheap. Silk runs on the higher end, to begin with, and when made into the finished sateen material, the labor increases the cost.  Silk is a natural lightweight material that is very breathable and dries fast. Silk fabric regulates body temperatures well, so you feel cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This temperature-regulating feature is one of the reasons silk is in demand. Shop for Kimonos and Yukatas online.

            Silk feels good on the body.