Artist weaves Japanese tradition into Western-style garments
Few garments are as steeped in culture as the Japanese kimono.
Veronique Loggins, a self-proclaimed devotee of the artisan textiles used in the making of kimonos and owner of Wabi Sabi Etc., has brought the garment’s ethos and beauty to Oklahoma City and its annual Festival of the Arts at Bicentennial Park in downtown Oklahoma City.
“I take and reclaim fabric from Japanese silk kimono … and make them into Western-friendly clothing,” said Loggins, who started the practice nine years ago.
Her designs feature brightly colored jackets, tunics and pullover blouses in blue, salmon, pink, green or other colors. Many feature large pockets with black trim and whimsical prints.
“(Kimono fabric) is woven to be only 14 inches wide by tradition,” Loggins said. “The reason is that at one time in Japan, when structures were made of wood, they had a lot of fires. So the heaviest loom they could take on their backs because they had to replace their clothing and their bedding was 14 inches. And that remained as a traditional loom set for Japanese kimono. With modern technology, we’re able to make 36, 45 or 60 (inches), but with kimono, it’s always 14.
“And because it is a woven fabric, they never cut the selvages. They fold the selvages like origami. The collars are even 14 inches wide and folded so it feels like interfacing,” she said.
Kimonos were worn in Japan as early as 794 AD. A straight-lined robe with large square sleeves that is bound at the waist, kimonos are crafted to reflect strict Japanese tradition in both the construction and the print of the silk. They are worn by both men and women.
The silks may be woven and dyed in numerous
ways, Loggins said, and she obtains a wide variety dating back as far as the mid20th century.
“I order the fabrics and I don’t buy bulk. I buy one at a time and I do one piece of clothing at a time,” she said. “That’s why every piece is unique.”
Once she receives a reclaimed or new Kimono, Loggins said she carefully takes it apart and prepares the fabric to use in one her garments. “A kimono is hand-sewn, so it’s easy to take apart. And I launder them because they like their kimono really stiff, and they have a lot of sizing that holds dirt,” Loggins said. “I’m a brave soul. I just throw them in the washer and dry them and they come out really soft.”
Kimonos created in different decades feature unique color schemes, which helps Loggins select the silks that will comprise her piece of clothing.
"There are certain color palettes that repeat. Whether it’s 1940, 1950, 1960, 1970 or 1980, they repeat. They’re complementary. That way I can put things together in that color palette. There might be six different kimono fabrics in one piece. That’s why each is one-of-akind,” she said.
And with kimonos making their way into current fashion trends, Loggins said business is good.
“I’m fortunate that even though I’ve been doing kimono for nine years, the last two years, you see the kimono is coming back in style,” she said. “What I like is, I offer the real deal. It’s not manufactured in China or Vietnam. I don’t resource out at all.”
Loggins’ pieces range from $12 for hair knots to $225 for some of the more intricate fabrics and designs.
Most of her business is repeat business, so she doesn’t maintain an online presence. “I have an established clientele. When someone buys from me, they like to buy again. My favorite thing to hear is, ‘It’s my go-to. I wear it all the time.’”
Those interested knowing more about her work or ordering a garment may call 719-229-2797 or see her at the Festival of the Arts.
The Festival of the Arts continues through Sunday. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.