What’s feminine, stylish and can be worn in many ways?
Kimonos aren’t new, but they’re the outfit we’re betting on this season to attract the most eyeballs. The length, the drama, the volume — it all adds to this exquisite Japanese wrap
They are showstoppers not only on runways in Paris, Milan, and London, but also on the streets here in Dubai.
Do you live in your jeans? You’re not alone, we do too — which, explains why we’re always on the lookout for ideas that can up the fashion quotient of our denims. Cropped, skinny, distressed or boyfriend jeans — what’s doing the trick for all denim types this season are the kimonos. Yes, we’re referring to the charming, traditional Japanese garment. If not in Korean dramas, you may have seen kimonos in Hollywood flicks — think Memoirs of a Geisha. The outfit, which was once reserved by Japanese women for festive occasions and formal gatherings, is currently the showstopper not only on runways in Paris, Milan, and London, but also on the streets all across the globe, including Dubai.
When and where did it all start? Perhaps, earlier this year at the AllStar weekend where singer Beyonce walked in a pair of ripped jeans teamed up with a Gucci kimono in a floral print, complete with purple mink fur. Of course, she looked stunning, but what also left us speechless was the price tag of the kimono — $21, 945 (that’s about Dhs80,000)! Recently, actress Priyanka Chopra was spotted at an airport in a retro kimono jacket worn over denim basics. Model Chloe Nørgaard wore hers over a denim bikini at the Revolve party. The good news here is that the sweeping fad is not just for the celebs, but also for aspiring fashionistas who aspire to elevate the status of the denims and make a statement at the same time.
The straight-lined robes are usually ankle length with long, wide sleeves. However, in the modern avatars each element can be customised. You can also choose the collar or a no-collar look. For those who like to cover their arms, kimonos are a great choice. Tip: Mid-length works best when teaming with a pair of denims. Or wrap over swimwear, body suits, yoga pants, and dresses. Time to ditch the denim jacket and plaid cotton shrugs? Last month, singer Rihanna was spotted at a restaurant in Los Angeles in a Dolce & Gabbana floral kimono dress — she looked stunning in the fuchsia piece that featured long kimono sleeves, a belt, and snap fastenings down the front. Let’s discuss the choices for a bit. You have the florals, which are our favourite. And prints available in beautiful summery shades of yellow, green, and blue. You can also take your love for nature to another level — think patterns inspired by flamingoes, palm trees, and even dolphins. Oriental Kimono by Mango (available at namshi.com, Dhs399) is a nice buy. It’s a mid-length white with natureinspired patterns in subtle hues. Attico, the luxury fashion label, is a must-stop for picking up a vintage kimono. The collection also includes robe dresses in silk (Raquel Silk Robe Dress, for Dhs2,132 at boutique1.com), with tie-up slim belts and a promise to taking layering to another level. Another favourite of ours is the Gabriella Lobster Robe Dress (Dhs3,412 at boutique1.com), the black silk garment features a Japanese-inspired lobster applique embellished with beads and sequins. It can be worn in different ways. Aah, how much we love the waist ties with tassels, ribbons, and the traditional sashes. Belt it, button it up or leave it open. All up to you. Tip: Play around with the sash to tie it up in unique patterns. Do add to your shopping list the fringed kimonos from Forever 21, lace hems options from Dorothy Perkins, and the side slip choices from Miss Selfridge (other than the stores in the city, they can be bought from various online portals). Well, we’re laying our bets on kimonos this season, and we suggest you do too.