The lace kimono, also known as "yofuku kimono" or "western-style kimono," is a popular trend among Japanese women. This style combines traditional Japanese kimono with classical European lace dresses, incorporating a modern Japanese pursuit of cuteness. The merges of the elegance of traditional Japanese kimono with modern Western elements, resulting in a vintage and fashionable look. This trend is believed to have been influenced by the Taisho period in Japan, when Western elements were first introduced into clothing culture. It gained popularity in 2019 and has since spread throughout Japan.
In this blog, we will explore the features of the lace kimono. We will also discuss the various hairstyles and accessories that complement the lace kimono, as well as footwear options.
The Features of Lace Kimono
Lace kimonos mostly features soft pastel colors or unique, earthy tones, with geometric or floral patterns to create a cute and gentle atmosphere, making it very popular among Japanese women. If you want to stand out even more, you can also choose luxurious black or dark blue colors.
The lace kimono is different from the typical traditional kimono, as the kimono itself does not have intricate embroidery or patterns. Instead, the kimono emphasizes simplicity and elegance. However, Japanese women pay great attention to accessories when wearing lace kimonos. To make their outfits more layered and stunning, Japanese women like to pair their lace kimonos with Western-style accessories such as lace, pearls, and floral designs. This enhances the Western influence of the lace kimono, while at the same time using these elegant and sophisticated accessories to enhance the inherent elegance of the traditional Japanese kimono.
Accessories and Hairstyles for Lace Kimono
Japanese women have a variety of options when it comes to waist decoration for lace kimono. They often use heko obi or hanhaba obi with pearl obijime and obiage.
Here is a breakdown of each component:
- Heko Obi/Hanhaba Obi: Heko obi is a relatively narrow obi that is typically worn with informal kimono, and it is often made of soft, comfortable material. It is used as a decorative accessory for the waist area of a kimono. Hanhaba obi, on the other hand, is a half-width obi that is often used for informal occasions. Both options can be paired with pearl obijime and obiage to create a visually appealing and layered waist decoration for lace kimono
- Pearl Obijime: Obijime refers to a decorative cord that is tied around the obi (kimono belt) to secure it in place. Pearl obijime specifically refers to obijime adorned with pearl-like beads, adding a subtle and elegant touch to the waist area
- Obiage: Obiage is a scarf-like accessory that is worn around the waist, wrapped around the obi-makura (a cushion used to shape the obi) to provide a pop of color and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the obi. It frames the obi and complements the overall look.
These combinations of heko obi/hanhaba obi belt, pearl obijime, and obiage allow for various options and styles to create a visually appealing and layered waist decoration for lace kimono
Picture (Left): Heko obi and obiage
Picture (Right): Pearl obijime, purple pink heko obi and white obiage
When it comes to the hands, Japanese girls usually like to match lace gloves or lace cuffs. Here are some options for bags that can be paired with these accessories:
-
Fur bags: Small and cute fur bags can be paired with lace gloves or cuffs to create a soft and feminine look
-
Bamboo woven bags: Bamboo woven bags are a popular choice for summer and can be paired with lace gloves or cuffs for a natural and earthy look
-
Pearl woven bags: Pearl woven bags can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall look when paired with lace gloves or cuffs
- Leather bags: Leather bags are a versatile option that can be paired with lace gloves or cuffs for a chic and modern look
In addition to that, Japanese girls also prepare lace collars and lace bonnets for matching. These accessories can add charm and flair to their outfits. Lace collars are often worn along the shoulders, while lace bonnets can be worn on the head。 They are typically made of delicate lace fabric and can enhance the overall aesthetic of the ensemble:
-
Lace collar: These are decorative collars made of lace fabric that can be worn along the shoulders. They add a frilly and feminine touch to the outfit
- Lace bonnet: These are small round hats made of lace fabric. They can be worn on the head and add a vintage and elegant look to the overall ensemble
Hairstyles have also undergone significant changes with lace kimonos. Braids with one or two playful and cute lace ribbons are popular choices. Hair accessories can include dried flowers, pearls, lace bonnet.
Footwear Options
