How to Wear the Floral Kimono? 7 Trendy Look Ideas

Captivated... This superb printed kimono spotted in a magazine or encountered during your last shopping session has completely enchanted you. You need this traditional Japanese must-have reimagined in a modern version! You already know that this statement piece will revolutionize your wardrobe. But how to wear the floral kimono? How to transform this symbolic piece rich in Japanese history into a trendy look? To avoid the fashion faux pas of the total traditional geisha look, here are 3 fashion codes to know and 7 trendy look ideas.  

3 tips for choosing and wearing it well

1. Long or short floral kimono?

The ideal length of the kimono depends on your body shape. To enhance your silhouette, favor the long version if you are petite with t-shirt, three-quarter, or rolled-up sleeves to show off your arms and thus lighten the silhouette. If you are tall, you can wear anything.

2. Belt or no belt?

Again, observe your body shape. Do you have a defined waist? If so, belt your floral kimono jacket to highlight this asset of your silhouette. But if you have hips wider than your shoulders (A shape) or love handles, wear the kimono open for a fluid look with a trendy oversized effect.

Belted floral patterned kimono to wear as a short dress or over a casual outfit (source: Pinterest)

3. Material and style

In summer, the floral printed kimono is worn fluid, airy, and vaporous. The long version flows behind you with a masterful cape effect. Favor light and shiny materials like silk, satin, chiffon, lace, etc. However, avoid the kimono whose fabric is "too fluid," meaning it hugs every curve of your body if your shapes are generous. Indeed, the shiny reflections of satin and silk draw attention exactly where you do not want it.

In terms of style, the floral kimono comes in a sober, structured, and elegant version with a more or less rigid material. But also in a hobo chic version with fringes for an updated country look.

Hidden symbolism of the floral kimono (or how to convey a message to the initiated)

In traditional Japanese culture, the kimono is a luxurious garment whose cut and color convey subtle messages to those who know how to decode them. Indeed, a three-quarter sleeve kimono identifies a single woman while long sleeves are reserved for married women. It's all about the sensuality of the wrist...

As for the color, the flashier, shinier, and more elaborately embroidered or animal-patterned the kimono is, the higher the social status of the woman wearing it in the Japanese aristocracy.

So, which model represents you best?

7 Ideas for a trendy look

1. The floral kimono jacket

For a trendy daytime look, keep in mind that the kimono is THE statement piece of your outfit. So, it's better to reduce the colors and patterns of the other clothes to avoid the Christmas tree look. If you manage to find this sobriety, you avoid the main fashion faux pas related to wearing a kimono.

Now is the time to pull out your basics:

• White or black t-shirt to wear over a fitted short or jeans
• a total black or white look or even pastel

In summary, neutral timeless pieces work very well to highlight your beautiful floral kimono.

2. Long kimono and crop top

The long floral kimono is ideal for elongating you. Open, it gives a very majestic cape effect, especially if it falls to your feet. As for the crop top, it is definitely trendy for those lucky enough to keep a flat belly despite barbecues and summer evenings.

Long floral kimono inspired by Asia - Les Petits Imprimés

Be careful with the crop top if you are short. Showing the belly is of course the main advantage of the crop top. But the visible belly creates two horizontal lines that can "flatten" your body shape. Especially if you wear it with shorts (new horizontal line at the top of the thighs).

Tip: the crop top is a real asset for your body shape if you are tall or short but very slim. It should especially be avoided for A-shaped body types as it further narrows the bust and, by contrast, widens the belly and hips.

3. Bohemian chic look with a kimono

Mix & Match genres and styles. When the Japanese kimono crosses paths with Indian fringes and spring floral patterns, the result is decidedly trendy. Go for maximum oversized on a casual yet fitted outfit to contrast the volumes.

Boho chic floral kimono with fringes (source: Pinterest)

4. Look casual Japanese-inspired

Are you looking to elevate your classic style with a strong yet neutral and timeless piece? The colorful floral kimono is ideal for you. Bright and spring-like, it adds a touch of lightness and originality to your look.

Its vertical lines elongate your silhouette, especially if you wear it open. The oversized effect is right on trend in women's fashion. In short, you look absolutely great in this must-have that is both oriental and classic. So, why hold back?

Casual look at home or at the office with a mid-length floral kimono worn open (source: Pinterest)

5. Wear the lace kimono robe

A long kimono? What a great idea! Its fluidity elongates your silhouette, Adorned with delicate floral patterns and distinctive lace lines in the back, the lace adds a rich and detailed aesthetic dimension to the whole. And its Japanese spirit makes your look spectacular in a single piece. Revealing your fashion taste, the long kimono dress is a must-have for summer!

White Lace Kimono - Elisabeth - Les Petits Imprimés 

Good news: it stands on its own. Accessorize it with fine and subtle jewelry that picks up a color from your outfit. Or play it neutral with metal jewelry, noble if possible.

For shoes, opt for nude or neutral pumps that further elongate your silhouette and complete your figure with a sophisticated touch. A handbag or clutch in the same tone finishes your outfit with class and style.

In summary, this long kimono dress is ideal for a wedding or a chic summer evening.

Read also: All Our Tips for Wearing Prints Well

6. The chic kimono robe

The mid-length silk kimono with three-quarter sleeves is, of course, a must-have in elegant lingerie. The shiny material adds sophistication while the cut flatters you with:

• a V-neckline that elongates your head posture, refines your neck and bust;
• flared sleeves with a casually neglected effect;
• a belt highlighting your slim waist;
• a short "skirt" that shows off your stunning legs.

The floral patterned loungewear kimono in cashmere: definitely a safe bet in chic lingerie (source: Pinterest)

And in a long version...

 

Long black lace kimono Athena - Les Petits Imprimés

7. The beachwear kimono

The floral kimono also makes an appearance on the beach. Its loose, chic loungewear version, covering but not too much, adds a touch of sophisticated false modesty. Neither really in a swimsuit nor really dressed, the kimono plays with transparency effects with floral lace.

White lace kimono with pom-poms - Les Petits Imprimés

Opt for a model featuring small boho chic details like pretty little pom-poms or short fringes in the spirit of summer vacations.

Read also: Women's One-Piece Swimsuit: Special Morpho Selection

Floral Kimono: summary of this chic and original must-have

Chic and structured, casual and airy, boho chic, elegant comfortable loungewear, classy semi-transparent beachwear,... The floral kimono is a multifaceted must-have that has completely succeeded in its transformation from traditional Japanese culture to the current trendy look.

The floral kimono accompanies you in every situation of your life, from lounging by the pool to the wedding you are invited to, from casual office wear to chic evening attire. Everyone recognizes the woman of taste who surprises with her elegant outfits that have a hint of originality.

Be feminine and delicately original thanks to:

• its vertical lines that elongate your silhouette (especially if you wear it open);
• its trendy and comfortable oversized volumes;
• and above all, its light floral print, poetic and right in line with women's fashion trends!

Will you be tempted by the kimono trend?