10 Things to Know about Short Japanese Kimono

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In Japanese, the word kimono 着物 literally translates to thing to wear (to wear and 物 a thing). Despite this very general and broad meaning, the word refers specifically to the full length garment worn by both men and women.

There are certain variations of kimono such as the thinner, lighter yukata robe worn during the summer, or the furisode kimono whose long, flowing sleeves are worn by young single women to indicate their unmarried status. However, all these variations share one feature: they are all long.

But what if you want the elegance of a kimono without the length? Well, look no further because we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 things to know about short kimono.

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The traditional way to wear the kimono is down to your ankles, so the term short kimono may seem a little bit of a paradox! However, there are plenty of designs that provide the same feel and elegance of a kimono without the length.

Just know that moving forward, when we say “short kimono” we are referring to a kimono-style garment that is shorter in length.

Though there is technically no such thing as a short kimono, there are alternatives that provide a similar look and feel, just sans the length. One main candidate would be the kimono jacket. Traditionally worn above the kimono garment, there are many different styles of kimono jackets which suit different needs. There is also the kimono robe, a more modern and relaxed take on the traditional garment that still evokes the beauty and elegance of the iconic design.

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For women, there are a few different options when it comes to short kimono. Firstly, you have the kimono jackets, which include haori, hanten, and hifu. These are loose fitting jackets that would be worn above the kimono with the length reaching either the hips or mid thigh.

The most popular is the haori, a loose fitting traditional jacket whose function resembles that of a Western cardigan. Haori are often made from the same material as kimono and, depending on the material used, can be worn in both a casual or formal setting. Hanten and hifu are similar in shape to the haori but differ in other aspects. The hanten is much thicker, making it suitable for colder weather, whilst the hifu are double breasted meaning they are completely close at the front, making them suitable as smocks.

Outside of kimono jackets, there are also kimono robes. Kimono robes are something of an evolution from the yukata and are designed to be loose, comfortable loungewear. They can come in bold prints which showcase the beauty of Japan’s textile industry.

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Just as with women, men can also wear kimono jackets such as haori and hanten. The form of the garment is loose and isn’t designed for one specific gender. What can help to differentiate them is the color.

While women’s kimono and kimono jackets are often bright with interesting and intricate patterns and motifs, men’s designs are much more subtle. The exterior fabric is often dyed using muted organic colors, such as dark blues, browns, and greens. While the outer facing may be modest, the male haori’s interior lining is sometimes adorned with intricate illustrations, a secret only known to the wearer.

Another jacket (which isn’t restricted just to men) is the happi. This jacket is predominantly worn during festivals by those taking part in the event. Typically they are blue with bold white, red, or black designs and are more rustic in texture making them ideal for casual wear.

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Authentic short kimono are those that have been handmade in Japan using traditional Japanese methods. Japan is a country with a rich textile history with masters having learnt skills that have been passed down for generations.

Some of the best haori are made of silk or from kurume kasuri, a distinctly Japanese cotton that has been used for centuries. The fabric is named after the town of its origin, Kurume, located in Fukuoka prefecture, where it continues to be produced.

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Thanks to the variety of styles, there is a short kimono for every occasion. The haori is an easy option for almost any outing, however, the choice of the material may determine when and where you would wear it. Where a cotton haori might elevate an everyday look a silk haori could take your evening style to the next level.

When thinking about the colder months, this is when the hanten shines. Thanks to its insulating quilting, the hanten is the perfect item for keeping warm and cosy in chilly weather. During the warmer months, the kimono robe is the perfect option for lounging around at home or perhaps even by the pool over a bathing suit.

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Of course, the traditional way to style most of these jackets is over a kimono, but given that many of us do not wear kimono on a regular basis there are other ways to include them in our modern day wardrobe. Aside from the kimono robe— which is designed as indoor loungewear — the kimono jackets can be worn as additional layering over an existing outfit.

For a casual yet chic look, a cotton haori paired with a neutral top and jeans can look relaxed yet stylish. If you want to feel a little more luxurious when heading for a night on the town, a silk haori paired with well tailored trousers and top will have you standing out. Why not add some Japanese accessories, like a pair of mizuhiki earrings, to complete the look? In the winter, a padded hanten worn above a simple poloneck works for both men and women.

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Vintage kimono were designed to suit the tastes of their time; as such they serve as wearable pieces of history. Whether they are made of silk or cotton, they embody the crafting legacy of Japan’s textile industry.

Modern short kimono are designed for comfort as well as style. Many of the modern haori available on our site are handmade using kurume kasuri and come in lengths and patterns that work well with contemporary outfits. Our modern kimono robes have been handmade in Kyoto which is famed for its silk and textile industry. Though the robes themselves may be new, they draw on motifs and designs that have held great meaning in Japan for hundreds of years.

When visiting Japan, there are numerous locations you could head to to buy short kimono. Thrift stores often sell second hand kimono jackets, but you cannot always be assured of the quality. There are plenty of boutique craft stores up and down the country that sell high quality, authentic Japanese short kimono made from Japanese silk and cotton.

If you are unable to come to Japan yourself, let Japan Objects bring Japan to you. Our store boasts some of the highest quality Japanese products including short kimono for both men and women.