How to Avoid Fashion Fails! Kimono and Obi Pairing Tips for Asakusa Rentals
One of the joys of renting a kimono in Asakusa is choosing your favorite kimono. In Asakusa, there are many vibrant patterns and colors available for kimono and obi combinations, which can be a tough choice for many.
So, in this article, we will share some essential rules to know when selecting your kimono and obi. The combination of kimono and obi you choose when renting a kimono in Asakusa is crucial as it determines the overall impression of your kimono attire.
1. Combining Patterns with Kimono Rental Obi
When people hear about kimono rental in Asakusa, they often imagine bold and vibrant patterns. One common question we receive at Asakusa kimono rental shops is, “Is it okay to combine kimono and obi with patterns?”
The answer is yes; you can rent both kimono and obi with patterns without any issues. In fact, it will give you a stunning and photogenic look with a festive vibe.
There are some minor points to consider, like matching the sizes of kimono and obi patterns, but feel free to experiment with various combinations. Patterns on both kimono and obi can create a uniquely charming appearance.
So, if you are renting a kimono in Asakusa, why not take this opportunity to try something new and walk through Asakusa or visit Senso-ji Temple in a vibrant and eye-catching kimono?
2. Making Use of Both Sides of the Obi at Asakusa Kimono Rentals
Another common question we receive from customers at Asakusa kimono rental shops is, “Can I use both sides of the obi?”
The answer is, yes, you can use both sides of the obi creatively. Many obis have patterns on both the front and back, creating a lovely butterfly-like effect, as shown in the picture.
This unique style is not achievable with traditional obi knot styles like “otaiko” or “Nagoya obi.” At Rikawafuku Asakusa, our professional dressers can help you choose the obi tying style that matches the atmosphere and patterns of your kimono.
Many obis available in Asakusa kimono rentals have patterns on the front and are plain on the back. Some customers who rent kimonos in Asakusa prefer a chic, plain obi to tie.
If you want to enjoy a chic kimono rental experience, we recommend using the plain back side of the obi as the main focus. At Rikawafuku Asakusa, we have experienced kimono dressers who also handle bridal dressing, so if you are unsure, please feel free to consult with us.
Coordinate with the Colors in the Rental Kimono
Another important aspect of matching rental kimonos and obis is combining the colors found in the rental kimono with the obi color.
In this case, the customer is wearing a kimono with deep pink tones, and they’ve matched it with a pink-patterned obi. The pink obi adds a lovely accent!
In this example, the person wearing the green kimono has combined it with an obi featuring orange and yellow patterns. It gives a natural and harmonious look!
On the right side, you can see a popular rental kimono. Here, the yellow in the kimono matches perfectly with the yellow obi, resulting in a beautiful and cute appearance.
The person on the left in the photo has matched the size of the patterns on the kimono and obi. It looks cute to show the pattern without folding!
The person on the right has paired a black, elegant obi with a flashy red rental kimono. This creates an atmosphere of sophistication around the waist and gives an instantly mature and cute look!
Of course, at rental kimono shops, they can also arrange the obi to match the kimono beautifully. So feel free to enjoy various combinations with confidence!
You can also rent a slightly unusual type of kimono known as antique kimono at rental kimono shops! Rikawafuku Asakusa Store also offers antique kimono rentals.
When coordinating antique kimono with an obi, it’s good to go with calm colors that match, or if you’re a young woman, you can add bright colors as accents! Purple and green obis go well with almost any kimono and are versatile, so remember them!
Look Cute with Different Colors or Matching Kimonos in Asakusa Kimono Rentals
If you’re still having trouble deciding, you might consider renting the same pattern, color, or even exactly the same kimono as your friends. While walking around Asakusa, you might come across groups of friends who rent the same kimono while choosing different obis.
This creates a sense of unity and looks lovely. You might also find that foreign tourists in Asakusa ask for more photos when you and your friends wear matching kimonos.
Some customers decide from the beginning to rent the same kimono, while others may accidentally end up renting the same kimono as their friends.
As a last resort when you’re torn between choices, consider the option of choosing matching kimonos with your friends.
How did you find these tidbits of knowledge on choosing kimonos and obis at Asakusa kimono rental shops? Whether you match patterns with patterns or use both sides of the obi, rental kimono shops offer a wide variety of kimono options, allowing you to wear colors you don’t typically wear. You can choose your favorite colors from your everyday casual wear, or you can have fun trying different colors of obis and kimonos.
If you’re having trouble deciding, seeing various ways of choosing at Asakusa kimono rental shops might be a good idea. You can also try searching with hashtags like #Asakusa and #KimonoRental.
Author of this article
Kimono rental Rikawafuku Asakusa store
(Operating company: TripFarm Co., Ltd.)
By 2023, more than 230,000 people will be wearing kimonos in a year
2-16-9 HULIC & New Kaminarimon 6F, Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0034
3 minutes walk from Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
1 minute walk to Kaminarimon
Click here for the website of our sister store, Kano-Wafuku（浅草の着物レンタル 花乃和服）.
