7 Key Tips for Renting Retro-Style Kimono in Asakusa
In recent years, wearing kimono for sightseeing in Asakusa has become popular, with a particular focus on retro-modern kimono styles.
It has gained popularity on social media platforms like Instagram, and many people might be thinking, “I want to wear a retro kimono too!”
Around Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, there are many spots where you can take cute photos in retro kimonos. However, the term “retro” might not be clear to everyone. You might wonder, “Is anything old considered retro?” or “Can the hair and makeup be modern?”
So, how should you go about renting a retro kimono? Here are some points to consider:
1. What Is a Retro Kimono?
Before introducing kimono rental, let’s review what “retro” means.
“Retro” is short for “retrospective.” The term generally refers to a sense of nostalgia or longing for the past.
While individual interpretations of nostalgia may vary, it is commonly associated with the period before Japan’s rapid economic growth, spanning from the Taisho to the early Showa era.
So, when it comes to retro kimonos, it typically refers to kimonos that evoke a sense of nostalgia for the styles worn during the Taisho and early Showa periods.
If you find it difficult to understand in words, please take a look at the retro kimono catalog at Rika Kimono Asakusa Store to see what kind of kimonos are available.
＞Asakusa’s Retro Kimono Rental Plans and Antique Kimono Catalog
2. How Is It Different from Antique Kimono?
The term “antique” comes from the French word “antique,” which means “antique” or “vintage.”
While “retro” and “antique” both share the characteristic of being “old,” there is a fundamental difference in whether they are actually old or not.
“Retro” is essentially a form of nostalgia and does not necessarily mean a preference for genuinely old items. It is a hobby of “nostalgia for the past,” so even a brand-new kimono designed to resemble the styles of the Taisho era can be considered retro.
On the other hand, “antique” refers to genuinely old items. In the context of kimono, if a kimono created during the Taisho era is still in existence, it can be considered an antique kimono.
In broad terms, you can consider “retro” to be about the ambiance, while “antique” is about genuinely old items. However, it’s worth noting that “antique” kimonos are sometimes also referred to as retro kimonos, so both can be understood as “items with an old-fashioned feel.”
If you want to see the difference between antique and retro kimonos through photos, you can check them out here:
＞Asakusa’s Retro Kimono Rental Plans and Antique Kimono Catalog
3. Points for Kimono Rental
Here are some key points to consider when renting a retro kimono. While these are just examples, I hope they serve as a reference for choosing what kind of kimono suits the retro style.
3.1. What Kimono Pattern Do You Like?
The first criterion for choosing a kimono rental is selecting the kimono pattern. The pattern can greatly influence your overall impression, so choosing the right pattern is essential. After all, it’s not enjoyable to wear a kimono with a pattern you dislike.
The Taisho era is often associated with a modest image for women, so many kimonos from that era feature simple patterns. Even if they have patterns, they tend to be subtle and used sparingly, often as a small accent or in a checkerboard pattern to maintain a unified look.
While there are exceptions, shorter individuals may appear cute in kimonos with small pattern accents, while taller individuals may benefit from a more cohesive pattern that makes a stronger impression.
Color is also important when choosing a kimono. In recent years, kimonos have featured vibrant pastel colors to appear glossy. However, in the Taisho era, which is associated with the retro style, such vivid colors were not common. Instead, navy and orange were more typical, creating a subdued color palette.
For those in their 30s or older, cool-toned kimonos that exude a calm atmosphere may be suitable. If you are in your 20s, you might prefer youthful warm-toned kimonos. On social media, white and beige kimonos have also become popular choices. These colors don’t overpower the kimono’s presence and can still create a relaxed atmosphere.
Matching the Obi (Sash)
Once you’ve chosen your kimono, it’s time to select the obi (sash) to go with it. Normally, the choice of obi is determined by the formality of the kimono, but with kimono rentals, you can choose an obi you like without worrying about strict rules.
One recommended approach is to “match the kimono and obi in similar colors” to create a clean and cohesive look. For example, if you have a white kimono, you can pair it with a beige obi. If you have a red kimono, you can choose an orange obi, and so on. Creating contrast between the kimono and obi can enhance the overall appearance.
Alternatively, you can also match based on patterns. If your kimono has a bold pattern, you can opt for a simpler obi, and vice versa. Balancing the intricacy of patterns between the kimono and obi can make the kimono stand out beautifully.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal taste, but if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to consult with the staff at Rika Kimono Asakusa Main Store.
Matching Hairstyling and Makeup
Once you’ve decided on your kimono and obi, it’s time to plan your hairstyling and makeup. Even if you choose a retro kimono, having a modern hairstyle can create a mismatched look. It’s recommended to opt for a retro hairstyle when wearing a retro kimono.
During the Taisho era, hairstyles with waves and hair falling on both sides, covering the ears while gathering at the back of the head in a style called “mimikakushi,” were popular. These retro hairstyles can complement your kimono beautifully.
Additionally, adding hair accessories can enhance the overall cuteness. At that time, even plastic hair accessories were available, so you can choose subtle hair decorations that don’t overpower your look.
However, creating these hairstyles can be a bit challenging if you’re not experienced. If you have short hair or excessively long hair, it may be difficult to style it properly. In some cases, you might need to use sprays or pins to set the hairstyle.
Since the Taisho era was a period of incorporating foreign cultures, moderately modern hairstyles should not appear too out of place. You can choose a hairstyle that suits you, but if you’re unsure, Rika Kimono Asakusa Main Store offers hairstyling services along with kimono dressing, so you can consider getting assistance there.
Lace Innerwear and Hem Guards
Of course, under the kimono, you should wear lace innerwear and hem guards. During the Taisho era, some people wore kimonos over their underwear, but there’s no need to go to such lengths, especially when renting a kimono. Lace innerwear and hem guards are available for purchase on online shopping sites, but if you don’t have them, you can use a lightweight shirt or camisole. You can also substitute hem guards with “steteco” (short undergarments) or a petticoat.
Additionally, kimonos can make you sweat unexpectedly. To prevent the inside of the kimono from becoming sweaty and uncomfortable, you can wrap a towel around your waist. This not only helps with comfort but also smoothes out your figure, eliminating any unevenness and making your kimono look even more beautiful.
It’s also a measure to prevent any damage to the kimono, so it’s a good idea to prepare these items before renting a kimono.
What About Wearing Boots?
When we think of kimonos, we often picture straw sandals or geta as footwear. However, if you want to bring out the retro vibe, wearing boots is also recommended.
During the Taisho era, Japan began to embrace Western culture, and the “Haikara” fashion, which featured kimonos paired with boots, became popular. As a result, boots surprisingly complement retro-style kimonos quite well.
You can choose your preferred boots, but those with a chic design in black or brown tones are particularly suitable for retro kimonos.
Recommended Accessories
In addition to hair accessories used for hairstyling, there are other accessories that can enhance your retro-style ensemble.
When it comes to bags, opt for a hand-carried type. Chic patterns like checkerboard or hemp leaf designs are recommended. However, you can still incorporate some modern elements if you coordinate them well, achieving a “Haikara” style.
While it’s often believed that hats don’t go well with kimonos, this perception changes when you’re wearing a retro kimono. In the past, during the Taisho era, hats like straw hats in summer and berets in winter were commonly used alongside kimono outfits.
While it might seem like a waste of hairstyling, trying a hat coordination can be interesting.
If you plan to wear accessories, it’s recommended to use “netsuke” and “obi-dome” in addition to hair accessories. Generally, necklaces and similar items are not suitable for kimonos, including retro ones. Therefore, sticking with traditional accessories like netsuke, obi-dome, and hairpins is a better choice.
Wearing flashy necklaces or earrings can also give you a “Haikara” look, but it requires a good sense of fashion. Be cautious, as excessive accessorizing can appear tacky.
In some cases, you might not need more than a bag to carry your belongings and hair accessories to complete your retro kimono look.
When in Doubt, Consult the Staff
We’ve provided various points to consider when renting a kimono, but if you still have concerns, you can leave everything to Rika Kimono Asakusa Main Store.
At Rika Kimono Asakusa Main Store, we have stylists with extensive experience who can not only assist with kimono dressing but also hairstyling and makeup. Additionally, if needed, you can rent accessories and prepare everything you need for your outfit.
We invite you to use our services and enjoy the full experience of a retro kimono ensemble filled with Taisho romance. Then, take a stroll through the streets of Asakusa in your retro fashion!
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）.
