Can You Rent Antique (Taisho Roman) Kimonos in Kyoto? Tips on How to Wear Them and Enjoy the Experience
For those who are considering renting a kimono in Kyoto, some might think, “I’d like to rent an antique kimono.” “Antique kimonos” have a unique charm that sets them apart from modern kimonos.
So, in this article, we’ve summarized the key points about antique kimonos that you should know when renting a kimono in Kyoto!
If you’re curious about the kind of photos you can take in retro kimonos in Kyoto, check this out:
>Enjoying a Cute Summer in Retro Kimono in Kyoto!
1. What Are Antique Kimonos?
“Antique kimonos” refer to kimonos made before approximately Showa 16 (around 1941), which are over 70 years old.
When we talk about “antique,” in the world of antiques, it usually refers to items that are “over 100 years old.” However, when it comes to fabric, unlike accessories made of gems or metals or sturdy furniture, textiles can deteriorate significantly over time, making them challenging to wear.
Therefore, in the case of kimonos, they are considered “antique” at around 70 years or so, which is a bit earlier than the 100-year standard for other antiques.
Among “antique kimonos,” some date back to the late Edo period, but can they still be worn safely today?
Considering this, kimonos from the Taisho and early Showa periods are known to be in the best condition and have a wide variety available. Some of them were crafted with exceptional artisanal skills that are no longer replicated today.
Items created in an era before mass production offer depth and are undeniably charming.
You might have heard the term “modern kimono” in addition to “antique.” Wondering about the differences between modern, retro, and antique kimonos?
How to Enjoy Antique Kimonos at Kimono Rental Shops
Antique kimonos are full of charm in terms of colors and patterns. Some may think, “I want to wear them and go out looking cute!”
So, we’ll share some tips on how to wear antique kimonos!
Kimonos made over 70 years ago were tailored to fit the sizes of women from that era.
Yes, there’s a difference in body sizes between us today and those from the past.
Perhaps you thought, “I want to wear it!” but found that the sleeves or length are too short and don’t fit you well. Before getting disappointed, try a few tricks:
- – If the sleeves are short… adjust the collar (the back of the neck) and the collar area to create more room for the sleeves.
- – If the hem is short… you can lengthen it by tying the waistband higher on your waist. Alternatively, by not making the fold under the obi (ohashori), you can achieve the desired length.
Antique kimonos were originally designed with smaller sizes, so wearing them slightly shorter is perfectly fine.
Even if the sleeves expose your wrists entirely, it’s not a problem in terms of kimono dressing. However, personal preferences vary.
If the collar area feels too empty when worn loosely, you can enhance your coordination by adding a colored or lace han’eri (decorative collar) or layering collars.
If the size still doesn’t fit but you really want to wear it, why not consider a modern twist?
For example, pair short kimonos with lace-up short boots often worn with hakama, or match vivid color tights and high heels with a vibrant Taisho Roman pattern.
Combining accessories you already have to create a modern look is both fresh and stylish.
You can make it glamorous by adding fur or animal prints or go for a girly look with ribbons and lace.
Check out the list of antique kimonos available at Nishika Kimono Kyoto here:
>Kyoto Antique Kimono Rental Plans and Retro Kimono List
Colors and Patterns of Antique Kimonos
Kyoto is a city with a rich history and atmosphere representing various periods of Japanese history. In each era, different styles of kimono were in fashion.
Traditional “kimono” is often said to be timeless and not subject to trends, but that’s not entirely true!
Even in the kimono’s era, people had a desire for fashion, just as we do today.
That’s why the trends of each era are keenly incorporated into antique kimonos.
During the long and peaceful Edo period, interest in kimono grew, and kimono manufacturing techniques advanced significantly.
As the Meiji era followed, many new cultures were introduced from foreign countries, bringing new waves to the world of kimono.
Even in modern times, antique kimonos remain charming because they represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship from their respective eras. Cutting-edge fashion of the time was created using the best available technology, which is why the popularity of these kimonos endures and continues to attract fans across generations.
Colors of Antique Kimonos
One of the charms of antique kimonos is their “colors.” As new eras began, in addition to traditional “plant-based dyes,” “chemical dyes” were introduced.
The characteristic of chemical dyes is their “vivid coloration.”
Traditional plant-based dyes offer soft and gentle color tones, but with the new chemical dyes, brilliant and striking colors could be achieved.
Many kimonos were created with eye-catching colors, known as “vivid colors.”
Patterns of Antique Kimonos
New patterns were also rapidly incorporated into kimono designs.
In addition to the traditional elegant patterns, motifs inspired by European artifacts were introduced.
For example, Western musical instruments, ribbons, and Western-style flowers, which were not previously seen on kimonos or obis, began to emerge as a result of cultural exchange with foreign countries.
During the same period, a variety of colorful han’eri (decorative collars) also became available, giving rise to new coordination styles between kimonos and han’eri.
Retro Charm: “Taisho Roman”
When it comes to antique kimonos, think “Taisho Roman.”
During the Meiji era, Japan experienced significant cultural and economic growth, which continued into the Taisho period.
The era was filled with vitality, as female students and working women emerged, leading to a newfound sense of freedom and vivacity among women.
It’s the trends of that time that continue to capture the hearts of kimono enthusiasts even in modern times.
Many people who love the Taisho Roman style also love antique kimonos.
We often receive questions like, “Can I rent a Taisho Roman-style kimono?”
European Design
In the Taisho era, the art world was dominated by a style known as “Art Nouveau,” characterized by graceful, flowing lines resembling plant branches and stems.
Subsequently, the “Art Deco” style became popular, featuring bold and minimalistic geometric patterns without excessive ornamentation.
In Japan, these design elements were skillfully incorporated into kimono and obi patterns.
Traditional patterns were not discarded; instead, they were combined with new foreign patterns without hesitation, resulting in a fusion of Japanese and Western design elements.
Vivid Colors
In modern times, people tend to go for “safe” colors like black, beige, or white. But Taisho Roman is different.
The Taisho era introduced new and vibrant colors, and how to coordinate them became a showcase of women’s fashion sense.
Bold floral patterns in eye-catching colors, contrasting hues in geometric designs—just imagining how to coordinate these kimonos, obis, and colorful collars is exciting.
Taisho’s Fast Fashion: “Meisen”
Meisen fabric often features cute and pop-style designs.
Despite being made of silk, Meisen was an affordable material. The same patterns were mass-produced and sold at reasonable prices.
Department stores, which were the trendsetters of the time, entrusted painters and exclusive designers to create various patterns.
Women competed to purchase these bright, lively, and affordable Meisen designs.
It seems that cute and inexpensive items have always been popular among women, both in the past and today.
The Timeless Appeal of Antique Kimonos
Kimonos were often passed down through “three generations.”
The kimono that was part of a mother’s dowry would be passed on to her daughter, and then to her granddaughter, reflecting the robustness of kimonos meant to withstand the test of time.
Antique kimonos, which have witnessed more than 70 years of history, still possess their charm in modern times.
Availability of Antique Kimonos at Rikawafuku Kimono
You can also rent antique kimonos at Rikawafuku Kimono Kyoto! Each store has a selection of over 100 antique kimonos. You can choose your favorite from among the many kimonos available.
You can select antique kimonos from any of our rental plans, whether you opt for a hair set or not. View our Kyoto kimono rental plans here.
We also offer discounts for couples with our Kyoto Kimono Couple Plan and special discounts for students with our Kyoto Kimono Hair Set Student Discount Plan.
Take advantage of these discounts to enjoy kimono rental at a lower cost and have fun!
Tips for Achieving a Mature Kimono Coordination in Kyoto
Are there any tips to stand out and create a mature kimono coordination when renting kimonos in Kyoto?
The answer is to “choose antique kimonos.”
Antique kimonos often feature chic patterns that are unique and distinctive.
Opt for a sophisticated color palette for your accessories and other items to further enhance your mature kimono coordination.
Be sure to check out the article “Recommended Retro Kimono Rental Shops in Kyoto” on Tabirou.com, which introduces Rikawafuku Kimono as one of the top choices. Tabirou.com mainly provides information about tourist attractions, history, and great deals in various destinations, making it a valuable resource for planning your Kyoto trip!
Author of this article
Kyoto Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku operates four kimono rental shops in Kyoto city, including locations in Arashiyama, Gion, Kiyomizu Temple, and in front of Kyoto Station. In 2023, they served over 230,000 customers in the Kyoto area!
They offer affordable plans, with a kimono dressing plan starting from 3,500 yen, and a hair setting plan from 5,500 yen.
Close to popular tourist spots such as Togetsukyo Bridge, Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Koshindo, and Yasaka Shrine!
Kyoto Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Gion Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Arashiyama Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Kiyomizu Temple Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Kyoto Station Front Store
