How to choose a kimono | Choose a kimono in the color and size that suits you
Wearing a kimono involves various customs, and it may feel a bit difficult for beginners. Many people may feel anxious, wondering, “What if I make a mistake and embarrass myself?” especially if they’re unsure about the basic rules or how to choose the right kimono.
In this article, we’ll introduce some basic rules and selection tips for those planning to try kimono rental during their trip to Kyoto!
We’ve also put together a helpful guide on how to choose colors based on your personal color and body type, so you can make your decision smoothly and confidently!
Learn the Basic Rules of Kimono Formality “Kaku”
First, it’s helpful to understand that kimono have a concept of “kaku”, or formality level. Just like Western clothing has formal and casual styles depending on the occasion, kimono also range from formal to casual.
Kimono are generally divided into three levels of formality: Iromuji (solid-colored kimono), Komon (small-patterned kimono), and Furisode (long-sleeved kimono). Among these, Iromuji is the most casual, while Furisode is the most formal.
Simply put, the formality of a kimono is determined by the type of fabric and the style of the obi (sash) paired with it. For kimono fabric, dyed fabrics are considered more formal than woven ones. In contrast, for obi, woven designs are regarded as more formal than dyed ones.
If you’re bringing your own kimono to a rental shop for dressing assistance, here are some useful points to keep in mind:
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Formality of Kimono (Dyed > Woven):
Formal > Semi-formal > Informal > Stylish > Casual -
Formality of Obi (Woven > Dyed):
Maru Obi > Fukuro Obi > Nagoya Obi > Hanhaba Obi
There is a well-known saying: “A dyed kimono pairs with a woven obi, and a woven kimono pairs with a dyed obi.” Matching the formality levels of the kimono and obi is very important.
At Rikawafuku Kimono, we ensure that even first-time wearers can feel confident and comfortable in their selection.
Kimono Rental in Kyoto: Tips to Avoid Looking Cheap
Kimono rentals have become increasingly popular in Kyoto, with many rental shops now available. One common concern is:
“How can I avoid looking cheap?”
It’s true that rental kimonos aren’t as luxurious as those that cost hundreds of thousands of yen, so they may lack that high-end feel. However, there are some useful tips to elevate your look.
Don’t skimp on the optional extras!
Many kimono rental shops offer various add-ons such as hairstyling, stylish handbags, and other accessories. These options are usually reasonably priced, and adding just a few can significantly enhance your overall appearance — helping you avoid a plain or cheap-looking outfit.
Give it a try and see the difference!
What is the best color for renting a kimono in Kyoto?
In Kyoto, you’ll often see people renting and wearing kimonos in a wide variety of colors. Recently, retro-style patterns have become especially popular, and many shops offer a great selection of calm, muted tones.
However, if you simply follow the latest trends without considering what suits you personally, you may end up feeling like:
“This doesn’t look good on me…” or “This isn’t what I expected!”
That’s why it’s important to know your personal color type.
You can easily find out your personal color online by answering a few simple questions — it’s quick and fun, so be sure to give it a try!
Color Selection for Spring Type
If you have a spring color palette, you’ll look great in vibrant and cheerful tones like orange, red, yellow, and green. These fresh, colorful hues give a bright, lively impression — perfect for the Spring Type.
Recommended colors include:
Nanohana yellow (canola blossom), beige, turquoise blue, crimson, fresh green, and salmon pink.
Even if you don’t usually wear these colors, you might be surprised how well they suit you — so why not take this chance to try something new?
Color Selection for Summer Type
Soft, elegant tones look best on the Summer Type. These colors give a gentle and graceful impression, and pastel shades work particularly well.
Recommended colors include:
Rose pink, pale crimson, mint green, pale blue with gray tones, lavender, cream white, and light navy.
Try matching your accessories — like obi decorations or collar linings — in similar soft shades for a harmonious look.
Or, if you want a more polished and refined appearance, add a touch of contrast color through accessories to give a fresh, stylish feel.
Color Selection for Autumn Type
The Autumn Type looks beautiful in warm, earthy tones that match well with the vintage-style kimono patterns that are popular in Kyoto.
Recommended colors include:
Carrot orange, burnt sienna, wine red, matcha green, moss green, olive, ocher, mustard yellow, brick red, and dark brown.
These rich, muted tones enhance the depth of autumn-style beauty and work wonderfully with retro kimono designs.
Color Selection for Winter Type
Deep, vivid colors are perfect for the Winter Type. You can pull off bold, striking hues effortlessly, which makes you an ideal match for modern kimono patterns often seen in Kyoto.
From classic black and white to colorful Kyo-Yuzen patterns, you can create a stunning and unique impression.
Recommended colors include:
Strawberry, red, burgundy, royal blue, turquoise, navy, lemon yellow, deep navy, indigo blue, and camellia red.
Colors That Suit a Slim Body Type
In addition to personal color preferences, selecting colors that flatter your body shape is essential. Slim figures look great in expanding colors, such as white, red, orange, and yellow warm tones.
Besides the hue, brightness plays a crucial role. For example, pink kimonos have higher brightness compared to red ones, resulting in a softer overall impression, making them a good choice!
Recommended Colors for Fuller Figures
On the other hand, fuller figures are best complemented by cool colors such as blue, purple, navy, and green. These contracting colors create a more streamlined and polished look. Like slim figures, brightness matters, so opting for darker shades like navy can be a great choice.
Additionally, classic black, with its low brightness, is a staple among contracting colors. It pairs well with other colors for accessories and is a safe choice if you’re unsure.
What Kind of Design is Best for Kimono Rental in Kyoto?
- Design: Modern and Traditional Patterns
- Key Point: Choose a pattern size that matches your height
When selecting a rental kimono, the “design” is just as important as the color.
In broad terms, there are two categories: modern patterns and traditional patterns. However, you can choose any pattern that you personally like. Currently, retro patterns are in style, so you can consider those as well.
If you want a design that suits you better, pay attention to the “size of the pattern” that matches your height.
For the average-height woman, any pattern will work, which is an advantage. However, shorter or taller women can choose the perfect design by being aware of a few key points. Let’s take a closer look.
For Those Who Want to Rent Modern Kimono in Kyoto｜Modern Kimono Coordination Examples and Tips
Designs for Short Women
Short women look great in smaller patterns. Designs with small flowers, for example, can enhance a petite and cute image, so they are highly recommended.
If you prefer larger patterns, opt for a kimono with a lower overall pattern density.
Choosing a design where the base color is partially visible can also help shorter women look neat and elegant!
Additionally, kimono with diagonal patterns can be a great choice. Patterns flowing diagonally create a sense of elongation, even for shorter women, giving them a beautiful and slender appearance!
Designs for Tall Women
Next, what suits tall women are larger patterns. Tall women have the advantage of being able to stylishly carry off sharp and mature-looking rental kimonos.
Conversely, small or sparsely patterned rental kimonos can create an overall somewhat empty impression for tall women, so we recommend richly designed patterns that cover the kimono.
The trendy retro patterns adorned with large flowers are sure to be a perfect fit as well!
Rent the Perfect Kimono for Yourself in Kyoto!
At Kimono Rental Kyoto, various colors and designs are available, so it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose at first.
However, if you have a good understanding of your personal color preferences, it becomes much easier to select the perfect design that suits you best.
In addition, choosing the right pattern size based on your height can greatly enhance your overall appearance.
At Rikawafuku Kimono Rental Kyoto, we offer over 200 different kimono styles, so you’re sure to find a design that’s just right for you!
Strolling through the traditional streets of Kyoto in a kimono you chose yourself is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable experience.
To make the most of your trip, be sure to check out the Rikawafuku Kimono blog for recommended sightseeing spots around Kyoto.
About the Author
Rikawafuku Kimono Rental operates four locations in Kyoto City, including Arashiyama, Gion, Kiyomizu Temple, and Kyoto Station.
In 2023 alone, over 230,000 customers enjoyed our kimono rental services in the Kyoto area!
We offer affordable pricing, starting from ¥3,500 for kimono dressing plans and ¥5,500 for hair styling packages.
Our shops are conveniently located near popular tourist destinations such as Togetsukyo Bridge, Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Koshindo, and Yasaka Shrine.
Rikawafuku Kimono Rental Kyoto – Locations
Gion Store
Arashiyama Store
Kiyomizu Temple Store
Kyoto Station Store
