Advanced Kimono Rental Tips: How to Match Kimono and Obi for Every Occasion

Isn’t it fascinating to wrap it around your body and magically create an obi sash? The secret lies in how you tie it.

I’ve rented a kimono from a kimono rental shop before.

But this time, I’m thinking of renting a kimono for a slightly formal occasion.

At times like these, you might wonder how to choose the right combination of kimono and obi.

This time, I’ll share some tips for when you rent a kimono and visit a somewhat formal event.

Basic Rules for Kimono and Obi Combinations

People who rent kimonos come with various backgrounds and reasons. For instance, friends or couples who want to casually stroll in kimono attire, individuals who must wear one for a family member’s wedding, or those who practice traditional arts and need to wear kimono for special occasions.

Some people may not know much about kimonos but admire the attire and wish for an opportunity to wear it. People with various reasons come to our shop to seek advice.

Kimonos are divided into “formal wear” and “casual wear.” Similarly, obis have “formal wear” and “casual wear” varieties. There are specific rules for choosing combinations of kimonos and obis, and it’s handy to know some pointers for smooth and confident selections.

Choosing Kimono and Obi for Formal Wear

【Formal Kimonos】 include black furisode, colored furisode, visiting kimono, attached-hem visiting kimono, attached-hem tomesode, and emblematic solid-colored kimono.
Occasions: Weddings, receptions, parties, tea ceremonies, and stage performances.
Recommended obi: 【Hoso Obi】 (known as a “double drum” obi)

【Hoso Obi】 are characterized by their abundant use of gold and silver threads, incorporating various colors and patterns, showcasing the craftsmanship with opulent and luxurious designs. There are many exquisite patterns to choose from, and you might even find yourself exclaiming when selecting a beautiful one.

The representative type of obi is called “Nishijin obi” or “Nishijin-ori,” named after the area where the weaving artisans were concentrated, known as Nishijin. However, not only Nishijin but also obis woven in other regions are often named similarly.

Surprisingly, these obis are over 4 meters and 20 centimeters long, which is quite a length!

Choosing Kimono and Obi for Casual Wear

【Casual Wear】 includes solid-colored kimono, small-patterned kimono, tsumugi silk kimono, kasuri-dyed kimono, wool kimono, and yukata.
Occasions: Leisurewear, practice wear for traditional arts, dining out, daily wear, etc.
Recommended obi: Commonly the 【Nagoya Obi】 (known as a “single drum”) and the 【Hanhaba Obi】

The 【Nagoya Obi】 is approximately 3 meters and 40 centimeters long, shorter than the hoso obi, and is characterized by patterns that can be placed anywhere on the obi, known as “full pattern,” or only on the obi drum and the front of the obi, known as “point pattern.”

The choice of obi depends on the type of kimono, such as solid-colored or small-patterned kimono, tsumugi silk, kasuri-dyed, wool kimono, etc.

As a general guide, you can follow these simple distinctions:
– Solid-colored and small-patterned kimono: obis with sparkling or point patterns (similar to hoso obis in color and style)
– Tsumugi silk, kasuri-dyed, wool kimono: Obis with thicker threads and a woven texture
– All-purpose casual wear: Hanhaba Obi

There are exceptions and special combinations, which I’ll explain later. Here are some key points:
Point ①: 【Formal wear uses hoso obi】 and 【casual wear uses Nagoya obi or Hanhaba obi】.
Point ②: Tell the staff your purpose for wearing a kimono.
Point ③: Describe the style you want to achieve with your outfit, such as “elegant,” “casual,” “unique,” “cute,” etc.

We also offer furisode and silk kimonos, so feel free to consult with Rikawafuku Kimono for formal events such as sumo wrestling.

*During the summer, silk kimonos may not be available for rental.

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