Layering is a fun and stylish way to incorporate multiple pieces into one cohesive look. However, the key to layering your outfit is using garments that aesthetically match well and serve a functional purpose, like keeping you cool in summer and warm during the winter months. A timeless trend that brilliantly achieves this lofty requirement is kimonos.

While the most popular and easiest way to incorporate kimonos into your wardrobe is through beach tunic cover-ups, these beautiful Japanese-inspired pieces can completely transform your personal style and quickly become an essential must-have to any capsule wardrobe. With so many prints, patterns, color combinations, fabrics, and styles to choose from, they are the ideal piece to carry you through the year. They are perfect for those wanting to incorporate colors and patterns into their wardrobe without feeling overwhelmed.

The Perfect Jeans

Nothing says casual chic more than pairing a printed kimono with a simple white T-shirt and faded blue-washed jeans. The neutral base of the outfit gives you complete freedom to choose kimonos in simple patterns and color combinations, as well as busy, bright, and bold designs with fringed detailing and detailed illustrations.

While light-wash blue jeans are the ultimate pairing, the beauty of styling kimonos with denim is that you can wear the jeans you like the most. With so many styles and fits to choose from, there is a denim option to suit all body shapes. Avoid pairs with added embellishments, designs, or unnecessary detailing, as they could detract from the drama of your kimono.

Crop Tops

Crop tops are a popular summer trend that shows no sign of disappearing anytime soon. But for many, finding ways to style them can be somewhat tricky, as it is easy to fall into a rut of simply repeating the same outfit over and over again.

A fantastic way to avoid this potentially repetitive nature is by using a kimono to juxtapose crop tops’ tight and often revealing nature. Wearing loose bottoms, like palazzo pants and flared or boyfriend jeans, works best for highlighting the distinctive style of a crop top, with a simple, loose, short kimono thrown over to complete your look. Alternatively, a longer kimono adds interest and flow if you prefer to wear tight pants or a fitted midi skirt.

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A Fitted Dress

Kimono robes are specifically designed to be loose-fitting, naturally light, and flowy. This relaxed nature makes them a fantastic option for pairing with tight or form-fitting dresses or jumpsuits. The billowing fabric adds dimension and volume to an otherwise compact look and suits both long and short dresses.

The key to creating a look that combines well and flows between garments is pairing vibrancy and busy patterns with something more neutral and toned down. Alternatively, you can select garments in complementing shades for a classy, monochromatic look or opt for striking, contrasting colors to make a statement.

Transitional Fashion

One of the most challenging times of the year to create outfits is the changing of the seasons. Weather is at its most unpredictable, and temperatures are constantly changing day to day, sometimes hour to hour.

While silk kimonos are better suited for warmer weather thanks to their lightweight and airy properties, once fall and spring roll around, it may not be enough to keep the noticeable chill in the air at bay, especially when the sun starts to go down. Alternatively, a thicker jacket may be too heavy, leaving you in a difficult position of either being too hot or too cold. Switching to cotton kimonos may be the solution you are looking for during these periods. The slightly thicker and heavier fabric will add more warmth to your look without making you uncomfortable.

Contrast Materials

It’s safe to say that the world of fashion has many rules. While most of them exist to maximize classic garments and well-loved trends, one of the best parts of fashion is breaking them. Pairing fabrics that wouldn’t normally go together is an easy but incredibly effective way to make your outfit look more interesting and striking.

Fabrics like silk and chiffon, which many kimonos are traditionally made from, are the epitome of elegance and luxury. In comparison, leather and suede offer a more rugged and edgy finish. Combine the two by pairing your kimono with a sexy leather skirt, flirty leather shorts, or the knee-high leather or suede boots in your wardrobe waiting to be worn. A plain top finishes off your outfit and allows the statement pieces to shine.

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A Monochromatic Dream

The most common way to style kimonos is with your favorite pair of jeans. But this doesn’t mean you have to stick to the traditional casual style of patterned kimonos with black or blue denim. Instead, embrace tonal or monochromatic outfits for a fresh and incredibly chic alternative.

Choose a kimono in a single color and pair it with pants and a shirt in similar block hues or tones to create a minimalist look that effortlessly flows from head to toe. While all-black or all-white outfits are classic styles, combining pieces that slightly differ in textures and shades will add interest and dimension to an otherwise flat outfit.