The Look....
Lately I've been obsessing over kimonos. There's something about the way they can make ordinary, extraordinary. Take the photo above. Without the kimono, one wouldn't even look twice at the basic jeans and striped tee combination. Add the kimono and you have something interesting, cool and unique. The trick is to wear it like an afterthought. Who would actually think to match it with a striped tee? That’s the trick, and you can take this look from day to evening by just changing your accessories. Runners to flat mules or heels, straw tote to clutch and you’re ready for a night out.
In March, I found an embroidered, navy blue, sequinned kimono dress with flower embroidery and a fringed hem. I found it on the Zara “last sizes rack” and it has quickly become one of my favourite pieces. That just goes to show that something can look expensive without being expensive. Now I am looking for my next, lighter weight style, but I may just hunt down the Japanese kimonos I bought in Tokyo in the 90's (now somewhere in storage) and see if they'll work the wonder I'm after!
Here are my top picks for every price range:
In March, I found an embroidered, navy blue, sequinned kimono dress with flower embroidery and a fringed hem. I found it on the Zara “last sizes rack” and it has quickly become one of my favourite pieces. That just goes to show that something can look expensive without being expensive. Now I am looking for my next, lighter weight style, but I may just hunt down the Japanese kimonos I bought in Tokyo in the 90's (now somewhere in storage) and see if they'll work the wonder I'm after!
Here are my top picks for every price range:
Ready to Splurge
This silk Kimono inspired blazer dress is by Blazé Milano. I fell in love with this brand when I saw a similar style at Fiacchini in Forte dei Marmi. The pieces are all handmade by Milanese crafts people, and you can see and feel that the product is top quality. The signature, rounded "smiley" pockets are a small detail that I love, in addition to the precious stone buttons. What's more, on the Blazé website you can even have your initials stitched onto the inside pocket for an additional 45€. €1193.40 (40% off, reg. €1.989) Blazé Milano |
Something Special | Spending in the hundreds to me means that it’s something I think I’ll want to keep, at least for a few seasons to come and it’s worth a little investment. This baby has been in my YOOX “dream box “ for the past month. I think it’s perfect for summer with the beautiful embroidered detailing on the sleeves, neckline and back. While looking beige, it’s actually a light green! Wear it over a T-shirt, cut-offs and mules or as an elegant bikini cover up. €149 (Reg. €248) Yoox |
Won't Break the Bank
This is the fantastic Kimono that is in the top picture, as well as the one underneath. A great buy for anyone and everyone wanting to try out my must-have statement piece of the moment. €25.90 (reg. €38) Roawe |