We are a small, web-based business offering authentic, vintage Japanese kimono wearables as well as apparel, accessories, and display items created from these textiles. We also offer bundles of salvaged kimono fabrics for artisans and crafters.
We take great care in the handling of these cultural treasures; we have great respect for the generations of artisans that brought them into the world; and we are happy to offer them to those who would like to add a bit of "Japanique" into their wardrobe, home decor, or arts and craft work.
One-of-a-kind vintage Japanese garments (kimono, haori, obi, and other unique wearables), fabric (shibori, yuzen, ikat, and more), and collectibles come to us from the temple markets and auction houses of Kyoto, Japan. From elegant wedding kimono and bridal party attire to unusual collectibles to the occasional antique boro, our inventory of original, imported textiles changes almost daily.
In our Japanique Boutique, you'll find modified kimono jackets and robes, Asian-accent décor items, purses, pocket squares, and other wardrobe accessories - each created or up-cycled from vintage kimono or obi fabrics. Our Japanique Drinkware collection feature kimono designs on mugs and tumblers.
Whether you're here to shop for a kimono or just to learn more about vintage Japanese textiles, we hope you find what you're looking for at Kyoto Kimono. Feel free to chat with us, email Nancy (the owner) or call us M-F, 9-5 EST (607.765.3960).
Our Team
Nancy McDonough - Founder and Owner It all began in 1992, when Nancy arrived in Kyoto to teach English and train other ESL teachers. She soon fell in love with Japanese textiles and by the time she returned to the US in 1996, she had accumulated over 200. After that, there was no turning back -- what started out as a hobby business became full time after the first year on the internet in 2000. Each vintage kimono is unique, offering its own expression of Japanese life and culture. They are truly wearable art.
Jennifer Hoch -Operations Manager Jen has been with Kyoto Kimono in one capacity or another since 2012. From fulfilling orders, creating new products, sorting and assessing inventory, and all day-to-day operations, Jen does it all. When you order something from us, it's likely that Jen will be the one writing "Arigato" on the order receipt!
Cindy Crispell - Designer, Seamstress Cindy learned to sew at the age of ten and has been offering her seamstress services for over twenty years. Cindy joined the Kyoto Kimono team in 2008 and works from her home studio in Owego, NY. As a designer, Cindy helped create and refine our Japanique Boutique line of accessories and gifts where she brings an experienced eye and a creative touch to our scarves, pocket squares, and many other items.
