This listing is for a vintage Japanese kimono, obi, and obijime combination. This kimono set comes from the collection of Yuriko Fujimoto, the mother of one of our Kyoto Kimono partners in Japan.  Wearing kimono was an integral part of her upbringing, with her own mother and grandmother teaching her how to wear them and giving many in her dowry when she married. Note the crest – it is for Watanabe, Yuriko’s maiden name. As she downsizes, we are honored to have been chosen to find new homes for her collection.

This dark blue kimono features a distinctive grid created by the meisen (ikat) weaving technique where threads are resist-dyed before weaving to form subtle, imperfect patterns. At first you see floating squares each - with horizontal layers of rippling and swirling water. Looking closer you can see a network of nested squares and diamonds subtly woven behind in black or dark blue. Then even closer up, you will see the tiny ikat crosses in white that make the water and overall grid.

The obi contrasts the geometry nicely with a rich floral brocade. This obi is a maru style - patterned the entire length and backside - but is not thickly lined and as heavy as a typical maru obi. The obijime is a flat weave in a mauvy purple matching the hues in the obi.

See the videos below to learn how to dress in kimono.