A Day of Kimono and Nagoya Obi at Yamato Kimono Remix

At Yamato Kimono Remix, we are always excited to share the beauty and tradition of Japanese fashion with our customers. Today, we had the pleasure of hosting two wonderful clients, Yvonne and Léa, for an immersive workshop on the story of the kimono and how to wear it—along with a special focus on learning the art of tying the Nagoya Obi.

It was a beautiful day filled with learning, laughter, and a deeper connection to Japanese culture. Let’s take a closer look at how the day went!

Morning: Understanding the Kimono

We started our workshop with a small but important theoretical introduction, where we talked about the history of the kimono and its significance in Japanese culture. From its early origins to its evolution as a symbol of elegance and respect, we shared insights into how the kimono represents much more than just a garment—it embodies tradition, art, and identity. 🌸

Yvonne and Léa were enthusiastic and curious, eager to learn about the TPO (Time, Place, Occasion) of kimono wear. After the discussion, it was time to get hands-on!

We spent the morning helping them understand the basic steps of wearing a kimono. From putting on the kimono itself to adjusting the obiage and obi, they learned the subtle yet important details of this traditional attire. We made sure to guide them step-by-step, so they could comfortably wear and feel the beauty of the kimono, and of course, enjoy the experience. 👘✨

Afternoon: Mastering the Nagoya Obi

In the afternoon, we moved on to the more technical part of the workshop: learning how to tie the Nagoya Obi. The Nagoya Obi is a beautiful yet practical way of wearing the obi (the kimono belt), and it plays a key role in elevating the kimono experience.

We started by explaining the three types of Nagoya Obi tailoring and then showed them how to tie the "Otaiko" knot. We gave them some valuable tips on how to adjust the obi for a perfect fit and how to make the "otaiko" look neat and symmetrical. 🪡🎀

Yvonne and Léa were such quick learners, and we could see their confidence growing as they practiced tying the obi with our guidance. By the end of the session, they had not only learned how to tie a Nagoya Obi but also gained a deeper appreciation for the fine details and artistry behind this iconic accessory.

Our Takeaways:

Today’s workshop was a reminder of why we do what we do at Yamato Kimono Remix. It’s not just about teaching people how to wear a kimono, but about helping them connect to Japanese culture, embrace tradition, and express their unique style. 🌍✨

We were so pleased to have Yvonne and Léa with us today, and we look forward to seeing them embrace the kimono in their future adventures. Whether it's for a festival, a cultural experience, or simply because they love the beauty of Japanese fashion, we hope they carry the spirit of kimono wearing with them wherever they go.

Final Thoughts At Yamato Kimono Remix, we’re passionate about making kimono culture accessible and enjoyable for everyone. From teaching the basics to providing styling tips, every workshop is a chance for us to share the charm and artistry of kimono fashion in a welcoming and creative environment.

We can’t wait for our next workshop and to continue sharing this amazing tradition with people from around the world. 🌸👘✨

Matthew FLESCH 

Marketing & Communication Leader 

Yamato Kimono Remix