A couple of summers ago, everyone was wearing kimono jackets. This year, it's happening again
They came into fashion without much hoopla, but everyone picked up a version because they are so very handy. When you need a cover up that's not a jacket or a coat, a cardigan doesn't always cut it. Cardis are cute, but kimonos have the potential to upgrade an outfit in an instant.
The kimono I bought the last time they were 'in' was from Topshop and it wasn't a real kimono. Let's be clear about that. The kimono style tops sold on the high street are just that, kimono-style, but for handiness, they're all lumped in the same group. Like the way Kendall Jenner is considered a supermodel. Anything for the simple life. But back to my 'kimono'. It was lightweight, colourful and even though I'm writing about it in the past tense, it's very much still a part of my wardrobe. I haven't worn it recently because it's been too cold, but as soon as May arrives, out 'twill come.
The kimono is not the type of piece you'd feel embarrassed about wearing when it's 'out of fashion' because it's a classic style, like cigarette pants or pumps. If you're trying to curate a personalised capsule wardrobe, you'd do well to invest in a top quality piece, complete with obi, although they're harder to find (unless, of course, you visit a traditional kimono maker in Japan). Be careful, though; you don't want to end up being accused of cultural appropriation. The modern, culturally sensitive way to wear a kimono-style top is as a jacket.
I love this one from Topshop (€103).
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But if it's a bit too potentially night-gear for you, I found this thing of beauty in Zara (€79.95).
This one, from ASOS, has sequins. Sequins! (€125)
And here's the lightest of them all, a chiffon version from New Look (€34.99).
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