Kimono Academy

Kimono Academy was founded with a heartfelt vision to make the elegance of the Japanese kimono more accessible around the world. You can currently view my collection on my Etsy shop in Europe, Instagram, and at various events. All kimonos are beloved items that have been carefully stored by someone in the past. Carefully selected with a unique sensibility, each piece is unique. I carry a wide variety of items, from modern to vintage and valuable antique pieces. Although the rules of kimono may seem complicated, I aim to allow everyone to enjoy the beauty of kimono in their own way without hesitation. 

In this page I want to introduce you to some kimono rules to introduce the culture and I also suggest you how to wear kimono in our modern life.  But I’m not a kimono master. My goal is for you to find your own way to enjoy kimonos and I’m happy if you share your style with me.

I hope you will experience the wonders of traditional Japanese culture through kimono and discover new goodness.

Meet Rie

I’m Rie. Although I was born and raised in Japan, I was originally not familiar with kimonos. My grandfather was involved in a sericulture business, so they had many beautiful kimonos at home, but by the time I was born, they were no longer worn and were disposed of. Still, I remember being very happy when my mother let me wear the kimono she had worn at her coming-of-age ceremony, which she had kept carefully for me (there is a coming-of-age ceremony in Japan). She must have been happy too. 

It wasn’t until many years later that I fell in love with kimonos. It just so happened that there was an old lady in my neighborhood who loved kimonos, and she taught me how to wear them. At first I thought it would be a pain, but I was able to wear it, even though it was a bit clumsy. It wasn’t something extravagant like what I wore to my coming-of-age ceremony, but rather something very modest. She also taught some simple rules of kimono. I have always loved fashion, so I was immediately fascinated by this new world. Kimono has a very deep meaning, and depending on the obi and accessories, the range of coordination is endless. Kimono is an art of wearing. That was the beginning of my journey with kimonos. 

At that time, I was living in different countries and I thought it would be great if more people wore kimonos overseas. I wanted people to experience the beauty of kimono as well. That’s when I started thinking. That’s the beginning of this project. 

I also work as a florist and have a strong eye for color and design, which is reflected in my kimono selection. Every kimono I offer is personally selected and represents a style that I truly admire and would wear myself. We hope you can find your favorite among them.