Kimono for men: The meaning of the sleeves and their Japanese aesthetics
- by MaedaYumiko
- 2 min reading time
The length of kimono sleeves – and what about for men?
In the last post, we talked about the sleeve length of kimonos for women.
But what about kimonos for men?
Today, kimonos and haori are often presented primarily for women. However, in Japan it was perfectly normal for men to also wear kimonos and haori in everyday life.
The sleeves of men's kimonos are shorter and cut closer to the body compared to those of women's kimonos.
This form, which does not restrict movement, probably originated from the samurai culture – from a life characterized by walking, sitting and working, and which demanded functionality.
While women's sleeves primarily emphasized elegance and decorative beauty, long, flowing sleeves were not a necessary adornment for men in warrior society.
Instead, what emerges here is an aesthetic that arises from the omission of the superfluous – a beauty that lies in the function itself.
Men's kimonos and haori often appear understated at first glance, but their sophistication is frequently revealed in the lining, which can be richly decorated.
This attitude is also evident in the sleeves: restraint is understood as beauty – an expression of a typically Japanese aesthetic.
Another appeal of men's kimonos lies in their clear, straight silhouettes, which differ from the soft, curved lines of women's kimonos.
Instead of ostentation, the focus here is on posture and presence in the room. This quiet aura is reminiscent in some ways of today's minimalist and sustainable fashion concepts.
The women's sleeves symbolize flow and grace,
The men's sleeves symbolize restraint and silence.
In both, the Japanese aesthetic itself is revealed – beyond gender roles – quietly but steadily surviving.
Naturally, these considerations refer to traditional kimono styles and their historical roles.
In today's fashion, however, it is perfectly natural and stylish for men to wear kimonos or haori for women, and for women to discover models from the men's tradition for themselves.
Kimono and haori are garments that can be freely interpreted and enjoyed regardless of gender.
Kimono and haori are garments that can be freely interpreted and enjoyed regardless of gender.
Our men's haori collection is being expanded gradually – discover the first pieces here.