Haori Himo — A Small Accessory That Changes the Look of Your Haori

Anyone who already owns a haori may know that a haori is not closed with hip straps or an obi belt like a kimono.

Inside the haori, there are small fabric loops on both sides, called "Chi" (乳). This is where the haori cord, called the Haori-Himo (羽織紐), is attached and loosely closed at the front.

This is precisely one of the special beauties of Japanese kimono culture.

Traditionally, a haori is worn over the kimono, so that the obi, the obiage (帯揚げ – a decorative silk cloth over the obi), and the obijime (帯締め – a decorative cord around the obi) remain partially visible. Through these fine layers and the interplay of colors and patterns, a harmonious overall impression is created.

For me, precisely this feeling of balance and restraint is a particularly beautiful Japanese aesthetic.

Therefore, a haori is usually not worn completely closed, but rather slightly open, creating a natural elegance and lightness.

All vintage haori in my shop are offered with a traditional silk Haori-Himo.

A Haori-Himo is almost like a small piece of jewelry for the haori.

Colors, patterns, and shapes come in countless variations. By changing the Haori-Himo, the same haori can take on a completely different expression each time.

Even if the cord is only loosely draped, the small color accent creates a beautiful contrast and adds a personal touch to the kimono styling.

The differences according to era are also very interesting – the width, style, and atmosphere of the Haori-Himo change over time.

In addition to the traditional braided silk cords, there are also Haori-Himo made of stones or Kumihimo (組紐 – traditional Japanese braiding art).

These are not knotted, but attached with small hooks to the "Chi" loops of the haori.

Wearing them alone gives the outfit a particularly elegant appearance – almost like a piece of jewelry within Japanese clothing culture.

Anyone who already owns a haori can discover new styling combinations again and again simply by changing the Haori-Himo.

In my online shop, you will gradually find Haori-Himo made of stone and Kumihimo as well.

For me, choosing a suitable Haori-Himo is also part of the joy of kimono styling. Feel free to visit my online shop.

If you are looking for a suitable haori, also discover my Vintage Haori and Antique Haori.

From Berlin, I want to bring the beauty of Japanese haori culture to Europe.