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

If you already own a haori, you might know that a haori is not closed with waist sashes or an obi belt like a kimono.

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

Precisely herein lies one of the special beauties of Japanese kimono culture.

Traditionally, a haori is worn over a kimono, so that the obi, the obiage (帯揚げ – a decorative silk scarf over the obi) and the obijime (帯締め – a decorative cord around the obi) remain partly visible. Through these delicate 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 hooked, the small color accent creates a beautiful contrast and gives the kimono styling a personal touch.

The differences depending on the 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 tied, but attached with small hooks to the "Chi" loops of the haori.

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

If you already own a haori, you can always discover new styling combinations simply by changing the Haori-Himo.

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

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

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