Over the last few years, fashion has looked eastward for inspiration, taking cues from countries like Japan and India for colour palettes and new silhouettes. One of the biggest trends to come out of this influence is the fashion kimono. Designers have taken this classic Japanese geisha attire and transformed it into an easy, fashionable item that can be paired with almost anything. For a boho look, take a fringed kimono like the hand-dyed Storm Tassel Kimono from Spell Designs and pair it with a pair of bells and a vintage tee.

The great thing about kimonos is their versatility; they can easily be thrown over the most casual outfit or they can be dressed up and worn with heels and a dress. As designers reinterpret the original shape, more kimonos are being modernized with graphic trendy patterns and silhouettes. Silence & Noise’s use the classic slouchy shape of a kimono to great effect, but instead opt to use a contrasting black and white stripe pattern that effectively brings the garment on trend for 2013.

Whichever way you choose to style the kimono, it is certainly a piece that can be worked into any wardrobe, no matter where your tastes lie.
1. Spell Designs Storm Tassel Kimono, $220.00
2. Silence & Noise Banded Kimono Jacket, $59.00, available at Urban Outfitters
3. Blu Moon Kimono Jacket, $128.00, available at Planet Blue
4. For Love & Lemons Retro Floral Kimono, $141.00

5. Kimono with Embroidered Birds, $39.99 available at Zara
6. Aztec Embroidered Kimono, $60.00 available at TopShop

By Zoe Alexandra Torell, Toronto

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