👘 Thinking About Getting a Kimono Tailored? Start Here!
If you're thinking, "I want a kimono that fits me perfectly!"—this guide is for you. We'll walk you through the process and key points to consider. This article includes special advice for tall or curvy body types too!
1. What Does a Kimono Cost? Fabric + Tailoring
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The total cost includes the fabric (tanmono) and tailoring (shitate).
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The price varies depending on the type of kimono and complexity of tailoring. More formal designs, those that require pattern alignment, or those that use lining will be more expensive.
2. Know Your Size First
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The ideal length (mitake) of a kimono is generally the same as your height.
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To fit your hips and waist comfortably, use this formula:
Front panel width + (Back panel width × 2) + extra room (approx. 13–15cm)
→ As a general rule:
Front width ≈ 1/4 of hip size;
Back width ≈ 1/4 + 5.3cm -
Yukitake (sleeve-to-sleeve length) is measured from the base of the neck to the wrist. → Tea ceremony calls for slightly shorter sleeves; Japanese dance may require longer ones.
3. Once You Know Your Size, Choose Your Fabric (Tanmono)
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Standard kimono fabric (tanmono) is typically about 12 meters long and 36–38cm wide—suitable for heights under 170cm and average hip size.
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If you're taller than 180cm or have a hip/waist size over 110cm, you’ll likely need two bolts of fabric.
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If the length is enough but the width isn’t, look for king-size tanmono (wide-width fabric: 40cm or more).
4. Tailoring Price Varies by Kimono Type and Fabric Ease
Tailoring difficulty and cost vary by kimono type:
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Yukata / Komon (casual types): Simple to tailor and more affordable
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Tsukesage / Houmongi (semi-formal to formal): More expensive due to pattern alignment
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Awase (lined kimono): Requires extra fabric and labor
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Length adjustments (naga-sashi): May incur extra charges if additional fabric is needed
Fabric material also affects the cost:
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Silk (shoken): Luxurious, delicate, needs special care
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Polyester: Budget-friendly, washable, easy care
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Cotton / Linen: Casual and breathable, great for summer
5. Kimono Type Guide: Which Should You Choose?
| Type | Features | Why It's Great |
|---|---|---|
| Iromuji | Solid-colored and simple | Matches many obi; can be formal if you add a family crest (kamon). Easy to tailor even with 2 bolts. |
| Komon | Patterned all over | Fun for casual wear, many design options. 2-bolt tailoring is no problem. |
| Tobi Komon | Lightly patterned with open spaces | Elegant and slightly dressy; very versatile. |
| Tsukesage | Flowing, graceful design placement | Great balance between casual and formal. Can be tailored if pattern is simple. |
| Houmongi | Formal kimono with matching design | Perfect for ceremonies, weddings, tea gatherings. Usually not suited for 2-bolt tailoring. |
Note: Since Tsukesage has specific pattern placement, tailoring from two bolts may be challenging for some tailors.
6. What’s Harumi’s Personal Recommendation?
If you're not sure where to start, here's my personal favorite: Tsukesage!
Why?
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It’s an all-rounder kimono: you can wear it casually with a Nagoya obi (casual sash), or formally with a fukuro obi (formal sash).
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The look changes completely depending on how you coordinate it.
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While it has flowing patterns that make it a bit more challenging to tailor, it’s not impossible to make using two bolts—which is perfect for taller or curvier body types!
If you want something that’s elegant, flexible, and a little special—Tsukesage is a great place to begin 🩵
7. Custom Kimono Order Process
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Choose your fabric (color, pattern, material you like)
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Take measurements or confirm size
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Request tailoring
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Check delivery options (receive during your trip or ship later)
Getting a kimono tailored is a special experience. No matter your size, there are plenty of options to create a perfect piece that’s just for you!
