The kimono, that elaborate, delicate wrap-around garment worn by geisha and samurai from centuries back, is getting new cultural appreciation. These days it is for a virtue that’s more relevant than ever: sustainability.
A genuine silk kimono, which literally means, “worn thing,” lasts a hundred years or more. It’s design has remained basically the same since the 17th century Edo period depicted in Akira Kurosawa samurai movies. And, Japanese families hand them down over generations. Nowadays, some people are refashioning them as dresses, jackets, and pants.
YURI KAGEYAMA from the TOKYO Associated Press takes a look at how the Kimono has found its new sustainable purpose with new generations of fans. Essentially, proving that, the kimono, never goes out of style.
Photo Credit: Dolls dressed in miniature kimonos by designer Tomoko Ohokata from recycled kimonos are pictured in Tokyo on Jan 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Yuri Kageyama)