Welcome to REZEN Kyoto.

Our brand name, REZEN, combines 'RE' (meaning 'again') with 'Zen.' Symbolized by our logo, a modern take on the lotus crest, we aim to elevate Japanese culture and tradition into contemporary fashion. We specialize in reinterpreting the concept of the Kyoto Kimono, offering a borderless 'Wa-Mode' (Japanese Mode) style that transcends gender and time.

Our pieces, which merge traditional aesthetics with modern design, are sure to offer new discoveries for those seeking a souvenir from their Kyoto travels, a unique gift, or a fresh addition to their everyday wardrobe. In this article, we will provide practical tips on choosing the right size to fully enjoy REZEN Kyoto's Wa-Mode fashion.

The New Allure of 'Kyoto Kimono' as Proposed by REZEN Kyoto

When you hear 'Kyoto Kimono,' you might picture formal attire or traditional garments worn during specific seasons. However, at REZEN Kyoto, we respect this traditional beauty while pursuing a new 'Wa-Mode' fashion that blends seamlessly into modern lifestyles. Our designs, themed around Japan's rich nature and culture—featuring motifs like the cluster amaryllis, chrysanthemum, lotus, cherry blossom, and peony—are sure to captivate you.

Our collection takes traditional elements like haori jackets, hakama pants, hakama skirts, and Japanese-style shirts, and infuses them with contemporary designs and sophisticated accent colors, primarily offered as unisex pieces with a black base. This allows anyone, in any setting, to casually enjoy the essence of the 'Kyoto Kimono.' For instance, our garments offer the 'ease of movement' and 'versatile styling' that are difficult with conventional kimono, enabling you to incorporate Japanese beauty into various aspects of your daily life.

The concept of 'borderless fashion,' where everyone can freely enjoy fashion regardless of gender or age, is a core philosophy of REZEN. For those who wish to pursue their unique form of self-expression, our items will be the key to opening new doors. At our temple-like store on Kyoto's Shinkyogoku Street, visitors can discover their own special piece in a unique and sophisticated Japanese-Western fusion space. Please come and experience a free, modern Japanese style that offers a different take on the traditional 'kimono experience'.

The Challenge of Sizing Japanese-Western Fusion Fashion

In modern fashion, the Japanese-Western fusion style, which skillfully combines elements from both cultures, exudes a unique charm. REZEN Kyoto's pieces, in particular, are designed to match the contemporary fashion scene while being based on traditional Japanese elements, which brings a unique set of considerations to size selection.

If you choose our items with the same mindset you use for typical Western clothing, you might find that the result is 'different from what you imagined.' For example, a haori is different from a Western jacket or cardigan; it is characterized by its relaxed drape and sleeve length. Similarly, hakama pants and skirts have a unique appeal due to their volume and length, which differ from standard trousers and skirts. For these items, a snug fit is not the only correct answer. Instead, they hold the potential for various styling possibilities, such as intentionally choosing a larger size for a relaxed feel or pairing them with slimmer items to enjoy a contrast in silhouettes.

Since REZEN Kyoto's items feature unisex designs, the same piece can create a different impression when worn by men and women. Questions like whether to go for a fitted look, an intentionally loose style, or how to choose a size that best expresses your personality are bound to arise. Our items are, above all, a canvas for bringing out the wearer's individuality. In the next chapter, we will offer practical tips for choosing the right size to make the most of REZEN Kyoto's Japanese-Western fusion fashion.

Understanding the Difference Between Traditional 'Kimono' and 'Wa-Mode'

• Sizing for Traditional Kimono: Traditional kimono have strict measurements for length, yuki (sleeve length from the center of the neck to the wrist), and other areas, and are typically tailored to fit the body. They are designed to be adjusted with an ohashori (tuck at the waist) and obi (sash), requiring specialized dressing knowledge different from that of Western clothes. The beauty of the final silhouette is often prioritized over ease of movement.

• REZEN Kyoto's Wa-Mode: Our items incorporate elements of the traditional 'Kyoto Kimono' but are designed with modern patterns and freedom of styling in mind. For example, our hakama pants have an elastic or drawstring waist for adjustability, and our haori jackets feature a relaxed silhouette that flatters any body type. They can be styled in various ways through layering and accessorizing. We balance functionality and design so you can easily wear them for daily use and in casual settings.

The REZEN Kyoto Way! Tips for Finding the Perfect 'Kyoto Kimono' Size for You

REZEN Kyoto's items are designed with a free-spirited approach that defies stereotypes. Therefore, it's less about finding the 'correct' size and more about discovering the style that is 'most captivating for you.' Here, we'll share some specific sizing tips to help you wear our pieces in a way that is uniquely yours.

Mastering Your Look with Length and Silhouette

• Haori Length: The length of a haori can drastically change your overall impression—a short length creates a light, agile look, while a long length feels more formal and dressy. Our haori are characterized by their relaxed silhouette, so choosing a size slightly larger than your usual Western size can create a more relaxed vibe or a high-fashion 'mode' look. For example, if a shorter person chooses a long haori, it emphasizes the vertical line, which can have a flattering, height-enhancing effect. Conversely, if a taller person opts for a short haori, it creates a leg-lengthening effect for a more nimble appearance. Wearing it with a 'drop shoulder' style, where the shoulder seam falls slightly off the shoulder, also adds a modern, effortless feel.

• Hakama Pants/Skirt Length: Hakama pants and skirts can be styled in various ways—wear them at ankle length for a light feel, or full length for a more substantial, grounded look. Our hakama pants, in particular, feature different silhouettes depending on the design, such as pleats, paneling, or cargo pockets. Pleated hakama pants change their expression with movement, creating an elegant impression. Those with cargo pockets lend a more casual and active style. When trying them on, it's a good idea to wear the shoes you normally would and check how the hem moves when you sit and walk. Since the waist is often elastic or has an adjustable drawstring, we recommend prioritizing the length and silhouette when making your choice.

• Japanese-Style Shirt Length/Width: How you choose a Japanese-style shirt depends on whether you plan to wear it as an inner layer or as an outer layer like a haori. If you want a neat fit as an inner layer, choose your usual size. If you want to wear it loosely as an outer layer, consider going one size up. The shape of the collar and the volume of the sleeves are also important points that affect the overall impression. For example, our 'Kimono Collar Bicolor Shirt' is a statement piece on its own, so we recommend wearing it in your true size to highlight its beautiful silhouette.

Secrets to Styling Unisex Items Your Way

REZEN Kyoto's collection primarily features unisex designs that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of gender. This is a key part of their appeal, allowing for diverse styling possibilities. Let's break free from stereotypes and create your own 'Kyoto Kimono' style with an open mind.

1. Embrace Genderless Styling: For example, a woman can wear a haori in a men's size for an oversized fit, creating a high-fashion 'mode' atmosphere while accentuating a delicate frame. Oversized fits are also great for covering the body line. Conversely, a man can incorporate a smaller hakama skirt to open up new styling possibilities. Dressing beyond gender boundaries will further enhance your individuality.

2. Add Personality with Accent Colors: While many of our items are based on a sophisticated black palette, adding an accent color that matches the theme can make your personality blossom. It's wonderful to incorporate the collection's theme colors—like the red of the cluster amaryllis, the pink of cherry blossoms, or the purple of the lotus—through accessories or inner layers. For instance, choosing an item with a built-in accent color, like our 'Tassel Bicolor Haori,' instantly creates a striking outfit. Adding a pop of vivid color can dramatically change the entire look.

3. Create Infinite Styles with Accessories: We offer a wide range of original shoes, Japanese-patterned belts, and accessories. By using these items, you can give the same garment a completely different look. For example, simply adding a stylish obi-style belt to a pair of simply-styled hakama pants can create a much more defined silhouette. Accessories like necklaces and rings can also add a sophisticated touch to your Wa-Mode outfit.

Discover in the Fitting Room! A Practical Checklist for Mastering 'Kyoto Kimono' Style

To wear REZEN Kyoto's Japanese-Western fusion fashion in the most captivating way, nothing is more important than trying it on. Our temple-like store, located on Kyoto's Shinkyogoku Street, opens up into a unique and sophisticated Japanese-Western fusion space. In this calm atmosphere, you can try on items to your heart's content. Please feel free to visit us.

Points to Check When Trying On Clothes

1. Comfort and Ease of Movement: Beyond the visual design, the actual feel of the garment is crucial. Raise and lower your arms, walk, and sit down to check if there are any tight spots or if your movement is restricted. Especially with hakama pants and skirts, which feature a loose silhouette, it's recommended to prioritize ease of movement for daily life. Checking for breathability and texture will also ensure a more comfortable wear.

2. Overall Balance and Silhouette: Check your full-body reflection in the mirror to see how the item harmonizes with your body shape. Examine the details, such as the shoulder line of the haori, the flare of the hakama pants, and the length of the shirt. If possible, trying the items on over your regular clothes can help you visualize how they will look when layered. Since our items have strong Japanese elements, being mindful of the overall balance will help you perfect a more sophisticated 'Wa-Mode' style.

3. Your Appearance from Different Angles: Check your silhouette not just from the front, but also from the side and back. With unisex designs, the impression can change depending on the viewing angle. Use the large mirrors in the store to check your appearance from various perspectives. It's especially important to check loose-fitting items from multiple angles, as the drape and movement can look different.

4. Compatibility with Accessories: If possible, we recommend bringing your own shoes, bag, or accessories that you'd like to pair with the clothes when you try them on. Please also feel free to test the compatibility with our original shoes, Japanese-patterned belts, and accessories sold in-store. In particular, pairing our black-based items with accessories of different colors and textures can add a unique accent. Visualizing the entire coordinate allows for a more concrete 'kimono experience.'

5. Consult with Our Staff: Our staff are experts on all REZEN Kyoto items. If you're unsure about sizing, please don't hesitate to ask. We'll listen to your preferences, your usual style, and the occasions you plan to wear the clothes for, and then suggest the best items and styling methods. Even a vague idea like, 'I want to wear it like this, but I'm not sure how,' is perfectly fine. By connecting with each customer through conversation, we may discover something new together. We value bringing out the wearer's individuality, so please enjoy communicating with our staff.

Achieve a Borderless 'Kyoto Kimono' Style at REZEN Kyoto

REZEN Kyoto is not just a clothing store. It is a place that channels the joy of wearing culture and tradition into Wa-Mode designs, offering borderless fashion that transcends gender and time. Our goal is to become a hub for a new culture woven from the threads of Japanese tradition and modernity. Here in the heart of Kyoto on Shinkyogoku Street, where history and vitality intersect, we hope to offer everyone a special 'kimono experience'.

Discovering Your Own Special Piece

Inside our store, beyond its temple-like facade, lies a unique and sophisticated Japanese-Western fusion space that defies expectations. In this calm atmosphere, you can take your time browsing our diverse collections themed around Japanese culture and seasons, featuring motifs such as the cluster amaryllis, chrysanthemum, lotus, iris and wisteria, cherry blossom, peony and camellia, crane, butterfly, Kabuki and Hanafuda cards, and Onmyoji, foxes, and yokai. Learning about the stories and design background imbued in each piece will surely deepen your attachment to them.

Every item is a one-of-a-kind design, merging traditional Japanese aesthetics with a modern fashion sense. These pieces not only serve as a tangible memory of your Kyoto trip but will also add new color to your daily life and expand your range of self-expression. Please come and savor the joy of finding your own special piece at REZEN Kyoto.

Finding Your True Self with the Spirit of Zen

The 'Zen' in our brand name represents the spirit of stripping away the non-essential to discern the true essence. Similarly, REZEN Kyoto's fashion is characterized by designs that are simple yet accentuate individuality, avoiding excessive ornamentation.

Choosing an item that feels truly comfortable and authentic to you. That is the essence of the 'Wa-Mode' that REZEN Kyoto proposes. The relaxed comfort of hakama pants, the light texture of a haori, the sophisticated appearance of a Japanese-style shirt. We hope that through these items, you will feel the joy of discovering a new side of yourself.

From Shinkyogoku! Concluding Your 'Kimono Experience' at REZEN Kyoto

The location on Kyoto's Shinkyogoku Street is a special place where the charm of old Kyoto coexists with modern vibrancy. Our 'temple-like facade' catches the eye of passersby, and stepping inside reveals the unique world of Wa-Mode created by REZEN Kyoto.

Another feature is its easy access, with two entrances. Why not stop by during your Kyoto sightseeing to discover an unprecedented charm of the 'Kyoto Kimono'? We release various collections based on seasons and themes, so you are sure to find something new with every visit.

Find the perfect piece for you and meet a new version of yourself. We hope your 'kimono experience' at REZEN Kyoto becomes a wonderful and lasting memory. We sincerely look forward to your visit.

When you visit, be sure to check our social media (X: @REZEN_Official, Instagram: @rezen_kyoto/) for the latest information. We hope our Wa-Mode fashion brings new inspiration to your everyday life.