Discover the Allure of Modern Haori in Kyoto's Shinkyogoku

Discover the Allure of Modern Haori in Kyoto's Shinkyogoku

Nestled on Shinkyogoku Street in the heart of the ancient capital, REZEN Kyoto is a unique space that elevates traditional Japanese culture into modern fashion. Opening the doors of its temple-like exterior reveals a sophisticated world of Japanese-Western fusion. REZEN Kyoto proposes borderless fashion that transcends gender and age, bringing out the individuality of the wearer. The 'haori' in particular is one of the items that symbolizes the 'Wa-Mode' (Japanese Mode) style we advocate.

You might be thinking, 'I'm interested in traditional haori, but I don't know how to style them,' or 'I'm not sure if I can wear them for everyday use.' In this column, we will answer these questions while introducing the charm of the new haori style proposed by REZEN Kyoto and coordination tips you can incorporate starting today. Why not find your perfect haori encounter at REZEN Kyoto?

The Unique Character of REZEN Kyoto's Wa-Mode Haori

REZEN Kyoto's haori are not just traditional garments. As the brand name—a combination of 'RE' for 'again' and 'Zen'—suggests, we reconstruct Japan's rich culture and spirituality with a modern sensibility, giving shape to the joy of wearing it. This sentiment is also embedded in our logo, a modern arrangement of the lotus crest.

• A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity: We offer a diverse collection themed around Japanese culture and seasons, featuring motifs like the cluster amaryllis, chrysanthemum, lotus, iris, wisteria, cherry blossom, peony, camellia, crane, butterfly, kabuki, hanafuda, onmyoji, fox, and yokai. These motifs add a contemporary essence to the traditional haori design.
• Sophisticated Unisex Design: Many of our items are based in black and can be enjoyed by any gender. While retaining the traditional haori shape, we elevate the design to be sophisticated and suitable for the modern fashion scene through careful material selection, cutting, and the addition of bold accent colors.
• Borderless Charm for Freedom of Expression: The haori is a magical item that can dramatically change your look just by layering it over Western-style clothes. We recommend REZEN Kyoto's haori for those who want to express their individuality freely, without being bound by rigid rules.

How to Coordinate Haori for Everyday Wear

You might think, 'Isn't it difficult to wear a haori in daily life?' However, REZEN Kyoto's haori can be surprisingly easy to incorporate into your usual outfits. Here are a few coordination tips.

Effortless Haori in Casual Styles

• Add it to a T-shirt and Jeans: Simply wearing it over a simple T-shirt and jeans instantly creates a sophisticated look. It pairs perfectly with both sneakers and boots. Since REZEN Kyoto's haori are primarily black, they are easy to match with any color of inner wear or bottoms.
• Layer with a Wasode Shirt: We also have a wide selection of wasode (Japanese-style sleeve) shirts in our store. By layering a wasode shirt under a haori, you can create a modern, layered style that incorporates more Japanese elements. Choosing a design with a vibrant accent color will make your outfit pop.
• Pair with Hakama Pants or a Hakama Skirt: By pairing a haori with our unique hakama pants or hakama skirt, you can express the full worldview of the REZEN Kyoto brand. These items, which balance ease of movement with design, are perfect for everyday use.

Dressing Up for Special Occasions in a Chic Style

• Pair with a Shirt and Slacks: By choosing a simple shirt as inner wear and pairing it with slacks or chic wide-leg pants, you can create an elegant and intellectual impression. The unique drape of the haori adds a sophisticated touch to a mature style.
• As an Accent for Dresses and One-pieces: For women, we also recommend wearing a haori over a simple dress or one-piece. The pattern and texture of the haori add depth and glamour to what might otherwise be a simple outfit.
• Combine with Our Original Shoes: At REZEN Kyoto, we also offer original shoes that complement our Wa-Mode style. Coordinating your entire look, down to your footwear, will create an even more polished impression.

Enjoying Haori: Selections for Every Season and Occasion

The haori is a versatile item that shows different facets depending on the season and occasion. Here are some tips for finding the perfect piece for you from the REZEN Kyoto collection.

Spring & Summer Haori

In spring, create a light and airy look with haori featuring motifs like cherry blossoms, wisteria, or irises. For summer, we recommend haori with a cool lotus theme or those made from sheer materials. Layering one over a T-shirt or a thin wasode shirt is perfect for dealing with air conditioning during the day or a slight chill at night.

1. Material: Choose breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, or sheer materials for a transparent look.
2. Color & Pattern: Brighter accent colors or patterns in pale tones will enhance the seasonal feel.
3. Styling: Lightly rolling up the sleeves or wearing it open and casually creates a cool, breezy impression.

Autumn & Winter Haori

In autumn, opt for a deeper look with motifs like the cluster amaryllis or chrysanthemum, and in winter, try camellia or peony designs. Layering a haori over a thick wasode shirt, knit sweater, or turtleneck provides extra warmth and expands your styling options.

1. Material: Select seasonal materials like warm wool blends or jacquard fabrics with a rich luster.
2. Color & Pattern: We recommend designs based in chic black, where deep accent colors truly stand out.
3. Styling: Enjoy a substantial winter style by closing the front and cinching it with a belt, or by layering thicker items underneath.

Wearing a Haori While Sightseeing in Kyoto

If you're visiting Kyoto, a REZEN Kyoto haori makes for a perfect souvenir. Our store, with its temple-like exterior on Shinkyogoku Street, is located in an area dotted with historic temples and shrines like Somedono-in, making it ideal for a stroll to soak in the atmosphere of Kyoto.

• For Strolling the City: Blending in with the traditional townscape while still radiating modern individuality, a haori is exceptionally photogenic. It’s sure to make taking pictures even more fun.
• For a Tea Ceremony Experience: When participating in a Japanese cultural experience like a tea ceremony, a REZEN Kyoto haori creates an elegant atmosphere without being overly formal. Our haori, which value the spirit of Japanese harmony, will naturally fit in on such occasions.
• As a Souvenir or Memento: It makes a wonderful treat for yourself, and it will surely be appreciated as a special and unique Kyoto gift for a loved one.

Practical Steps to Finding Your Perfect Haori at REZEN Kyoto

'What kind of haori will suit me?' 'How should I coordinate it?' If you have these questions, don't worry. At REZEN Kyoto, we are here to assist each customer in finding their perfect piece.

1. Visit Our Store: Located on Kyoto's Shinkyogoku Street, our store is marked by its unique temple-like exterior. There are two entrances, so please feel free to come in through either one. First, experience the brand's worldview in our sophisticated Japanese-Western fusion space.
2. Explore the Various Haori: Take your time looking through our diverse collection themed around Japanese culture and seasons, featuring motifs like the cluster amaryllis, cherry blossom, and lotus. Each piece, though based in black, shines with individual character through its accent colors and design, and is sure to capture your heart.
3. Try Them On: A haori has a charm that you can only appreciate by wearing it. Please feel free to try one on over your regular clothes in front of our in-store mirror. By actually wearing it, you can check the length, silhouette, and comfort.
4. Consult with Our Staff: 'What kind of inner wear goes with this haori?' 'I want to pair it with hakama pants, but which color is best?' Our knowledgeable staff will politely answer any questions, no matter how small. We will propose the best coordination to match your lifestyle and preferences.
5. Experiment with Other Items: In addition to haori, REZEN Kyoto has a rich selection of items that pair well with them, such as wasode shirts, hakama pants, hakama skirts, and Japanese-patterned belts and accessories. Trying on a full coordinated outfit might lead to new discoveries.

The REZEN Kyoto store is a place where visitors can find their own special piece. Please feel free to stop by.

Discover a New You with a REZEN Kyoto Haori

The haori proposed by REZEN Kyoto is not just clothing; it is wearable art that fuses Japanese aesthetics with modern sensibilities. As embodied in our brand name 'REZEN'—meaning 'again' and 'Zen'—and symbolized by our lotus crest logo, we aim to translate the joy of wearing culture and tradition into Wa-Mode designs, offering borderless fashion that transcends gender and age.

From our location in Kyoto's Shinkyogoku, a place where the culture of old Japan still breathes, REZEN Kyoto is transmitting new fashion possibilities. Why not incorporate a REZEN Kyoto haori into your daily life? It will surely be an opportunity to discover a new side of yourself and add color to your everyday routine. We sincerely look forward to helping you find your own special piece in our unique and sophisticated Japanese-Western fusion space.