Many Japanese people living in Germany say the same thing:
“I brought my kimono from Japan, but I never have an occasion to wear it.”
You may have packed your kimono carefully when you moved abroad. It may have been given to you by your mother or grandmother, or it may be something you bought for yourself.
However, after moving to Germany, the usual opportunities to wear kimono often disappear.
There may be no entrance ceremonies, New Year shrine visits, Japanese weddings or formal tea gatherings nearby. As a result, the kimono stays in the wardrobe for years.
But kimono does not only have to be worn for formal ceremonies. You can also create your own opportunities to wear it.
Why It Is Harder to Wear Kimono in Germany
In Japan, kimono is often connected to specific events.
Furisode is worn for Coming-of-Age Day. Hōmongi may be worn for weddings and celebrations. Yukata is commonly worn at summer festivals.
The occasion usually helps you decide which kimono is appropriate.
In Germany, these occasions are less common. Japanese events may only take place once or twice a year, and wearing kimono in public attracts more attention than it usually would in Japan.
This can make people feel that they need a special reason to wear kimono.
They may worry that they look overdressed, that their coordination is not correct or that their kitsuke is not good enough.
However, for casual kimono, the occasion does not need to be formal.
Casual Kimono Can Be Worn for Ordinary Activities
Komon, tsumugi and other casual kimono can be worn for many everyday activities.
For example, you can wear kimono when:
Meeting a friend for lunch
Visiting a museum
Going to a café or afternoon tea
Attending a Japanese or cultural event
Walking through a garden or historical town
Taking seasonal photographs
Preparing matcha or wagashi at home
A small outing is already a good reason to wear kimono.
You do not have to wait for a wedding, ceremony or major Japanese event.
Wearing Kimono Abroad Can Be More Flexible
In Japan, many people worry about kimono rules.
Is the kimono formal enough? Is the motif suitable for the season? Does the obi match the occasion? Is the coordination technically correct?
These rules are important for formal events. They help us understand the meaning and structure of kimono.
For casual outings in Germany, however, you can usually be more flexible.
Most people around you will not know the detailed rules. They will mainly notice the colours, patterns, fabric and overall appearance.
This does not mean that kimono knowledge is unnecessary. Learning the rules can help you choose your outfit with more confidence.
However, worrying about small mistakes should not stop you from wearing your kimono.
For a casual day out, it is more important that the kimono is appropriate for the weather, comfortable to wear and suitable for your plans.
Start With a Simple Outing
Wearing kimono outside Japan may feel uncomfortable at first.
You may feel self-conscious because people look at you. You may also worry about walking, using public transport or keeping the kimono tidy throughout the day.
Start with a short and simple outing.
Meet one friend for coffee. Visit a museum. Go to a Japanese shop or restaurant. Choose a place where you already feel comfortable.
For your first outing, it is helpful to choose:
A casual kimono that is easy to move in
A simple and familiar obi style
Comfortable footwear
A short route with easy transport
Suitable weather
You do not need to plan a full-day event.
After wearing kimono outside several times, it usually becomes easier and more natural.
Attention From Other People
You will probably receive more attention when wearing kimono in Germany.
Some people may look at you, ask questions or compliment your outfit. In most cases, this comes from interest rather than criticism.
Many people in Germany are interested in Japanese culture, textiles and traditional craftsmanship.
You do not need to explain every detail of your kimono. A simple answer is enough if someone asks about it.
The attention may feel unusual at first, but it can also lead to positive conversations.
Creating Kimono Opportunities in Germany
When the usual Japanese occasions do not exist, we can create new ones.
A kimono meet-up can be an occasion. So can a seasonal lunch, a museum visit, a tea gathering or a walk through the city.
These events may not be traditional Japanese ceremonies, but they still give us a reason to wear kimono and enjoy it with other people.
They are also useful for people who:
Do not want to wear kimono alone
Are not confident in their kitsuke
Want to learn more about coordination
Want to meet other kimono enthusiasts
Have kimono at home but rarely wear them
You do not need to be an expert to participate.
You also do not need to own many kimono or have perfect kitsuke skills. Wearing kimono regularly is one of the best ways to become more comfortable with it.
Join Biyori Kimono Kai
Biyori Kimono Kai is a small kimono gathering held in Neuss, near Düsseldorf.
It is for people who want a practical and relaxed opportunity to wear kimono in Germany.
During the gathering, we may talk about kimono coordination, enjoy tea, exchange knowledge, take photographs or go out together.
Beginners are welcome. You do not need perfect kitsuke skills, and you do not need to know all the kimono rules.
The aim is simply to create more opportunities to wear kimono and meet other people who share the same interest.
If your kimono has been sitting in the wardrobe because you have nowhere to wear it, Biyori Kimono Kai can be your next occasion.
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