Size
Kimono length
Kimono are really meant to be worn as kimonos. They're made long and with a double lining. So, it might not be the best as a robe, since you'd be dragging the bottom and it's kinda heavy like wearing a trench coat. If you want something more like a robe, shorter and lighter, try looking for "Juban".
Juban
A juban is a type of undergarment worn between the kimono-specific underwear and the kimono itself. It protects the kimono from dust and sweat. As you can see, it is shorter compared to a kimono. When wearing it as a robe, I recommend using a juban. Some juban have linings, while others do not—this photo shows a lined juban.
Most juban are plain white or light pink, but people who want to enjoy fashion even in unseen areas have custom-made juban with unique patterns and designs. At StyleKimono, I select only beautiful juban like the ones shown in the photo.
Haori Size
Haori are designed to be worn open without overlapping the front, so sizing is relatively flexible. When worn over a kimono, keep in mind that the obi adds quite a bit of bulk, so haori are originally made to have a loose and comfortable fit.
When wearing haori over a kimono, the haori himo (tie) is usually fastened at the front. However, if you’re styling a haori as a fashion piece over Western clothing, you don’t necessarily have to tie it at the front.
Don’t assume that haori are too small just because they were made for Japanese sizes. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions!
Haori Construction
Drop Shoulder:
The "shoulder-to-shoulder" measurement listed on our product pages refers to the length between the shoulder seams of the haori. This typically measures around 58-60 cm, but it differs from Western shoulder width measurements.
Yuki (Sleeve Length):
Yuki refers to the length from the center of the back (along the spine) to the end of the sleeve opening.
How to Measure Yuki Accurately
Here’s a quick guide:
Juban Yuki Length: Neckt-to-wrist measurement as shown in Illustration.
Kimono Yuki Length: Juban yuki length + 0.4 inches (1 cm)
Haori Yuki Length: Juban yuki length + 0.8 inches (2 cm)
Alternatively, you can calculate based on height:
Juban Yuki Length: Height × 0.4
Kimono Yuki Length: (Height × 0.4) + 0.4 inches (1 cm)
Haori Yuki Length: (Height × 0.4) + 0.8 inches (2 cm)
Haori Length
Generally, the ideal haori length is calculated as "height × 0.5." This length ensures a balanced look when worn over a kimono. However, when pairing haori with Western clothing, you don’t necessarily need to stick to this guideline.