Semi-formal kimono are the forgotten middle child of the kimono family. They’re like your business suit or little black dress. They’re a necessary part of every wardrobe for the few times you wear it, but they’re not as glamorous as the formal garments you may own. There also aren’t as many opportunities to wear them as your very casual clothes. Semi-formal kimono bridge the gap and they can be easy to overlook.

It took me a year or so to start appreciating casual kimono, and now my absolute favorite kimono to wear is a tsumugi kimono! Find out more below!

Your eye is caught by the most gorgeous kimono. The colors are vibrant. The silk is luxurious. The designs are eye catching. Congratulations! You’ve fallen in love with a kimono.

From how to tell a tourist kimono from a real one, to where to shop depending on your budget, you’ll go home with the right kimono for you.

One of the most well-known colors to come out of Japan is Japan blue, better known as indigo. The indigo produced in Tokushima is known as awa ai. Even the town of Aizumi takes its name from indigo.