About Us

WEAR 2.5 explores the concept of 'Coexisting with Western Clothing' and examines kimono as everyday attire.

We create kimonos designed with the assumption of styling alongside Western clothing, eliminating the need for adjustments and dressing expertise that were previously required.

Our aim is to set the standard for the kimono of the future.

Story

Our project began from seeing kimonos being sold at a recycling shop. The rows of kimonos, each crafted from high-quality materials and adorned with beautiful patterns, caught our attention. However, they were being sold at prices comparable to fast fashion. As we were captivated by the wonderful kimonos before us, we also felt a sense of urgency that this cultural heritage might fade away if things continued this way.

Kimono is Japan's traditional clothing. The word 'kimono' in Japanese means 'something to wear.' Yet, due to factors like the complexity of wearing and strict rules, opportunities to wear kimonos in everyday life in Japan are scarce. The occasions for wearing them are limited to special events or specific lessons.

To ensure the continued vitality of kimono as a cultural attire, we pondered what the future of kimono should be. The answer we arrived at was to create kimonos that anyone can wear freely, making them a true 'something to wear,' and positioning them as one of the choices in the world of fashion.

In 2018, we began our research to achieve this by reconstructing secondhand kimonos, enhancing their practicality and compatibility with Western clothing while preserving their original charm. In 2021, we completed kimonos that can be worn without requiring special undergarments and started selling them through our online store. Currently, we continue to explore the future of kimonos by participating in pop-up events and fashion shows.

WEAR 2.5 - A new kimono that transcends the boundaries between flat-structured kimonos and three-dimensional Western clothing, coexisting harmoniously. For all those who enjoy fashion.

Design

To elevate fashion without compromising its charm, our kimonos have been enhanced with the following improvements. These changes significantly enhance the usability of everyday wear.

Improve 1

Sleeve

Drawing inspiration from older eras of kimono styles, we have improved the sleeves by transforming them into a design without the traditional bag-like detail at the end of the sleeves (known as ’tamoto’). This modification also makes layering with Western clothing more convenient.

Improve 2

Pocket

Pockets, which are crucial details for everyday wear, have been incorporated. By strategically placing them using techniques like side seams or hidden linings, we have enhanced practicality without compromising the overall appearance.

Improve 2

Closures

We have introduced closures like buttons to create designs that can be worn without an obi (belt). When paired with an obi, a classic style can be naturally recreated.

Product

We offer the following products through our online store. We aim for sustainable development through production methods that minimize waste.

Production 1

Remake

We offer items crafted from repurposed kimonos that are no longer wearable. These pieces utilize vintage kimonos, providing a rare collection that allows one to fully enjoy the charm of kimono.

Production 2

Original

Our original items use eco-friendly materials and deadstock fabrics, all carefully crafted in Japanese kimono production facilities. We consider environmental impact throughout the process.

How to wear

We believe that for everyday wear, many of the traditional rules surrounding kimono are unnecessary. Just like your regular clothing, feel free to enjoy a style that reflects you.

Item 1

Tops

Wear it just like you would a jacket you wear regularly. The juban (kimono undergarment) can be worn like a shirt, and it's also recommended to use it as an inner layer or mid-layer.

Item 2

Bottoms

Fasten it around your waist like you would with trousers or a wrap skirt, and your outfit is complete. Styling it as a set can evoke a traditional atmosphere.

Item 3

All-in-one

You can enjoy a classic style by combining traditional kimono items like an obi. Wearing it loosely like a long coat also looks fantastic.

Effort

We aim to contribute to the sustainable development of society and the planet through our business activities.
Our values align with the goals pursued by the SDGs.

*SDGs（Sustainable Development Goals）

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted at the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit in September 2015, with the participation of over 150 heads of state. The SDGs consist of 17 goals and 169 targets to be achieved by 2030, with the aim of promoting sustainable development.