Archive for the ‘cute kimono’ Category

Find Your Authentic Style with Japanese Kimonos

Saturday, February 4th, 2023

If you’re looking to add a unique, authentic touch to your wardrobe, look no further than Chopa’s collection of handcrafted, traditional Japanese kimonos and yukata robes. These luxurious garments are made from the highest quality materials, making them perfect for everyday wear or special occasions. Let’s explore why these exquisite pieces will effortlessly transform your wardrobe!

What Makes Chopa Different?
Chopa is the premier source for traditional Japanese kimonos and yukata robes. For more than 30 years, we’ve been providing our customers with the highest quality apparel at affordable prices. Our products are handmade in Japan by skilled artisans using only high-quality fabrics and materials available. This ensures that each garment is of the utmost quality and has an exquisite finish that will last for years to come. Most of our robes are produced in high-quality 100% cotton. This allows for easy care, and machine washing and it feels great against your skin.

Our Collection
At Chopa, we offer a wide selection of kimonos and yukata robes to choose from. Whether you’re looking for something casual or more formal, we have something to suit every style. Our traditional garments feature beautiful patterns and designs inspired by Japan’s rich culture and history. We also carry a range of more modern styles that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whatever your preference may be, you’re sure to find something perfect in our collection!

It’s Easy To Get Started!    
Getting started is easy! Simply select a style from our collection, place your order online, and wait for your new look to arrive within a few days. We provide detailed sizing information on all of our products so you can be sure you get the right fit every time. And if there’s ever an issue with your order, simply contact us. Our friendly customer service team will be happy to help you out. Returns or exchanges are simple. We are based in the USA, so there are no long delays.

Show off Your Unique Style with Chopa’s Kimonos & Yukatas.
Ready to take your wardrobe to the next level? Look no further than Chopa’s collection of traditional Japanese kimonos and yukata robes. Our handcrafted garments feature exquisite details that are sure to turn heads wherever you go. Plus, with our wide selection of styles, from classic prints to contemporary designs, you’ll always have something new and exciting in your closet. Shop now and experience true authenticity today!

The beauty of Kimonos

The Beauty of Kimonos

Celebrating the Lunar New Year: Welcoming in the Year of the Rabbit

Sunday, January 8th, 2023

Every year, millions of people around the world celebrate the start of a new year. In many parts of Asia, there is a special celebration that takes place, the Lunar new year. This year marks the start of the Year of the Rabbit. With it arrives all sorts of wonderful festivities. To commemorate this joyous occasion, people often wear new kimonos for luck. They also set off fireworks, and plan festive meals. The goal is to make the most to celebrate this magical time. Let’s take a closer look at some of these beloved traditions.

Decorating Outdoor Areas
One way that people welcome the Lunar new year is by decorating their outdoor areas. Decorations often feature symbols meaningful to that year. For instance, during this coming new year, the décor will include rabbits for luck. People also decorate with other symbols associated with tranquility, and creativity. This tradition symbolizes good fortune for both individuals and families as they enter into this fresh start.

Wearing New Kimonos
Nothing says “new beginning” like a brand-new outfit. During the Lunar new year celebrations, many people choose to wear kimonos in bright colors such as red or yellow. These colors represent long-lasting luck throughout life. In addition to being beautiful pieces of art themselves, kimonos have a great deal of cultural significance. They are often seen as a sign of respect towards those who celebrate this joyous event with you. You can find the perfect kimono for yourself at this online kimono shop.

Setting Off Fireworks
Another way people joyfully welcome the new beginning is with fireworks! Of course, fireworks can be dangerous if not handled properly. But when used correctly they can be just one more way to make this special time even more memorable. Use caution whether shooting them off on your own or watching a public display. When lighting up the night sky, it’s hard not to feel excited when you hear those loud bangs! The colorful bursts can be mesmerizing.

Celebrate The New Beginning
Celebrating the Lunar new year is an age-old tradition in parts of Asia. It continues today just as strongly as ever before. There are so many wonderful ways to take part in this important event. From decorating outdoor areas with special symbols to wearing new kimonos for luck. And finally setting off firework displays.

Family members, friends, and acquaintances from far and near come together specifically for this magical time every single year. It can also serve as an important reminder for us all about how precious these moments are. It reminds us how we need to cherish every single one we have left together. So why not join in on these beloved traditions for yourself?  Celebrate your own personal ‘new beginning’ today!

2023 – The Year of the Rabbit

Thank You For Making Our Kimonos Part of Your Holidays

Friday, December 30th, 2022

Thank you for allowing us to be part of your holidays. We appreciate your business year-round. But we admit to getting extra joy serving you during the gift-giving seasons. Kimonos and yukatas make wonderful and practical gifts. These are perfect for a birthday, holiday, anniversary, graduation, or another special event. With our large selection and an array of sizes, we always have the authentic kimono you are looking for.

What’s the Difference between a Kimono and a Yukata?

Kimonos and yukatas are both traditional Japanese garments. The best ones are made from lighter-weight fabrics such as cotton and silk. The main difference between them is their usage. Kimonos are more formal garments that are typically reserved for special occasions like weddings. A yukata is a casual wear usually seen at summer festivals or during hot weather.

Both garments feature beautiful designs. Using a combination of colors and patterns they become one stunning piece of clothing. When shopping for a kimono or yukata, there are several factors to consider. It is important to evaluate the size, color schemes, fabric type, and sleeve length. However, no matter what kind of garment you choose you can be sure it will make a great gift!

Why Choose Authentic Japanese Wear from Chopa.com?

At our online store, we offer only authentic Japanese wear designed by skilled artisans. These experts take great pride in their craftsmanship. Each piece is handcrafted with the utmost attention to detail and quality. You can be sure your recipient will be delighted with their gift! In addition to offering kimonos and yukatas in various sizes and colors, we also offer accessories. These include obi (the sash worn around the waist) so you can complete your look without any hassle. Each kimono we offer comes with a matching belt, but some prefer to contrast the colors for a more formal and dramatic look. We also offer Japanese Tabi Socks and toe socks for your feet.

We would like to thank you again for allowing us to be part of your holiday season! Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, anniversary, graduation, or another special event, we have you covered. Kimonos and yukatas make wonderful gifts that are practical yet stylish. With our wide selection of authentic pieces combined with quick shipping services – we always have the perfect kimono or yukata for you! Shop now to find the ideal gift for someone special today!

 

kimono-robes

             Beautiful Japanese Kimonos

Ordering Christmas Gifts Online

Saturday, December 3rd, 2022

Kimonos and yukatas are the perfect gifts for anyone who loves Japanese culture or wants to try something new. They are beautiful, traditional garments that can be worn in many different ways. Some believe it is difficult to find the right size or style, so they should visit www.chopa.com.

Chopa is Your Kimono Source and they make the process painless. Carrying a broad selection of over 100 styles, prints, patterns, and sizes, Kimono shopping is made easy. Chopa was one of the first online retailers of Japanese kimonos and was at the forefront of offering a range of sizes so everyone can find what they need. From short length to tall, wide, and plus-sized, Chopa stocks a kimono for you.

So whether you’re looking for a gift for a friend or a family member who has everything, your problem is solved. Better yet, treat yourself to the comfort and style a kimono offers. Whether lounging on a weekend or working around the house, the perfect kimono or yukata awaits you.

Here are some kimono-buying tips to help.

First, when you are buying clothing as a gift, be sure to check the size charts before you buy. It can be frustrating getting a kimono or yukata that’s too small or too large. Second, take a look at the return policy before you make your purchase. Some stores have stricter return policies during the holidays, so it’s best to be prepared. Chopa extends the return and exchange window so you can enjoy the Holidays rather than interrupting the festivities to head to the post office.

Have the recipient try on the robe and check the fit. Do not use the item as most return policies are voided if worn. Some may want to wear it for a week to see if they like it, but that isn’t an appropriate move if you decide to return it. One thing we will say is that most people if apprehensive at first, find the more they wear it, the better they like it. This is true of the fit as well as the cultural shock that some have. They become a warrior or Kimono princesses.

We recommend shopping early. Stores usually have the best selection early in the buying season. Another factor in shopping online is shipping. You want to be sure the store you are shopping with will ship your gifts with plenty of time for the Holiday. This allows extra time in case of weather delays, a carrier issue, or a random situation that pops up.

Chopa prides itself on quick shipping. Most orders ship within one business day of order placement. Depending on the type of shipping you choose, transit times will take between 2 and 5 business days. During busy Holiday periods, Chopa has additional shipping experts help out. If needed, they operate 7 days a week to keep up with the order flow. Chopa wants your gifts and orders to arrive on time. Service is a priority and always has been.

Here are this year’s deadlines to be sure your package arrives on time.  Understand that some conditions are beyond the control of Chopa including weather delays, high-volume carrier surges, etc.  Happy Holidays everybody! This is the Season to enjoy.

2022 Christmas Holiday Shipping Deadlines.

Deeply Discounted Kimonos

Saturday, October 22nd, 2022

Japanese kimonos and yukatas are beautiful, traditional garments. They are becoming increasingly popular with fashion-conscious Westerners. However, importing these items from Japan can be a challenge. Customs inspections are often strict and have many hurdles to entry. Government agencies can flag partial or entire shipments for inspection.  Inspection levels range from simple x-rays to intense. X-rays are self-explanatory. Cartons or entire containers go through x-ray machines.  If anything unusual appears, agents refer the goods for further scrutiny.

Inspection levels consist of minimal, general, customs holds, and intensive exams. Minimal inspections include opening a few cartons, whereas intensive exams can be extremely thorough and very disruptive to the importer. All inspections come with a price tag. Costs are billed to the importer and if unpaid, the merchandise is confiscated and sold at auction to recover the inspection fees.  An x-ray or minimal inspection can cost a few hundred dollars whereas an intense inspection can cost thousands and thousands of dollars.

During an intense inspection, containers are transported to a secure yard and any number of cartons in the container are unloaded.  Depending on the amount authorized by customs, a few boxes or hundreds are removed from the container. The cartons are opened and customs agents, walk through picking, poking, unwrapping, and inspecting goods. Care of the goods isn’t of much concern. Items are left behind and contracted staff place goods back inside the cartons, and reseal their load back onto the container.  For items like clothing, the damage is minimal, but new goods are now open and are not folded or pressed like they were upon arrival.

There are difficulties involved in importing kimonos and yukatas from Japan. Customers that desire these robes are fortunate that some businesses meet the challenge and accept this as part of doing business. But what is done with the opened Kimonos and Yukatas? At Chopa – Your Kimono Source, we work with several third-party sellers that purchase the robes at discounts.  The discount helps to offset the cost of pressing, repackaging, and remarketing the goods to their customers.

Recently, after several new shipments arrived, Chopa had the idea to offer these “open-bag” kimonos to their customers. After all, the robes are new, unworn, and ready to wear. Why not offer these discounts to loyal followers? They are still bagged and refolded, however, they are not crisply pressed and folded like they were from the factory. Once out of the bag, a light ironing will remove any wrinkles. This isn’t any different than when robes are direct from the production facility. Often customers will press their newly arrived kimonos because of the folds and creases that show with any new garment.

The discounts on these kimonos and yukatas are as much as 40% off. That is quite the bargain. We initially have several dozen, but they will sell quickly. It’s a perfect time to shop if you are seeking a Christmas gift. You can iron, and fold one neatly into a gift box with some tissue and your recipient will be highly pleased to receive such a gift.  If you are not in the gift-buying market, then treat yourself and enjoy the savings.

You can find our current selection on the CLEARANCE page at www.chopa.com.

There are many barriers to importing Kimonos.

Learn About Kimonos From A Pro (Part 2)

Thursday, September 15th, 2022

Ron Irving is a Managing Partner of Chopa – Your Kimono Source. Established in 1994, Chopa continues to be a leading provider of authentic Japanese Kimonos and Yukata robes.  Ron recently sat down for a one-on-one interview with a live audience at a business trade show.  We are pleased to share some excerpts from this fascinating interview. This is part 2.

How do you know which kimono or yukata to wear?

I like to tell people it is a personal choice. With that, there are some caveats. The Japanese kimono was originally a formal garment most commonly made of silk. It was typically worn by women on important occasions, such as weddings and funerals. Yukata, on the other hand, are casual kimonos that are made of lighter materials, such as cotton, linen, or polyester. Yukata are typically worn in the summer months and at festivals. Because they are less formal than kimonos, yukata are more commonly seen in everyday life.

When choosing a kimono or yukata, it is important to consider the occasion. If you are attending a wedding or funeral, it is appropriate to wear a kimono. For more casual occasions, such as summer festivals, a yukata would be more appropriate. And if you’re not sure which one to wear, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and go with a kimono.

With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be sure to find the perfect kimono or yukata for any occasion. If you are wearing it at home or small gatherings with friends and family, either style works. In the western world, we tend to prefer comfort over all else.

What’s the difference between kimonos and yukatas?

Kimonos and yukatas are both Japanese garments that are worn on special occasions. However, there are some key differences between the two. Japanese kimonos are made from a variety of different materials, including silk, cotton, and linen. They are often brightly colored and feature intricate patterns.

Yukatas, on the other hand, are made from a single piece of fabric and are typically made of cotton. The fabric is also much lighter, making it more comfortable to wear in warm weather. In addition, kimonos are generally more formal than yukatas and are often worn to weddings and other special events. Yukatas, on the other hand, can be worn for a variety of different occasions, including festivals and fireworks displays.

What is your favorite Japanese kimono?

That isn’t a fair question. Japanese kimonos are some of the most beautiful and intricate garments in the world. I have always been fascinated by their design. If I had to select a favorite I would go with a yukata. Yukata are made of lightweight cotton, and they are typically worn in the summer. They are also often worn at Japanese festivals.

I love the way that yukata flows when you wear them, and I love the bright, vibrant colors that are typically used in their design. Kimono yukata are truly works of art, and I am proud to own one. I am normally warmer-blooded so the lighter-weight style works best for me. It is a personal choice. I always recommend that customers buy what they like and prefer. Don’t let someone else’s style or opinion influence you.

What do you think sets Japanese kimonos apart from other types of traditional clothing around the world?  

Japanese kimonos are renowned for their beauty and elegance, setting them apart from other types of traditional clothing around the world. Formal kimonos are made of high-quality silk, which is dyed using a variety of methods to create intricate patterns. The kimono is also cut in a way that flatters the figure, and it is usually worn with an obi or sash, that cinches the waist.

In addition, Japanese kimonos are often accessorized with beautiful jewelry and hair combs. Yukata are a type of Japanese kimono that are made of lighter fabric and are typically worn in the summer. Kimono yukata are a hybrid of the two, and they are made of medium-weight fabric that can be worn in either spring or autumn. No matter what the season, Japanese kimonos are always a fashion statement.

This is Part two in a series. Ron Irving has been an integral part of Chopa for many years. His understanding of the kimono has been so beneficial to our company and our customers.  Shop our online store 24 hours a day. Check back again soon for Part 3 of his interview.

yellow womens kimono

                    Beautiful Kimonos

Kimono or Yukata?

Saturday, August 20th, 2022

We receive questions about Japanese Kimonos and Yukatas daily. Periodically we like to share some of these to help educate others that are shopping for these wonderful robes.

What is the difference between a kimono and a yukata?

Japanese kimonos and yukatas are both traditional Japanese garments. Kimonos are more formal than yukatas and are often worn for special occasions, such as weddings or tea ceremonies. Yukatas are less formal and are often worn to outdoor events, such as festivals or fireworks displays. Both kimonos and yukatas can be either long or short. The length of a kimono or yukata is determined by the season and the occasion for which it is worn.

Kimonos are commonly made of both silk and cotton. Yukatas are made of cotton. Kimonos are typically worn in cooler months, while yukata are worn in warmer months.  Today, these traditions still exist but it has become a personal choice. Yukatas are popular year-round in many parts of the world, especially in warmer climates. Kimonos are worn anytime as well. It depends on the weight of the fabric. Both are often referred to as the Best Loungewear you can find.

What is the best way to wash a kimono or yukata?

We suggest you check with the manufacturer or dealer where you purchase your garment. At Chopa – Your Kimono Source, all cotton kimonos, and yukatas are machine washable. We recommend using cold water, in a gentle cycle. This not only maintains the colors but extends the life of your robe. Many customers drip dry their robe on a hanger although it’s possible to machine dry on a low-temperature setting. Drip drying will prolong the life of the fabric.

How long does it take to receive my kimono?

We ship quickly because we know how important fast shipping is today. At Chopa, most orders are shipped within one business day, and many orders ship the same day. The earlier you place your order in the day increases the odds of shipping the same day. Your kimono ships from a warehouse in the Panhandle of Florida. We import all of our robes directly from Japan so you don’t have to wait 4-6 weeks to receive your order. Over 95% of our orders arrive at our customer’s doorstep within 3 business days, many in just two. We like to say that we give our customers the benefits of an Amazon Prime membership without the $149.00 annual fee. It’s our gift to you.

What if I don’t like the Fit of my Kimono?

That is not a problem. We offer exchanges or refunds with no questions asked. Simply contact us within 14 days of receiving your order. We will send you the simple instructions and provide you with a 14-day window to return the item. Of course, we require that the robe is unworn and in new condition.

How much is shipping?

Shipping is very reasonable. We charge a low fee of $6.95 for one kimono or yukata but provide Free Shipping anywhere in the USA if your purchase is $75.00 or more. Unlike many retailers, we don’t have exclusions. Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico are included.

Do we ship to Post Office Boxes?

We do ship to PO Boxes, however in most cases since we have to use USPS, we can often ship it quicker if you have a street address for delivery.

How do I tell which length is right for me?

We offer a great selection of kimono and yukata sizes including long, short, and plus-sizing for both men and women. For the length, we suggest using a  tape measure and start at your shoulder and allow the tape to drop down your side. This is where the robe will fall on you.

Occasionally customers ask where the length should fall, but this is a personal choice. Some people like it to their ankles while others prefer it above the foot. There are also those who like shorter-length robes like our Happi Coats which fall just above, too, or below the knees. The length will be different for every person depending on your height. Buy what you like and be comfortable, that is what matters the most. Your comfort, your decision, and your kimono!

If you want to see what sizes, styles, prints, and colors are available, take a look at our online Kimono Shop. It is open 24 hours a day!

        Get Your Kimono on!

You Ought To Be In Pictures!

Sunday, February 27th, 2022

Want to be a Model or just look like one?

Has anyone ever told you that you should be in pictures?  Have you had a secret desire to be a model? Do you like posting images on Social Media?  Then read ahead and see what we have available for you.

Kimonos are a beautiful and unique aspect of Japanese culture. If you’re ever in Japan, it’s worth your time to wear one. And if you’re not in Japan, don’t worry – there are still ways to enjoy kimonos. Chopa – Your Kimono Source since 1994 has over 100 kimono, yukata, and short-length Happi Coats to choose from.

After you acquire one, where will you wear yours?  What will you do while wearing a beautiful robe? Some wear kimono lounging around the home or using it as a coverup after a bath or shower.  Others wear yukata as loungewear while catching up on their reading or emails. Some customers wear one while tending to light household choirs, while others binge-watch their favorite movies or TV series. Heading to a party or special event? Don’t leave home without your kimono.

Submit your photo and you might win prizes!!

For those that want to be in pictures, we have an option for you. Chopa is looking for customers that want to show the world how they wear their kimono or yukata. We invite you to send us your images wearing your robe.  If we select your image to use, you will be entered into our contests where you are eligible to win prizes and or cash awards.  Chopa will hold drawings where selected winners can win Kimono, Yukata, Happi Coats, Gift Certificates, and even cash prizes.

Chopa will use the images online either on their website or social media like Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. It’s a fun way to show our family of kimono lovers how they look, different styles, enjoying some fun times with friends and family and just being you. After all, what is better than being yourself? Chopa also sends occasional emails to customers advertising new styles, sales or random news we feel is worthwhile to share. Your image may be included in these emails.

Share your images with other customers!

If we select your image, we will contact you via email to verify your submission and approval to publish the photos.  Whether you wish your name to be listed in the images is completely up to you. We respect people’s privacy and won’t publish names without written approval. If you want to be tagged with your social media handle, we can do that.  You can also publish on your social media page and tag Chopa.

This idea has been submitted to us several times over the years. We love when our customers tell us what they want and feel this is a good time to launch this program.  Seeing real customers wearing their kimono and yukata in real-life environments is as good as it gets. Send your photos in today to info@chopa.com.

kimono photo contest

Be a Model, or just look like one!

Top Selling Kimono for January 2022

Friday, February 18th, 2022

Chopa is one of the leading online shops offering fine Japanese Kimono and Yukata robes. We like to provide our customers a list each month of what is popular right now.  There are many options available when choosing a kimono shop. Since we have been operating since 1994, we are confident that we offer some of the best choices out there.

Our goal has always been to enlighten and educate customers about the beauty and symbolism of Japanese Kimonos.  Whether you admire the cultural significance, the bright, vivid colors, the symbolic patterns, or the luxury and comfort these robes provide, we take the guesswork out of online kimono shopping.  Our fast shipping is just one component that sets us apart from the crowd.  Chopa is your Kimono Source and as such, we ship most orders within one business day. Many orders ship the same day if your order is placed early in the day. Most orders are delivered within 2-3 business days, weather permitting.

Chopa ships your order safely and securely from a warehouse in the Northwest Panhandle of Florida.  We do the importing for you and carry over 100 styles, colors, and patterns that are in stock and ready to ship. Orders of $75 or more ship Free anywhere in the USA, including Hawaii and Alaska. You avoid duties, taxes, and import fees when shopping with us.

Every week, we hear from customers expressing how happy they are to have found us.  Many come from referrals and word of mouth. They share stories with us about their previous experiences. To put it bluntly, they are not pretty stories.  People ordered directly from a dealer in Japan and were told shipping is quick, usually 3-5 days.  Reality is a wait of up to 30 days in many cases. Customers are told they could return it. An issue lies with translation issues. The purchaser doesn’t speak or write Japanese and the vendor doesn’t communicate in English. To this, we say good luck and recommend taking an aspirin for their headaches.

Other resulting issues are duties and taxes.  Their package arrives and they have presented a bill for $10, $15, or even $25 more for duties, taxes, customs clearance, and import fees.  Shoppers were never told about this. But if they don’t pay the costs, the carrier keeps the package and the customer is out. Sometimes these packages are submitted to customs. They are sold for liquidated damages and other times sent back to the shipper, who doesn’t issue a refund.

Frequently we hear about requests for returns being denied by the dealer.  Customers are told, the wrong size doesn’t qualify or 3 days is too long. Worse yet, they simply ignore emails and telephone calls. If a customer is granted a return approval, they are shocked when they go to the post office. Here, they discover that shipping a 2-pound package can cost $60 by Priority Mail. This cost is born by the customer, not the Japanese dealer.  We feel dealers operate this way because they discovered most customers will keep the robe instead of investing additional money into their losing investment already. It is sad but true.

In summary, you can see how we make this an easy choice to shop with us. One of our mottos is “We take the guesswork out of Kimono shopping” and once a customer shops with us, they realize how true it is.  We welcome you to go to our online Kimono Shop and see for yourself. Whether it’s men’s or women’s kimono or yukata or perhaps an outfit for your little Samurai or Princess, we have a large selection to choose from.

It seems like 2022 just began and we have now already blown through January and are over halfway through February.

Without further delays, here is our list of Top Selling Kimono and Yukata for January 2022:

  1. Tree of Life Yukata
  2. Dragon and Bamboo Yukata
  3. Navy Kagome Yukata
  4. Dragon and Hawk Yukata
  5. Yukata – Dragon & Mt Fuji Navy 

Chopa.com currently has two orders in production with smaller shipments arriving in mid-March and April. Our largest Spring order is expected to arrive from Japan in late April. The logistics staff continues to monitor shipping and supply chain issues.  We have been and will continue to use Air Freight for our future shipments. This is necessary until the Ports along both sides of the country catch up and fix their lengthy delays. While air is more costly than a cargo ship, we would rather absorb the cost and obtain our product quicker and more efficiently. Thank you for visiting our site and reading our Blogs.  Now Get Your Kimono On!!

                     Dragon and Hawk Yukata

May the Joy of the Season Fill Your Home!

Tuesday, December 21st, 2021

Season’s Greetings to All! May this Christmas bring you Joy,

Happiness and Peace. Gratitude.

Christmas greetings

Merry Christmas!