Posts Tagged ‘japanese yukata’

Where to Buy a Yukata Near Me

Friday, August 9th, 2024

For travel enthusiasts, fashion lovers, and Japanese fans alike, owning a yukata is a beautiful way to connect with Japanese culture. Traditionally worn during the summer or to festivals, these lightweight cotton robes are celebrated for their vibrant designs and comfort.

But here’s the good news—you don’t have to travel to Japan to find a stunning yukata. Thanks to the internet and local shops, there are multiple ways to get your hands on this traditional Japanese attire. Let’s explore the best places to buy a yukata, and weigh the pros and cons of each option.

1. Online Yukata Stores

Pros:

  • Wide Selection: Some Online stores offer a vast range of yukata styles, colors, and sizes.
  • Convenience: Shop from the comfort of your home and have your yukata delivered to your doorstep.
  • Customer Reviews: Many online platforms provide customer reviews, which can be helpful in assessing the quality and authenticity of the product.
  • Warranty: Most online dealers provide a warranty and assurance for a period of time.
  • History in the Business: Some online dealers have been in business for 30 or more years.  If they didn’t uphold high standards, the chance of being in business today would be minimal.

Cons:

  • Risk of Inauthenticity: Not all online retailers are reputable. Some may sell low-quality or counterfeit products.
  • Shipping Costs and Time: Depending on the location of the seller (International), shipping can be expensive and time-consuming.

Recommendations:

  • Kimono Shop: Known for its high-quality yukata made in Japan, this store offers detailed product descriptions and customer reviews. They also offer free shipping on orders over $75 or more and a 30-day return policy.

2. Local Japanese Stores

Pros:

  • Immediate Availability: Purchase and take home your yukata on the same day.
  • Personal Inspection: Examine the fabric, design, and fit before buying.
  • Expert Advice: Store staff can provide personal guidance on how to wear and care for your yukata.

Cons:

  • Limited Selection: Local shops may not have as extensive a variety as online stores.
  • Higher Prices: The convenience of buying locally can sometimes come at a premium price.
  • Quality: Some shops carry inferior quality robes mass produced for the retail trade.

Recommendations:

  • Check your local directory to find a store near you. Some cities these shop are scarce.

3. Resale Shops and Thrift Stores

Pros:

  • Affordable Prices: Often, you can find high-quality, second-hand yukata at a fraction of the cost.
  • Unique Finds: Discover vintage and rare yukata that you might not find elsewhere.

Cons:

  • Condition Uncertainty: The quality and condition of second-hand yukata can vary.
  • Limited Sizes and Styles: Finding the perfect fit and style might require some patience and luck.
  • Cleanliness: How was the robe washed or cleaned? Are there stains or spots? How do you know what they are?
  • Warranty: Many second hand dealers do not allow returns or exchanges.

Recommendations:

  • It is hit and miss. Since kimono yukata are a specialty item, not all thrift shops will offer these robes. You have to do the footwork to locate one.

4. Specialty Festivals and Events

Pros:

  • Cultural Experience: Buying a yukata at a Japanese festival or event can be a fun and immersive experience.
  • Authenticity Assurance: Vendors at cultural events often sell genuine products, but some do not. Check tags and ask the salesperson.

Cons:

  • Limited Time and Location: These opportunities are restricted to specific dates and venues.
  • Cost: Costs are usually higher and the quality can be less than standard. Often, dealers that attend these festivals know they have an impulse buyer at hand and will use that against the customer.
  • Crowds: Popular events can be crowded, making the shopping experience less pleasant.
  • All Sales Final: In most cases all sales are final. If you notice a problem with your robe after the show, you have no recourse for a return.

Recommendations:

  • Annual Japanese Festivals: Obon and other gatherings will usually feature yukata and other traditional Japanese items for sale.

Whether you choose to shop online, locally, or at special events, there are plenty of ways to find the perfect yukata without traveling to Japan. Each option has its own set of advantages and drawbacks, so consider what matters most to you—be it selection, convenience, or authenticity.

Ready to start your yukata shopping adventure? Explore the options mentioned above and find the yukata that speaks to your style and love for Japanese culture.

koi fish yukata from Japan

Blue Koi Yukata

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Discovering the Secrets of Japanese Kimonos

Sunday, December 10th, 2023

Kimonos are one of Japan’s most famous cultural creations, recognizable worldwide for their mix of elegance, history, and artistic detail. However, there’s far more to these gorgeous garments than meets the eye. Here are five interesting facts about Japanese kimonos that you might not know but are sure to surprise and delight.

1. Every Kimono is Unique

Today, modern kimonos are often made with a variety of machines, but the more traditional ones are still crafted by hand. This means that every kimono is unique, featuring one-of-a-kind patterns and designs. It is believed that historically, each kimono would tell a particular story or signify an important occasion. This uniqueness was a way to communicate this information in a visually striking way. This further fueled the kimono as not just clothing but a piece of heritage and cultural importance.

2. Kimonos are Designed for Specific Seasons

The traditional Japanese belief is that each season has its own set of colors. As such, a kimono’s design will reflect this. Summer kimonos, for example, will display brighter colors, lighter fabrics, and floral designs. Meanwhile, winter kimonos might feature darker tones, heavier materials, and more symbolic patterns. The kimono wearer would then not only look like a piece of art but also acquire the benefits of thermal regulation from the specific fabric and designs according to seasonal needs.

3. Unique Weddings Kimonos

In Japan, weddings are incredibly significant events, with weddings occurring in local shrines or elaborate hotel banquets. The bride and groom typically wear matching kimonos made from silk. Although the bride’s kimono is usually white, the groom’s kimono is not always the same. However, it is just as divine of a design with intricate designs such as a character of the family clan. The best part about the traditional Japanese wedding is that it features minimal color. This allows the bride’s natural beauty to shine forth, unmasked by flashy designs or accessories.

4. Kimonos Are Not Just for Women

Historically, Kimonos were worn by both men and women. In the past, samurai warriors would wear their kimonos with armor. Every social rank would have a specific kimono design. Even today, modern versions of kimonos, called montsuki kimonos, are worn by men during formal events and ceremonies. These kimonos are typically less flowery, featuring just the family crest or a more subtle pattern. But they still have the same quality and artisanship that all kimonos display.

5. Traditional Kimono Textile Art Form

One rarely known secret about Kimonos is that it is a full-blown art form. The handmade kimono is a result of many intricate processes, out of which the most significant is the textile craft form. The textiles blocks, such as Yuzen, are traditionally handcrafted and hand-dyed using materials like silk and vegetable-based dyes. It is a delicate process, taking multiple weeks to land a masterpiece. Hence, many kimono textile artists still hold prestigious positions in Japan, honoring the years of dedication and the multi-generational legacy that goes with it.

Kimonos are truly is one of the most beautiful and culturally significant pieces of clothing in the world. Despite being around for centuries, new generations continue to admire their beauty and understand their importance to Japan’s cultural heritage. If you ever get a chance to visit Japan, don’t miss the chance to see kimonos up close and learn more about this renowned cultural treasure.

Check out www.chopa.com for a great selection of Japanese Kimonos, and Yukatas. Their online Kimono Shop offers a wide range of sizes including Petite, Regular, Tall, Plus Size, and Big and Tall, Choose from over 100 styles, colors and patterns. Their warehouse ships from the USA, so no worries about lengthy international delivery windows or customs. Chopa takes care of everything for you. One stop online shopping for quality kimonos from your home or office on your time.

yellow womens kimono

Beautiful Kimonos

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Common Questions About Kimonos

Friday, February 17th, 2023

What is a kimono?

Kimonos have become a fashion staple in recent years. Many people are still unaware of the history and culture that is associated with this famous type of clothing. As an iconic piece of Japanese tradition, kimonos carry a wealth of cultural meaning. A kimono is a traditional Japanese robe that is typically made of cotton or silk. They are known for their beautiful lines and shapes, intricate patterns, bright colors, and elegant fabrics. It’s no wonder why so many people admire this traditional garment. Kimonos are usually worn during special occasions, such as weddings or tea ceremonies, or for a more formal appearance.

How is a kimono worn?

First, choose the right size kimono for your body type. It should be snug but not too tight. Second, select the appropriate length based on your height. Third, determine which style of kimono you would like to wear.  Do you want a casual kimono for lounging, and hanging out with family and friends? Do you want a more formal style that can be worn to a ceremony, wedding, or special gathering?

Most kimonos and yukatas today are made for everyday use and are easy to wear. Slip one on just like a bathrobe, folding the left side over the right and then tying it with the belt, sash, or obi.  Which way you fold the front of the robe is very important. Wearing it folded right over left signifies death and is usually reserved for a funeral.

How do I tie a kimono obi?

The kimono is worn like a bathrobe and folded over in front, left over right. A belt, sash, or obi is then used to wrap around the waist. Gently tie and this holds your robe in place and keeps it closed. A formal kimono often has a broad sash and is tied at the back reflecting the age and social status. The yukata´s obi sash ties in front to emphasize its casual nature. Whether you choose to experience the traditions associated with wearing kimono or relax in a breathable summery yukata, each has its unique beauty.

What is the difference between a yukata and a kimono?

Although these garments look similar, kimonos are generally more formal. Kimonos feature intricate patterns produced in high-quality cotton and silk. While yukatas are designed for daily summer wear, they are made of cotton and feature simpler designs. Kimonos usually extend to around ankle length, while the cut of yukata offers several lengths from longer to shorter.

How do I take care of a kimono?

When caring for kimonos and yukatas, it is important to take precautionary measures that will protect the cloth and its designs. To keep kimonos and yukatas in their best condition, store them in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Regularly spot clean kimonos with a damp cloth, but avoid washing them in hot temperatures which can shrink the fabric and affect the design.

If your robe is machine washable, we recommend cold water washing on a gentle cycle.  Look at the manufacturers instructions or tag that is sewn in to the robe.  Follow these instructions to maintain the longest life of your garment. Whether they suggest dry cleaning, hand washing or machine washing, be gentle and you will extend the life of your beautiful Japanese robe.

How do I choose the right size kimono?

When considering kimonos, you should consider both your height and your body shape. If you’re petite, look for kimonos tailored for smaller frames. If you’re taller or plus-size, kimonos made for those sizes will fit better. Quality matters too; higher-end kimonos usually are made with a heavier fabric and some will even have layers. This gives it a more elegant feel, exceptional comfort and  can be the reason for the higher cost.

For yukatas, focus on fabric type as much as fit. Check that the material isn’t so coarse that it’s uncomfortable against your skin. Some vendors offer yukatas with a shrink-resistant finish which provides a softer feel. Ultimately, remember there’s no one “correct” size when it comes to kimonos or yukatas. Choose the one that fits your body best and makes you feel confident.

The best place to start when trying to find the perfect kimono size is to measure yourself. Draw a measuring tape around your waist, chest, and sleeve length to get an idea of what sizes you’ll need. You can also enlist the help of online store customer service for advice on the perfect kimono fit for you.

Where can I buy a kimono?

Shopping for kimonos and yukata has never been easier. A wide variety of retailers offers these traditional Japanese garments. From boutiques to online stores and kimono-specialty shops, you are sure to find the perfect kimono for your wardrobe or gift needs. Many stores even offer kimonos and yukatas in a range of sizes and fabrics that suits both men’s and women’s fashion. With some prior research, you can also find kimonos made from exclusive fabrics as well. Kimono shopping doesn’t have to be intimidating.  With so many options available, finding your perfect kimono is now just a few clicks away!

The key to finding your new kimono is to locate a reputable dealer. Locate one that has been in business for many years or decades. One that is honest and trustworthy. Don’t fall for the trap of some online dealers that claim they are Japanese-style, but actually made in China or elsewhere. A scan of Amazon, Etsy and eBay and you can locate some of these dealers that are less than truthful.

We recommend dealing with a vendor located in the USA. This way, returns are easier, shipping is a fraction of the time and unless you speak another language, English is spoken, used and easy to understand. A reputable dealer will list the details of the kimono or yukata in the description box. There should be no second guessing yourself. Their policies should be clear and distinct.

Another way to determine if the dealer is the “real-deal” is selection. Do they offer a large selection in many sizes? A shop that only offers a dozen robes isn’t really in the kimono business, but rather it is a side business.  Chopa – Your Kimono Source was established in 1994 and carries over 100 different patterns, colors and sizes for men, women and kids. It’s obvious that this is their business. They aren’t offering kitschy Asian home décor items and spreading their efforts thin. They deal with what they do best – Kimonos and Yukatas.  You can check out their online Kimono Shop here. Happy shopping and congratulations on your new wardrobe.

Floral kimono for women

Hanu Garden Kimono

 

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Posted in Kimono for women, mens kimono, online kimono shopping, Plus size kimono, Uncategorized, Yukata | Comments Off on Common Questions About Kimonos

Best Selling Kimono and Yukata

Saturday, July 9th, 2022

Our Top Five List of Best-Selling Kimonos and Yukatas for June 2022.

It’s finally summertime, and that means it’s time to break out the yukatas and short-length Happi Coats. Whether you’re looking for a traditional yukata to wear to a festival or a colorful kimono to add to your wardrobe, we’ve got just what you need. Check out our top five selling kimonos and yukatas for June and get ready to enjoy the warm weather in style!

If you’re looking for a classic yukata, our number one best seller is a perfect choice. This beautiful red crane and tree yukata feature traditional Japanese pine trees in shades of blue and green. Elegant cranes flying above making it perfect for any summer occasion.

Looking for something a little more modern? Our second and third bestsellers in June are the vibrant Blue Dawn Yukata for women and the distinguished Dragon and Mt Fuji in Navy Blue for men.  The Blue Dawn has always been a popular pick among the ladies.  Blooming peonies are bursting in color against a rich shade of blue. The Japanese design highlights the print with swirls of gold for a classic look.

The Dragon and Mt. Fuji yukata stand on their own for character and eye-catching looks. This particular yukata is offered with a black or red background and each rise to the top of the charts throughout the year. The magnificent Mt Fuji is shown in the background while the respected and iconic dragon intertwines throughout the design. In Japan, the dragon symbolizes wealth, wisdom, and strength with its mastery over all elements of nature.

Coming in at number four is the Blue Koi Yukata. This lightweight cotton robe is popular throughout the year for both men and women. Our exclusive design was created many years ago by a true Japanese artist and still thrives and captures attention today. Fish patterns are very popular during Obon Festivals and outdoor events as well as for lounging inside. Koi represent courage and this robe will give you the spark you need to take on a challenge. This print is also available in the ever-popular Happi Coat.  Happi Coats are short-length versions of yukatas and kimonos and are perfect for Summertime!

Rounding out our monthly best-seller list is Dragon and Bamboo Yukata. This designer print features the powerful dragon among rows of bamboo.  Dragon and bamboo are considered symbols of beauty and endurance throughout Japanese history into modern times. Made of 100% cotton with a shrink-resistant finish, the navy blue and white color palette complement the water deity design of this robe.

To summarize, here is the complete list:

  1. Yukata – Red Crane and Tree
  2. Yukata – Blue Dawn
  3. Yukata – Dragon and Mt. Fuji – Navy
  4. Blue Koi Yukata
  5. Dragon and Bamboo Yukata

It is no surprise that this month’s list is all yukatas since they are lighter weight and are very popular in the hot summer months.

If you are looking for a kimono or yukata that will make you stand out from the crowd, then look no further than Chopa, your go-to source for all things kimono and yukata related. We offer over 100 kimonos and yukatas featuring some truly stunning creations that are sure to turn heads wherever you go. From sleek and modern designs to traditional and ornate ones, we have something for everyone on your list.

Chopa has been selling Kimonos online since 1994. Our reputation is amongst the best in the business. Fast shipping, fair pricing, easy returns, and best of all, we are headquartered in the USA. Your order ships from our central warehouse in Northwest Florida. Shop online 24 hours a day from the comfort of your home or office. Visit our online Kimono Shop today.

blue dawn yukata

                       Blue Dawn Yukata

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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

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Posted in cotton yukata, cute kimono, Japanese kimono, Japanese kimono for sale, Kimono for sale, Kimono for women, Tall kimono for men | 2 Comments »

Is Scrooge Visiting for Christmas?

Friday, July 2nd, 2021

As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic which brought worldwide closures, shut-downs, lock-downs and layers of additional government regulations, many retail operators are bracing themselves for what could become big shortages of merchandise for the Christmas Holiday shopping season.

Target, Walmart, Amazon.com and other retailers reported to Reuters News that they were attempting to place holiday orders for goods as early as possible this year. Besides backlogs in the manufacturing sector, shippers are facing major hurdles trying to keep up with soaring demand for container space on ships transporting goods over the oceans.

Across the globe, shipping ports are backed up, shipping containers are scarce and ships are experiencing delays entering ports and unloading goods. The Port of Los Angeles is experiencing record high volumes of container processing. Adding to these delays, China recently shut down or minimized operations at three major shipping ports due to a rise in Covid cases. In the U.S., once containers are unloaded there is a fight for the limited number of chassis available. Chassis are used to mobilize the large steel boxes for truckers to haul to their destination. Beyond these problems, truckers are in shorter supply as more veterans quit or retire and the younger generation has less interest entering the trucking business as a career, thus diminishing the number of truckers overall.

All of these situations are putting intense pressure on the price of goods. The rate to ship a 40′ container from Shanghai to Los Angeles was recently quoted at $9500.00.  One year ago, the same rate would have been under $3000.00. The cost of container rentals has seen large increases as have chassis rentals, trucking and shipping costs. Some US importers report their containers getting bumped from ships because other parties offer a higher bid for the ship space days or even hours before the ship sails. Additional surcharges imposed by shipping operators are also adding fuel to the demand fire.

Whether it’s toys, computers, electronics or clothing, many retailers and suppliers are warning customers to shop early this year. Others are quick to point out that they don’t expect much in discounting either. When there is a shortage of goods along with high demand, there isn’t a compelling reason to do offer sales. This year, retailers are facing lower margins to begin with. Many are absorbing as much of these cost increases as possible to remain consistent and competitive, but at some point they must wave the white flag and surrender. If they don’t make a profit, they don’t have a business.

One retail operator who ships packages regularly through her online business expressed disappointment with parcel carriers like UPS and FedEx. She stated that these carriers raise their prices each and every year, but also add additional surcharges in some situations during the holiday season. She explained how FedEx adds a $26.00 surcharge on top of existing rates for packages over 50 lbs. She sells over a dozen outdoor items on her website that weigh around 60 pounds and says she is absorbing the additional cost, but isn’t sure she can do so much longer.  Her product costs have already risen 10-18% on average because manufacturers are experiencing raw material and labor cost increases. Add that to rising import and shipping rates, growing packaging costs, her own higher labor costs and domestic carrier shipping costs, she adds “we only have so much profit to work from and all of these outside issues are eating away at the pie. There is barely any left at the end of the day.” Inflation has certainly been in the news over the past few months and while the Federal Reserve is dismissing it as transitory, many others, especially ones running businesses are losing confidence and believe higher prices are here to stay.

Many businesses are also struggling to find labor. Advertisements for help are at near all-time highs, but roughly 16 million people are still at home accepting some form of government assistance left over from stimulus bills and subsidies. Whatever the reason, and people do have reasons for not wanting or not being able to work, the situation doesn’t seem to be ending in the near future.

Chopa Zen Home has been working diligently with our providers in Japan to continue offering fine kimono and yukata to our customers throughout the Pandemic and we will work hard to do so in the future. Japan is still facing capacity issues with lock downs and partial closures. We have rearranged and restructured our production schedules to better align with their manufacturing abilities. If a select fabric or print isn’t available, we back order it and move on to what is deliverable. We have also faced large shipping cost increases and so far, have absorbed these.  In fact, we recently reduced our standard ground shipping cost to just $6.95 and continue to offer Free Shipping on orders of $75.00 or more within the USA. Rather than getting bottlenecked at shipping ports and having orders delayed for weeks or months, we have mainly turned to Air Freight to obtain our shipments directly. It is much more expensive than Ocean rates, but allows us to maintain a broader and more diverse inventory on a regular basis.

While we don’t anticipate shortages of kimono and yukata per se, we would encourage customers to shop earlier. While receiving smaller monthly shipments throughout the year, we rely on large quantity shipments in the Spring, Summer and Fall. Our annual Fall shipment normally arrives in time for the Christmas shopping season and allows us to offer a great selection of styles, patterns and sizing. But we are well aware of the many obstacles facing retailers this year and sometimes events occur beyond our control. We normally publish an extended return window well before the Holiday gift buying season which allows you to shop early and still be able to return or exchange a robe after Christmas. As always, we welcome feedback, ideas, comments and the like. Use our online contact form to send us a message, post below on this Blog or visit us on Social Media like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

holiday shopping

Photo courtesy of Andrea Piacquadio.

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Posted in Clothing, cotton yukata, Japanese kimono, Kimono for women, Men's kimono robe, short kimono | 2 Comments »

New Shipment of Kimono and Yukata Arrived!

Monday, January 18th, 2021

Chopa strives to have a full offering of Japanese Kimono and Yukata at all times, but with sudden surges in sales related to Holiday Gifts, a mention in social media or a large bulk order, we experience shortages from time to time. We like to be busy and shipping hundreds and hundreds of robes, but we dislike running out and work hard to alleviate the dreaded “Out of Stock” notation on any particular style.

The good news is that a new shipment, the first of the year, just arrived and we are pleased to announce that over 25 sizes and colors are back in stock and ready to ship. Among the list of new arrivals are the Men’s Kagome yukata, the ever popular “Dragon” yukata, Tree of Life, Daimonji Kimono, Royal Cranes, Ukiyoe, Dragon and Tiger, Cherry Blossoms, and Ribbons Kimono.

Some styles are offered in five different sizes and those are back in stock. This is just the first of many more shipments scheduled over the year. We generally receive new inventory monthly along with several large shipments in the Spring, Summer and Fall. It has been more difficult scheduling over the past 6 months due to Covid restrictions throughout Japan. Production has slowed and in many situations, our producers are working with smaller staffs for social distancing and to allow others to work from home.

We welcome inquiries on any pattern or style of kimono or yukata we offer. If you don’t see a size in stock, email us and we can let you know when we expect more to arrive. Chopa offers a free email notification service to anyone. When a particular size or style is available, we send you a courtesy email alerting you of the news.  There is never an obligation to make a purchase and we will only send you one email.  It’s a free service and we are happy to monitor upcoming shipments for you.

Happy Shopping!

kimono and yukata robes

Fresh Kimono and Yukata.

 

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Posted in Clothing, Japanese kimono, Japanese kimono for sale, Kimono for women, Men's kimono robe, Plus size kimono, Plus size kimono robe, short kimono, Tall kimono for men | Comments Off on New Shipment of Kimono and Yukata Arrived!

What is a “Vintage” Kimono?

Saturday, January 16th, 2021

The word “vintage” has different meanings and connotations. One person might recall a fine wine they enjoyed and make note of the year it was produced. Another may think about the classic car their grandfather drove. Some remember an antique they found at a garage sale.

In the kimono industry, vintage describes used kimono and yukata robes. There are a growing number of dealers that trade in “vintage” clothing. In many cases, vintage is simply used for marketing purposes. In advertising, “vintage” sounds better than “used.”  The same is true of used car dealers referring to their vehicles as pre-owned.

“Pre-owned” clothing fits in people’s lives for many reasons. Some shop used clothing stores looking for a bargain, others seek a unique clothing piece to compliment an outfit. Of course, there are true fans of the “vintage” look that browse resale shops or conduct online searches in hopes of finding that trove of special threads.

Occasionally we receive an inquiry for vintage kimono, but more commonly, someone asking if we buy vintage kimonos. The quick answer is “no, we do not.”  Since we already offer nearly 100 different kimono and yukata styles for men, women and kid’s in our online store, www.chopa.com, we are content to focus only on new Japanese robes.

What is the true meaning of a vintage kimono?  Does it mean the kimono was made in a “good” year like a fine wine? Does three years old qualify or must it be 20 years old to be labeled vintage? Is it just another word for old? In our mission to learn more about vintage kimono, we discovered the market appears to be very arbitrary and difficult to follow along a hard set of rules.

A used kimono may be discovered at a garage sale, but often there isn’t a reliable story behind it.  Sellers can be vague and the most common information we were given was that it was a gift a family member received or someone visited Japan years ago and it was sitting in a closet since.

Just like in most industries there are wholesalers and retailers trading in used kimonos. Wholesale dealers often buy kimono in bulk bundles or even pallet-size loads.  Some may be auctioned or sold sight unseen, while others may offer a glimpse into what a buyer might expect to find as far as the average age, style, condition, etc. Sometimes these bundles are sold by the number of pieces and other times sold by the pound.

Dealers will then sort and rank the robes, selecting the best for resale. Robes in average condition may be flipped to another dealer and kimono in poor condition are usually sold for fabric use only.  These remnants can be used in art, fashion, design or repurposing pieces and sewn to make a quilt or even a kimono.

Vintage kimono and yukata will often be graded by the seller. Keep in mind, grading is highly subjective and most dealers feel they know more about grading than the next competitor. We have seen grading range from A to AA, Good to Very Good and Normal to Top Grade. If you shop for a robe by grade, research this yourself first. Ask yourself, who is the dealer?  How long have they been in business?  Where did they learn how to grade? Did they spend years in Japan or work in the industry prior?

Here are two grading descriptions we located on a website.

Condition C – Well-used Japanese kimono. Clear signs of wear and staining. Not suitable for formal occasions, but suitable for sitting around, cosplay, costume or decorative purpose.

Top Grade – Fabric is in great. Pattern and fabrics are both wonderful. Kimono used in our shop standard. Reference price – brand new – over $2500. (sic)

In the examples above, the explanation for Condition C is pretty self-explanatory, like wear it at home when nobody is looking. The Top-Grade description doesn’t really tell us much. While it might be in part to a language barrier, it is vague and doesn’t provide specifics.

Ads for used kimono will often indicate any soiling flaws, like “light staining” or “some spotting.”  The first question that may pop into your head is “stains from what?”, while others may not want to know the answer. Don’t hesitate to ask how and when a kimono was cleaned?  With infectious diseases and heightened concerns about Covid-19, caution should never be dismissed.

Another question one should ask is how were the robes stored?  Were these stored in a climate-controlled environment? Were they stored in an old warehouse with high temperatures and humidity? Are there musty or moldy odors? Consumers with lung issues or concerns should be extra careful.

Each individual can decide if a used or “vintage” kimono is right for them. There are thousands of beautiful and unique, used Japanese kimono and yukata available on the market. Some have a great history and story behind them, but like any form of art, a buyer should research, investigate and question any seller. Good luck and happy shopping.

kimonos for sale

Shop for New Kimono and Yukata at www.chopa.com. We offer a large selection and fast shipping from the USA.

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Slip into something more comfortable with this Blue Carp Koi Yukata Robe!

Monday, February 22nd, 2010
Blue Koi Yukata Robe

Blue Koi Yukata Robe

Transform your downtime with this sumptuous Blue Carp Koi Yukata Robe.  A lighter-weight cotton version of a traditional Japanese kimono, the Yukata is still widely used in Japan.  These summer kimonos are worn by both men and women, but linen “yukatabira” were originally draped around court noblemen after bathing.  They didn’t gain popularity with the general public until people started wearing them in Japanese public bathhouses.  Today, they are worn quite regularly at Japanese festivals and ryokan, or simply as loungewear.

This Blue Carp Koi Yukata is emblazoned with a legendary symbol of perseverance and strength.  According to Japanese legend, a koi fish will generally swim upstream until it reaches the final waterfall, where it vaults itself into the mists and emerges as a water dragon.  This is how the koi became emblematic of purposeful determination in the face of adversity, and today it still stands for superior courage.

Also known as a wild carp, many Japanese families keep koi in a garden pond at their home to bring them good fortune or luck.   As a result, koi enjoy an elevated status throughout Asia and have become a popular theme for tattoos.  It is the koi’s association with worldly aspiration and advancement that make them such a highly regarded symbol of success.  Some koi are bred for their spectacular colors, which range from silver and gold to orange, black, yellow and even calico, making them appear like swimming jewels.

Celebrate the beauty and magic of the legendary koi with this Blue Carp Koi Yukata Robe.  Its navy blue and white pattern makes an elegant statement in crisp 100% cotton.  Made in Japan, this robe is available in three sizes (XL, XXL and XXXL) and includes a matching belt.

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