We think it’s safe to say that dressing gowns are as much a part of British culture as a proper good brew. Thanks to our wonderfully grey and drizzly climate, our morning and evenings on this island are simply incomplete without a dressing gown in tow.
However, with spring just around the corner and increasingly warm summers in our midst – as naked as we feel without one – sometimes a fuzzy gown just isn’t compatible with our daily ablutions. Yet, much like sleeping without blanket even in 30-degree weather feels blasphemous, so does lounging around at home without some sort of indoor coat.
Though many trade in their fluffy, fleece-lined and hooded wonders for shorter versions during warmer months– we’re making a case for the kimono-style robe.
What is a kimono?
The earliest variation of the traditional Japanese garment originated in Heian Period (794-1185). Previously worn with Chinese-style hakama trousers, it later became more fashionable to wear the kimono without one. As such, the obi – the broad sash that is worn around the waist of the kimono – came to be as an alternative means to keep the robe closed.
Historically, the kimono was worn by commoners or as an undergarment by the aristocracy. According to the V&A, from the 16th century onwards, the kimono became the principal item of dress for all classes and both sexes, and it remains an enduring symbol of traditional Japanese culture today.
Nowadays, the basic elements of a kimono’s design have been adapted to fit modern lifestyles and fashions. Though it remains in most cases a straight-seemed garment with square sleeves and a rectangular body, Western fashion has adapted this versatile silhouette to fit various other garments – including the house coat, otherwise known as a dressing gown or robe.
What makes a kimono-style dressing gown different?
Indeed, it would be wrong to class any of the below options as true kimonos, due to the historical significance of the style. Rather, inspired by the simple T-shaped design and often fabricated with delicate silks and cottons, the kimono-inspired robe allows for versatile breathability and luxurious comfort.
Keep scrolling for our top pick of kimono-inspired robes.
Obie Sage Silk Robe
If it is hotel-style luxury you want, it’s what you’ll get with this silk robe by Soho Home. Made from 19mm weight silk and a print that was originally hand-painted in watercolour by the brand’s in-house design team, this is a true modern ode to the historic kimono. It’s naturally oversized for an extra comfortable fit and features slouchy pockets and a silk-tie waist.
Buy now £325.00, Soho Home
Washed linen dressing gown
This sage green, stone-washed linen dream by H&M is slightly shorter than our first robe – but just as stunning. Simple and minimalistic, the classic three-quarter length squared sleeves and large front pockets make this light an airy gown a top pick.
Buy now £34.99, H&M
Check Double Cotton Gown
Classic American loungewear meets traditional kimono silhouette, this gingham printed option is a recipe for pure comfort. Fabricated from soft double-faced cotton with a checked exterior and striped interior, this slouchy and truly kimono-inspired robe is a winner in our eyes.
Buy now £75.00, Toast
By Anthropologie Kimono Sleep Robe
Ankle-grazing and adorned with array of beautiful florals, this patterned robe features oversized sleeves that drape downwards. It also has a subtle mermaid-esque hem at the back for those looking for a more dramatic loungewear piece. It is made from 100 per cent modal and is sheer, so won’t offer maximum coverage.
Buy now £97.00, Anthropologie
Quilted Midi Robe
This patchwork, paisley print quilted robe is the perfect choice for those looking for a transitional loungewear robe. Wrap up warm with some cosy pyjamas underneath in the winter, or remove the belt and let it drape over your shoulders uncinched during warmer months.
Playful and delightfully cosy, we can already imagine this robe hung in prize-position on our bedroom door coat-hooks.
Buy now £99.95, Free People
Spell Freda Robe Lolly
Though Spell has styled this gorgeous robe with a casual day outfit, we think it will make a fantastic addition to any loungewear collection. It boasts a similar patchwork vibe to the above Free People robe, however the hexagonal shapes, delicate posies and all-round summer colour palette make this one a great alternative for our sunshine girls.
Buy now £155.00, Spell
House of Rituals Jaypur Collection Kimono
House of Rituals’ Jaypur kimono robe is handcrafted by artisans and features those all-important dropped shoulders and three-quarter length sleeves. Featuring decorative hand-embroidered embellishments, this robe comes in a variety of colourways – but this green flower and rope-tie combination is our favourite.
Buy now £73.00, House of Rituals
Essential Waffle Robe
A classic for a reason, this kimono-style robe is crafted from the same cosy single-faced waffle material you often get at luxury spas and hotels. This one is 100 per cent cotton, machine washable, and a wardrobe staple no matter the weather. You’ll feel like you’re in a spa in this one.
Buy now £55.00, The White Company
