Everything you should know about Japanese Haori
For centuries, beautiful and luxurious haori jackets have been worn by the people in Japan. It has a fascinating history and a legacy that allow them to remain an important part of Japanese culture and customs. Haori is traditionally paired with a kimono or Hakata. It looks amazing as part of a contemporary style and people can also wear it with a shirt and jeans.
Through this article, you will learn more about this Japanese jacket, and guide you on how to choose the right one for you.
1. What is a Haori?
A haori is a traditional Kimono jacket with a loose fit. It is a hip-length jacket. However, there are also long haori that can reach your calves. Unlike kimono, which we have to wear an obi belt; haori are normally worn open like a shrug, although some people choose to wear a tie or other accessory that connects the lapels.
Usually, haori is made of silk or cotton. For most of men’s haori, the colors are always subtle, such as navy blue, brown, black or dark grey. However, it’s heavily decorated on the inside. That is because ostentatious displays of wealth viewed as disrespectful during the Edo period.
Haori jackets can be worn by both men and women. Although they are obviously very different in terms of style, color and design.
2. Where do Haori come from?
During the Sengoku period, Haori were originally worn by warriors over their battle to protect themselves in cold weather. Later it also became popular among women, they would wear haori over their beautiful Japanese kimono to look more fashionable.
Since the 18th century, haori has become common enough to be decorated with family crests and could be seen at traditional ceremonies. Without a doubt, haori has a long history and plays an important role in Japanese culture and they are also the perfect clothes for all seasons.
3. What to Look Out for When You’re Buying a Haori?
There are various things you should look out for when you’re buying a haori, the first thing is its quality. Nowadays, some haori with modern designs are made in polyester; silk ones are very expensive to make, so if you are looking for a silk haori, you should look for vintage haori. For vintage haori, you will need to check the fabrics and its overall condition thoroughly.
You should either go through a reputable seller or inspect it very carefully yourself. Keep in mind that silk can’t really be washed, so you need to check if there are stains, tears and holes or maybe discolored fabrics. Professional dry clean is also highly recommended.
4. Where to Buy Haori Jackets?
Brand new or vintage haori can be very pricey, so keep an eye on the NOVMTL online store for their beautiful vintage haori collection. Everything was handmade with gorgeous designs and vibrant colors, you will definitely find something you like there.
5. Traditional Haori Patterns and Dyeing Methods
For a very long time, like kimono, haori is also made from natural fibers such as silk and cotton. Nowadays, companies prefer to use synthetic materials such as polyester and rayon to bring down the costs.
Shibori — It’s a basic way of dyeing haori. a common method for dyeing haori with tiny dots and lines to create beautiful motifs.
Yuzen — This dyeing method involves hand-painting that elaborate colorful patterns.
Natural Patterns -Another very common pattern for dyeing haori is to feature scenes from nature or one particular flower or all-over floral pattern. You can also find different animal patterns on haori.
6. An Antidote to Fast Fashion
Haori is an elegant Japanese jacket, it captures the elegance of Japanese art and culture. They have always been very expensive because of the luxurious fabric and craftsmanship that goes into each piece. Therefore, they are often passed down through the generations until they wear out, then people would recycle the fabrics and turn them into beautiful accessories. They are becoming one of the most sustainable forms of fashion.
Visit our online store today and take a look at our beautiful vintage haori collection!
