Showa Era - 1960s-1970s - Hand-dyed Silk - Five Ways to Wear

THE MEANING

The kiku - chrysanthemum - represents longevity, rejuvenation and the dignity of a life well-lived. Associated with the Imperial family for over a thousand years. Each kiku on this obiage is formed by the shibori binding itself - no two are identical.

THE CRAFT

Shibori is a Japanese resist-dyeing technique where fabric is bound by hand before dyeing. On this piece the binding creates the chrysanthemum pattern - each flower formed by the pressure of the knot against the silk during dyeing. The result is a three-dimensional texture that catches the light. No two shibori obiage are ever the same.

THE OBIAGE

Traditionally the obiage was worn beneath the obi sash of a kimono - a strip of silk that added colour and texture at the waist. Tucked into the top of the obi, it peeked out above the belt as a deliberate decorative detail. Today it works as a belt, a scarf, a headwrap or a bag charm - the same piece of silk, worn five different ways.

FABRIC & DETAILS

- 100% vintage silk

- Hand-dyed shibori - kiku (chrysanthemum) pattern in vivid orange

- Significant stretch in the fabric - one size fits all waists comfortably

- Fringed ends - Showa era - likely 1960s-1970s

- Excellent vintage condition

HOW TO WEAR IT

- Tied as a wide belt over a haori to cinch the waist - the orange adds a bold contrast to almost any colour

- Worn as a sash over a dress or tailored trousers

- Draped as a neck scarf - Tied as a headscarf or hair wrap

- Looped through a bag handle as a bag charm T

he stretch in the fabric means it fits all waists comfortably with no adjustment needed - tie it once and it holds.

GIFTING

The kiku represents longevity - a gift for a milestone birthday, a wedding or any occasion that deserves something considered. At $85 it is an accessible entry into the collection or a complete gift on its own. Works particularly well with the black shibori haori, the sage green wave haori or the cobalt blue coat - the orange creates a striking contrast against all three.

ORIGIN & CONDITION

Sourced in Japan. Showa era - likely 1960s-1970s. Excellent vintage condition.

CARE

Hand wash with care or dry clean. Store flat away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrancy of the orange.

SHIPPING & RETURNS

Free shipping within Australia. We also ship to the UK, Ireland, New Zealand and the United States. Returns accepted within 14 days of delivery - contact us at hello@himoandkimo.com to arrange. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer.