About and FAQs

About

Based in Brooklyn, Iki Kimono NYC is the culmination of a lifetime of collecting & selling antiques and vintage clothing. A gift of an orange & white kimono with cranes spurred an obsession that has now become one of the last remaining kimono businesses left in New York City. As a woman-owned business, I strive to work with and support other women around the globe. Each piece is hand-selected and often restored, or modified, into a wearable garment that will be cherished for many years. Throughout the years, I have worked with stylists, producers, and fashion houses such as Marc Jacobs and Ralph Lauren, but my singular goal is to unite each beautiful vintage kimono with someone who will love it as much as I do. 

Iki  /EE-kee/ (粋/いき)

Iki is a Japanese aesthetic concept that has many definitions such as chic, stylish, refined spontaneity, and confident creativity - but Iki is more of a "know it when you see it" type idea. The closest English concept is the word cool. 

FAQs

Can I shop in person?

Iki Kimono NYC offers private shopping by appointment, but there is no public storefront. Shop our inventory at the Brooklyn Flea, weekends, April-October. Check out our Events Calendar for upcoming dates. Come and say hi!

How do I wear a kimono?

Many reputable sellers specialize in the art of traditionally wearing kimono. While we sell many pieces to facilitate traditional dress, our main focus is wearing these garments in a more informal manner, so that they can fit more easily into a modern lifestyle. Kimono fashion started evolving since its inception, over one thousand years ago, and we are happy to continue the tradition of it being more than just "a thing to wear".

Haori jackets are versatile pieces that can be worn loose or cinched with jeans, pants, or dresses. They are a great alternative to a cardigan or suit jacket. 

Mid-length (juban) and long kimono make great statement jackets over layers, dresses when closed with a belt, or comfortable and glamorous robes and dressing gowns. When the kimono is very long, there are many creative ways to fold and twist them up with a belt, so they become much easier to wear.

One traditional rule that I strongly recommend adhering to is when wearing kimono closed, make sure they are folded LEFT over RIGHT. Not only is there usually more decoration is on the left side, but more importantly, in Japan, the dead are buried in kimono folded right over left. 

Check out our Instagram and our Customer Gallery for more style tips and photos of real people in all shapes and size wearing kimono.

How do I clean my kimono?

All kimono sold are in antique or vintage condition. There may be slight flaws, that can be present in previously worn garments. All care is made to note any major or noticeable flaws. Kimono should be stored in a cool, dry location and be kept out of sunlight. 

Silk, Wool & Rayon

Professional dry cleaning only. Be sure and tell your cleaner that the item is antique and to handle with care. Point out any areas with gold leaf, hand painting, and embroidery. You can also mention that the natural dyes on antique kimonos are not always colorfast - so no liquid should be used.

To press, use an iron on the appropriate setting. I often use steam on difficult wrinkles, but be careful of dripping irons, as water stains may be left. Should you spill water, take a soft dry cloth to the area and "brush" or "feather" out the edges to discourage any spots.

Cotton & Synthetic

Hand wash in cold water, machine wash in the gentle cycle, or dry clean. Test before washing, as some vintage dyes are not colorfast. 

To press, use iron on appropriate setting. Steam may be used. Sometime, I will lay a slightly damp cloth over difficult wrinkles and iron over that, so as not to burn or melt any natural or synthetic fabrics. 

*Please note, clean with care as Iki Kimono NYC is not responsible for any damage incurred to items.