ABOUT MATERIAL COMPOSITION
Most vintage and antique kimono and haori do not have fabric composition labels. These garments were custom-tailored for individual clients, and the material details were rarely recorded directly on the garment.
Today, only mass-produced kimono sold in major retail stores include such tags. Traditionally tailored kimono, even those made in recent decades, usually do not have any sewn-in fabric composition labels.
As a result, determining the exact composition of vintage fabrics is not always possible. Based on my experience as a licensed antique dealer and upcycling artist, I examine the fabric using visual texture, burn tests, and the known age of the kimono to make an educated guess.
- If I am confident it is 100% silk, I will label it as such.
- If the fabric shows characteristics of mixed fibers or modern synthetics, I will label it as "silk & more."
Please understand that:
- I do my best to make careful judgments, but these are not lab-certified.
- If you require an exact determination, I recommend using a fabric testing service in your country.
Many kimono are hand-sewn by specialized Japanese artisans called "wasai-shi." In rural Japan, it was common during the post-war years for farmers to sew kimono during the winter months for clients in cities like Kyoto or Tokyo.
I continue this tradition by giving new life to these beautiful garments. Thank you for your understanding and support.