Kyoto Vintage Warehouse is a carefully curated store specializing in vintage kimonos. It was founded by Ulala in 2022, with a passion for preserving history and culture. Her mission is to offer exquisitely refined and enduring vintage kimonos to those who hold a deep appreciation for the past.

Ulala's store is a tribute to the elegance of bygone eras. Each vintage kimono holds a unique story, a tangible connection to the past. With a focus on timeless beauty, her collection embraces the cultural significance of these garments. In a world that's always changing, Kyoto Vintage Warehouse stands as a sanctuary for those who cherish the artistry and heritage of the vintage kimono.

Translating to "thing to wear", the Kimono is a traditional Japanese garment that has a history of over 1000 years. Generally, it is worn left over right and tied with a belt called an "obi." Over the course of time, there have been various ways of wearing kimonos. From the early days until the 1970s, kimonos were the daily wear, evolving afterward into garments reserved for ceremonial events. Yet, in more recent times, they've enjoyed a revival, finding favor as casual wear among the younger generation.

Every kimono is crafted from rolls of fabric, typically extending beyond 12 meters in length. These fabric rolls undergo a transformation, being meticulously cut into eight rectangular pieces using a zero-waste pattern. These segments are then skillfully joined to construct the kimono. The cuts are designed to be linear, ensuring not a scrap of fabric is squandered. To achieve different sizes, the fabric is adeptly folded during the intricate stitching process.

Kimonos have adorned individuals across extended eras, often undergoing transformations through resizing, re-dyeing, and re-tailoring. This adaptability hinges on the fundamental ability to conveniently unravel and disassemble kimonos. This is precisely why every kimono is meticulously hand-sewn, ensuring that the mere tug of a thread permits effortless unstitching, facilitating these modifications with graceful ease.

Given silk's remarkable endurance of around a century, a single kimono can gracefully attire up to three successive generations. Even as a kimono gradually aged beyond wearability, its fabric found renewed purpose in crafting cushion covers, bedding, bags, diapers, and even cleaning cloths. Eventually, when the fabric reached its final phase of wear, it was repurposed as fuel and fertilizer through burning. In old Japan, the ethos of recycling prevailed, where every element found purpose in being used and reused.

Take pride in wearing these traditional garments and let us continue to celebrate and preserve the beauty and cultural significance they hold. Stay curious and embrace this tradition with grace and pride, as you embark on your very own kimono journey.

I'll take you there,
Addi xoxo