Presentations

Introduction to Kimono Fashion

Kimono (着物) is the traditional attire of Japan. This informative session will explore how to distinguish​ between authentic and inauthentic kimono, introduce the most common types and formalities of kimono worn by men and women today, and provide a brief overview of the essential tools and accessories needed for traditional styling. We will also discuss the appropriate times, places, and occasions for wearing kimono, along with guidance on determining the correct fit and how to put it on. A brief look at kimono fusion fashion will highlight how blending elements from multiple styles or cultures can create a contemporary and accessible way to incorporate kimono into everyday wear while respecting its traditions. The presentation will conclude with a Q&A session and a live demonstration on how to wear a yukata and tie an obi (帯), offering an opportunity to observe the act and art of dressing in kimono, known as kitsuke (着付け).

    • Suggested Duration: 60 minutes (1 hour) – 90 minutes (1.5 hours)
    • Type: Class
    • Format: Lecture, Demonstration
    • Suitable For: Ages 12+
    • Participant Minimum Skill Level: None
    • Space/Setup Requirements: Lecture or Classroom Style
    • Tech Requirements: Projector (and screen) with HDMI or VGA input, Power Outlet (optional, but recommended). Event requests use of venue’s equipment only—Laptop must have open USB port (for USB Drive) and software installed that can open .pptx files.
    • Tech Provided by Presenter: iPad, lightning to HDMI adapter, lightning to VGA adapter, USB Drive. Upon request—HDMI cable, VGA cable, Extension Cord
  • Parties Involved: Traeonna (Presenter)

What size is this kimono? Will it fit?

Been swooning over a particularly beautiful kimono, but not sure if it will fit? Learn about various body and garment measurements used to determine the fit of a kimono. Taking accurate body measurements is one of the keys to a great fit. In this workshop, participants will be guided on taking basic body measurements and using those measurements to select a properly fitting kimono. There will be a discussion including tips and tricks for wearing kimono smaller than your actual size and fusion styling ideas for kimono that are too small to wear traditionally.

If you want your personal kimono size and fit range calculated, Kimono Kitsune offers a measurement and sizing service (attendees receive $5 off this service). Using the body measurements taken in class, you will be provided a reference sheet containing your body measurements (in/cm), kimono measurements (in/cm), and kimono measurement range (in) for determining a satisfactory fit. This extensive set of measurements can be used to make an informed decision when purchasing a vintage kimono or even having a kimono tailor make a new kimono in your size!

    • Suggested Duration: 60 minutes (1 hour) – 90 minutes (1.5 hours)
    • Type: Workshop
    • Format: Lecture, Discussion, Hands-On
    • Suitable For: Ages 12+
    • Participant Minimum Skill Level: None
    • Space/Setup Requirements: Lecture or Classroom Style
    • Tech Requirements: Projector (and screen) with HDMI or VGA input, Power Outlet (optional, but recommended). Event requests use of venue’s equipment only—Laptop must have open USB port (for USB Drive) and software installed that can open .pptx files.
    • Tech Provided by Presenter: iPad, lightning to HDMI adapter, lightning to VGA adapter, USB Drive. Upon request—HDMI cable, VGA cable, Extension Cord
  • Parties Involved: Traeonna (Presenter), Measurement Assistant

So, you want to wear kimono?!

Are you not really sure how to wear a kimono? Have you been swooning over a particularly beautiful one but wonder if it will fit? Do you just want the alluring sleeves but do not want to take the time to learn to wear a kimono traditionally? This presentation discusses where to start and what to consider when exploring kimono fashion, including traditional kitsuke and fusion fashion. Let’s learn how to transform yourself through the exploration of kimono fashion with Traeonna, The Kimono Kitsune!
  • Suggested Duration: 60 minutes (1 hour) – 90 minutes (1.5 hours)
  • Type: Lecture
  • Format: Lecture, Discussion
  • Suitable For: Ages 12+
  • Participant Minimum Skill Level: None
  • Space/Setup Requirements: Lecture or Classroom Style
  • Tech Requirements: Projector (and screen) with HDMI or VGA input, Power Outlet (optional, but recommended). Event requests use of venue’s equipment only—Laptop must have open USB port (for USB Drive) and software installed that can open .pptx files.
  • Tech Provided by Presenter: iPad, lightning to HDMI adapter, lightning to VGA adapter, USB Drive. Upon request—HDMI cable, VGA cable, Extension Cord
  • Parties Involved: Traeonna (Presenter)

Kimono Foundations: Piece by Piece

An informative overview covering how to tell the difference between authentic and inauthentic kimono, kimono and obi formality and types, seasonality and Time-Place-Occasion summary, male and female kitsuke, kimono accessories, what goes on underneath, tools to help you get dressed, and important measurements for purchasing and wearing kimono. There will be a discussion about the differences between all the layers that are worn with kimono versus yukata followed by Q&A session. If time allows, a yukata dressing demonstration.

  • Suggested Duration: 90 minutes (1.5 hours) – 120 minutes (2 hours)
  • Type: Class
  • Format: Lecture, Demonstration
  • Suitable For: Ages 12+
  • Participant Minimum Skill Level: None
  • Space/Setup Requirements: Lecture or Classroom Style
  • Tech Requirements: Projector (and screen) with HDMI or VGA input, Power Outlet (optional, but recommended). Event requests use of venue’s equipment only—Laptop must have open USB port (for USB Drive) and software installed that can open .pptx files.
  • Tech Provided by Presenter: iPad, lightning to HDMI adapter, lightning to VGA adapter, USB Drive. Upon request—HDMI cable, VGA cable, Extension Cord
  • Parties Involved: Traeonna (Presenter), Demonstration Assistant

How To Tie: Hanhaba Obi Musubi

Learn how to tie several simple obi musubi (knot) using a hanhaba (half-width) obi. Possible musubi include chouchou (蝶蝶), bunko (文庫), karuta​ (カルタ), and more… These musubi for hanhaba obi are suitable for informal (e.g. komon) and casual (e.g. yukata) kimono any time of the year. Bringing your own hanhaba obi is highly encouraged, but not required (availability of lending hanhaba is not guaranteed).

  • Suggested Duration: 90 minutes (1.5 hours) – 120 minutes (2 hours)
  • Type: Workshop
  • Format: Demonstration, Hands-On
  • Suitable For: Ages 12+
  • Participant Minimum Skill Level: None
  • Space/Setup Requirements: Lecture or Classroom Style WITH Open Floorspace
  • Tech Requirements: None
  • Tech Provided by Presenter: None
  • Parties Involved: Traeonna (Presenter), Assistant

Obi Foundations: Knot by Knot

An informative overview covering obi types and formality, which obi pair best with which kimono, accessories related to obi, and tools to help you wear your obi. Demonstrations for basic musubi (knots) for fukuro, nagoya, hanhaba, heko, and kaku (for men).
  • Suggested Duration: 90 minutes (1.5 hours) – 120 minutes (2 hours)
  • Type: Class
  • Format: Lecture, Demonstration
  • Suitable For: Ages 12+
  • Participant Minimum Skill Level: None
  • Space/Setup Requirements: Lecture or Classroom Style
  • Tech Requirements: Projector (and screen) with HDMI or VGA input, Power Outlet (optional, but recommended). Event requests use of venue’s equipment only—Laptop must have open USB port (for USB Drive) and software installed that can open .pptx files.
  • Tech Provided by Presenter: iPad, lightning to HDMI adapter, lightning to VGA adapter, USB Drive. Upon request—HDMI cable, VGA cable, Extension Cord
  • Parties Involved: Traeonna (Presenter), Assistant

Yukata: A Casual Kimono

Kimono (着物) is the traditional clothing of Japan, and this presentation focuses on yukata (浴衣), a type of casual unlined kimono typically worn year-round while staying at traditional Japanese inns, visiting hot springs, around the home, or in the summertime to festivals. It is a simple way to experience wearing kimono. This informative overview will cover yukata basics, including dressing differences for men and women, what is worn underneath, kimono accessories, tools to help you get dressed, seasonality and Time-Place-Occasion summary, and important measurements for purchasing and wearing kimono. There will be a discussion about the differences between the layers worn with kimono versus yukata, followed by a Q&A session and, if time allows, a dressing demonstration of how to wear yukata and tie an obi (帯), which will enable you to view the act and art of dressing in kimono, known as kitsuke (着付け).

  • Suggested Duration: 90 minutes (1.5 hours) – 120 minutes (2 hours)
  • Type: Class
  • Format: Lecture, Demonstration
  • Suitable For: Ages 12+
  • Participant Minimum Skill Level: None
  • Space/Setup Requirements: Lecture or Classroom Style
  • Tech Requirements: Projector (and screen) with HDMI or VGA input, Power Outlet (optional, but recommended). Event requests use of venue’s equipment only—Laptop must have open USB port (for USB Drive) and software installed that can open .pptx files.
  • Tech Provided by Presenter: iPad, lightning to HDMI adapter, lightning to VGA adapter, USB Drive. Upon request—HDMI cable, VGA cable, Extension Cord
  • Parties Involved: Traeonna (Presenter), Assistant

Kimono Fusion: Merging Style and Culture

Fusion fashion combines clothing and accessories from two or more different styles (e.g., Lolita+Kimono) or cultures (e.g., Japanese+American) to create a unique look. This fashion presentation is influenced by a Japanese aesthetic while appreciating and respecting the traditions associated with these garments. Fusion fashion is an excellent way to get started in wearing kimono as it may require fewer pieces, can be easier to wear, and utilizes pieces from your existing wardrobe. The spectrum of coordinations will include primarily traditional styles incorporating non-traditional accessories to mostly non-traditional styles incorporating traditional clothing pieces and accessories. For this presentation, kimono, which translates loosely as “a thing to wear,” was originally an umbrella term that covered wide a range of garments worn by Japanese women and men; however, it now is generally understood to be an outer robe (kimono) tied with a wide sash (obi).
  • Suggested Duration: 90 minutes (1.5 hours) – 120 minutes (2 hours)
  • Type: Class
  • Format: Lecture
  • Suitable For: Ages 12+
  • Participant Minimum Skill Level: None
  • Space/Setup Requirements: Lecture or Classroom Style
  • Tech Requirements: Projector (and screen) with HDMI or VGA input, Power Outlet (optional, but recommended). Event requests use of venue’s equipment only—Laptop must have open USB port (for USB Drive) and software installed that can open .pptx files.
  • Tech Provided by Presenter: iPad, lightning to HDMI adapter, lightning to VGA adapter, USB Drive. Upon request—HDMI cable, VGA cable, Extension Cord
  • Parties Involved: Traeonna (Presenter)

Kimono Story: An exploration of kimono through media and street fashion.

An overview covering the basics of kimono through the lens of media such as anime and manga and street fashion of modern-day. Exploration of kitsuke or “the act and art of wearing kimono.” Learn how to tell the difference between authentic and inauthentic kimono. Introduction to kimono and obi formality and types, kimono accessories, what goes on underneath, and tools to help you get dressed. A discussion about where to wear kimono and for what occasions. A discussion about sizing, how to wear, and about the differences between all the layers that are worn with kimono versus yukata.
  • Suggested Duration: 90 minutes (1.5 hours) – 120 minutes (2 hours)
  • Type: Class
  • Format: Lecture
  • Suitable For: Ages 12+; university introduction to Japanese culture classes; anime, gaming, and other genre conventions/events; library/school programs
  • Participant Minimum Skill Level: None
  • Space/Setup Requirements: Lecture or Classroom Style
  • Tech Requirements: Projector (and screen) with HDMI or VGA input, Power Outlet (optional, but recommended). Event requests use of venue’s equipment only—Laptop must have open USB port (for USB Drive) and software installed that can open .pptx files.
  • Tech Provided by Presenter: iPad, lightning to HDMI adapter, lightning to VGA adapter, USB Drive. Upon request—HDMI cable, VGA cable, Extension Cord
  • Parties Involved: Traeonna (Presenter)

Custom Presentation

Need something different than what we currently offer? Want something specific to your event or program? NO PROBLEM! We can design a kimono presentation especially for you!