The Complete Handbook of Casual Kimonos

The casual kimono has moved from a niche import to a staple of modern loungewear, but the information available to buyers and sellers is often contradictory and vendor-driven. This handbook cuts through the noise. It provides a systematic breakdown of the category, from the precise differences between yukata, samue, and modern hybrid designs, to the practical implications of cotton versus polyester-blend weaves. You will learn how to read a spec sheet, why a 6.5-ounce fabric behaves differently from a 9-ounce fabric, and how to identify machine-made versus hand-finished details that affect both price and longevity.

For the professional, this book is a field manual. It details the logistics of wholesale purchasing, including common sizing discrepancies between Japanese and Western labels, and offers concrete strategies for retail pricing, rental inventory management, and even private-label production. For the enthusiast, it serves as a definitive owner's manual, covering proper draping techniques, seasonal storage solutions, and how to diagnose issues like fabric shrinkage or seam fatigue.

Grounded in standard retail practices and textile science, this is not a style guide. It is a reference manual designed to be consulted, annotated, and used in the field. Whether you are evaluating a single garment online or planning a full product line, the information within these chapters provides the factual basis you need to make sound, confident decisions.