Do you wear what most of us call Kimonos- but are actually robes or embellished scarves, kaftans or leisure wear gowns? There are tons of reasons why you should. These are probably the most versatile garments you’ll ever own. These can be robes- but they can be so much more!
These loose satiny robes are great worn as jackets, cover-ups, dresses (day or evening- and even at the office!), blouses…in fact, the possibilities are countless!
Another wonderful thing about silky lingerie chemises or gowns, is that they can feel so luxurious; light and slippery, the fit is always so pleasant even at the touch. I also love the fact that these wanna-be- kimonos come in so many different motifs and patterns- from pale neutrality to the most deliciously outrageous eccentricity; a choice for all!
There’s also the practicality aspect. Imagine packing the bare essentials for a weekend get-away, or even a vacation. If you include slinky par-dessus in your wardrobe, well let’s just say that cuts the packing to a third. Yes! These babes take no space at all with the plus of giving you a minimum of 3 for 1 different looks. Go from bathing suit cover-up, to jeans and blouse, to a slinky date-night dress- all with just one cover-up.
But if you’re anything like me…one of these beautiful par-dessus will just simply never be enough! I’ll always be swayed by yet another gorgeous design coming my way. I can’t resist and so I’m shamelessly, and forever always on the hunt for the next fix. I love collecting versatile chemises that transform looks and styles.
Watch my interview with the beautiful stylist Karina of Third Eye Babe Here on Youtube:
So, how do you shop for the right look? Check for pattern and fabric quality first and foremost. Meaning; an absolute YES if you find a pattern with colors that make you swoon. That being said- no matter how pretty, never overlook the quality. You don’t want something that easily frays or with constant static cling (that can never be pretty). Look for silk or satin – even blends; just not something that is completely synthetic. Next, do look for vintage pieces- as these are always of better workmanship and quality. Let your heart lead you but be smart about the fabric.
With this in mind, get out there and shop: Thrift stores (lingerie department never disappoints), Vintage shops, Retail, holiday souvenir shops- it’s endless. One thing’s for sure- once you buy that special piece, you’ll be hooked and will want more (you’re welcome). The comfort and look are just too good.
Here are some of the ways I style my par-dessus. If you already own some, please post your looks on Instagram and tag me. I’ll be sure to add you to my stories.
If you’re a regular here, the next 2 looks you’ve probably seen before…
And there you have it! If you are styling wanna-be-kimonos and posting on Instagram, please join my challenge and tag me @ lucybertoldi. I will add you to my stories.
You can watch my Youtube video on how I styled these beauties HERE:
Last week I was featured on Independent Fashion Bloggers Links a la Mode- as their Round Up winner!
More Fashion Articles:
5 1990’s Fashion Trend To Wear in 2020 by LaMoumous
You Are Not Alone + Chiffon Babydoll Dress & Booties by Fashion Fairy Dust
How the EGL Fashion Community is Handling COVID-19 by Thifted Luxe
Linking time!
I love reading other great blog posts- so I thought to include some really good ones for you to check out! They have linkup parties where you can link your own posts. Go check them out and show some love. Have a good one!
MONDAY LINKS
TUESDAY LINKS:
Walking in Memphis in High Heels
The Fashion Canvas
WEDNESDAY LINKS:
Jersey Girl Texan Heart
Straight A Style Blog
THURSDAY LINKS:
Doused in Pink
FRIDAY Links:
You are a kimono queen! I’m in awe of all the ways you’ve worn kimonos! I need to invest in a few more!
Aww you’re so kind- Thank you! Kimonos are a blast- incredibly versatile. So, yes- get one soon!
Lucy, I love all of your gorgeous kimonos! And you have given me some wonderful styling ideas as well. I have quite an obsession with kimonos as well. I think I probably have about 40 different ones and I am always on the look out for a new one as well.
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
40?!!! WOW! I thought I was obsessed! But I so get you…I mean, kimonos can be worn anyway, anytime, anywhere! I’d love to see more of yours- show us please!
I wear my kimonos way more often in warmer weather…so once the weather gets warmer, I will definitely be sharing more!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Some very creative ways to wear your kimonos! Love your collection. Will have to think to pack one on our next trip whenever that shall be. I have one coming in the mail next week.
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
That’s perfect! I can’t wait to see how you style it!
Kimonos are the perfect layering piece, aren’t they? You have a beautiful kimono collection are so creative with your styling!
Jill – Doused in Pink
Thank you Jill! They really are perfect for layering- they make it so easy to be creative! xx
Wow! You truly blew me away. You styled all of these kimonos so beautifully and uniquely. The next time I wear my kimono out, I know where to go for inspiration! I hope you are having a great day so far and wishing you a fabulous weekend ahead!
Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com
Thank you Maureen! I’m happy to have inspired! You must wear your collection and show me!
Hi Lucy
What a beautiful collection! You are very inventive in the ways you styled them. Love the leatherette shorts too! I have a few kimonos I enjoy styling and the pj top is a great idea too. I just put one of my pj tops in my closet, as I thought it would make a great shirt! Love your ideas!
thanks for linking!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
So happy you liked it! Thanks:) I’d love to see that pj top- turned-shirt!
So much inspiration here! I love the DIY on the sequined kimono. I know there are so many times I see a fabric and just think it could make something great. Now I know what I can do and I’m excited about it! I was also given a beautiful emerald green satin PJ set for Christmas and I’m now thinking about how to wear the top as something other than PJs. I know I have at least one satiny kimono somewhere in my closet, too (I just need to go through it and find out what treasures are hidden there). I just love your style and all of these looks are so flattering and gorgeous on you!
Ruth
https://voguefauxreal.com/2020/04/20
Emerald green is fabulous- I have one too! I just couldn’t style them all…but I will eventually. Thank you for watching the diy- that one is the easiest ever kimono to make. Show me if you ever make it- would love to see it:)
You have a fabulous collection of kimonos! I don’t think I own any…I might have to get one for Summer! I love the animal print kaftans! Thanks for linking up!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
Thank you! Animal print ones are my faves! You gotta get some and style them up- so fun!
You are so glam and I love it! Rocking all these looks.
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Thank you! They are so easy to style and automatically make you glam lol!
More cute styles, thanks for sharing on the #linkup Jacqui x
Thanks!
I’ve never gotten the kimono bug, but I do love a pj top as a shirt! You wear your kimonos well!
Thanks! It’s a fun way to change it up!