When it comes to men’s kimonos, the level of formality is usually determined by the fabric rather than patterns, as is common with women’s kimonos. Men's kimonos can be grouped into three main styles, each suited to different occasions. Here’s a breakdown of these classic styles.
1. Kuromontsuki Haori Hakama
The kuromontsuki haori hakama is the highest-ranking men’s kimono, often reserved for formal events like weddings, coming-of-age ceremonies, and funerals.
This outfit includes a haori (a light coat) and hakama (loose trousers). The haori is typically made from black habutai (a traditional silk fabric), while the hakama is crafted from sendaihira, a refined silk from the Sendai region of Japan.
The five kamon (family crests) on the haori add an extra layer of elegance and formality to this attire, making it Japan’s top men’s formal wear.
2. Iromontsuki Haori Hakama
This slightly less formal style is called the iromontsuki haori hakama. It features a colored habutai haori, paired with a nagagi (a long kimono without trousers) and sendaihira hakama.
Perfect for weddings and age ceremonies (but generally not for funerals), this attire comes in variations with five, three, or one kamon.
The fewer the kamon, the more casual the outfit—so for highly formal events, a five-kamon haori is recommended.
3. Haori Hakama (Standard)
The haori hakama is a versatile choice for slightly less formal occasions. There are two main fabric options for this style: omeshi (a type of silk crepe) and tsumugi (a woven silk). Generally, omeshi is considered more formal than tsumugi. The number of kamon on this outfit is usually three or one, indicating a lower level of formality than the iromontsuki style.
Other Styles
・Nagagi: This is a style that doesn’t include trousers like the hakama. It’s more casual and can be paired with either omeshi or tsumugi fabric. You can mix and match the haori and nagagi based on your preference, creating a unique look that still maintains elegance.
・Kinagashi: On informal occasions, a man can wear a kimono without the haori coat—this is known as kinagashi. This is a simpler, comfortable way to wear a kimono, perfect for anyone who wants to try out the traditional look in a more relaxed setting.
- Kamon: Family crest or emblem
- Haori Hakama: Coat and trousers set
- Omeshi: Silk crepe kimono
- Tsumugi: Woven kimono fabric
When choosing a men’s kimono, consider the occasion and fabric. With these styles, you can embrace Japanese tradition in a way that feels right for you!
Illustrations courtesy of Manga de Japan
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
Recommended places for you
-
Appealing
Rukku and Uohei
Izakaya
Sapporo / Chitose
-
Kamesushi Sohonten
Sushi
Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi
-
Jukuseiniku-to Namamottsuarera Nikubaru Italian Nikutaria Sannomiya
Izakaya
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Sapporo Clock Tower
Landmarks
Sapporo / Chitose
-
Menu
ISHIDAYA Hanare
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Goods
Yoshida Gennojo-Roho Kyoto Buddhist Altars
Gift Shops
Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace
-
Explore Autumn in Hyogo Prefecture: Two-Day Road Trip to See Stunning Foliage and Top Attractions
by: Hide
-
Celebrate 25 Years of Nikko's UNESCO Sites: 2 Limited-Time Plans to Explore Buddhism and the Samurai Spirit
-
Mister Donut x Pokémon 2024: Catch Limited-Edition Donuts and Fun Collectibles!
-
2024 Ranking of Top-Rated Onsen Ryokan with Exceptional Baths—Must-Visit Hot Springs in Japan!
by: Nemi Lin
-
What's Changing for Japan Travel in 2025? Updates on Tax-Free Shopping, Pre-Clearance, and More
-
Nature with Art: Explore 'teamLab: Hidden Traces of Rice Terraces' in Ibaraki
-
Kaminoyama Onsen Guide: Best Things to Do in Japan's Samurai Town!
-
The LIVE JAPAN Awards 2017: Ceremony and Winners!
-
[2016] Tokyo's Art Museums And Exhibitions: Must-Visits!
-
Visiting Hokkaido Japan: 14 Things to Know Before Traveling to Japan's Wild North
-
Rusutsu Resort: Epic Powder at Hokkaido's Legendary Resort! (Guide/Hotels/Tips)
-
Shibuya 1 Day Itinerary - Featuring Popular Hotspots and Those Off the Beaten Path
- #best sushi japan
- #what to do in odaiba
- #what to bring to japan
- #new years in tokyo
- #best ramen japan
- #what to buy in ameyoko
- #japanese nail trends
- #things to do japan
- #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
- #daiso
- #best coffee japan
- #best japanese soft drinks
- #best yakiniku japan
- #japanese fashion culture
- #japanese convenience store snacks