How to Order a Custom Kimono Remake Dress from Japan

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How to Order a Custom Kimono Remake Dress from Japan

Ordering a custom dress from another country can feel a little mysterious at first. You may wonder what photos to send, how sizing works, how long production takes, or whether your kimono fabric is suitable for a dress.

At jomon-aura, each piece is made slowly in a small workshop in Nagasaki, Japan. We remake vintage Japanese kimono silk into one-of-a-kind dresses and clothing, guided by the fabric itself and by the way you hope to wear it.

This guide explains the basic custom order process, from your first message to the finished piece.

Step 1: Send photos of the kimono or describe what you are looking for

If you already own a kimono, please start by sending clear photos. You do not need professional photos; simple daylight images are enough for the first consultation.

Helpful photos include:

• the whole kimono laid flat or hanging
• close-up photos of the fabric texture
• any crests, motifs, stains, fading or damaged areas
• the lining, if it may be reused
• any labels, certificates or notes you have

If you do not own a kimono and are interested in a ready-made or shop-sourced piece, please tell us the color, style, size range and occasion you have in mind.

Step 2: Share how you want to wear the dress

A custom kimono remake dress is not only about the fabric. It is also about your life: where you will wear it, how relaxed you want the fit to be, and what kind of feeling you want from the finished garment.

For example, you might want:

• a quiet everyday dress made from black mourning silk
• a long dress for dinners, concerts or special occasions
• a relaxed tunic-style piece with more ease around the body
• a simple A-line dress that lets the silk speak for itself

If you are unsure, that is normal. We can begin with the fabric and your general preferences, then narrow the design together.

Step 3: Confirm fabric suitability and design direction

Vintage kimono silk has its own limits and possibilities. Some pieces are strong, smooth and ideal for dresses. Others may have age marks, weak areas, stains or a layout that works better for a simpler garment or smaller accessories.

We will look at the fabric condition, amount of usable cloth, motif placement and your preferred silhouette. If a certain design would not be suitable, we will explain why and suggest a better option.

For material background, see What Is Vintage Japanese Kimono Silk?.

Step 4: Discuss measurements and fit

For custom orders, measurements are important, but you do not need to be anxious about them. We can work from your body measurements, your usual clothing size, and the measurements of a dress you already like.

The most useful information is:

• height
• bust, waist and hip measurements
• preferred dress length
• usual size in your country
• whether you prefer a close, standard or relaxed fit

For details, please see Size Guide for Custom Kimono Remake Dresses.

Step 5: Receive a quote and production estimate

Once the fabric, design and fit direction are clear, we will provide a quote and estimated production time. The price depends on the complexity of the design, the fabric condition, lining, pockets, closures and finishing details.

Production time varies depending on the order and workshop schedule. A typical handmade piece takes time; the exact timing should always be confirmed before production begins.

Step 6: Payment and production

Production begins after the order details are confirmed. For custom-made items, the process is different from buying a ready-made garment: the piece is created specifically for you, from limited vintage fabric.

Before production starts, we will confirm the main details so that both sides understand the fabric, measurements, design and expected finish.

Step 7: Shipping from Japan

After completion, the dress will be packed carefully and shipped from Japan. Delivery time, tracking, customs duties, VAT and import taxes vary by destination country and shipping method.

For more detail, please read International Shipping, Customs and Returns.

Before you inquire

You do not need to have every detail decided before contacting us. A first message can be simple:

I have a vintage kimono and I am interested in a custom dress. May I send photos for advice?

That is enough to begin.

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Ready to begin your custom order?
Send photos, measurements if you have them, and a short note about the kind of dress you imagine.

→ Request a custom order