Men's Kimono: The Revival of the Men's Jacket

What if the jacket of the future was inspired by an ancestral Japanese garment?

For the past few seasons, the men's kimono has made a strong comeback: on the catwalks, in the streets of Paris, and especially in the wardrobes of those who want to dress differently. More than a trend, it embodies a new way of thinking about the male silhouette: more fluid, more free, more assertive.

The kimono doesn't replace it, it reinvents it. At the crossroads of the blazer, the light coat and the artist's jacket, it becomes a hybrid piece, between structure and movement, tradition and modernity.

This article echoes our comprehensive guide: Wearing the kimono today: a contemporary guide

Here we offer a stylistic exploration of the kimono for men: the most suitable cuts, everyday looks, the reasons why it appeals to a new generation of men, bold, elegant and free from rigid codes.

A new masculine stylistic language

A man dressed in a long, chocolate-colored wool kimono. Raw elegance.

Break free from the suit/blazer/hoodie combo

For a long time, men's wardrobes were built around a few pillars: the suit for formal occasions, the blazer for the office, the hoodie for more casual moments. Between these extremes, there were few options, and often little room for creativity.

Today, more and more men are seeking to express personal elegance without feeling confined by rigid categories. This is where the kimono comes in: neither too strict nor too relaxed, it offers a subtle yet assertive alternative, halfway between urban wear and statement clothing. With its open structure, clean lines, and fluid drape, the kimono breaks the rules without contradicting them. It allows you to be dressed up without being stiff, stylish without being overdressed.

The kimono: a jacket with meaning

The kimono is more than just a jacket; it's a garment that tells a story. Not just the story of Japan, but also that of contemporary fashion in search of meaning. It evokes craftsmanship, slowness, respect for the body, and a certain idea of ​​simple beauty. It embodies a style that is both minimalist and distinctive: no strong shoulders, no stiff collar, no visible fastenings. Just clean lines, fine fabric, and a natural look.

Its strength lies precisely in this: the kimono conveys identity without ever being eccentric. It holds the gaze, but gently. It defines a posture without imposing a pose. At Atelier Sarita, each cut is designed to offer men a garment of freedom and presence, capable of integrating into real life with confidence and understated boldness.

How to incorporate a kimono into a man's wardrobe?

Man wearing a short blue cotton kimono with colorful wax trim, wide sleeves and matching pockets.

Because it deviates from the usual standards, the kimono can be intimidating at first glance. But once you get used to it, it becomes one of the easiest garments to style, as it structures an outfit without ever making it feel rigid. Here are three practical ways to wear it, from the most casual to the most formal.

In "casual chic" style

This is perhaps the most natural way to enter the world of the kimono: by wearing it as a light, everyday jacket. Pair a kimono jacket with straight-leg raw denim jeans and a simple white t-shirt: you get a clean, urban, and distinctive look. The modern uniform for the man who takes care of his appearance without overdoing it.

A thick cotton, textured linen, or Japanese denim style works perfectly for this type of look. You can wear it open for a more relaxed feel, or belted to add a bit more structure to your silhouette.

In a "structured creative" look

For those who like to stand out with subtlety, the kimono becomes a statement piece to incorporate into a more formal outfit. Opt for a black or midnight blue model, in lightweight jacquard or a smooth fabric, which you can wear over dress pants, a simple shirt, or a fine turtleneck.

As for accessories, check out the clean lines and meticulous details online: mesh leather boots, a minimalist watch, a discreetly tied scarf. The overall effect is stylish, graphic, and perfectly executed.

For special occasions

The kimono can also replace a classic blazer or a formal coat, especially for events, dinners, or ceremonies. In this case, choose a long or mid-length kimono in a more luxurious fabric: subtle jacquard, flowing wool, or matte satin. These pieces create a striking visual presence without being ostentatious, allowing you to stand out with elegance.

Wear it over an all-black outfit, a monochrome ensemble or a simple suit, for a controlled but unexpected effect.

To learn more:

Which haircuts are best for a masculine look?

Adopting the kimono as a men's garment also means choosing the cut that suits your style, your comfort level, and your sartorial intention. At Atelier Sarita, each length offers a different interpretation of the silhouette: from discreet to spectacular, without ever sacrificing elegance.

The kimono jacket: a safe bet

This is the most versatile and accessible style for men. With its slightly emphasized shoulders and structured drape, the kimono jacket resembles a lightweight jacket, but with that extra fluidity that makes all the difference.

It can be worn open or belted, over a t-shirt or shirt, with dress pants or jeans. Ideal for beginners, it allows you to incorporate this piece into your wardrobe without disrupting your usual style. And it works just as well during the day as in the evening.

The short kimono: minimalism and dynamism

Shorter and more graphic, the short kimono evokes a contemporary Japanese work jacket more than a traditional garment. It lends a modern and dynamic feel to the silhouette, perfect for minimalist or architectural styles.

Worn over a total dark look or over a light monochrome base, it creates a structuring contrast effect, ideal for those who like to put together understated but assertive outfits.

The long kimono: for the most daring

Spectacular and flowing, the long kimono is a statement piece. It can be worn like a light coat or an artist's dress, over a simple and well-structured silhouette.

Reserve it for moments when you want to fully express your style: exhibitions, events, dinners, or creative meetings. It offers great freedom of movement and captures attention without ever being flashy.

Why does it work? Posture, confidence, and style.

A rare find in a standardized world

In a men's wardrobe still largely dominated by basic uniforms (straight jackets, classic shirts, neutral sweatshirts), the kimono is an exception. And that is precisely what makes it so powerful.
Few men dare, but those who do leave a lasting impression. Not because they shock, but because they embody a different vision of elegance: freer, more personal, more sensitive to gesture than to conformity.

In a world saturated with rigid codes, the kimono stands out with calm. It adorns itself with its singularity, but reassures with its simplicity.

Clothing as expression, not as disguise

Contrary to what one might think, wearing a kimono is not about dressing up. Quite the opposite: it's about asserting a stance, an intention, a more conscious relationship with clothing.

The kimono provides structure without restricting. It embraces the body without making it rigid. It accompanies movement without ever imposing it. It becomes a tool for personal expression, reflecting more a state of mind than cultural origin.

And that's why it works so well today: the kimono isn't presented as a costume, it's embraced as a choice. A choice of style, distinction, and freedom.

The men's kimono is much more than a fashionable garment.
It's an elegant, creative, and comfortable reinterpretation of what a modern jacket can be. It encourages you to break free from imposed patterns, without ever sacrificing style or comfort.

At Atelier Sarita, we have designed pieces to accompany this freedom: assertive lines, noble materials, a timeless style.
Designed in Paris, handcrafted, our men's kimonos are for men who want to wear a garment of attitude rather than a uniform.

To learn more:

Back to blog