Originally, ‘Kimono’ was the Japanese word for clothing. In more recent years, the word now refers specifically to traditional dress. 

Known as the straight-line cut method, pieces of fabric would be cut in straight lines and sewn together - in this way, kimono makers didn’t concern themselves with the shape of the wearer’s body.

Fashion takes a trip to the east this winter and discovers design and decorative elements from the Orient. Designers Dries Van Noten and Proenza Schouler sent oriental infused dresses and artisanal outerwear down their A/W 12 runways.  From literal dragon prints and flourishing eastern flora to kimono shapes and mandarin collars, all influences were remixed and ready for the street.