The artistry and elegance of the Kimono

Noh theatre robe, Atsuita (Nōshōzoku Atsuita) late 18th – early 19th century

Rag kimono (Boro kimono) Meiji period 1868– 1912

Featuring rare kimono from the Edo period to today, Kimono explores the timeless elegance and enduring appeal of this iconic Japanese garment, while showcasing its ongoing evolution in contemporary culture and the latest trends within Japan

Opening June 4, 2025, at NGV International, the exhibition presents the work of historical artisans alongside contemporary Japanese kimono designers, including Hiroko Takahashi, Jotaro Saito, Rumi Rock, and Robe Japonica.

Uchikake Kosode with windy seashore and fishing scene, late 18th century

Katabira Kosode, summer kimono with bouquets and scattered fans early 19th century-mid 19th century

Highlighting the global appeal of the iconic Japanese garment, the work of international fashion houses and designers also feature, including Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto, John Galliano, Comme des Garçon, and Alexander McQueen. 

Liberty & Co., London (manufacturer and retailer) Coat, 1910

All photots courtesy: National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne

 Seven newly acquired Edo-period silk and ramie kimono – adorned with wisteria tendrils, maple leaves, falling snow and other motifs – offer a glimpse into the style and sophistication of the samurai and merchant classes of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Highlights include a traditional red wedding kimono decorated in bamboo, pine and crane motifs using a special Japanese tie-dye technique, known as shibori.

Demonstrating the explosive and dynamic influence of Japanese culture on the West during the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries (a period known art historically as Japonisme), the exhibition also includes examples of early twentieth-century Western fashion inspired by the kimono’s iconic design and silhouette, including a Coat manufactured by Liberty & Co, an Evening coat by Parisian couturier Callout Soeurs and Day coat by Parisian-couturier Paul Poiret.

The exhibition highlights Japan’s recent kimono revival and current fashion trends through works by innovative new designers like Robe Japonica, Modern Antenna, Tamao Shigemune, Rumi Rock and Y&SONS. The selection includes the latest in Harajuku street fashion, cute “kawaii” styles, playful gothic and new dandyism.

Running until 5 October 2025 at NGV International, Melbourne.

Honour of education: Dressmaking, 1890, colour woodblock