Versatile and Stylish: Master the Art of Kimono Layering for Every Occasion

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Aside from the scarf, one of the pieces we love to throw on is the kimono. Jessica Alba, Kendall Jenner, Cara Delevingne, Christina Aguilera, and Gwen Stefani know it’s easy to wear and instantly glams up a simple outfit.

Three friends showcase a vibrant summer style, layering colorful floral kimonos over casual denim outfits, accented with chic accessories for a perfect sunny day lookThree friends showcase a vibrant summer style, layering colorful floral kimonos over casual denim outfits accented with chic accessories for a perfect sunny day look

Usually, we wear a kimono over a tank or t-shirt with jeans or denim cutoffs, and we’re all set. But did you know you can rock the kimono in many other ways?

Most people consider the kimono a spring-and-summer piece, but you can wear it across seasons. Layering is the key. Of course, you do have to remember that what you wear with it also plays a huge role.

Today — with the help of some stylish bloggers, we will help you achieve many looks using the kimono. Check out these fresh ways:

1. Dual-Layer Dynamism

Sure, kimonos are meant to be layered over your outfit, but nobody said you can’t layer it under another topper. Give your kimono a different look by wearing it under a jacket.

We recommend long jackets or coats about the same length as your kimono, but short jackets will work just as well. Here’s a look from Amber of Lilies of the Field. Unfortunately, her blog is no longer available online.

Amber gives her floral kimono an edgy twist under a sleek leather jacket, perfect with skinny jeans or a short dressAmber gives her floral kimono an edgy twist under a sleek leather jacket, perfect with skinny jeans or a short dress

She added an edgy twist to her floral kimono by layering it under a sleek leather jacket. Pairing this with a cropped top, skinny jeans, and boots creates a tough yet chic look. Alternatively, try a mini dress with tights and boots for a daring outfit to complement the ensemble.

2. Office-Ready Sophistication

Take your office look to the next level by topping it with a printed kimono instead of the usual blazer. This works best if your dress fits close to the body and is short (a few inches above the knees).

Priscila effortlessly wears a kimono over her office dress, adding flair to professional wearPriscila effortlessly wears a kimono over her office dress, adding flair to professional wear

If your dress has a full or swingy skirt, try belting it on the waist to give your look a more defined shape.

Fashion bloggers Priscila of Look At Me Br (blog offline) and Leticia of Leticia Neidl Modeblog (blog offline) demonstrated this combination flawlessly with their printed kimonos.

Leticia shows how to wear a printed kimono with a dress and stockingsLeticia shows how to wear a printed kimono with a dress and stockings

3. Double Denim Delight

Here’s a really fun and fresh take on the kimono—wear it over double denim. This can be over a denim shirt and shorts or over a denim shirt with denim skinnies. And if that’s not enough for you, top the combination with a fur vest.

Luna Lovebad masterfully layers a kimono over a double denim ensemble, showcasing her unique styleLuna Lovebad masterfully layers a kimono over a double denim ensemble, showcasing her unique style

We got this fashion tip straight from stylish blogger Luna of Luna Love Bad. Don’t you love how she put it all together?

Luna shows how to wear a kimono with double denimLuna shows how to wear a kimono with double denim

4. Preppy and Playful

You can also spin your printed kimono over a fitted long-sleeved tee and shorts (or short skirt). If you want to infuse a little preppy flavor, choose a striped tee instead of a solid one.

Make sure you let the sleeves peek out of the kimono. Don’t forget to use a belt for definition. Here’s a take from Amy of Salted and Chic (blog offline) to give you a better idea:

Amy pairs her kimono with a long-sleeved tee and shorts, adding a playful touch to her chic lookAmy pairs her kimono with a long-sleeved tee and shorts, adding a playful touch to her chic look

5. Print Mixing Mastery

Most kimonos are printed and already offer enough of a look-at-me factor. But if you want to make your outfit more eye-catching, try mixing the kimono with printed or patterned separates.

Katia Nikolajew demonstrates how to mix prints effectively, wearing her colorful kimono with confidenceKatia Nikolajew demonstrates how to mix prints effectively, wearing her colorful kimono with confidence

A great example of this print-on-print combination is the looks of Katia of Katia Nikolajew Blog. Don’t you find her outfits fascinating to look at?

Katia shows how to wear print-on-print with a kimonoKatia shows how to wear print-on-print with a kimono

6. Boyfriend Jeans Basics

Until we saw this look from Claudia of Clueless, we never thought you could rock a printed kimono over slouchy boyfriend jeans and still look good.

The trick lies in that white crop top, and we thank Claudia for helping us figure that out. We love this outfit. What about you?

Claudia perfectly styles her kimono with boyfriend jeans, balancing comfort with styleClaudia perfectly styles her kimono with boyfriend jeans, balancing comfort with style

7. Summer Heatwave Hero

If it’s boiling in your city, take a cue from Mariel of Wicked Ying (blog offline) by pairing your printed kimono with sexy denim cutoffs and strappy knee-high sandals.

It’s a very Cali-girl style with a touch of bohemia to it. Mariel is a social media junkie who loves to paint her nails and is addicted to shoes. Visit her blog for more outfit ideas like this one.

Mariel pairs her kimono with denim cutoffs, embodying a laid-back, summer-ready lookMariel pairs her kimono with denim cutoffs, embodying a laid-back, summer-ready look

8. Textured Ensemble Enhancement

Play with textures if you want to take your printed kimono to the next level this summer. Follow Laia by pairing your flowy floral topper with lace shorts and a textured bustier. Her blog, Let Me Feel Like a Doll, is unfortunately no longer available online

And don’t just stop there; offset all that feminine drama by capping off the look with edgy ankle boots and a studded shoulder bag.

Laia elevates her summer style with a kimono layered over lace shorts and a detailed bustierLaia elevates her summer style with a kimono layered over lace shorts and a detailed bustier

9. Casual Chic Defined

A simple tank top paired with skinny jeans can be effortlessly elevated by adding a printed kimono. This lightweight cover-up introduces a pop of pattern to the ensemble and adds a touch of sophistication.

The flowing silhouette of the kimono contrasts beautifully with the fitted nature of the jeans, creating a balanced and visually appealing look. This outfit combination is perfect for those looking to make a statement while keeping their base layers simple and comfortable.

A chic ensemble featuring a red floral kimono perfectly draped over distressed jeans and a white tank, complemented by stylish lace-up sandals for a polished, bohemian lookA chic ensemble featuring a red floral kimono perfectly draped over distressed jeans and a white tank, complemented by stylish lace-up sandals for a polished, bohemian look

10. Sunday Dress Staple

You can also wear a printed kimono with your favorite Sunday dress—a tip from Dani of Mermaid Waves. Unfortunately, her blog is no longer available online.

The result is a feminine, sweet, romantic, yet also a little bohemian concoction. Will you give this look a try?

Dani elegantly styles her white dress with a colorful kimono, creating a charming weekend outfitDani elegantly styles her white dress with a colorful kimono, creating a charming weekend outfit

Well, there you have it — several fresh ways to wear the oh-so-versatile kimono besides pairing it with the usual (jeans and tee). So, which of these looks will you be trying out today?

Three distinct boho chic looks featuring floral kimonos paired with rugged jeans and detailed accessories, perfect for a festival or a laid-back weekend outingThree distinct boho chic looks featuring floral kimonos paired with rugged jeans and detailed accessories, perfect for a festival or a laid-back weekend outing

Some are pretty easy, while others are tricky. We think the double denim layering technique is a great way to start. What about you?