Antique kimonos turned into contemporary wedding dresses

Elegant and regal, the kimono has been a long-standing tradition in Japanese culture. One of the most recognisable pieces of Japanese clothing, the kimono is traditionally worn for special occasions. And what’s more special than a wedding? The kimono has been given a modern twist as brides opt for avante garde gowns that blend tradition with contemporary edge.

Watabe Wedding, a Kyoto-based brand, has been at the forefront of this trend. Their collection, Shoen, features five strapless dresses made out of authentic, antique furisode kimonos. Each dress has its own name: The Tsurumomiji (“crane maple”), The Fujiageha (“wisteria and swallowtail butterfly”), The Ranbu (“orchid dance”), The Kanazuru (“gold crane”), and The Botangiku (“peony and chrysanthemum”).