Yumi Katsura Brings New Life into the Traditional Kimono SS19

Japanese Couture designer Yumi Katsura gives new breath to the traditional Kimono. Each look reinterprets this iconic garment, building shapes, motifs, and embroidery around the obi and the refined art of tying the kimono sash. She brings modernity with her inventive layering and use of exquisite fabrics. Fallen kimonos shape the hips as skirts, layered with embroidered minis and bow details inspired by Japanese tying techniques. 16th-century gigantic ruffs adorn the necks of several pieces and mark bare shoulders and bulbous sleeves. In fact, Katsura has continually pushed the boundaries of couture while celebrating Japanese tradition.

Who is Yumi Katsura

Yumi Katsura was born in Niigata, Japan, and showed an early passion for fashion and traditional Japanese textiles. In her early years, the distinctive elegance surrounding the Kimono deeply influenced her inspiration. She studied at the Bunka Fashion College in Tokyo, which is one of Japan’s most prestigious fashion schools. There, she honed her skills in design and tailoring. Katsura began her career focusing on bridal fashion. Eventually, she became known as the “Queen of Japanese Bridal Couture” for her intricate, elegant gowns. These gowns combine Western couture techniques with Japanese artistry. And when it comes to couture innovation, Katsura draws frequently on inspiration from the iconic garment known as Kimono.

Katsura joined the Paris Couture Collection since 2003. She opened her boutique in 2015 opposite the Chanel headquarters. Even though we see that Paris culture has touched her sensibilities, IRK Magazine also admires her adherence to Japanese fashion culture and traditional techniques. Especially those seen in her approach to the kimono. Furthermore, Katsura remains a global ambassador for Japanese couture design. It is not surprising that Kimono continues to be central in both her design process and her personal brand identity.

Reviving Tradition: Modernizing Kimonos

Yumi Katsura highlights traditional Japanese yuzen dyeing techniques, especially Kyo-yuzen, using them to preserve, reinterpret, and modernize kimono artistry in her bridal and haute couture creations. Yumi Katsura’s designs showcase elaborate, hand-painted, multi-colored silk scenes. Often, she draws inspiration from Edo-period artists such as Hokusai. Not only does she honor heritage, but the Kimono appears at the heart of her creative process for modern designs.

The Spring–Summer 2019 collection participates in Japonismes 2018 in Paris, celebrating 160 years of friendship between Japan and France. Notably, Yumi Katsura presented her latest kimono-inspired collection at this prestigious event, showcasing her signature aesthetic. In summary, the distinct spirit of Kimono remains a continuous thread throughout Katsura’s artistic vision. Above all, the enduring cultural resonance of Kimono reinforces its importance in fashion today.