Just a quick photo post to plug my next book, Kimono Now. It looks at contemporary kimono culture, and the makers, designers, artists and fans who are part of the dynamic world of kimonos today. I think it is common knowledge that the makers and artisans are having a difficult time now, and the industry is extremely tough at the moment, but at the same time, there are a number of hugely talented people putting their efforts in to keep this culture alive.
It should also appeal to the people who liked Kawaii, Japan's Culture of Cute. I have sections on kimonos in manga, street fashion, cosplay, and profiles with some really interesting and experimental visionaries who are making kimonos to appeal to certain subcultures from punk to goth.
It wont look anything like the 80s English language kimonos books that are out there, the photos are gorgeous, it is a real eye candy, coffee table book. Also some of the Harajuku models appear again, Kumamiki, Kurebayashi, Rin Rin and new face Kaoru. A lot of people dont realise that Harajuku is also hugely important in kimono culture as well, and many of the contemporary designers/ shop owners/ makers were once street fashion kids in harajuku playing around with vintage kimonos, and this is happening again now, a couple of the aforementioned models are designing yukata as well.
Kimonos are a national and ceremonial dress, but they are also a kind of fashion and living culture...and also a lot of fun.
Itll be out fairly soon...actually UK get it first it seems, it should be out in the next 2 weeks or so.
Some outtakes:
