East Meets West: How to Wear the Kimono 5 More Ways

Hello, my name is Sam and I'm a kimono addict... I've only managed a handful of kimono-free days since my latest fix came into my life (first paired with another of this summer's great loves, stripes, here). Back in September, when I was a mere baby blogger, I showed you 3 of my favourite A/W kimono-pairings (leather skinnies, pencil skirts and maxis), so a summer update seems timely...

Whilst its dark, sensuous glamour will see you stylishly through winter accompanied by Hollywood siren/rock chick/goth-chic co-ordinates, the kimono's combination of feminine sweetness and boho free-spiritedness also effortlessly surfs the sartorial waves of summer holidays, festivals and garden parties (or just ensures you look chic at the supermarket).

These Boots Were Made For Walkin'...

... and probably not tramping through muddy fields, but this could be the perfect festival outfit if you disregard my ickle bit of artistic licence and replace them with wedge wellies. Inspired by Next's idea to use a kimono as the basis of a "Dusky Western" look, with my own favourite wrap-and-tuck kimono-as-top tweak.

Kimono c/o F&F at Tesco (Available Here), Shorts: Topshop, Boots: Peacocks

Oriental Hothouse vs. English Country Garden

Kimono: As Above; Skirt, Belt and Shoes: All Primark; Bag c/o marc b. (Available Here)

Ah, I do love a good flix (floral print mix - at least I didn't say "prix" - oops). Combining traditionally Oriental and European prints and shapes for a vintage-inspired ladylike look with a twist, I've stuck to classic neutral accessories in an attempt to avoid clutter and keep the focus on the floral clash - do you prefer the kimono tucked in or belted over the skirt?

Fairy Print-cess

Kimono: As Above, Dress: Matalan, Boots and Floral Crown: Both Primark

Yup, sometimes I do actually wear it loose! This time adding a hint of edge to an-ultra girly look founded on fun, cutesy shapes and lots of pink!

Boho Meets Hobo

Kimono: As Above; Dress, Necklace and Boots: All Primark, Beanie: New Look

Kinda Shoreditch-hipster-meets-bag-lady, but I love it! The continuity of dark tones between kimono and dress stops the "piling everything on but the kitchen sink" look from becoming an eye-sore, whilst the beanie and neon accents add a bit of urban flair to the timeless gypsy feel.

Bohemian Rhapsody

Kimono: As Above, Skirt: Miss Selfridge (Available Here), Top: New Look, Boots: Peacocks, Body Chain: Topshop

Another "channelling-Glastonbury" look inspired by 2 of my musical/style icons - Rihanna meets Florence Welch. Yep, I can so see myself romping around a field in this - until my skirt gets dirty and I cry. Which may be why I have never actually made it to a festival myself...

Have you invested in a kimono yet? Will you be rocking it at any festivals this year, or staying safely within reach of the remote control/washer-dryer?

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