This sophisticated asa (ramie fiber) summer kimono exemplifies the marriage of traditional Japanese resist-dyeing techniques with the practical elegance required for warm-weather wear. The unlined garment showcases a striking pattern of shibori roundels scattered across the deep charcoal ground, each circular motif created through the meticulous process of binding and dyeing that produces the characteristic radiating patterns visible in the detail image. The hand-plied ramie yarns create a distinctive canvas-like texture that not only provides excellent breathability for summer comfort but also serves as an ideal foundation for the shibori technique, as the natural fiber's structure allows for crisp, well-defined resist patterns.
The aesthetic philosophy behind this piece reflects the Japanese principle of functional beauty, where the technical demands of the shibori process—requiring precise folding, binding, and controlled dye penetration—align perfectly with the garment's seasonal purpose. Each roundel represents a small meditation on pattern and process, with the radiating lines and organic variations that emerge from the resist technique creating subtle differences that prevent monotony while maintaining overall compositional harmony. The choice of ramie fiber speaks to both practicality and luxury, as this plant-based textile was prized for its durability, natural luster, and cooling properties. The indigo-dyed palette evokes traditional Japanese aesthetics while the scattered circular motifs suggest celestial bodies or ripples on water, connecting the wearer to natural cycles and the contemplative beauty of summer evenings, making this kimono a perfect example of how traditional craft techniques can create garments that are simultaneously functional, beautiful, and deeply rooted in cultural meaning.
Its measurements are 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end, with a height of 59 inches (150 cm).