We’re all different sizes and shapes. Which is good! If we were all the same, how boring would that be? My job is to make sure I have enough variety, so that everyone, no matter their size, has something that will fit them. Recently my size large pieces were gone and I needed to add in some new ones.

Do you remember this new shape? My car coat, comfortable, easy to wear and looks good on. A new one, just finished in this oh so cool and beautiful tsumugi double ikat. Double ikat means that before it was woven, the threads used for this kimono silk were dyed. First they dyed the warp and weft threads and then they wove them.

Amazing, yes?

Tsumugi, is a tightly woven crisp fabric. It’s loved not only because it is beautiful, but also because the tight weave is good for warmth.

A new trench, sewn from a beautiful navy chirimen kimono silk. Chirimen is a kind of heavy crepe. The design on this one is a lattice covered with wisteria and other flowers. Scattered through are phoenix birds.

The phoenix is a mythological creature that is a symbol for long life, the sun, rebirth and renewal. It is said to die in flames and is reborn from the ashes of its predecessor. Can you see it? It’s red with a flowing tail.

And a black and white ‘lotus’ top, a tunic length hitoe. It’s an unlined top, somewhere between a blouse and a jacket. My tunic length version has flattering princess seams and side slits at the hem. This one is sewn from a bold, abstracted, very cool, cherry blossom design. The facing is a black and white confetti print design. The black sleeves and the back are a woven, basket weave kimono silk.

A close up detail to show the little bits of red in the flower centers and the beautiful confetti print inside the collar.

I’ve just added these three pieces to my shopping page. More photos of each are there, check them out here!