"Should You Remove Necklaces When Wearing Kimono? The Ambiguous Issue of Accessories in Traditional Japanese Attire"

2022.03.18 published

Accessory Issues with Traditional Japanese Clothing

There are several occasions in life when we might wear traditional Japanese clothing, such as being invited to a wedding, attending a shrine visit after the birth of a baby, or celebrating Shichi-Go-San, even as adults.

At those times, many may wonder, "Is it okay to wear accessories with a kimono?"

With Western clothing, wearing necklaces or earrings and adding cute accessories is part of the fun of fashion, but...

There is a strong image of not wearing accessories with traditional clothing. However, it's a bit ambiguous whether subtle designs are acceptable or if it's considered improper etiquette.

For those who regularly indulge in kimono, this might be common knowledge, but for those who only wear it occasionally, it's something that requires research to understand.

So, what is the truth???

Necklaces: Better to Remove Them

First, it's better to remove necklaces when wearing traditional clothing. In formal settings like weddings and celebrations, it’s considered proper etiquette not to wear one.

One might think that a simple design like a single diamond in skin jewelry would be fine, but…

Having a necklace visible on the inside of the collar of the kimono can appear out of place and cluttered, creating a sense of discomfort, no matter how simple it is.

When viewed from behind, seeing a chain peeking out at the nape can also be distracting.

Moreover, traditional clothing is already designed to be elegant enough with collar decorations, making it look neater and more beautiful without a necklace.

What About Rings?

As for rings, it goes without saying that if it's an engagement or wedding ring, wearing them is perfectly acceptable.

However, it’s safer to avoid wearing multiple fashion rings on both hands or wearing bulky statement rings.

Traditional clothing is a formal attire with high standards.

If you choose to wear rings, they should not look cheap or overly flashy, but rather be elegant and luxurious enough to match the kimono.

What About Earrings?

Among older individuals who enjoy traditional clothing, it's considered good manners not to wear earrings.

Originally, it was customary to wear hair ornaments like kanzashi with traditional clothing, so earrings close to the head were not deemed necessary.

That said, recently, with various hairstyles, the trend of coordinating: "wearing earrings without hair accessories" has been increasing.

However, it’s best to avoid dangling, oversized, or overly sparkly items as they do not match well with kimonos.

Small pearl earrings or single diamond studs seem like understated cute options that can be worn subtly.

Remember the Phrase "Less is More"

There are no strict rules stating that accessories must not be worn with traditional clothing. However, not wearing them is considered more elegant.

This is because kimonos are beautiful garments that exude class.

Rather than over-embellishing with numerous accessories, the essence of wearing traditional clothing is to show a graceful feminine image through one’s posture and demeanor.

Therefore, accessories should be kept to a minimum.

I will also have an opportunity to wear a formal kimono at an upcoming wedding invitation, so I plan to:

- Not wear a necklace

- Wear just one ring on a single finger

- Choose earrings that are small pearl or diamond designs.

I’ll approach it this way! ♩