I’ve been a fan of the divine Tia Oguri since long before she began designing kimono with traditional African fabrics, because her kimono styling has always been out-of-this-world fresh and exciting. Her latest venture, though, is pure WOW. Take a look at her Uber Dandy Kimono designs, and I think you’ll agree that they show off her talent at a whole new level!
Her first Amazwe collection used traditional African wax printed cottons, combining breezy yukata comfort with touches of kimono style to boost the look past casual
Who’d imagine that such bold prints could work so well together in infinite combinations of kimono, obi and accessories?
And she doesn’t stop at yukata—these hakama in African wax prints are the most stylish graduation statement around
When the pandemic began, Uber Dandy didn’t miss a beat, and was one of the first to demonstrate how fabulous a coordinating mask can be.
And look at this stunning cape ensemble from her Nkechi collection! What to wear over your kimono if you need a coat is a perennial problem, because the sleeves are too wide to fit inside Western coats and sweaters, and most off-the-rack cape designs tend to be inappropriately witch and wizard-y.
Her Nkechi collection also uses traditional African prints, but these have a less geometric, almost Japanese flavor. See how beautifully they adapt to eclectic kimono hime styling, and work with modern Western accessories?
Her Nyoni collection moves into a cooler palette, but is still an eyepopping lesson in how marvelously modern African prints can be.
Riffing on traditional samurai wear, this Nyonihakama ensemble is an exciting new direction in kimono-inspired clothing
The skill required to match and cut these bold patterns requires meticulous precision and an eye for what works and what doesn’t. Shown here are some designs from the men’s collections she’s working on right now
Another fantastic thing about Uber Dandy designs is that they’re sized for people who aren’t Japanese. Kimonos are pretty forgiving (and flattering) when it comes to body size and shape, as long as they’re long enough and wide enough to work with. Uber Dandy cuts are generous and made with Western frames in mind.
“Traditional Japanese kimono with a hint of madness.”
Or if you’re lucky enough to be in the UK, you can see all the Uber Dandy kimonos at her shops in two Antiques On High locations:
Antiques On High Oxford 85 High Street Oxford, England OX1 4BG +441865251075
Antiques On High Sidmouth 26 Fore Street Sidmouth, England EX10 8AQ +441395577133
Tia Oguri also offers styling services for photo shoots, workshops on wearing and styling kimono, kimono ensemble rentals and a shop that sells traditional vintage kimono. It’s all on the Uber Dandy website.
Only In Japan 
Oh my goodness, they take my breath away. ❣️D
Sent from my iPhone
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They’re amazing, aren’t they?