A little bit about Meisen Kimono

Today, we have listed a selection of vintage kimono for sale including several Meisen Kimono. Meisen kimono, made using inexpensive but long-lasting silk, are characterised by bold designs in vibrant and bright colours. They became popular for everyday wear in the early 20th century due to their very affordable costs.

Blue Glass Roses Vintage Kimono

Meisen silk was inexpensive because it is made from imperfect silk cocoons. Dye is applied to the non-white silk during the weaving process using a stencilling method called kasuri; bright colours being cleverly used to hide any discolouration. As the stencils used for the dying were never completely lined up, meisen designs are often distinguishable by their blurred edges. The striking designs created for meisen kimono in the first half of the 20th century were not strongly influenced by classical nature and seasons, and instead were often bold, “modern” and abstract.

Bold Flower Red Orange Meisen Kimono

Meisen gowns often have cotton or part cotton lining. This type of lining became common during the 2nd World War due to silk shortages. Production of meisen stopped around the 1950s. Despite the meisen kimono being over a half century old, their colours are often still fresh and vibrant!