A kimono is one of those pieces that instantly makes an outfit look finished, but working out how to wear a kimono well can be tricky. Thrown over the wrong thing, it can feel bulky or overdone. Styled right, a boho kimono outfit is one of the easiest ways to add movement, print and colour to a look you already own. Here's how we style ours, in sizes 6 to 26.
1. Layer It Over a Simple Dress
The easiest way to wear a kimono is over a plain, fitted dress in a solid colour. It lets the kimono's print and fringe or embroidery do all the talking. Reach for one of our kimonos over one of our boho dresses in black, tan or white and let the kimono add the pattern. Leave it open so both pieces stay visible, and keep jewellery minimal so the print isn't competing with anything else.
2. Wear It Over a Matching Set
A kimono and a matching set is a boho outfit formula that works every time. The set gives you a coordinated base, and the kimono adds a layer of texture and movement over the top. Browse our matching sets collection and pick a kimono in a complementary or contrasting print, depending on how bold you want the look. This combination is especially good for warm evenings, festivals, or beach days once the sun starts to dip.
3. Throw It Over Jeans and a Plain Top
For an everyday boho kimono outfit, a kimono thrown over straight-leg or flare jeans and a fitted singlet or tee is hard to beat. It dresses up a casual outfit without any real effort, and it's an easy way to bring a boho piece into a wardrobe that's otherwise more classic. Add a stack of bangles and you're done.
4. Use It as a Light Layer for Cooler Days
A kimono works as a transitional layer just as well as a scarf or light cardigan does. Thrown over a maxi dress or a tank and jeans, it takes the edge off a cool morning without covering up the outfit underneath. Longer, duster-style kimonos are especially good for this, since they layer over almost anything. See the full range of lengths and styles in our kimonos & dusters collection.
5. Let It Be the Statement Piece
If your kimono has a particularly bold print or embellishment, embroidery, fringing or metallic thread, let it be the focal point of the outfit. Keep everything underneath simple: a plain slip dress, a bikini, or a fitted top and shorts. Add sandals or simple flats and skip statement jewellery so the kimono stays the hero. The Wildflower Kimono in Lilac & Blue Skies is a good example, and you can see how we styled it in our Untamed Boho styling guide.
Shop the Edit
Ready to find your next boho kimono outfit? Browse the full Kimonos & Dusters collection, and pair yours with a piece from our Boho Dresses or Matching Sets range. All available in sizes 6 to 26, with free shipping over $100 AUD and Afterpay, Zip, Klarna and PayPal Pay in 4 available at checkout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you wear under a kimono?
A simple, solid-coloured dress, a fitted top and jeans, or swimwear all work well under a kimono. The key is keeping what's underneath plain so the kimono's print can stand out.
Can I wear a kimono over a matching set?
Yes. A kimono layered over a matching set is one of the easiest boho outfit combinations, adding texture and movement over an already-coordinated base.
How do I wear a kimono casually?
Throw it over jeans and a plain top or singlet for an easy, everyday boho kimono outfit. It dresses up a casual look without much effort.
What's the difference between a kimono and a duster?
Dusters are generally longer, often falling to the knee or below, while kimonos can be shorter. Both layer the same way. See our full range of lengths in the kimonos & dusters collection.
Can I wear a kimono in cooler weather?
Yes. A longer, duster-style kimono works as a light transitional layer over a dress or jeans and a top, taking the edge off a cool day without covering the outfit underneath.
Does Gypsy & Wolf have kimonos in plus sizes?
Yes, our kimonos and dusters are available in sizes 6 to 26, along with the rest of our boho dresses and matching sets ranges.
