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The Best Women’s Kimono Cardigans

Last updated on November 7, 2022

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From the time of its inception, the kimono was designed for comfort and versatility. Its design makes it adaptable to a wide variety of body types, allowing for one-size-fits-all sizing. The garment that has long been connected to Japanese culture dates all the way back to the Heian period, which ranged from 794 to 1192. During this era, garment makers sewed fabric pieces together for an adaptable piece of clothing.

Many fashion trends have come and gone over the centuries, but the kimono persists. As cardigan sweaters have become popular, the kimono has evolved, as well, offering the perfect lightweight solution. Kimono cardigans incorporate the use of bold patterns and lightweight fabrics with the elimination of ties and belts.

Although kimono cardigans can be worn year-round, they’re perfect warm-weather options. They make great swimsuit coverups, so you’ll see them both poolside and at the beach. But you can also wear them over a tank top or T-shirt and shorts or jeans to add a little something extra to your look. If you’re trying to beat the heat, you can find kimono cardigans made from breathable, lightweight fabric that keeps you cool throughout the day.

The designs themselves set kimono cardigans apart more than anything else. Japanese kimonos featured bold, beautiful symbols, with the design meaning something. Today’s kimono cardigans expand on that, building in contemporary patterns like flowers and leopard print. You can even find solid kimono cardigans if you want something that will match your patterned swimsuits or clothing.

The hemline of the kimono is also important. It can vary widely from one cardigan to the next. You can find kimono cardigans that land at the ankle or knee for more coverage. These can come in useful at the beach. A shorter kimono cardigan that falls at the hip or just below might be easier for everyday wear.

Our Picks For The Top Women's Kimono Cardigans

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Chicgal Puff Sleeve Women’s Kimono Cardigan

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Chicgal

Puff Sleeve Women's Kimono Cardigan

If you’re looking for a lightweight warm-weather option, check out this kimono-style cardigan. It’s perfect for wearing over a swimsuit or pairing with your favorite tank top, shorts or leggings for a great casual look. You can choose from a variety of designs and colors, as well as sizes from Small to 3XL

Overall Take

Lightweight and ComfortableThe chiffon fabric makes this a lightweight, breathable option that’s perfect for wearing poolside or adding to your warm-weather wardrobe.

 Runner Up

MayBuy Long Length Women’s Kimono Cardigan

MayBuy

Long Length Women's Kimono Cardigan

Choose your look with this kimono, available in a wide range of designs and lengths to help you find the style that best fits you. The material is polyester with spandex built in for extra stretch. This kimono can run slightly large, so size down if you like things a little tighter. You can choose from sizes in Small to 3XL.

Overall Take

Versatile UsesThis kimono wrap is designed for both comfort and versatility, letting you create a variety of looks.

 We Also Like

Camisunny Relaxed Chiffon Women’s Kimono Cardigan

Camisunny

Relaxed Chiffon Women's Kimono Cardigan

With bat-wing sleeves and a flowy, casual build, this kimono cardigan is perfect for casual wear. Use it as a swimsuit coverup or to liven up a tank top and jeans or shorts. You can choose from a wide range of fun prints and solid colors, as well as sizes from Small to X-Large.

Overall Take

Great for Everyday WearStretchy, soft and comfortable, this shorter kimono will quickly become a wardrobe staple.

 Strong Contender

Omoone Shawl Collar Women’s Kimono Cardigan

Omoone

Shawl Collar Women's Kimono Cardigan

The curved hem shawl collar and bat-wing design give this kimono cardigan a unique look. The material is polyester which means it’s both lightweight and durable. You can choose from a variety of prints, including some that will fit in well in the autumn.

Overall Take

Designed for ComfortThe polyester fabric and shorter cut help keep you comfortable throughout the day.

What to Look For

  • Kimono cardigans have plenty of wiggle room when it comes to sizing. Although they’re usually one size fits all, you might need to size down if you like a slightly tighter fit. You can find them in sizes X-Small to 3X-Large to get the right look.
  • Chiffon is a popular fabric for kimono cardigans due to the fact that it’s both comfortable and transparent. However, it can be less breathable, which is why many modern kimono cardigans are made using materials like polyester and rayon. If you plan to wear your kimono cardigan outdoors for long periods of time, keep this in mind.
  • Some kimono cardigans add in a little spandex. This gives a garment the stretch it needs to remain comfortable as you go from sitting to standing throughout the day.
  • Sleeve design can vary dramatically from one kimono cardigan to the next. Bat-wing sleeves are popular because they flatter while also being extremely breathable. But even bat-wing sleeves can vary in length. You might prefer a ¾-length sleeve, but you can also find short-sleeved kimono cardigans.
  • Although patterns seem to reign when shopping for kimono cardigans, there are some solids and even more subtle designs available if you want something more versatile. If you tend to wear clothing or swimsuits with patterns, a solid-colored kimono cardigan might be best.
  • The hem and collar of a kimono cardigan can set it apart. You can find some with edging that builds in some extra design features. This will give you another way to make a fashion statement.
  • Asymmetrical hemlines can be a fun way to shake things up. If you go for a longer kimono cardigan, this can help keep it out of the way in the front as you’re moving throughout the day while also giving you the coverage you want in the back.

More to Explore

The kimono is a complex garment dating back centuries. But there are traditions associated with kimonos, including that the left side is on top when covering the chest. Women are supposed to tie their sash from the back only, while men are expected to tie theirs in the front. Women also wear different kimonos depending on whether they’re single or married.

If you’re wearing a traditional kimono, it can also help to understand the symbols within the designs. Natural elements like bamboo branches and chrysanthemums represent winter, while overlapping circles represent the seven Buddhism jewels. While many garments are worn only for certain ceremonies, in Japan, kimonos are seen at all types of social gatherings, including marriages, graduations or while simply meeting up with friends.

More to explore