The Scented Kimono

We may not know this but a piece of clothing can have a far deeper meaning than just a cover for our skin and to protect our modesty. A symbol of longevity and good fortune, prosperity and growth, the traditional Japanese kimono offers more to the wearer than simply cloth on their back. It’s grounding, individualistic and a reminder of where we came from and who we hope to be. In fact, the kimono has a unique and extensive history worth sharing and also has become an inspiration for a scent, find out more in The Scented Kimono

Photo Harry Stonhill Imagery Hajar Djouahra

The first ancestors of the kimono date back to the Heian period in Japan (794-1192). Straight cuts of fabric were sewed together creating a garment that was easy to wear, size-inclusive, and infinitely adaptable. 

Yet by the Edo Period (1603-1868), the traditional dress evolved into a unisex outer garment. It became a visibly unifying cultural marker to a country that had seen little to no foreign influence. No matter age, gender, or socioeconomic status, all wore the kimono.

As the Edo period progressed however, Japan quickly became stratified. Distinctions in class began emerging, and outside influence became more evident. However, the kimono cut ultimately remained the same.

Sometimes personal messages started to appear in the garments; style, motif, fabric, and colour told people who you were and what you valued. Designers used the explicit to express the implicit for example cherry blossom to honour new beginnings; a wisteria flower to signify love; a pine tree meant steadfastness, and wisdom in age.

Rooted in nature, each symbol served as a humble reminder of values and beliefs, inherent to better each people.

This is precisely what Ruta Degutyte, founder of Art de Parfum, aspired to achieve with the fragrance house’s latest scent – “Kimono Vert.”

Ruta sees Kimono Vert as her way of making life a little better, an attempt to help us all draw on and capture our inner strength. Every aspect of the product embodies a message that channels this idea of hope and reconciliation with oneself.

This will be the 8th fragrance the house has released – the number 8 symbolic of balance and harmony, both wildly evident with one whiff of the scent.

Kimono Vert starts with a bursting freshness of eucalyptus leaves, bergamot, and peppermint blended with fruity facets of plum and violet leaf. The heart reveals watery notes blended with green tea accord and flowers of magnolia, iris, and geranium. Finally, the bottom blends woody notes and tree moss.

The fragrance invites us to not only achieve but embrace a feeling of serenity using the oils of cedarwood known for their soothing and anti-stress effects and bergamot, eucalyptus, and patchouli with balancing effects for overall well being.

Our environment and our powerful sense of smell can directly affect how we feel and behave. The fragrances we wear on our skin or the clothes we wear on our backs are a direct representations of how we present ourselves to the world and, in turn, how we want others to respond to us. Kimono Vert is an accessible way to indulge in a simple but daily ritualistic self-care experience to enhance our day and mood.

To find out more abiut Kimono Vert visit Here and ot find out more about Art de Parfum visit here

if you enjlyed reading The Scented Kimono then why not read Walking Through History Here

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