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Women's kimono
Women's kimono

Women's kimono

Date1920-1949
Object number00016499
NameKimono
MediumSilk
DimensionsOverall: 1085 mm, 0.25 kg
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis Japanese-made silk kimono features a silk screened floral design. Worn on the beach as fashionable protection from the sun, kimonos and beach pajamas were popular from the 1920s through to the 1940s. HistoryBeach pyjamas were first introduced by Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel in the 1920s, and were inspired by the nautical colours used by the navy and the wide-leg cut of sailor pants. By the end of the decade the fashion for wearing silk kimonos, beach pajamas and beach coats had been established, and it was an elegant trend that continued into the 1940s.SignificanceThe kimono is a rare example of high 1920s-1940s beach fashions, and reflects both Australian and international developments in daywear and beachwear.