Fashion Forward: Kimonos

WSVN--It's been a staple of Japanese fashion for centuries.

But now, Hollywood movies are making it fashionable to wear a kimono.

Melissa Goff: "Fashion and fashion designers get their inspiration from a variety of different sources. It could be a vacation or it could be a movie such as 'Memoirs of a Geisha.'"

At Macy's, turning Japanese is easy.

Here, the kimono, which looks a little like a robe, is a perfect fit for spring.

Melissa Goff: "What's great about kimonos here in South Florida is that it's a great lightweight jacket layered over a tank, it's perfect, it's good to go all year round."

Now, kimonos are usually v-necks and tied in the back.

But designers are putting their own spin on the original.

Try this one with jeans.

Or go for an olive green inspired jacket instead.

It's a look you can pull off just about anywhere.

Melissa Goff: "There are no rules for how you wear a kimono. You could dress it up as a dress or you could basically take that dress over a pair of jeans to go out at night, layer it over a tank."

At bebe at the Village of Merrick Park, a kimono is perfect anytime of day.

Delmy Rubio: "Traditional they were worn just by the Japanese women. They were part of everyday wardrobe for them. Nowadays, we're all wearing them in Miami because they're very comfortable, very fashion forward."

Plus you can get them in soft and flowy fabrics and all different colors and prints.

Pair a pretty black and white pattern with bermuda shorts.

Or dress to impress in this dress.

Since they're not form fitting, kimonos are still feminine, but look great on every body type.

Delmy Rubio: "It really can be worn by anybody and look sophisticated."

Shireen Sandoval: "Make sure you wear plenty of accessories with your kimono, any kind of jewelry will do."

Bebe
305-445-3122
350 San Lorenzo, Suite 2100
Coral Gables, FL 33146
http://www.bebe.com

Macy's
http://www.macys.com

Macy's At Dadeland Mall
305-662-3400
7303 SW 88 Street
Miami, FL 33156