Kimono Hijab Blends Japanese and Islamic Fashion

As cultural boundaries blur and cross-cultural appreciation rises, the concept of the “Kimono Hijab” stands as a profound symbol of creative fusion. Conceived by Japanese designer Kobayashi Kaori, this innovative blend of traditional Japanese kimono fabric and the elegance of the hijab offers more than just a fashion statement—it represents a bridge between Japanese and Islamic traditions. Kaori’s journey from an inspired tourist to a brand creator is a testament to fashion’s power to foster understanding and respect between cultures.

The Start of a Cultural Journey

In 2017, Kaori visited Malaysia for the first time, drawn to its vibrant blend of cultures. Among the various sights and sounds, she was captivated by the diverse styles of hijabs worn by Malaysian women. Her initial perception of hijabs as modest, uniform garments changed as she observed the intricacy, color, and design that characterized each piece. “I’d never seen hijabs in such vibrant colors before,” she recalls. “I realized that these headscarves were not just expressions of faith; they were expressions of beauty.”

Kaori’s cultural curiosity didn’t stop there. During her university studies, she had explored Japanese culture’s own history of fashion, particularly the colorful kimonos of the early 20th century. The artistry and symbolism behind kimonos resonated deeply with her, and now, seeing similar dedication in Islamic fashion, she felt a connection. “The hijabs reminded me of the kimono’s role in Japanese culture as something personal yet universal,” she explains. Inspired by this realization, Kaori decided to experiment with creating her own “Kimono Hijab,” combining the kimono’s rich textures with the elegance of Islamic headscarves.

The Evolution of the Kimono Hijab

Back in Japan, Kaori faced her first challenge: actually designing the Kimono Hijab. She purchased a sewing machine, much to her husband’s surprise, and used pieces of her grandmother’s vintage kimonos to create her initial designs. Her early attempts involved trial and error, stitching delicate silk fabrics onto simple cotton backings. “It wasn’t easy,” she admits, “but I was determined to make it work.”

With little initial knowledge of the cultural significance of the hijab in Islam, Kaori turned to online communities to learn. Through conversations with Muslim friends and connections from different countries, she gained insights into the religious and cultural context of hijabs. “They were generous with their time and helped me understand how hijabs function both as a religious symbol and as a personal choice,” she recalls. “That guidance shaped how I approached my designs, aiming to respect and celebrate the hijab’s meaning.”

Kaori continued to hone her craft, mixing vintage kimono silk with chiffon—a light, breathable fabric often used in hijabs in tropical climates like Malaysia’s. She realized that while kimono fabric alone could be heavy, combining it with chiffon created a balance that was both comfortable and stylish. In this blend, Kaori discovered the essence of the Kimono Hijab: a symbol of unity between two unique but harmonious cultural aesthetics.

Overcoming Cultural Barriers

Japan, like many other countries, has not been immune to misconceptions about Islam. Kaori faced skepticism and even subtle resistance from friends and family when she shared her plans to create Kimono Hijabs. News headlines often associated Islam with extremism, and some close friends even discouraged her from visiting mosques, warning her it could be dangerous. However, Kaori’s life experiences had already taught her the importance of seeing beyond stereotypes.

In 2012, Kaori had moved to Shanghai with her husband during a period of heightened anti-Japanese sentiment in China. Although she had been apprehensive due to negative media portrayals, her actual experience was different: she was met with respect and warmth from locals, which left a lasting impression. “It was a pivotal moment for me,” she reflects. “It taught me not to let popular perceptions cloud my view of other cultures.”

With this perspective, Kaori saw her Kimono Hijabs not merely as fashion but as a statement against bias. “If I could use fashion to bring people together, then that would be the true success of my brand,” she says.

Crafting the Kimono Hijab

The process of creating each Kimono Hijab is painstakingly detailed and requires a combination of skill, patience, and creativity. Traditional kimonos are made from various sections of fabric that must be delicately unstitched before being repurposed. Kaori only uses the outer layer of the kimono, carefully selecting patterns that resonate with her Muslim clientele. Each piece is hand-washed to preserve the quality of the silk, ironed meticulously, and prepared for sewing.

Kaori’s dedication to preserving the authenticity of each kimono shines through in her work. Rather than simply cutting and sewing, she repurposes the fabric thoughtfully, ensuring that each hijab carries its own unique history. “No two hijabs are the same,” she says. “Each one carries a story from the past, blended with the present.”

The upcycling of kimonos aligns with the global trend of sustainable fashion. According to data from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the fashion industry contributes significantly to global pollution, with textile production responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions. By using vintage fabrics, Kaori is part of a movement toward responsible fashion, giving new life to old materials and reducing waste.

Related: Why Hijab Fashion in Indonesia Is Drawing in Non-Muslim Designers

Launching Xiaxia Hijab Japan

After nine months of perfecting her designs, Kaori officially launched Xiaxia Hijab Japan. Her online shop attracted attention from fashion enthusiasts and Muslim women seeking unique and culturally infused pieces. The brand name, Xiaxia, includes the Japanese character “sha” (紗), representing the silk gauze traditionally used in kimonos, symbolizing the blend of Japanese and Islamic heritage.

Although her brand initially grew through word-of-mouth, it quickly gained popularity, particularly among Muslim tourists visiting Japan. Japan’s tourism sector, which has seen increasing numbers of Muslim travelers in recent years, provided fertile ground for Kaori’s brand. In 2020, Japan welcomed nearly 9.5 million Muslim tourists, a number expected to grow as Japan continues to enhance its Muslim-friendly offerings.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic threatened to halt Xiaxia Hijab Japan’s momentum. Tourism dwindled, and Kaori herself fell ill. Yet her commitment remained unshaken. In 2022, she opened her first physical shop in Tama, Tokyo, and later another location in the bustling fashion district of Harajuku. Her perseverance paid off when a video showcasing her brand went viral on social media in late 2023. “We sold out within days,” Kaori says, recalling the overwhelming response.

The Impact of Global Reach

Social media has played a pivotal role in promoting Xiaxia Hijab Japan. The viral video not only increased foot traffic to her store but also introduced her brand to a global audience. “People from all over the world started reaching out,” she says. The power of social media has enabled Kaori’s Kimono Hijabs to transcend borders, resonating with fashion enthusiasts and cultural appreciators worldwide.

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have been instrumental in connecting Kaori with a younger, trend-conscious audience interested in modest fashion. Influencers have also played a role, with many showcasing her designs, sparking a wave of interest from Muslim communities in countries such as Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.

Expanding the Brand

Buoyed by her brand’s success, Kaori has ambitious plans for Xiaxia Hijab Japan. With the modest fashion market expected to reach $313 billion by 2025, according to the Global Islamic Economy Report, Kaori sees significant potential for growth. She is currently exploring designs for abayas and other traditional Islamic garments that incorporate Japanese aesthetics, further expanding the scope of her brand.

Kaori’s customers frequently request matching abaya-hijab sets, and she is excited to explore this new avenue. “The idea of creating a complete outfit that blends Japanese and Islamic heritage is incredibly appealing to me,” she says. By expanding her offerings, Kaori hopes to continue fostering mutual respect and admiration between Japanese and Muslim communities.

Fostering Mutual Understanding

While the primary audience for Xiaxia Hijab Japan has been Muslim women, Kaori has noticed growing interest among non-Muslim customers as well. Many Japanese and international visitors are drawn to her designs as wearable art pieces, appreciating the unique cultural blend they represent. This trend reflects a growing appreciation for cultural diversity in fashion, where traditional garments are being reimagined and embraced across different cultural contexts.

Japan’s hospitality sector has been evolving to cater to Muslim travelers, with Tokyo now home to numerous halal restaurants, prayer rooms, and Muslim-friendly accommodations. The Japanese government has been supportive of such initiatives, recognizing the importance of inclusivity for tourism growth. For Kaori, this shift represents an opportunity for greater cultural integration. “The Kimono Hijab isn’t just about style; it’s about building bridges and encouraging dialogue between cultures,” she says.

The Legacy of True Beauty

As Xiaxia Hijab Japan celebrates its seventh anniversary, Kaori reflects on the impact her brand has had. From a personal project inspired by curiosity to a business dedicated to bridging cultures, her journey is a testament to the transformative power of fashion. Her brand’s motto, “True beauty knows no borders,” captures the essence of her work, reminding people that fashion can be a universal language that promotes understanding and respect.

Kaori’s husband, Keita, has been a steadfast supporter throughout her journey, leveraging his experience in public relations to help bring Xiaxia Hijab Japan to a broader audience. “I’m proud of what she’s accomplished,” he says. Together, they have turned a small idea into a movement, proving that even the most traditional symbols can be reimagined in ways that resonate with modern values.

As Kaori expands her brand and introduces new designs, she hopes her creations will inspire others to see beauty in diversity. “The Kimono Hijab is more than a product; it’s a message,” she says. “It’s a reminder that when we open ourselves to other cultures, we find common ground and beauty in our shared humanity.”