How to Style a Kimono for a Night In or a Beach Day

Quick Answer

For a night in, layer a lightweight kimono over silk pajamas or a camisole for effortless elegance. For the beach, choose a breathable kimono as a cover-up over your swimsuit, tying it at the waist for definition. Focus on fabric and length to match the occasion.

A kimono is one of the most versatile pieces in a woman's wardrobe. Whether you're lounging at home or heading to the shore, this flowing garment can elevate your look with minimal effort. The key is understanding how to style it for different settings, balancing comfort with chic.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical steps to style a kimono for a cozy night in or a sunny beach day. You’ll also discover how to choose the right kimono for each occasion, along with styling tips that work for various body types.

Choosing the Right Kimono for the Occasion

Before you start styling, consider the fabric and length. For a night in, opt for soft, breathable materials like silk or modal that feel luxurious against the skin. A knee-length or midi kimono works well over pajamas or a slip dress, adding a layer of warmth without bulk.

For the beach, choose a lightweight, quick-drying fabric like cotton or a recycled blend. A longer, flowy kimono provides more coverage, while a shorter one is easier to move in. Aubade's kimonos, such as those from their nightwear collection, are designed with elegance and comfort in mind.

• Check the care label: silk kimonos often require hand washing, while cotton blends are machine washable.
• Consider the color: darker shades hide sand and spills better for beach wear.

Night In: Layering for Comfort and Style

For a night in, start with a base of silk pajamas or a camisole and shorts. Drape your kimono over your shoulders, letting it hang open for a relaxed vibe, or tie it with the sash for a more polished look. The kimono adds a touch of French luxury to your loungewear.

Accessorize minimally: a pair of soft slippers and a cup of tea complete the ambiance. If you're feeling chilly, layer a cozy cardigan underneath, but keep the kimono as the outer layer to maintain the aesthetic.

• Mistake to avoid: don't wear a kimono over bulky sweats; it ruins the silhouette.

Beach Day: Cover-Up with Flair

When heading to the beach, your kimono serves as a stylish cover-up. Slip it over your swimsuit—whether a bikini or one-piece—and let it flow as you walk. For a more defined look, tie the sash at your waist, which also helps create an hourglass shape.

Choose a kimono with a fun print or vibrant color to stand out. Aubade's swimwear collection includes pieces like the Sun Pop One-piece swimsuit, which pairs beautifully with a neutral kimono to balance bold patterns.

• Checkpoint: ensure your kimono is long enough to cover your hips if you're wearing a bikini bottom.

Step-by-Step Kimono Styling Guide

1. Select Your Base Layer: Choose a base outfit that complements the kimono. For nightwear, opt for silk pajamas or a slip. For beach, wear a swimsuit that you feel confident in. Checkpoint: The base layer should not be too bulky or patterned, as the kimono is the statement piece.
2. Drape or Tie the Kimono: For a relaxed look, leave the kimono open. To define your waist, tie the sash in a loose knot. For a beach cover-up, tying at the waist helps create a flattering silhouette. Mistake to avoid: Tying too tightly can bunch the fabric; aim for a comfortable fit.
3. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Add minimal accessories: delicate jewelry for night, sunglasses and a sun hat for the beach. Choose footwear that matches the vibe—slippers at home, sandals for the shore. Final check: Ensure the overall look feels effortless and true to your personal style.

Product Picks for Kimono Styling

• Coeurs Enlacés Hipster briefs Nightfall: Comfortable and sexy, ideal for wearing under low-waisted trousers or skirts, the Cœurs Enlacés mini-coeur brief features a sumptuous embroidered pattern with interwoven arabesques on tulle enhanced by shiny threads. When styling a kimono for a night in, these briefs offer a luxurious foundation that remains hidden yet sensual, ensuring you feel elegant from the inside out.
• Secret Cove Underwired triangle bra: Covering the bust with recycled stretch fabric for excellent comfort and support, the Secret Cove Plunging Triangle Bikini Top is available up to cup size E and creates a very deep and seductive cleavage. For a beach day, this triangle bikini top provides support and style, making it a perfect base layer under a sheer kimono cover-up.

Mastering kimono styling opens up a world of versatile outfits. Whether you're relaxing at home or soaking up the sun, a well-chosen kimono enhances your comfort and elegance. Explore Aubade's collections to find pieces that inspire your next look.