Mai Yamamoto Boutique
My Kimono Story: Breathing New Life into Vintage Beauty
In the quiet forest of Quebec, far from the bustling cities of Japan, I create with my hands — guided by the spirit of old kimono fabric and the stories they carry.
These vintage kimonos were once worn with pride, full of intricate details, soft silks, and time-honored patterns. But many now face being discarded, forgotten. I felt called to rescue them — to give them a second life.
Kimono culture is, at its heart, a culture of reuse. Kimonos are passed down, altered, patched, and reborn across generations. This spirit of mindful preservation — of cherishing what already exists — resonates deeply with me. I embrace that ethos by giving new life to vintage kimono fabric that might otherwise be disappeared.
Each piece I make — whether it’s a garment, a bag, or a small accessory — is carefully handcrafted using fabric from authentic Japanese vintage kimonos. I aim to preserve their beauty while reimagining them for modern, everyday life.
Surrounded by the changing seasons and calm of the Canadian forest, I find inspiration in both nature and tradition. Every item I make reflects this harmony: between Japan and Canada, between the past and the present, between art and sustainability.
Wear the story. Carry the tradition. Own something truly only one in the world.
Read more stories about me and kimono, please visit my blog on Medium.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maiyamamoto_boutique
