#Japan #Chiba #Japanese Culture #Kimono Fashion #Universal Kimono Award

The Universal Kimono Award 2025

Introduction

The much-anticipated Universal Kimono Award (UKA) 2025 is set to take place on November 26, 2025, at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan. Organized by Ichikura Co., Ltd., this prestigious event celebrates five years of honoring the exquisite art of kimono wearing, with this year's theme focused on “NEW NORMAL.”

The UKA aims to bridge Japanese culture and kimono traditions to future generations, showcasing the unique and innovative interpretations of kimono styles in various categories. Expect an exhilarating display of talent as participants from across the country compete in fields such as formal, casual, and traditional textile arts.

A Shift in Perspective

The notion of traditional kimono began to take shape in the 1970s; however, with societal changes over the past 55 years, the relationship with fashion and lifestyle has transformed significantly. The theme “NEW NORMAL” whispers the idea that tradition does not simply mean preserving the past—it evolves and adapts to contemporary life.

UKA 2025 aspires to unveil a new standard for kimono dressing. Highlights of the event will reflect current trends, with contestants demonstrating their creativity in styling and coordination.

Event Highlights

Showcasing Innovation

1. Summer Single Layer Kimono: Recently, there has been a rise in the wearing of summer single-layer kimonos, promoting comfort and elegance.
2. Mode Style Kimono: Encouraging unconventional styling, this category embraces individual expression through modern fashion.
3. Three-Season Kimono Collection: A fresh perspective on seasonal wear that meets modern needs will also be featured prominently.
4. New Style Furisode: Developed in collaboration with the Tokyo Mode Gakuen, this innovative style embraces traditional craftsmanship while catering to current fashion sensibilities.
5. One & Only Grace: A new brand of dress furisode, this line emphasizes individualized beauty.
6. Universal Design Furisode: A commitment to inclusivity, these outfits are designed to be accessible for those using wheelchairs.

Event Details

Date: November 26, 2025
Time: 16:30 – 19:00
Venue: Makuhari Messe Event Hall
Address: 2-1 Nakase, Mihama-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 261-8550, Japan

Program Outline

• - 16:00: Doors open
• - 16:30: Show begins

- Opening ceremony
- Pre-show activities
- Introduction of judges and explanation of the judging process
- Kimono Innovation segment
- Universal Kimono Award 2025 showcase
- Japan Kimono Selection
- Announcement and award ceremony

• - 19:00: Event concludes (tentative)

Judging Categories

• - Casual “Weaving” and “Dyeing” sections: Participants present daily wear coordinated with fashionable obi.
• - Summer Kimono section: Features outfits representative of summer styles.
• - Single Layer section: Showcases seasonal coordination with single-layer kimonos.
• - Formal section: Outfits for formal occasions, including elaborate obi styles.
• - Furisode section: Formals for young unmarried women highlighted in every detail.
• - Traditional craft section: Kimonos utilizing techniques deserving of preservation.
• - Pair section: Unique styles coordinated between pairs.
• - Mode section: Displays showcasing individual flair through accessories and designs.
• - Sustainable fashion section: Use of inherited or recycled kimonos as fashion highlights.
• - Diamond section: Special contests for awardees from previous UKA titles.

Judging Criteria

Judges will evaluate based on coordination, style, walking, expressiveness, and grace.

Awards

Awards include Grand Prix, Special Jury Prize, and specific category awards for outstanding performances.

Special Jury Members

• - Chief Judge: Hideki Takahashi
• - Judges: LiLiCo, Ryohei Odai, Yukipoyo, Yumichii, and sixteen 2024 award winners will also lend their expertise.

About Ichikura Co., Ltd.

Founded in February 1991, Ichikura Co., Ltd. is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, focusing on kimono and wedding-related services. The company operates 117 stores nationwide, along with an online store, enhancing the culture of kimono wearing through rentals, sales, photography, and lessons. Their wedding division prides itself on excellence in service across multiple venues domestically and internationally.