What kind of collar do you prefer?
Can your choice of collar stay change how you look in a kimono?
Hello, this is Yukiwa❄
Everyone, do you have a favorite collar stay?
"What do you mean by a preference for collar stays?!"—if that’s what you just thought, this is for you.
I hope today’s article is helpful☆
Check the shape and thickness of your collar stay!
First, take a look at the collar stay you have on hand. What shape is it?
Is it straight with semi-circular ends? Does it have a gentle curve, with ends that are also gently curved? Is it thin? Or thick?
The favorite collar stay I have on hand is this type.
These are the gently curved (boat-shaped) ones: a thicker version (top) and a thinner version (bottom).
When you line them up, the difference in length is also immediately obvious!
Recommended collar stays for different kimono occasions
For formal kimono days, when you want to pull the collar (emon) back firmly and keep the neckline looking sharp, use a thicker collar stay.
For yukata days, when you want to be comfortable but don’t want a floppy neckline, use a thinner collar stay.
For casual kimono like tsumugi or komon, I choose based on my mood that day.
How to set a collar stay correctly
Where does the collar stay go? Watch the orientation
Insert the collar stay inside the han-eri (the side closest to your skin).
The straight edge of the collar stay should go toward the folded edge of the han-eri.
If your han-eri is sewn on securely, that should be enough to keep it in place.
A handy trick for when the collar stay shifts
If it still slips, then "Help me, safety pin!!" (Did you read that in the style of Anpanman??)
Securing the ends with safety pins will prevent it from shifting.
If you have a collar stay you use every time, sewing it in lightly, as shown by the red line, is also a great option.
How do you handle fixing and cleaning your collar stay?
If you thought, "But if I sew it in, can I wash the han-eri?", you’re sharp! ♡
I will introduce methods for handling that in a future article.
By the way, I use a safety pin for the right side and stitch the left side in place.
Since both kimono and juban are worn right-side over left, I find that using a pin on the right helps prevent wear and tear.
Check out Yukiwa’s recommended products
Please take a look at Yukiwa’s kitsuke accessories and recommended items.
Also check out this blog
▶ Basics of obi tying and hanhaba obi arrangement techniques
▶ Tips for yukata dressing and padding
▶ Yukata coordination techniques
▶ Choosing innerwear for yukata
