Why a Kimono Rental with Hair Styling Included Is the Easiest Option
The biggest cause of regret in kimono rental photos is not the kimono, it is the hair. Leave it in the loose style you wear with western clothes and the line of the collar does not read.
What a professional does differently
Kimono hair styling comes down to two things: showing the nape of the neck, and lifting the hair away from the face. Most HANAYAKA plans include hair styling and a hair ornament, done in the same run as the dressing (40-60 minutes in total). No hunting around for a salon that charges separately.
How to ask for what you want
Show us one screenshot of the look you are after. It is far more reliable than describing it. A loose braid for a lace kimono, extra volume for a furisode (long-sleeved formal kimono): our staff will suggest what suits the garment. Pick your plan from the pricing plans page.
The four standard kimono hairstyles and who they suit
1) Chignon (low bun): the classic. Works with any kimono and always looks neat. 2) Loose braid: goes well with lace kimono and Taisho Roman styles. Softer look. 3) Volume-up style: for formal wear such as furisode and homongi. Shows off the hair ornament. 4) Short and bob arrangements: lift the hair around the face and clear the nape and you have kimono hair.
The way not to get it wrong is to choose by the type of kimono rather than by face shape. If you cannot decide, settle the kimono first and hand the hair over to our staff. That gives the best result.
Choosing hair ornaments: less, not more
The rule with hair ornaments is one showpiece. Decide on one large flower, then fill the gaps with nothing more than small pearls or gold leaf. Stick in one of everything and a good hairstyle turns into a festival stall. Our hair ornaments are included in the plan price, so you can try them against the kimono as you choose.
Quick fixes when it comes loose
If your hair comes loose while you are out: 1) do not tuck stray strands behind your ear, twist them lightly and pin them, 2) if the volume on top has flattened, pinch the roots with your fingers and lift, 3) if nothing works, come back to the shop. We are happy to fix it during opening hours. A few hairpins in your bag are good insurance.
Frequently asked questions
- Q. Can you style short hair?
- Yes. We balance it with the styling and the hair ornament.
- Q. Can you do my make-up too?
- You can add the natural make-up service (¥7,700). Some photo plans include make-up.
- Q. Can I book hair styling on its own?
- Hair styling is offered as part of a kimono rental plan. Please ask us about styling on its own.
- Q. Can I wear a hair ornament with short hair?
- Yes. We use pin-on ornaments, which look just as good on short hair.
- Q. Will a morning style last until the evening?
- We set it to hold until late afternoon with normal activity. On windy days a stole for protection helps.
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