Find Your Perfect Plus Size Yukata in Japan: Sizing Tips, Choosing Colors and Where to Shop
Contents How to Choose Your Yukata Size
How to Choose Your Yukata Size
The most important factors to consider when choosing the size of a yukata are your height and hip size. In the case of plus-size yukatas, hip size is the most important factor.
Many yukatas are sold as "free size." When a yukata size is described as "free size," it is usually intended for people between 156 cm and 165 cm tall, with hips up to about 94 cm. For reference, in American standardized jeans sizing, if you have 94 cm (37") hips, you would typically wear approximately a size 4 jeans.
If your hips are larger than 94 cm, there are plenty of yukatas available in larger sizes. Yukatas in sizes 4L and up can accommodate individuals with hips of around 130 cm and Western clothing sizes up to size 26.
When choosing a yukata size, select a hip size that is larger than your actual hip measurement. Ideally, you want your yukata or kimono to be at least 40 cm (or 16 inches) larger. This will allow for proper wearing and comfort. If you choose something that is only 25 to 40 cm larger, it may fit but could feel tight. Anything smaller than 25 cm may not fit properly or may be difficult to wear. When buying larger-sized yukata and kimono, keep in mind that they tend to be longer as well. Don't be discouraged by the longer lengths; there are easy ways to shorten a yukata. You can adjust the length by folding it and securing the excess fabric underneath the obi.
Additionally, you can also find 2-piece yukata, where the top and bottom are separate. This can be easier to style and adjust the length for those who want a more convenient option.
What to Wear Under Your Yukata
No bra is required when wearing a yukata. However, if you have a larger chest or need support, you can wear a light bra (or a kimono bra if you choose). A common question is whether you should flatten or bind your chest. This is not necessary for a yukata, as it’s meant to be light summer attire. However, it’s best to avoid anything that significantly enhances your chest, such as a push-up bra, as it can make placing and tying the obi belt around the chest area more challenging.
Some traditional items are meant to be worn with the yukata. These include a full slip, waist string, and datejime. Because the sleeves of a yukata are loose, wearing a slip with sleeves prevents people from being able to see your bra or bare chest through the armhole when your arm is raised.
If you'd like, you can choose to wear traditional yukata undergarments. This set from KIMONOMOCHI in sizes 3L/4L includes a slip, datejime, waist string, and obi board. The slip is worn as the first layer, under the yukata. The waist string and datejime are used to keep the collar and yukata in place, and the obi board is used to keep the obi from bunching up or becoming creased at the waist. They also offer a plus-size kimono bra in sizes up to 5L, but any supportive fabric bra you have would also be suitable for wearing with a yukata.
How to Choose a Yukata Color and Pattern
Yukatas come in a large variety of seasonal colors and patterns so there are many you can choose from!
Each yukata pattern has its own meaning. Here are some of the most common yukata pattern meanings so you can choose one that resonates with you.
Cherry Blossoms - New Beginnings, Abundance
Peony, Chinese Peony, and Lily - Happiness, Wealth
Plum - Perseverance, Prosperity, Clarity of Mind
Morning Glory - Strong Bond, Love
Hydrangea - Harmonious Atmosphere, Family Gathering
Iris - Winning, Polite, Protection from Evil
Goldfish - Happiness, Abundance
Wisteria - Forever Beautiful, Deeply in Love, Loyal
Rose - Love, Beauty, Shyness
Butterfly - Smile, Grace
Sunflower - Longing, Passion
Chrysanthemum - Noble, Nobility
When choosing the color and pattern of your yukata, it's all about your personal preference. A yukata is something you can wear to many events over time, and it should reflect your taste and style. If you are plus-size and a light color or a large, bright print catches your eye—go for it! You should feel happy and confident in your style, rather than dressing with the objective of 'looking slimmer' or hiding your body.
How to Choose an Obi
In many cases, if you are purchasing a modern yukata, an obi may be included as a set. However, if you're buying your obi separately from the yukata, you can use a little color theory to help you choose the right color.
Complementary Accent Color: Match your obi to any one color found in the print of your yukata.
Contrasting Color: Choose a color near the opposite side of the color wheel (e.g., light blue and yellow, navy blue and red, dark purple and leaf green).
Monochromatic: Choose an obi that is in the same color family as your yukata (e.g., pink and red, yellow and orange, dark and light green).
Mixing patterns is not uncommon, but it takes some practice to create a cohesive look. If you're a beginner or generally have a difficult time with patterns in your day-to-day wardrobe, opting for a plain or very subtly patterned obi may be easier.
For yukata, we recommend a half-width obi (半幅帯), as it's the most versatile and easy to style. You can learn to tie many different bows with this obi. If you're new to yukata, take some time to explore various bow styles and how to tie them (there are many useful tutorials on Youtube!)
Where to Buy Plus Size Yukata
If you're looking to purchase affordable yukata in Japan, shopping online offers the widest variety of colors and styles. While plus-size yukata and kimono are available in stores, they are often considered specialty items, so not all shops carry larger sizes.
Available Plus Sizes: Yukata sizes go up to 5L, accommodating hips up to 120cm.
With sizes up to 5L, Un Cocon offers a wide collection of plus-size yukata. Based in Kyoto, they are conveniently available on Rakuten, allowing you to shop for yukata and accessories that suit your style.
For reference, the models shown in the product photos are all wearing size 5L yukata.
Available Plus Sizes: Yukata sizes go up to 8L-10L
Alinoma is an online marketplace that offers a wide range of plus-size clothing, including yukata and accessories for various occasions. With sizes up to 10L, Alinoma features unique, modern yukata designs, alongside traditional options. The site offers yukata and obi sets from different brands, making it a convenient option for finding the perfect look for special events.
Available Plus Sizes: Yukata sizes go up to 5L, accommodating hips and bust up to 120cm.
This brand is run by a kimono shop that was founded 140 years ago. Many of the items offered online are three-piece sets, which include a yukata, a long obi, and geta sandals. You'll also find two-piece yukata sets, which are easier to style and wear comfortably, without the need to fold the yukata at the waist as is usually required. Each yukata has slightly different measurements for sizing, so read product descriptions carefully before ordering.
Available Plus Sizes LL: 156-165cm tall, up to 110 cm hip (approximately an American size 14/XL)
3L: 175cm tall, 110-120cm hip
4L: 175cm tall, 130cm hip
KIMONOMACHI is a trusted online site that sells a variety of traditional Japanese clothing, including yukata. Their yukatas feature original designs and come as sets (with an obi) for your convenience. Some sets also include geta, the traditional sandals worn with yukata. There is a section of their online store that is for large sizes. You can find beautiful yukata in both tall sizes and plus sizes up to 4L.
