150 kimonos fro the prestigious house of Matsuzakaya (founded in 1611) arrive at the Musée Guimet, the fist time they have been shown outside of Japan.

Here’s all the info.

It really is an exceptional presentation of kimonos that awaits you at the Musée Guimet, a collecton lent by the house of Matsuzakaya, being shown outside its native country for the first time.

The exhibition shows the evolution of the kimono and its accessories, explaining how this essential piece of clothing has ceaselessly inspired not only Japanese fashion designers such as Kenzo and Issey Miyake, but also Yves Saint Laurent, John Galliano and Jean Paul Gaultier who have all reworked its structural codes into their own creations.

Originally an undergarment that only the rich could afford, the kimono was democratised as a visible piece of clothing by the Samurai before becoming popular in Europe from the middle of the 19th century.

The kimono also helped spurred the textile industry in Japan, thanks to its complexity and fine fabrics. In fact, the examples on display are so delicate that they will be entirely replaced during the exhibition, at the beginning of April. You’ll be able to go twice and see a whole new selection!

The exhibition Kimono — Au bonheur des dames is at the Musée Guimet (here) from 22nd February – 22nd May 2017

Open every day except Tuesdays from 10am-6pm. Last ticket at 5.15pm

Admission: 9.50€ / 7€ (includes the permanent collection)

Website: www.guimet.fr

Facebook: facebook.com/mnaaguimet

Twitter: twitter.com/MuseeGuimet

Instagram: instagram.com/mnaagofficiel

Les premiers kimonos s’installent. Rendez-vous mercredi 22 février pour l’ouverture de l’exposition ! #expokimono pic.twitter.com/x0BzJleyb2

— Musée Guimet (Mnaag) (@MuseeGuimet) 16 février 2017