Meet Rin Uemura | Kimono Stylist & Studio Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rin Uemura and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rin, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
It’s the same in Japan, but overseas, many people have the image that kimono is something formal and difficult to wear. However, because of this image, even in Japan, kimonos are often stored away at the back of wardrobes, and end up being treated poorly. Even though they are highly regarded worldwide, they are rarely given the chance to be used. But at my studio, we combine kimonos with casual wear, creating a fusion of traditional and Western styles (kimono x Western fashion) that can be worn more easily. We’re actively working to let more people know that this is possible.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My strength lies in my sense of style and my constant research into how to make kimono more wearable while still highlighting its beauty. I focus on creating a unique style that merges traditional kimono with casual wear, making it both accessible and elegant.

The journey to my current professional position has not been easy. I first had to master the basics of kimono, especially since there are many people, even within Japan, who are not particularly fond of altering or modernizing traditional kimono. Because of this, I made sure to thoroughly learn the basics of kimono dressing and understand the traditional ways before evolving my own modern interpretations and arrangements.

The way to wear kimono is limitless, and my goal is for people to first experience and develop an interest in kimono. To achieve this, I challenge myself every day and constantly work to step up my skills and knowledge.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When my best friend is visiting the area, I would take them to my favorite places in LA. I will take them to Redondo Beach pier and enjoy the beach, then eat fresh crabs and seafood at the Quality Seafood. We will go to various breweries in the south bay area since we have many great local beers, and go watch either the Lakers game or Dodgers game depending on the season. We will go down to OC to one of the theme parks, and go eat some great Vietnamese food afterwards. In the morning we will go check out the local farmer’s market, and go play at the park with my daughter. We will definitely eat some Mexican food as it’s incomparable to other cities, and of course, will do some kimono styling and photo shoots at my studio!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Miki, my best friend from high school and former roommate in Los Angeles during the COVID-19 lockdown, has had a profound impact on my kimono career. Prior to moving to LA as a student, Miki worked as a kimono stylist in Japan, and she introduced me to the intricate beauty of working with kimono. During the lockdown, we frequently discussed the potential of launching a business in the United States, and it was during these conversations that Miki spoke about the kimono industry. Her insights were eye-opening, and they expanded my perspective on the opportunities for kimono here in LA. Inspired by her journey, I pursued formal education in kitsuke (kimono styling) and obtained my professional license. In 2024, I opened my own kimono studio, where I continue to share the elegance and cultural richness of kimono with a broader audience.

Website: https://www.ohkinnyentertainment.com

Instagram: @ohkinny.entertainment

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ohkinny-entertainment-torrance?osq=Kimono+Rental

Image Credits
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