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The brand of obi and boots that will make you exclamation with surprise and emotion (wow) with their beauty that is so amazing and easy to put on.

 

The obi and boots are made from a matching obi, and can be worn with Japanese clothing as well as Western clothing such as dresses and denim.


Nowadays, obi come in a variety of styles, from flashy to unique, but in the past they were very thin and simply tied.
Fashion became popular during the Edo period, and the "darari musubi" style kabuki actor Uemura Koya tied for his female roles on stage was apparently all the rage at the time.
After her graduation, light clothing became popular as times changed, and the modern-day "fukuro obi" (sash that is easy to tie) was created.
Just as Western clothing goes through trends, the width and tying method of obi have also changed over their long history.


The beauty of kimonos and obi is that each one is carefully crafted using techniques that incorporate traditional Japanese performing arts.
As the number of Japanese people wearing kimonos is decreasing, we want to popularize obi that are easy to tie.
We want to develop new items that allow people to enjoy fashion using obi.
"Waobi" was born from this feeling.


You can also wear the boots over your own, most comfortable pumps.




"Wao bi" products are generally one-of-a-kind.

From antique pieces to unique patterns, you're sure to find an item that will express your individuality.
If you place an order, we can also make it from your favorite obi.


Not only can people who love kimonos wear them, but also those who find it difficult to tie an obi and cannot wear traditional Japanese clothing can simply wear them.
You can enjoy coordinating it not only with kimonos and yukatas, but also with dresses and pants styles.

"Message from Designer Sayaka"

“I don’t want to follow the crowd.
I want to wear something different.”

With this belief, I have pursued haute couture,
and wondered how I could reimagine the traditional Japanese kimono and obi into something more freely wearable.

Each kimono and obi is a one-of-a-kind creation,
woven with intricate craftsmanship and made from fine materials such as pure silk.


These are masterpieces of Japanese tradition.
 

I want more people—both Japanese and international—to enjoy their beauty in everyday life.

This desire led to the creation of the obi-and-boots brand “Wao bi.”

Historically, obi were simple, narrow sashes, tied plainly.
In the Edo period, fashion flourished, and a style called “darari musubi”—popularized by kabuki actor Yoshie Uemura—captivated the public.
After the war, fashion shifted toward simplicity, giving rise to the easy-to-wear fukuro obi we know today.

Just like Western fashion, obi too have evolved with the times.

While honoring this rich history, Wao bi transforms the obi into a versatile fashion item—
 

one that pairs effortlessly with dresses, denim, and modern styles.

Every Wao bi piece is one-of-a-kind.
From antique designs to bold, expressive patterns,
our pieces are crafted to let your individuality shine.

Take a step forward,
and discover a new expression of your beauty.

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