Antique 1920s/30s Embroidered Robe/Kimono

A beautifully preserved early 20th-century European kimono-style wrap robe, dating to the late 1920s–early 1930s and created during the height of the Orientalist fashion movement. Pieces like this were produced for the European luxury market as dressing gowns, tea robes, and evening layers, inspired by East Asian silhouettes but adapted for Western wear.

This example is made from a fine black silk crepe, lighter in weight than later mid-century crepes, with a fluid drape and softly pebbled surface typical of the period. It is richly hand embroidered throughout in silk thread with scrolling arabesque and stylised floral motifs. The embroidery is worked in delicate, iridescent pastel tones — soft champagne, silver, blush, celadon and faint lilac — giving it a painterly, watercolour-like effect against the matte black ground.

Constructed as a wrap style with original self-fabric ties stitched in, this piece is exceptionally versatile. It can be worn fully open as a dramatic duster or robe, or wrapped and tied to create a striking kimono-style dress. When worn wrapped and fitted, it has a surprisingly modern feel, closely resembling the kimono wrap dresses popular in the early 2000s. On the model (EU 36), it reads as an elegant evening dress — perfect with heels and a clutch — yet it transitions effortlessly into a more relaxed, bohemian look layered over antique cotton sleepwear or styled with boots. A true multi-wear piece that moves between dress, robe, and outer layer with ease.

Condition

Very good antique condition. Light, even wear consistent with age. Minor, scattered age-related imperfections may be present, but no structural issues. The silk crepe remains fluid and strong, and the embroidery is well preserved throughout.

Size guidance

Highly versatile fit. Open size when worn open, up to around a EU 44 /UK16/US12 when worn closed, wrapped and tied, depending on desired overlap and styling.

Measurements (laid flat):

Pit to pit (open, panels just touching): 57 cm

Waist (open): 59 cm

Hips (open): 62 cm

Pit to pit (tied with overlap): 53 cm

Waist (tied with overlap): 50 cm

Hips (tied with overlap): 53 cm

Shoulders: 49 cm

Arm span (cuff to cuff): 114 cm

Sleeve length (from shoulder): 57 cm

Arm opening: 19 cm

Total length: approx. 150 cm

Tie lengths:

Shorter tie: 73 cm

Longer tie: 139 cm