✦ Carabao Joy - Wide Jute Kimono with Linen Lining and Hand-Embroidered Artwork
The story of Carabao Joy.
Oh the rice fields. They always take me back to a summer from long ago, a time when life felt heavy with quiet, endless possibilities. I had returned to Atimonan, the town of my childhood, seeking refuge from the constant motion of Manila. The sun hung high and blazed golden in the sky, its heat unrelenting, while the rice fields unfurled before me like an endless tapestry woven with shimmering greens and golds. It was a moment when I felt simultaneously tethered to and apart from my roots.
One afternoon, my cousin called out a challenge. He dared me to hop on a carabao-drawn sledge, the same one farmers used to haul rice stalks. “Too much of a city girl now, Ate Rose?” he teased, his grin mischievous and wide. I couldn’t let that slide. So, without much thought, I clambered onto the creaking wooden sledge, feeling the rough burlap sacks scrape against my legs as I tried to balance myself. The carabao started moving, its steady, deliberate steps rocking the sledge beneath me. The air around us was alive with the earthy scent of damp soil and the faint, steady hum of cicadas. For a while, I clutched the edges nervously, feeling every jolt and sway. But something in me shifted.
The sky above seemed to draw closer, the far-off mountains sharpened into focus, and the fields surrounding me pulsed with the rhythm of life. It was as if the land itself had a heartbeat, and for the first time, I felt it. By the time we reached the far end of the field, my cousin was laughing as he pointed out a streak of dirt across my cheek. But I didn’t care. For those few moments, I wasn’t the dreamer. I was just me, part of the land, moving forward with its timeless strength.
Even now, whenever I think of that ride, I’m reminded of the quiet, unyielding power of the carabao and the grace of the people who work the fields. There’s a rhythm to it all—steady, enduring, and profoundly alive. It’s a rhythm I still carry with me, like a quiet lesson whispered by the past, in every journey I take.
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The one-of-a-kind Carabao Joy kimono embodies a fusion of Filipino rustic charm and bohemian style, made from textured, natural jute fabric that reflects a strong connection to rural life and the earth. Its open, robe-like silhouette is inspired by traditional Japanese kimonos but uniquely adapted with a touch of Filipino heritage. Lined with soft linen for added comfort, this kimono ensures a breathable and luxurious feel against the skin, making it both comfortable and durable.
A standout feature is the hand-embroidered patch on the back, crafted over the course of two weeks by a 12-year-old schoolgirl as a means to supplement her pocket money.
Artwork & Symbolism:
The patch showcases a vibrant depiction of a carabao pulling a cart. The carabao, a cherished symbol in Filipino culture and the official national animal, represents resilience, strength, and hard work, reflecting the enduring connection to agricultural traditions and the unyielding spirit of rural communities. This intricate embroidery adds a personal, artisanal touch to the garment, infusing it with profound meaning and cultural significance.
Details:
The kimono comes with a matching belt featuring a beautiful stitch design, offering a refined way to cinch the waist without requiring belt holders, maintaining the garment's sleek and seamless aesthetic. Notably, it has no pockets, emphasizing a minimalist and elegant design that focuses on its heritage-inspired elements. The earthy brown jute fabric perfectly complements the intricate artistry, blending tradition with contemporary fashion in a meaningful and timeless design.
The Carabao Joy kimono comes pre-washed.
Look & Feel:
This kimono combines a rugged outer shell with exceptional comfort, thanks to its breathable linen lining. Weighing a substantial 1.7 kg, it offers a secure, grounded feel—almost like wearing a modern piece of armor. The sturdy material not only enhances its durability but also adds a structured look, making it less prone to heavy wrinkling. A perfect balance of strength and style, this kimono is as practical as it is striking.
Specifications:
Length: 120 cm
Shoulder-Width: 64 cm
Full-Arm-Length: 64 cm
Why You'll Love This
Why You'll Love This
Step into a story with every wear. This super unique kimono is more than just a garment—it's a piece of culture and heritage. Made from eco-friendly jute fabric and featuring a breathtaking hand-embroidered carabao crafted by a 12-year-old schoolgirl, it captures the essence of Filipino resilience and artistry. Perfect for the eco-conscious and the artful spirit, this kimono lets you wear sustainability with pride and elegance, blending tradition with timeless design. Whether as a bold statement or a cherished addition to your wardrobe, you’ll love its unmatched authenticity and craftsmanship.
Special Features
Special Features
- No pockets & belt loop for a minimalistic feel
- Sturdy Material
- Sturdy neck hanger
- Hand-Embroidery Artwork
Measurements
Measurements
Product measurements listed in cm.
Our kimonos come in a variety of sizes to ensure a perfect fit. For detailed sizing information, please refer to our Size Guide.
Fabrics
Fabrics
Outer: 80% Jute, 20% Baumwolle/Cotton.
Inner: 100% Baumwolle / Cotten (Linen).
Model(s)
Model(s)
Jowen 168 cm
Care Instructions
Care Instructions
Handle your Yugto kimono with love! For all kimonos, we recommend hand washing in cold water, air drying flat, and ironing on low heat. Woven fabrics may experience slight shrinkage. For full care details, please refer to our Care Guide.
- Design: Rose
- Days it took: 5
- Sewers: Bhudo
