All products > Lay Robe

$550

Lay robes were invented to fill a need created by the unique hybrid of lay and monastic practice that has developed in the West. This robe is the San Francisco Zen Center version, which is a simplified adaptation of the black priest koromo, but with shorter sleeves, longer skirts, and fewer pleats. The skirt features three deep box pleats: two on the sides and one in the back, and is long enough to completely cover the kimono underneath. There are two long ribbons attached inside for tying up the sleeves.

Lay robes should be worn with a juban, kimono, and belt. I offer a simple tie belt in matching fabric (free, specify when ordering if you want this) as a budget alternative to the braided robe belt.

Style options
  • Add simple tie belt (instead of robe belt)
  • Add permanent pleats (what is this?+$25
  • Add hand-sewn removable overcollar plus a replacement fabric piece (what is this?+$50
Fabric options
FabricFiber ContentColor(s)DescriptionAdd’l Cost
Cotton lawn100% cottonBlackVery lightweight, semi-sheer cotton.
Lightweight cotton100% cottonBlackSoft, lightweight cotton with nice drape, heavier than cotton lawn. Opaque.
Rayon100% rayonBlackMaximum drape and fluid hand for a soft effect, comfortable and light.