1940s Hand Embroidered Dragon Silk Smoking Robe – Made in Japan

A remarkable 1940s silk smoking robe, made in Japan,  in vivid electric blue, beautifully hand embroidered with dramatic dragon motifs. 

Often mistaken for a kimono, this piece is actually a mid-century embroidered silk smoking robe — a luxurious lounge garment created for Western markets.

 

The back features a sweeping embroidered dragon that moves across the silk in a long serpentine form, its scaled body worked in gold thread with red accents that bring the design to life. Smaller dragons appear on the front, echoing the larger motif and giving the robe balance and visual impact from every angle.

 

The embroidery is entirely hand worked, giving the dragons a dimensional quality that catches the light against the luminous silk. Pieces like this reflect the craftsmanship of the period, where decorative embroidery was used to transform everyday garments into something far more special.

 

Cut in a relaxed kimono-style silhouette, the robe features wide sleeves, two front patch pockets, and a matching belt so it can be worn open as a dramatic outer layer or cinched at the waist.

 

The colour is particularly striking — a saturated electric blue that makes the gold dragon embroidery stand out beautifully and gives the piece a modern presence.

 

Dragon motifs have long been symbols of strength and power in East Asian decorative arts, and garments featuring large embroidered dragons remain highly sought after by collectors and vintage enthusiasts alike.

 

Today this piece feels just as compelling styled over denim, layered with eveningwear, or worn simply as the statement garment it was always meant to be.

 

 

 

 

Details

 

 

• 1940s vintage silk smoking robe

• Origin: Japan

• Hand embroidered dragon motifs

• Large dragon embroidery across the back

• Gold thread with red accents

• Electric blue silk with beautiful sheen

• Wide kimono style sleeves

• Two front patch pockets

• Matching belt

 

Condition: Excellent vintage condition.

 

 

 

 

Styling

 

 

A striking vintage piece that slips easily into a modern wardrobe — worn open over denim, layered over eveningwear, or as a dramatic statement garment.

 

 

Sizing

 

Best suited to a size S-M

 

Measurements

Bust- 58 cm

Waist- 59 cm

Sleeve- 33 cm

Length- 102 cm

 

 

All pieces are professionally cleaned and pressed. Returns are welcome