"Japanese aesthetic is known for its considered practicality and simple, pared-back style....
Alison Schipp, Founder + Director
Beautiful Robes began in 2010 from a simple search to fill the gap in my wardrobe after misplacing my much-loved 20-year-old Japanese kimono robe. I found it surprisingly difficult to replace a robe that balanced everyday practicality with beautiful design.
As a new mum with two toddlers and a pup, I set out to find something that could keep up with family life while still feeling considered, comfortable and a little bit special.
So, back to Japan I went…
I was Looking for Joy
Maybe even a little bit of “kimono robe magic”…
from my dressing gown — a small moment to step outside of myself.
Remembering that Japanese aesthetics are known for their considered practicality and simple, pared-back style, it felt like the perfect synthesis of beautiful design and everyday function — something that could genuinely support the rhythm of family life.
At the time, I was rethinking my work and searching for something that brought creativity, joy and flexibility, so I could be present for my young family. My formerly demanding corporate marketing and management career was no longer feasible, so I began applying what I knew to building something of my own.
It felt risky.
To test the idea, I found myself standing in the playground at my children’s kindergarten, armed with pen, paper and a small collection of kimono robes. Surrounded by mums, bubs, kids, balls and sticky buns, by the end of afternoon pick-up, I had sold every piece and filled an order book.
The magic had begun.
I had always believed that kimono robes would hold up to the realities of home life — but it quickly became clear they were so much more. Not just beautiful kimono dressing gowns, but effortless layering pieces, beach cover-ups and everyday essentials for both women and men.
Versatile. Practical. Easy to wear.
After a lot of hard work, we are now celebrating over 14 years. I am deeply grateful to our makers and customers, and incredibly proud of the genuine, caring business we have built together.
I love knowing that our kimono robes bring a sense of joy — and a little bit of magic — into everyday life.
Beautiful Robes is about finding what makes you feel present, comfortable and quietly confident.
Our joy is in supporting you — no matter who you are, and no matter how you choose to wear your kimono robe.
So go on — put your kimono robe on, feel the magic, and live life your way.
Alison x
