Hello,
I’m Camille Abe, a licensed kitsuke specialist, kimono stylist, and photographer based in Kamakura.

I founded KIMONO・UROKO to offer private, authentic kimono experiences that combine traditional dressing with professional photography.

My Journey

My love for Japan began in childhood in France.

What started with manga and anime gradually grew into a deeper fascination with Japanese culture and traditions.

I was especially drawn to the world of geisha and maiko, their garments, and the art of kimono dressing (kitsuke): not only as clothing, but as a cultural language passed down through generations.

After graduating from high school, I pursued my long-standing goal of working abroad. While studying English and exploring different career paths, I faced many challenges and setbacks, but remained determined to build a life connected to Japan.

In 2016, I moved to Japan on a working holiday visa.

Living here allowed me to experience the culture I had admired from afar, and despite cultural differences and difficulties, I grew stronger and more resilient.

Professional Kimono Training

I then decided to study kimono and kitsuke professionally.

At a formal kimono school, I learned not only dressing techniques, but also the meaning, structure, and cultural background behind each element of kimono coordination.

In 2021, I obtained my certification and began sharing my knowledge and passion for kimono on social media.
What started as a personal project gradually attracted a dedicated audience, especially among kimono enthusiasts, and inspired me to create something more meaningful.

That is how KIMONO・UROKO was born.

Photography and Visual Expression

Alongside kimono, I developed a strong interest in photography.

In April 2023, I began studying photography seriously, learning composition, angles, light, and professional editing techniques.
My goal is to express the beauty of kimono as an art form through photography, while respecting its cultural roots.

Today, I offer a service that merges kimono and photography into a single, refined experience.

My Philosophy

Through personalized, one-on-one kimono experiences, I aim to share not only the visual beauty of kimono, but also its cultural depth and historical meaning.

From my first admiration for Japan to the creation of KIMONO・UROKO in Kamakura, every experience has led me to this work.

I am proud to share the beauty and heritage of kimono with people from around the world.