KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 27 — Uniqlo is bringing the yukata — a traditional Japanese casual cotton summer kimono for women and girls — to selected stores in 14 countries, including three in Kuala Lumpur, according a press statement released by the company.

Comfortable and cool, yukata was originally worn after a bath or to sleep, and later developed into everyday clothing. In recent years, they have come to be associated with summer fashion, often seen at fireworks displays or festivals.

The range of summer yukata for women available at selected Uniqlo stores in Kuala Lumpur. — Pictures by Uniqlo

Uniqlo will be offering yukata for both women and girls featuring both retro and modern designs inspired by artists Yumeji Takehisa and Junichi Nakahara.

Yumeji Takehisa is a master painter who blended Western style and classic Japanese tradition to depict the gracefulness of Japanese women, and the collection includes designs of roses, polka dots, chameleon plant flowers and other patterns inspired by his works.

From Junichi Nakahara, a fashion designer and illustrator, designs include retro Japanese-style patterns such as plum blossoms and dahlia, as well as simple designs and colours in a modern style.

The yukata is now available exclusively at Uniqlo branches at Fahrenheit88, Mid Valley Megamall and 1 Utama stores.

For more information on this range, check out Uniqlo's yukata guide here.

Colourful yukata designs for girls from Uniqlo.