About Us | Owner
Hiya!
(See what I did there?)
We're the Onna Kimono crew, and we're here to bring some serious style and martial arts mojo to your wardrobe. So, buckle up and get ready for a wild ride through the world of martial arts-inspired clothing and karate uniforms!
Now, let's start with the basics. I'm Kaari, the mastermind behind Onna Kimono. Yep, that's me, the karate-loving fashionista who's been kicking it in the martial arts scene for over 35 years. In the dojo am a student, a teacher, a mentor, a friend, and a coach. At home, I am a daughter, mother, wife, caregiver, taxi driver, homework reviewer, chef, referee, dog trainer, highland games competitor, and 9-5 professional.
Back in 1990, I started my training at the International Karate Association in my hometown of Fairbanks, Alaska. Karate became my ultimate passion, and I couldn't get enough of it. I was lucky my instructor also taught aikido, jiujitsu and kung fu, which all granted me exposure to more than karate. He encouraged me to be well-rounded and I always love going back to train with him today. But let's be real here, folks. Karate isn't just about the kicks and punches. It's a way of life, a mindset, and a whole lot of fun!
I have always been a strong female and was given the name, "The Intimidator" by my crew in Alaska. I learned how to take hit, give them back, and build mental strength along the way. I moved to Montana for University and found myself in a white belt at the age of 19 at Ash's Okinawan Karate ready to keep filling my cup with everything I could. It was here I developed a love for competing and loved the tough workouts with the local AAU karate team and passion for kobudo. After graduation, I moved to Anchorage and was in a white belt again at a local Goju Ryu and Shitokai school, where I couldn't decide which I liked more for over a year.
Today, I call Boise, Idaho my home and teach out of a local Shotokan school owned and operated by another female karate-ka. With her support, I started a competition team at the dojo in 2018 and began learning Ryukyu Kobudo and Yammani Ryu from an instructor from Emmett, ID.
I have been very fortunate to have found each of these dojo's to train out of and adore the culture and sense of belonging each gave me. The acceptance of each of them has been impactful to me. I have always wanted to give back to the martial arts community and the best way I thought to do that was by creating uniforms exclusively for women! This gave birth to the Onna Kimono and the Musha | karate gi.
Our apparel and dogi isn't just about looking good (although, let's be honest, you'll look like a total badass). It's about expressing your inner warrior, embracing your passion, and showing the world that you mean business. Whether you're a black belt ninja or just starting your martial arts journey, we've got something for everyone.
Onna Kimono is more than just a store. It's a movement. We're here to empower women in the martial arts community and beyond. So, if you love our products or the message behind our designs, we'd be thrilled if you could help us spread the word!
Like, share, promote, and tag @OnnaKimono whenever you can. Let's make these hashtags hit as hard as we do! Together, we can show the world that #giforshe and #karateforher. Join our tribe of fierce martial arts enthusiasts and let's inspire others to unleash their inner warriors!