We've recently seen a lot of examples of spinning traditional Japanese clothing into modernized "cool" versions. Whether it's a casual Kimono T-shirt, or the impossibly bad-ass genuine leather hakama, traditional garb that dates back to feudal Japan has been experiencing a bit of a Renaissance in terms of being adapted into different styles. Japanese kimono-maker Koukichi, however, is now shifting the spotlight back to hakama, the traditional pants worn over a kimono, with these new color hakama chino pants, which have also been dubbed "ninja pants."

Hakama typically have a baggy and billowy style to them, making them a bit unruly (and a bit of a stand-out) to just slap on when not wearing a matching top, so last year Koukichi released a hybrid of Japanese hakama and chino pants, called "Chinobakama" that allowed the traditional garb to thrive more casually and mesh with Western clothing. While these were a big hit, many Japanese customers asked for different colors to be released in addition to the standard navy, beige, and charcoal. Now the company has announced black and brown colors that extend the ability of the hakama to blend to more formal events.

Equipped with pockets and a sash to tie around the waist, they don't lose anything as far as functionality goes. And for anyone who has had the daring experience of rushing to a restroom in an actual hakama, you'll be glad to know there is a zipper in front as well!

The Chinobakama pants are priced at 7,800 yen ($70.43) and available at the Hito-iki online store. So if the 100% leather hakama are too imposing (or too expensive!) for your tastes, then perhaps you may be interested in giving these casual hakama-chino pants that can match with both traditional Japanese and modern Western clothing.

"Pair it with Western clothing and casually enjoy Japanese culture."

Lastly, here's a video guide on how to actually wear the Chinobakama.