open the kimono

Open the Kimono

To share proprietary, sensitive, or internal information with an external party — full transparency about internal workings, finances, or strategy.

When you'd see it: M&A due diligence, partnership negotiations, investor conversations. 'We opened the kimono fully during due diligence' means the company shared detailed internal information. The phrase is increasingly avoided in professional settings due to its cultural insensitivity.

Why it matters: The phrase describes a real business action — sharing sensitive internal data — but the metaphor is widely considered culturally insensitive and inappropriately gendered. Recognizing it helps you understand what's being communicated when you hear it from older business practitioners, while knowing to use more neutral language yourself.

Common mistakes: Using the phrase in professional communications, particularly in diverse or international contexts. The business concept (full disclosure, information sharing) is legitimate; the metaphor is not. Alternatives: 'full transparency,' 'open book,' 'shared everything in due diligence.'

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