Kimono

One of the first things that cross our minds when we think about Japan is their traditional garments. The kimono is a famous outfit that people from this country take pride in. It has also gained global recognition as people from different cultures emulate wearing the kimono. Due to the elegance of this garment, so many shops sell different types of kimono. If you would like to try one, we will share all the details that you should know regarding a kimono. Enjoy!

What is kimono?

This is a traditional garment that is common with the Japanese. The term comes from a combination of two words, namely Ki, which means wearing and mono meaning thing. From the individual words, we can see that the kimono implies a thing that can be worn on the body. Kimono comes in numerous styles and is worn on different occasions. While some are worn daily, others are specifically designed for special events.

It is a T-shaped attire that features some sleeves. Kimono differ when it comes to the sleeve lengths as well as their construction. Both men and women wear this form of garment differently. Those that wear this garment daily include specific categories such as older folks, sumo wrestlers, or geisha. According to Japanese culture, geisha are expected to make public appearances wearing a kimono.

The origin of kimono

Though this garment is considered a Japanese way of dressing, it has its roots in China. During the Kofun period, Chinese culture has a significant influence on the Japanese. People in Japan started adopting this culture, leading to the increase in popularity of the Kimono. Though it was initially worn as a form of undergarment, this changed during the Muromachi period. People started wearing kimono without traditional Japanese trousers. They started pairing it with a sash known as obi.

This garment has been in existence for more than 70 years now. It is one of the few attires that have not lost its significance with time. After the 2nd Word War, many people in Japan started wearing Western-style clothes. Since they still valued the kimono, they started wearing it for special occasions such as wedding ceremonies or New Year's Day. Apart from the war, people also changed the tradition of wearing a kimono daily due to its complex nature. Most people found it difficult to wear while others raised sentiments regarding mobility issues.

Young Japanese and tourists from different regions consider the kimono a fashionable garment that is ideal for special occasions. It, therefore, continues to remain relevant regardless of the introduction of western clothes. Today, designers of kimono create it using different fabrics, colors, and styles. The length of its sleeves and the size of the obi have changed with time. You can now find this garment in different materials such as linen, cotton, silk, and wool.

What are the parts of the kimono and which accessories go with this attire?

For you to understand the kimono well, you have to understand what it is made of and which accessories you can pair it with. This garment is made up of different layers, which are meant to overlap one another. Every single piece that accompanies an authentic kimono is essential. Wearing a kimono involves the following:

· Obi-This is the sash that is tied over the kimon0. You can tie the knot in different decorative ways.

· Juban-You should put on a kimono with this form of undergarment which is designed for the specific purpose.

· Koshi-himo-This is also a sash which is tied along the waist to secure the kimono properly.

· Datejime-Beneath the obi, is a belt that fastens the kimono known as dajetime. This helps keep the obi in shape.

· Tabi-During winter, people wear the kimono with this form of socks.

· Geta-It is a traditional form of footwear that you can wear with the kimono. These have a similar appearance as contemporary sandals.

The types of kimono available

We mentioned that the kimono could be used for different purposes. They, therefore, fall under various categories. For instance, the Furisode is a form of kimono which is worn by unmarried ladies. You can identify it by the long sleeves it contains and its bright colors.

Married women put on a formal kimono known as Tomesode. This contains patterns that are located below the waist. Mothers like putting on this form of kimono during the children's weddings

Some of the kimono include patterns that run from the shoulders to the bottom part. These are referred to as houmongi. People of different ages and marital status wear the form. You can wear this for a tea ceremony or wedding.

The kimono also goes with seasons. During the summer, people wear yukata, which is a form of kimono when attending festivals. This form comes with thin material that prevents your body from excess heat. Though both genders put on the yukata, women's yukata are more colorful compared to those designed for men.

In the past, the Japanese put on the komon as an everyday garment. This is a type of kimono which features a repeated pattern. If you want a plain colored kimono, you should look for an Iromuji. The form does not come with any patterns and can be worn by anyone regardless of their marital status. It is a sophisticated yet simple kimono that features subdued tones.

Buying Kimono

The kimono comes in the form of a fabric roll that has specific measurements. It can be tailored according to your body size. Though you can order for a tailor-made kimono, this option is expensive and time-consuming. Most people prefer buying kimono from second-hand shops. You can also look for an antique shop that sells different forms of kimono. Feel free to explore through the different designs, patterns, and styles for you to find one that is perfect for every occasion.

Final thoughts

Make a style statement by choosing this traditional garment from Japan. There is always an ideal kimono for everyone. Remember to accessorize it properly and learn how to wear it.