What is a Kimono?
Derived from the wordski(wear) andmono(thing), thekimonois a traditional Japanese garment.
Kimonos come in a range of styles and patterns.
Iwasa Matabei, “Matsura Byobu,” pair of six-fold screens, c. 1650 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Additionally, the pigments used to achieve certain colors are also representative.
Material
Kimonos are made from various handmade and hand-decoratedfabrics.
Traditionally, these include linen, silk, and hemp.
Today, materials like rayon, cotton, and polyester are often used.
Unsurprisingly, however, the traditional, non-synthetic fabrics are favored.
Thus, so you can express their individuality and describe themselves, wearers adopted ways to customize their kosodes.
Three women in kimonos, Kanagawa prefecture, Japan (Photo: Benh LIEU SONG viaWikimedia Commons,CC BY-SA 2.0)
During the Meiji period (1868-1912), the kosode evolved into thekimono.
Unlike its earlier edition, the kimono was worn predominantly by women.
Modern kimonos are designed to be easy to maintain and are machine-washable.
Kimono for a young woman, c. 1912–1926 (Photo: Khalili Collections viaWikimedia Commons,CC BY-SA 4.0)
Its simple monochromatic appearance is supposed to not detract from the ceremony.
Sometimes patterns are sewn into the garment.
Centuries later, this garment was adopted into bridal wear.
Kimono fabrics (Photo: merec0 viaWikimedia Commons,CC BY-SA 2.0)
It is often paired with matching accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a kimono?
A kimono is a traditional Japanese garment.
What does a kimono symbolize?
What is difference between a kimono and a yukata?
A kimono typically has a hand-sewn inner lining and a yukata never does.
A family wearing yuakatas (Photo: Andy Atzert viaWikimedia Commons,CC BY-SA 2.0)
A unique contemporary kimono by Maya Caulfield to celebrate her Scottish and Japanese ancestry (Photo courtesy of Maya Caulfield)
