着物

Since the kimono holds such a predominant place in Japans fashion history, it is important to understand the different forms of kimonos. This can be done by categorizing them into three traditional types or kinds. The first is a furisode. These are considered formal kimonos. They are brightly colored and often have gorgeous patterns or designs. Constructed of very fine quality silk, they are highly desirable. This type of kimono is worn by single young women to weddings, ikebana classes or tea ceremonies. The second type of kimono is a tomesode. These kimonos are worn by older women that are married. Considered to be a very formal kimono, they are also most often worn to social events. A tomesode differs from a furisode in that the designs and patterns on this type of kimono tend to be more solid and the colors are more subtle. The third traditional type of kimono is the yukata. This type of kimono originated from the Heian Period and was originally worn by nobles when taking a steam bath. These light weight robes helped protect the wearer from direct contact with the steam in the baths. This exterior robe has two distinct looks, one for men and one for women. A man’s style yukata has a geometric pattern atop a dark background while the woman's style has bright, vivid floral designs. Both are worn with a wide belt and have wide sleeves. This robe was called yukatabira, from yu ("bath") and katabira ("under clothing"). Later, after the appearance of the public baths, people started wearing yukata outside of the bath too, on their way home. A yukata is not simply relegated to casual events, it can be made more formal by adding wooden sandals or what are called geta. The addition of an obi, a Japanese style traditional belt added to the waist will help the yukata take on a more formal status. Another noticeable difference is that the “Yukata have fewer variations than a kimono; the sleeves are never elongated, the collars are never wide or layered, and the patterning is usually repeated and rarely asymmetrical. It should be noted that another style of robe called a nemaki is often mistaken for a yukata. These robes are also made of cotton and are most often blue and white in color. Nemaki, however, are lounging robes, often worn after the bath, have narrow sleeves, a patch pocket and a thin same-fabric belt. Nemaki are the style of robe most often provided by hotels in Japan. Today there is a clear and distinct difference between robes worn inside the home and outside on the streets. However, the kimono is having something of a resurgence of late. Modern kimonos are being made with new fabrics and unique designs that more accurately reflect the modern aesthetic. With the arrival of summer comes the displays in department store windows featuring the yukata. These easy to wear robes have become quite popular. Another trend that is currently being seen on the streets of Japan is the use of second-hand kimonos. These second-hand kimonos are becoming popular with the young, who often re-style them or combine them with other items of dress.