Kimono is a traditional Japanese culture. Although it is uncommon to see Japanese people dressed in kimonos on the streets, kimonos are still preferred on special events such as weddings, funerals, and other important occasions.
The beauty of the kimono can be summed up as: "wearable art!” It is recognized throughout the world for its one-of-a-kind presence, and it is no longer unusual to see foreigners visiting Japan wearing kimonos strolling the streets.
However, the appeal of the kimono is not only in its beautiful appearance! It lies in the way it expresses the Japanese spirit of elegance, sentiment, and politeness!
In this issue, we will highlight the kimonos of Japan.
The History of Kimonos
The kimono originated more than 1,000 years ago. As the aristocrats of that time brought the flourishing Japanese culture into bloom; at that time the glamorous looking kimonos were created. And, amazingly, they have hardly been altered in form since then to the present!
From that time, the kimono has taken root in people's lives, but with modernization, people have come to prefer western-style clothes with superior functionality.... Even though the number of people who wear kimonos on a daily basis has decreased, the culture of wearing kimonos did not disappear completely.
The existence of the kimono, which has been passed down from generation to generation, cannot be forgotten, and it is in the nature of the Japanese people to want to wear the kimono on special events such as weddings, funerals, and other special occasions.
Types of Kimono
Are you aware that there are several types of kimonos? Actually, depending on the occasion, there is a specific type. Now I will introduce some of the most typical ones.
Formal Kimonos
"Reisogi" is the most formal type of kimono.
The most prestigious kimono worn by unmarried women is the "honfurisode." It is characterized by large sleeves and fancy patterns, and it is customary for the bride to wear the honfurisode for the last time at the wedding reception. Other types of kimono include "kuro-tomesode" for married women and "mourning dress" for funerals.
Semi-Formal Kimonos
Worn when there is no need to be so formal, thus the "semi-formal kimono."
"Furisode" is worn by unmarried women, and "shikoromesode" is worn by married women. Kimonos worn for various occasions regardless of whether the person is unmarried or married are called "Visiting Kimonos."
Casual Wear Kimonos
"Casual kimonos" are worn when you are not going somewhere formal but still want to look a little fashionable.
Typical examples are "tsukesake," characterized by its modest patterns, and "komon," in which the same pattern is repeated. Since they are often simple in appearance, they are versatile enough to be used in a variety of settings by changing the obi and accessories, from casual to formal.
The Appeal of Kimonos
The kimono represents the heart of the Japanese in their pursuit of the essence of aesthetic beauty! From here, we would like to share with you the appeal of the kimonos, which are filled with the unique aesthetics of the Japanese.
Kimonos: A Traditional Art
Tremendous amounts of time and effort are put into each step of the kimono making process, including weaving, dyeing, and tailoring. Kimonos carefully made by the hands of professional craftsmen are considered traditional Japanese crafts!
Each completed kimono is unique and one-of-a-kind. Moreover, it is not unusual for a kimono to last for tens or even hundreds of years if you continue to maintain it! Generally, kimonos are expensive and difficult to afford, but considering that they can be worn for a long time while being handed down from generation to generation, it might be a good idea to take the plunge and pick up your own special kimono.
Kimonos in Harmony With Nature
Kimonos often feature various seasonal scenes, but the unspoken etiquette is to precede the season by a month or so. Do you know the reason why?
It is so that the pattern of the kimonos and the actual scenery do not clash. Wearing a kimono with a cherry blossom pattern when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom is frowned upon as it interferes with the real cherry blossoms. It can be said that this manner is a reflection of the unique Japanese sense of beauty nurtured in the abundance of nature.
Kimonos Brings Forth Elegant Conduct and a Beautiful Spirit
The kimono is characterized by its wide and loose sleeves. Since they get in the way when picking up an object, the gesture of reaching out with one hand while holding the sleeve with the other was naturally born. Also, wearing a kimono makes it impossible to open your legs wide, so when you sit down, your legs are naturally aligned, and when you walk, you can only take small and quiet steps.
In this way, when you wear a kimono, beautiful and elegant movements will unconsciously be performed. When your movements become beautiful, your mind becomes beautiful, as well! Your inner self, such as your language and your care for others, will also become more refined and elegant.
The Appeal of Kimonos Only Understood When You Wear It
In this article, we have introduced the history and appeal of the kimonos.
However, you will not understand the true fascination of the kimono until you actually try it on. Most tourist destinations have stores where you can rent kimonos, so by all means, try walking around town wearing a beautiful kimono! You'll have a much more memorable time, knowing the history and origins of the kimono!
