With the spread of kimonos, you can sometimes notice someone wearing a kimono in real life, let alone in films or TV. However, most people may need help to tell the difference between kimonos or what a kimono is precisely. After reading the post, you’ll be clearly aware of what a kimono is. That’s why this post is here to guide you through the exciting journey of kimonos. What Is a Kimono? In Japanese, the word “kimono” is a combination of “ki” and “mono”. The kimono is a traditional Japanese costume. Therefore, “kimono” literally means “thing to wear”. Here, “ki” means “to wear” in English, while “mono” stands for “thing/object”. It’s basically a T-shaped silhouette consisting of both long sleeves and a large body. Depending on different scenarios, kimonos have a wide variety of patterns and colors. As a significant symbol of Japan, the kimono conveys considerable historical and cultural meanings. More than 1,000 years ago, hanfu (Chinese traditional dress) made of silk, which was considered a luxury, was introduced to Japan from China. The Japanese borrowed the style of hanfu and soon designed a layered silk robe. The 14th century was a period for the samurai. The inner layer of undergarments became the origin of today’s kimono. To a great extent, the kosode was similar to the kimono as it is today. In order to make it easier for the samurai to move around, a narrow-sleeved, close-fitting kosode was widely worn and became popular throughout society. In 1683, the Tokugawa Shogunate enacted a series of prohibitions against ostentatious clothing, including kimonos, among the growing merchants. For the first time in its history, the trend of kimonos was hampered. The kosode was then updated and became the kimono as what it is today. During the Meiji period (1868-1912), Japan began its process of modernization. The kimono was merely popular among the females. By this time, Western-style clothing had become the daily wear in society. However, a fair number of Japanese still prefer to wear the more convenient and inexpensive kimono for everyday wear. As time elapsed, kimonos were only worn on certain formal occasions, such as weddings and funerals. What Is the Structure of a Kimono? Eri: The collar of the kimono, known as the eri. Its design can signify the formality of the garment. Sodetsuke: The openings under the arms of the sleeves are known as sodetsuke. Okumi: Okumi is an overlapping section in the front. Sode: Kimono sleeves, called sode, are wide and flowing. The right side usually covers the left. It plays a crucial role in securing and shaping the kimono. Obi: The Obi is a wide belt that wraps around the waist and is tied in the back. Obi ita is what a kimono can’t lack. Maemigoro: Maemigoro is the main front body panel of the kimono. Obi ita: It’s a plate put in the Obi to keep the front of the Obi smooth. It is a large piece of fabric that contributes to the overall design. Okumi Gusset: The okumi gusset is a triangular piece of fabric added to the front panel. This part allows for overlap and flexibility when wearing the kimono. Fuki: The hem of the kimono. Susomawashi: The susomawashi is a protective lining at the hem, which guards against wear and tear. It also adds weight to the garment. Its length may also indicate the formality of the garment. Ushiromigoro: Ushiromigoro refers to the back panel of the kimono. What Is a Kimono Made of? A kimono is traditionally made from various types of silk. Traditional kimonos are often crafted from silk satin. Although other fabrics, like cotton and linen, are also used in modern times, they are usually used for informal occasions. Cotton kimonos are comfortable for casual or everyday wear. Being light and sweat-absorbing, kimonos made of cotton become a popular choice among the young generation of Japan. Because silk satin is highly valued for its luxurious feel, sheen, and breathability, silk satin kimonos are commonly worn on formal and ceremonial occasions. As an alternative to silk, satin is also a good choice for kimonos. While lacking the natural feel of silk, what makes satin kimonos special is their smooth appearance as silk products. Chirimen is a particular type of plain-woven silk crepe. So, It is also commonly used for making kimono fabric, adding more visual effects to the design. It features a textured surface. Although its texture is rather rough, ro silk is often favored for making kimonos worn on casual occasions. Ro silk is another type of silk used in kimono making. As a warm fabric, wool is often used for kimonos in colder seasons. However, wool is not one single fabric for making kimonos. Since it is such a broad term for clothing, kimono naturally comes in a variety of types. Different types of kimonos can have certain dress traditions and rules for formal scenes. It’s often blended with other fabrics for durability. Unmarried women usually wear Komon. As it’s prepared for informal occasions, this kind of kimono is what you can see in everyday life. In contrast, Homongi is a relatively more formal kind of kimono. Komon means small pattern, but the pattern of komon can actually be very abundant. It is, therefore, made of silk in most cases. Both unmarried and married women can wear Homongi. Originally, yukata was a single-layer kimono for people to wear while taking a bath. They are usually worn when people attend some common ceremonies or semi-formal meetings. As its form improves, many young people choose to wear these casual kimonos, mostly made of cotton, in summer. This kind of kimono is what people always wear when they attend tea ceremonies. Yukata suits for an extensive range of scenarios, whether you are wearing it around the house or going out for a casual dinner. That’s why Iromuji is usually in a monotone color to avoid affecting tea ceremonies. Mofuku is a kimono made of pure black silk that is used for funerals and mourning. But Iromuji can also be beautifully embroidered to match its silk material. When wearing a mofuku, accessories such as an obi are also changed to black. Uchikake is worn only by brides or on stage. It is similar to a particular type of overcoat. This kind of kimono is what wearers put over other clothes without accessories like Obi to fix them. Shiromuku, appearing white from head to toe, is the unique kimono for a bride. However, since it is usually expensive, most people who do not own a Shiromuku from their family often rent one when needed. The white color symbolizes the purity and innocence of the bride. You should follow the lines of the silk grain when wiping the dust. If your kimono is made of silk, do not get it wet. Before putting away the kimono, fold it along the seams. If you’re dealing with silk kimono, follow the guide for washing and care of silk. Kimonos should be stored in a cool place, qipao inspired dress including air drying. Do not wash the kimono directly; it is best to seek professional dry cleaning. What’s the difference between kimono and yukata? In the general sense, kimono is the generic term for a unique Japanese garment. To be specific, kimono refers to what is worn on formal occasions and made of silk. And yukata is one of the kimono. Is it OK to wear a kimono if you’re not Japanese? Yes, it is acceptable for non-Japanese individuals to wear kimonos. Yukata is often made of cotton to be worn in summer, typically after bathing. What is the average price for a kimono? The price of a kimono can vary widely depending on factors like material, craftsmanship, and so on. However, before wearing a kimono, you should know the cultural meanings and the traditional rules of a specific kimono because each type of kimono has a different meaning. On average, the price of a kimono may range from $100 to $10,000 or more. Through this post, you must know more detailed facts about the kimono. From its history and types to its traditions and tips, you are now aware of what a kimono is specifically. Kimonos, for its broad types, are suitable for formal occasions and everyday wear. The standard kind of kimono you see in daily life costs about $500 to $1,000 or so. Among them, kimonos made of various silks are the most popular and common. If you want to manufacture kimonos or silk kimonos, feel free to contact Sinosilk whenever you want.
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