The Japanese Kimono is a traditional garment worn by men and women in Japan, typically during formal events or special occasions. It’s a full-length robe made from high-quality fabrics, often silk, and is renowned for its intricate and beautiful designs, which feature colorful patterns and embroidery.
The garment is held closed using an obi, a sash tied around the waist in a decorative knot. The design and style of the Kimono can vary based on the wearer’s age, gender, social status, and occasion. For instance, married women usually wear conservative and subdued styles, while unmarried women may opt for more vibrant and colorful designs.
Recently, there has been a renewed interest in traditional Japanese fashion, including the Kimono. Modern designers have also integrated elements of the garment into their work. However, the Kimono is still an essential representation of Japanese culture and heritage.
How to wear a Kimono
Wearing a Kimono is a graceful and enchanting experience. Here are some general steps to follow when wearing a Kimono:
- Begin by wearing a tabi, as wearing them after putting on a Kimono can cause the Kimono to become untidy.
- Wear an undershirt, which can be of different types, such as one-piece, or slip types. Choose the one that fits you comfortably.
- Put on a white undergarment, known as “nagajuban”. This will help to keep the Kimono clean and provide a layer between your skin and the outer layer.
- Wear the Kimono by wrapping it around your body, ensuring that the left side is over the right.
- Use the ties or strings inside the Kimono to adjust the length and width to fit your body.
- Fold the excess material over your waist to make it smooth.
- Tie the obi (sash) around your waist, ensuring it’s snug but not too tight. The obi should be tied at the back, and a decorative knot should be created in the center.
- Fold the collar down and adjust the sleeves to fall just above the wrist.
- Complete your outfit with accessories such as sandals, a purse, and hair accessories.
Here is the video of us experiencing wearing a Kimono
Where can we rent a Kimono in Japan
If you’re searching for a Kimono rental in Japan, there are a few alternatives to choose from:
- Rental stores are prevalent in Japan, and they offer kimono rentals for a few hours or a whole day. Some popular rental shops are Yumeyakata, Kyoto Kimono Rental Wargo, Tokyo Kimono Rental Yae, and Vasara.
- Some tourist attractions, like temples and shrines, also provide kimono rentals to visitors. For example, at the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, visitors can rent a kimono and walk through the torii gates in traditional Japanese dress.
- You can also find online rental services such as Rent-a-Kimono and Kimono Rental Kyoto. These services allow you to make a reservation for a kimono in advance and have it delivered to your hotel or other preferred location.
This is the store website that we rented a Kimono: https://vasara-h.co.jp/
