Japanese Kimonos

The word kimono literally means "something worn" and has been considered the national costume of Japan since its inception in the fifth century. The first kimono were influenced by extensive cultural exchanges between China and Japan, where Chinese traders presented traditional dress known as Hanfu, which were then modified throughout Japan's history resulting in today's contemporary kimono. kimono can best be described as a dress T-shaped, with straight collar and Full length wide sleeves falling to the ankle, made from a single bolt of cloth known tanning, which comes in standard sizes. The kimono consists of four main bands of cloth, two panels forming the sleeves, two covering the body, and smaller pieces that make up the narrow face and neck.

Kimono traditionally sewn by hand, and their tissues are often handmade and hand decorated using silk brocade silk, crepe silk, satin weaves known ninzu. The level of formality ranges from casual to very formal, and in the case of women is determined by the style, fabric and color. Kimono worn by young women have more rounds and more elaborate than those of older women, while men's kimono are usually one basic shape worn in subdued colors. Unmarried women have traditionally been a style of kimono called Furisode, which handles floor length and is usually displayed on special occasions. Kimono for women are generally of similar size and are adjusted for different body types, folding and returning. A suit that ends at the wrist when the arms are lowered is considered an ideal fit.

The process of placing on the kimono is quite difficult and tedious, and often requires the help of an assistant. Kimono are wrapped around the body in a precise manner from left to right, and are secured by a wide belt known as an obi, which is linked to the rear. traditional geta shoes is called a shoe platform strips of wood, and known as split down tabi are always worn with the kimono. In recent times kimono are most often worn by women and sometimes men at weddings, tea ceremonies, or other formal occasions. Professional sumo wrestlers, who are required to wear traditional Japanese clothes whenever appearing in public can also be seen in the kimono. Special courses are available in Japan for fans interested in learning the proper techniques for putting on a kimono. Classes also cover how to detect under-kimono and accessories, choosing the appropriate model and the fabrics of the season or event, and selecting and tying the obi. Kimono are often very expensive, with complete equipment consists of undergarments, obi, ties, socks, sandals, and accessories is well above $ 20,000.