Vintage Japanese Kimono

The vintage Japanese kimono takes its roots from the 8th century AD Chinese culture. It used to have overlapping collars that are commonly worn by women during those days. During the Japanese Heian Period, kimonos became very fancy and a half-apron piece would be attached or worn over the kimono. During the Muromachi Period (again, a period of time, a measure of Japanese history), the kimono lost the apron or the overskirt or trousers under it.

When the Edo era came, the kimono sleeves were made to be much longer especially for the unmarried women. Sometimes, the sleeves could even reach the floor. The obi got wider and new ways of tying were innovated for fashion. At present, the kimono that you are probably more familiar with as it is worn by the Japanese, highly resembles that of those from the Edo era.

The best kimonos around are still made out of hand-dyed silk. Thus silk kimonos are worn to formal events. This would cost you around ten thousand US dollars an authentic looking piece made with this fabric. To care for this kimono, it is washed by taking it apart. There are also synthetic Japanese kimono fabric materials like rayon and cotton kimonos but are not worn to formal events.

It is not considered in good form to wear a silk kimono to informal events such as during an Obon ceremony. If you accidentally wear one to a Bon dance, we advise that you do not take part in the dancing no matter how much you want to or you will be pointed at and frowns will be appear on spectators watching the dance.

Traditionally, the art of wearing a vintage Japanese kimono would pass down from generation to generation. Today, there can be schools which will teach students the right ways to wear one.

Juban – the under slip. This is the first step in wearing a kimono. It used to be a full suit kimono alone but women prefer wearing a collar to ensemble it for comfort since a juban is hot when layered with the kimono itself.

Tabi – the socks. Bending over in a kimono with an obi on is very difficult. Put the kimono on and make sure the back seam should be at the center. Wrap the right side over your trunk first since wrapping the left side is for dead people. Adjust the juban to even out with the collar.

Obi – the corset. Just tie it around and you are done.

The vintage Japanese kimono is a valuable piece of art carved from generations to generations. Western women are mystified by this. Many women use the help of professionals to wear a kimono correctly. This art is sacred and should be preserved for eternity. Or at least wear the correctly or be embarrassed for eternity!