Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, is as strong as its ancient heritage. Its culture and history derives its strength from its people, with its revolution and isolation periods, it is a country of honor, respect and prosperity. The way of life in Japan reflects the character of its people. Its beauty and simplicity are reflected through everyday life, from what they do to what they wear. Even their clothing is a story itself characterizing the uniqueness of their history.
The Kimono
The kimono, the traditional Japanese costume represents the Japanese culture, history and society. Its beauty and simplicity captivates attention and exudes an ethereal aura from another era, evoking the exquisite past with thoughts of crisp white snow falling in contrast with the fading cherry blossoms amidst the sound of a softly playing a shamisen.
The kimono is an asian dress fitted for men and women, with a distinction of their sleeves, colors and length worn with wide and airy pants and wooden clogs and it is tied with a wide sash called obi. It is then paired with wooden clogs or sandals The women's obi are sometimes very colorful and elaborate. Some would have a length up to four meters long and would be tied as a butterfly or a flower. It is basically decorative or plain depending on one's stature in life. High class men and women of royalty wear silken kimono, its fabric as smooth and its design elegant. For commoners, they usually have cotton or linen for the material and are dull in color or design, such that they are usually colored in dark blue, white, or brown and are usually plain, minus the decorative designs and colorful prints.
Formal Attire
For formal occasions, the women also wore Haori. It is a kind of jacket which is narrow-paneled in design, worn over the kimono and tied near the breast level and usually used in feast days or weddings. Another fascinating part of their Japanese dress is the Ju-ni-hitoe. It is a layered clothing worn by the ladies of the Imperial Court in ancient times as an adornment and for everyday use. It varies o style and material to suit the climate of Japan. Presently, it is only used by the women members of the royal family on weddings and special occasions.
Footwear
For footwear, the Japanese wear the tabi or the split-toe socks inside or outside their homes and with the pair of clogs. They are made of non-stretchable material with thick soles. The clogs are called Geta. It is made of wood and has straps and are sturdy, both used by men and women.
The ancient and traditional Japanese attire, the kimono, transcends the Japanese culture, history and society. This traditional Japanese costume is an alluring symbol of Japan.
KIMONO - JAPANESE DRESS
Dressing Tomesode , a formal Kimono
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