Kimono

A kimono is a word that means clothing in the Japan culture. It is a recognized garment that is known all over for its beauty and symbolism. There are many different styles of kimono for different reasons and occasions and some that are even worn by men in the Japanese culture.

Patterns for making kimono are fairly simple and similar for everyone. It is essentially two widths of fabric draped over the shoulders and sewn in the back and sides. The sleeves are also folded-over widths sewn together to the other portion allowing for arm holes. There are also front pieces to allow the kimono to be wrapped and collar pieces and linings. This simple pattern changes very little from individual to individual. The height of kimono is adjusted by pulling up the kimono and letting it blouse over a small sash. The outer sash which holds everything together is called an obi.

We think of kimono as being made only of silk but they can actually be made from a number of different fabrics. There are different silks used; such as reeled silk, crepes, spun silk, silk gauze, leno weave gauze. In addition to silk, fabrics made of cotton, linen, wool, and now synthetic fibers are also used.

There are many types and styles of kimono which are worn depending of the formality of the occasion, the age of the wearer, their marital status, time of day, and time of season. In addition to colors and styles, the way kimono is worn differs between whether it is a single or married woman. All of these factors come into play when deciding what kimono is appropriate to wear and how to wear it. Those conventions dictating which kimono is appropriate developed over the Edo period and those rules are still observed today when kimono is worn.

Design motifs, color selection, embroidery, and type of fabric were all important considerations in kimono making. Beyond the artistic rendering of the design, the motif may have important emotional meaning to the owner. Designs may be allusions to Chinese classics or Noh plays, establishing a certain cultural status for the wearer. Designs may have auspicious meanings as well. For example, tortoise and crane designs represent longevity, fans represent prosperity, bamboos represent flexibility, and pine trees symbolize fidelity.

Kimono which are made from the finest silks, dyed in the yuzen-zome style and are hand embroidered are extremely expensive probably comparable to the haute couture of Paris . It is not uncommon for a fine kimono to cost in the $30,000 to $60,000 range which is why kimono rentals are more popular than purchases in Japan these days. A collection of kimono and obi was quite an investment, which is why a geisha would spend a good portion of her life paying off that debt.

http://www.yoshinoantiques.com/kimono.html
http://www.fibre2fashion.com/industry-article/free-apparel-industry-article/what-is-a-kimono/what-is-a-kimono1.asp