The kimono, a conventional Japanese garment, has captivated the world with its class and beauty. It’s a versatile garment that may be worn for each formal and casual events, making it vital for any wardrobe. Nonetheless, mastering the artwork of sporting a kimono generally is a daunting process, particularly for individuals who are usually not conversant in Japanese tradition. On this article, we’ll offer you a complete information on easy methods to put on a kimono, making certain that you feel and look your finest on this iconic garment.
Step one in sporting a kimono is to placed on the suitable undergarments. For ladies, this usually features a white or beige kimono slip referred to as a “nagajuban.” Males, however, might put on a easy undershirt and pants. As soon as the undergarments are in place, it’s time to placed on the kimono. Begin by holding the kimono with the correct facet going through you and the sleeves hanging down. Place the left facet of the kimono over the correct, aligning the shoulders. Then, cross the correct facet over the left and knot the himo (cords) on the waist.
After tying the himo, alter the kimono in order that it hangs evenly on either side. The hem of the kimono ought to attain simply above the ankles. Subsequent, it’s time to placed on the obi, the vast sash that goes across the waist. The obi is wrapped across the waist twice after which tied in an ornamental knot. There are various totally different types of obi knots, so you’ll be able to select the one which most closely fits your style and the event. Lastly, slip on a pair of conventional Japanese sandals referred to as “geta” and you might be able to go! With a little bit follow, it is possible for you to to grasp the artwork of sporting a kimono and benefit from the magnificence and class of this timeless garment.
Deciding on the Proper Kimono for Your Event
Selecting the suitable kimono in your event is paramount to make sure each consolation and cultural respect. Listed here are some detailed tips to think about when choosing your ensemble:
Formality and Event
The formality of your kimono is instantly associated to the event you may be attending. For extremely formal occasions equivalent to weddings or tea ceremonies, select an elaborate kimono comprised of luxurious materials like silk or brocade. For semi-formal events like events or dinners, an easier kimono comprised of cotton or wool can be extra appropriate. Casual kimonos, usually comprised of informal materials like cotton or linen, are good for on a regular basis put on or informal outings.
Seasonality
Kimonos are designed to be worn in line with the season. Summer time kimonos are comprised of light-weight, breathable materials like hemp or cotton and have gentle colours to mirror warmth. Winter kimonos, however, are comprised of hotter supplies like wool or velvet and infrequently function darker colours or patterns to retain heat.
Physique Proportions and Match
The match of a kimono is essential for each consolation and class. A well-fitting kimono will improve your silhouette and intensify your finest options. Take into account your peak, weight, and physique form when choosing a kimono. If attainable, strive on totally different kimonos to seek out the one that matches you finest and makes you’re feeling assured.
| Formality Degree | Event Examples | Cloth Choices |
|---|---|---|
| Extremely Formal | Weddings, tea ceremonies | Silk, brocade |
| Semi-Formal | Events, dinners | Cotton, wool |
| Casual | On a regular basis put on, informal outings | Cotton, linen |
Making ready Your Physique for Sporting a Kimono
1. Select the Proper Underwear
For max consolation, go for seamless, form-fitting underwear manufactured from pure fibers like cotton or silk. Keep away from sporting brassieres with underwire or different elaborations that may create undesirable bulges.
2. Create a Easy Basis
Take away Physique Hair: Shaving or waxing your physique helps the kimono material lay extra easily. Take into account eradicating hair out of your legs, underarms, and chest. For those who select shaving, moisturize afterward to forestall pores and skin irritation.
Exfoliate and Moisturize: Exfoliation removes lifeless pores and skin cells, permitting the kimono material to glide over your pores and skin extra simply. Comply with up with a moisturizer to make sure your pores and skin is supple and hydrated, which might forestall the material from chafing or clinging.
Put on Slip or Undershirt: A skinny, sleeveless slip or undershirt can act as a buffer between your pores and skin and the kimono material, decreasing friction and making the kimono extra comfy to put on.
| Physique Half | Beneficial Elimination Methodology |
|---|---|
| Legs | Shaving/Waxing |
| Underarms | Shaving/Waxing |
| Chest | Shaving (for males solely) |
Sporting the Kimono and Obi (Sash)
1. Placing on the Kimono
1. Lay the kimono on a flat floor, with the left facet going through up.
2. Stand within the heart of the kimono, and place your left foot ahead.
3. Convey the correct half of the kimono over your left and as much as your proper shoulder, with the again of the kimono towards your physique.
4. Convey the left half of the kimono over your proper and as much as your left shoulder, overlapping the correct half by about 10 centimeters.
5. Easy out any wrinkles and ensure the kimono is evenly distributed on either side.
2. Fastening the Obi
1. Tie the obi round your waist, with the bow on the again.
2. Be certain that the obi is tight sufficient to carry the kimono in place, however not so tight that it is uncomfortable.
3. Arranging the Collar
1. Fold down the collar of the kimono till the inside lining is displaying.
2. Easy out any wrinkles and ensure the collar is symmetrical.
4. Sporting Socks and Footwear
1. Placed on white tabi socks (conventional Japanese split-toe socks).
2. For those who’re sporting geta (conventional Japanese wood sandals), put them on over the tabi socks.
5. Extra Ideas for Sporting the Obi (Sash)
There are a number of alternative ways to tie the obi, every with its personal distinctive look. Listed here are some further ideas that will help you get began:
| Obi Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Taiko Musubi | A easy and stylish knot that’s appropriate for each formal and casual events. |
| Bunko Musubi | A extra elaborate and ornamental knot that’s usually worn for particular events. |
| Kuchinashi Musubi | A posh and complex knot that’s usually worn by married ladies. |
The kind of obi you select can even have an effect on the way in which you tie it. There are three principal forms of obi: fukuro obi, nagoya obi, and hanhaba obi. Fukuro obi are essentially the most formal sort of obi and are usually worn with ceremonial kimonos. Nagoya obi are a bit much less formal and are a sensible choice for on a regular basis put on. Hanhaba obi are essentially the most casual sort of obi and are sometimes worn with informal kimonos.
Tying the Obi Securely
To securely tie the obi, comply with these detailed steps:
1. Alter the Size:
Earlier than tying, make sure the obi reaches your ft on either side, with some additional size for tying.
2. Create a Loop:
Convey the correct finish of the obi over the left and create a small loop on the heart of your waist.
3. Wrap Round Left Facet:
Wrap the correct finish across the left facet of your waist, in the direction of your again. Convey it again over to the entrance.
4. Cross Over Entrance:
Cross the correct finish over the left finish and tuck it underneath the loop you created in Step 2.
5. Wrap Round Proper Facet:
Take the left finish of the obi and wrap it round the correct facet of your waist, in the direction of your again.
6. Safe with Knots:
Convey the left finish again over to the entrance and tie it right into a sq. knot within the following sequence:
| Knot | Picture | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sq. Knot (Half 1) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Cross the left finish over the correct finish. |
| Sq. Knot (Half 2) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Convey the left find yourself by way of the loop shaped from Half 1. |
| Sq. Knot (Half 3) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Cross the correct finish over the left finish. |
| Sq. Knot (Half 4) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Convey the left find yourself by way of the loop shaped from Half 3, tightening the knot securely. |
Sporting Equipment
Kimonos will be accessorized with quite a lot of gadgets, together with:
- Obi (sash): The obi is a protracted, vast belt that’s worn across the waist to safe the kimono.
- Obiage (obi sash): The obijime is a slender sash that’s tied across the obi.
- Obi-ita (obi board): The obi-ita is a skinny, rectangular board that’s inserted into the obi to provide it a stiff, flat form.
- Eri (collar): The eri is a white, starched collar that’s worn underneath the kimono.
- Tabi (socks): Tabi are white, split-toe socks which might be worn with sandals or geta.
- Haori (jacket): A haori is a brief, light-weight jacket that’s worn over the kimono.
- Obidome (obi clip): The obidome is an ornamental clip that’s worn on the obi.
Footwear
Kimonos are usually worn with conventional Japanese footwear, equivalent to:
- Zori (sandals): Zori are flat, thonged sandals which might be manufactured from straw, leather-based, or rubber.
- Geta (raised sandals): Geta are platform sandals which might be manufactured from wooden or plastic.
- Waraji (straw sandals): Waraji are easy, straw sandals which might be worn by monks and different spiritual figures.
| Footwear Sort | Description |
|---|---|
| Zori | Flat, thonged sandals manufactured from straw, leather-based, or rubber. |
| Geta | Platform sandals manufactured from wooden or plastic. |
| Waraji | Easy, straw sandals worn by monks and different spiritual figures. |
Correct Etiquette for Sporting a Kimono
When sporting a kimono, it is very important comply with correct etiquette to indicate respect for the custom and tradition related to this garment. Listed here are some important etiquette tips:
1. Sporting the Kimono Appropriately
The kimono needs to be worn with the left facet overlapping the correct facet. The obi, or sash, needs to be tied on the again.
2. Footwear
When sporting a kimono, it’s customary to put on conventional Japanese sandals referred to as geta or zori.
3. Keep away from Tough Dealing with
Deal with the kimono with care, avoiding tough remedy equivalent to wrinkling or creasing.
4. Sit Appropriately
When sitting down in a kimono, be conscious of holding the decrease a part of the kimono from touching the ground.
5. Observe Modesty
Kimonos are usually loose-fitting and may reveal the wearer’s physique. Train modesty by sporting acceptable undergarments.
6. Respect for Particular Events
Sure formal events, equivalent to weddings and tea ceremonies, require particular forms of kimonos and equipment.
7. Upkeep and Care
Kimonos require correct care and upkeep to protect their magnificence and lifespan. Dry cleansing is usually advisable.
8. Detailed Obi Tying Directions
Tying the obi, or sash, is a vital a part of sporting a kimono. Listed here are detailed directions for tying the commonest sort of obi, the nagoya obi:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the obi in half lengthwise. |
| 2 | Wrap the obi across the waist, with the left facet overlapping the correct. |
| 3 | Pull the correct finish of the obi throughout the left finish and behind your again. |
| 4 | Convey the correct finish of the obi again to the entrance and cross it over the left finish once more. |
| 5 | Tuck the correct finish of the obi into the again of the obi on the left facet of the waist. |
| 6 | Tie the obi by wrapping the remaining size of the obi across the waist a number of instances. |
| 7 | Tuck the ends of the obi into the again of the knot to safe. |
Respecting the Cultural Significance of Kimono
The kimono, a conventional Japanese garment, carries deep cultural significance that needs to be revered by those that put on it. Listed here are some features to think about to make sure correct etiquette:
1. Perceive the Hierarchy
Kimonos are worn in several types and materials relying on the event and the wearer’s social standing. Formal kimonos, such because the furisode and the tomesode, are worn by single ladies and married ladies, respectively.
2. Put on the Appropriate Equipment
Equipment equivalent to obi (belts), obiage (belt ties), and zori (sandals) should match the fashion and ritual of the kimono. Totally different obi knots are tied relying on the event and the wearer’s age.
3. Costume Appropriately for the Event
Kimonos are worn for numerous events, from on a regular basis put on to formal ceremonies. Selecting the suitable kimono and equipment for the particular occasion is essential to keep away from cultural fake pas.
4. Take care of the Kimono
Kimonos are delicate clothes that require correct care. They need to be folded and saved appropriately, and solely dry-cleaned by professionals who concentrate on kimono care.
5. Be Conscious of Cultural Context
Kimonos are usually not simply vogue gadgets however symbols of Japanese tradition. It is very important pay attention to their significance and to put on them respectfully in cultural contexts.
6. Keep away from Sporting the Kimono Backwards
Kimonos are designed to be worn with the left facet overlapping the correct facet. Sporting it backwards is taken into account disrespectful and inappropriate.
7. Respect the Cloth and Patterns
Totally different materials and patterns on kimonos have particular meanings. Respect these meanings by selecting materials and patterns which might be acceptable for the event and your social standing.
8. Take into account Your Age and Standing
The formality and magnificence of a kimono can convey the wearer’s age, marital standing, and social standing. Take into account these components when selecting and sporting a kimono.
9. Keep away from Disrespectful Conduct
When sporting a kimono, keep away from sitting on the ground together with your legs stretched out, as that is thought-about disrespectful. Moreover, by no means step on the kimono’s obi.
10. Study Totally different Kimono Kinds
There are quite a few kimono types, every with its personal historical past and cultural significance. Analysis totally different types to know the nuances and make knowledgeable decisions when sporting a kimono.
Kimono How To Put on
A kimono is a conventional Japanese garment that’s worn by each women and men. It’s a lengthy, flowing gown that’s usually manufactured from silk or cotton. Kimonos are sometimes embellished with intricate designs and patterns. They’re worn for quite a lot of events, together with formal occasions, festivals, and tea ceremonies.
To put on a kimono, you’ll need to first placed on a juban, which is a white undergarment. The kimono is then positioned over the juban and tied closed with an obi, which is a large sash. The obi is often tied in a bow behind the waist. Kimonos will be worn with quite a lot of equipment, together with geta (wood sandals) and tabi (white socks).
There are various alternative ways to put on a kimono, relying on the event and the wearer’s private fashion. Listed here are just a few ideas for sporting a kimono:
- Select a kimono that’s the proper measurement for you. The kimono needs to be lengthy sufficient to succeed in the bottom if you find yourself standing up straight.
- Put on a juban underneath your kimono. The juban will assist to maintain you heat and also will forestall the kimono from clinging to your pores and skin.
- Tie the obi securely round your waist. The obi needs to be tied snugly, however not too tightly.
- Decorate your kimono with geta and tabi. Geta and tabi are conventional Japanese footwear that may assist to finish your kimono look.
Folks Additionally Ask About Kimono How To Put on
How do I select the correct kimono?
When selecting a kimono, it is very important contemplate the event, the climate, and your private fashion. For formal events, equivalent to weddings and tea ceremonies, you’ll need to decide on a kimono manufactured from a high-quality material, equivalent to silk or brocade. For extra informal events, equivalent to festivals and events, you’ll be able to select a kimono manufactured from a inexpensive material, equivalent to cotton or linen.
How do I take care of my kimono?
Kimonos are delicate clothes and needs to be cared for with care. Hand-wash your kimono in chilly water and gentle detergent. Don’t wring or twist the kimono, as this may injury the material. Dangle the kimono to dry in a shady place. Don’t put the kimono within the dryer, as this may trigger the material to shrink.
The place can I purchase a kimono?
Kimonos will be bought at quite a lot of shops, together with shops, specialty boutiques, and on-line retailers. When shopping for a kimono, it is very important select a good retailer that sells high-quality clothes.
