The kimono, a standard Japanese garment, has captivated the world with its magnificence and beauty. It’s a versatile garment that may be worn for each formal and casual events, making it essential for any wardrobe. Nonetheless, mastering the artwork of sporting a kimono is usually a daunting activity, particularly for many who aren’t aware of Japanese tradition. On this article, we’ll give you a complete information on methods to put on a kimono, making certain that you feel and look your greatest on this iconic garment.
Step one in sporting a kimono is to placed on the suitable undergarments. For ladies, this sometimes features a white or beige kimono slip referred to as a “nagajuban.” Males, alternatively, could 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 best aspect going through you and the sleeves hanging down. Place the left aspect of the kimono over the best, aligning the shoulders. Then, cross the best aspect over the left and knot the himo (cords) on the waist.
After tying the himo, modify 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 broad sash that goes across the waist. The obi is wrapped across the waist twice after which tied in an ornamental knot. There are numerous totally different kinds of obi knots, so you possibly can 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’re able to go! With just a little observe, it is possible for you to to grasp the artwork of sporting a kimono and benefit from the magnificence and magnificence of this timeless garment.
Deciding on the Proper Kimono for Your Event
Selecting the suitable kimono to your event is paramount to make sure each consolation and cultural respect. Listed here are some detailed pointers to think about when deciding on your ensemble:
Formality and Event
The formality of your kimono is immediately associated to the event you’ll be attending. For extremely formal occasions similar to weddings or tea ceremonies, select an elaborate kimono constituted of luxurious materials like silk or brocade. For semi-formal events like events or dinners, a less complicated kimono constituted of cotton or wool could be extra appropriate. Casual kimonos, sometimes constituted 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 constituted of light-weight, breathable materials like hemp or cotton and have gentle colours to mirror warmth. Winter kimonos, alternatively, are constituted of hotter supplies like wool or velvet and sometimes characteristic darker colours or patterns to retain heat.
Physique Proportions and Match
The match of a kimono is essential for each consolation and magnificence. A well-fitting kimono will improve your silhouette and intensify your greatest options. Contemplate your peak, weight, and physique form when deciding on a kimono. If attainable, strive on totally different kimonos to seek out the one that matches you greatest and makes you are feeling assured.
| Formality Stage | Event Examples | Material 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 |
Getting ready Your Physique for Carrying 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. Contemplate eradicating hair out of your legs, underarms, and chest. Should you select shaving, moisturize afterward to stop pores and skin irritation.
Exfoliate and Moisturize: Exfoliation removes useless pores and skin cells, permitting the kimono material to glide over your pores and skin extra simply. Observe 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 | Advisable Elimination Methodology |
|---|---|
| Legs | Shaving/Waxing |
| Underarms | Shaving/Waxing |
| Chest | Shaving (for males solely) |
Carrying the Kimono and Obi (Sash)
1. Placing on the Kimono
1. Lay the kimono on a flat floor, with the left aspect going through up.
2. Stand within the heart of the kimono, and place your left foot ahead.
3. Carry the best half of the kimono over your left and as much as your proper shoulder, with the again of the kimono towards your physique.
4. Carry the left half of the kimono over your proper and as much as your left shoulder, overlapping the best 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 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. Carrying Socks and Footwear
1. Placed on white tabi socks (conventional Japanese split-toe socks).
2. Should you’re sporting geta (conventional Japanese picket sandals), put them on over the tabi socks.
5. Further Suggestions for Carrying the Obi (Sash)
There are a number of other 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 fancy and complex knot that’s sometimes worn by married ladies. |
The kind of obi you select may also have an effect on the way in which you tie it. There are three important sorts of obi: fukuro obi, nagoya obi, and hanhaba obi. Fukuro obi are essentially the most formal sort of obi and are sometimes 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. Regulate the Size:
Earlier than tying, make sure the obi reaches your ft on either side, with some further size for tying.
2. Create a Loop:
Carry the best finish of the obi over the left and create a small loop on the heart of your waist.
3. Wrap Round Left Aspect:
Wrap the best finish across the left aspect of your waist, in direction of your again. Carry it again over to the entrance.
4. Cross Over Entrance:
Cross the best finish over the left finish and tuck it underneath the loop you created in Step 2.
5. Wrap Round Proper Aspect:
Take the left finish of the obi and wrap it round the best aspect of your waist, in direction of your again.
6. Safe with Knots:
Carry 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 best finish. |
| Sq. Knot (Half 2) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Carry the left find yourself by means of the loop fashioned from Half 1. |
| Sq. Knot (Half 3) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Cross the best finish over the left finish. |
| Sq. Knot (Half 4) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Carry the left find yourself by means of the loop fashioned from Half 3, tightening the knot securely. |
Carrying Equipment
Kimonos could be accessorized with a wide range of gadgets, together with:
- Obi (sash): The obi is an extended, broad 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 are 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 sometimes worn with conventional Japanese footwear, similar to:
- Zori (sandals): Zori are flat, thonged sandals which are manufactured from straw, leather-based, or rubber.
- Geta (raised sandals): Geta are platform sandals which are manufactured from wooden or plastic.
- Waraji (straw sandals): Waraji are easy, straw sandals which are worn by monks and different non secular 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 non secular figures. |
Correct Etiquette for Carrying 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 pointers:
1. Carrying the Kimono Appropriately
The kimono needs to be worn with the left aspect overlapping the best aspect. 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 therapy similar to wrinkling or creasing.
4. Sit Appropriately
When sitting down in a kimono, be aware of protecting the decrease a part of the kimono from touching the ground.
5. Observe Modesty
Kimonos are sometimes loose-fitting and might reveal the wearer’s physique. Train modesty by sporting applicable undergarments.
6. Respect for Particular Events
Sure formal events, similar to weddings and tea ceremonies, require particular sorts of kimonos and equipment.
7. Upkeep and Care
Kimonos require correct care and upkeep to protect their magnificence and lifespan. Dry cleansing is usually beneficial.
8. Detailed Obi Tying Directions
Tying the obi, or sash, is a necessary a part of sporting a kimono. Listed here are detailed directions for tying the most typical 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 aspect overlapping the best. |
| 3 | Pull the best finish of the obi throughout the left finish and behind your again. |
| 4 | Carry the best finish of the obi again to the entrance and cross it over the left finish once more. |
| 5 | Tuck the best finish of the obi into the again of the obi on the left aspect 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 standard 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 numerous kinds 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 similar to obi (belts), obiage (belt ties), and zori (sandals) should match the type and ritual of the kimono. Completely different obi knots are tied relying on the event and the wearer’s age.
3. Costume Appropriately for the Event
Kimonos are worn for varied events, from on a regular basis put on to formal ceremonies. Selecting the suitable kimono and equipment for the precise occasion is essential to keep away from cultural fake pas.
4. Look after the Kimono
Kimonos are delicate clothes that require correct care. They need to be folded and saved accurately, and solely dry-cleaned by professionals who specialise in kimono care.
5. Be Conscious of Cultural Context
Kimonos aren’t simply trend gadgets however symbols of Japanese tradition. It is very important concentrate on their significance and to put on them respectfully in cultural contexts.
6. Keep away from Carrying the Kimono Backwards
Kimonos are designed to be worn with the left aspect overlapping the best aspect. Carrying it backwards is taken into account disrespectful and inappropriate.
7. Respect the Material and Patterns
Completely different materials and patterns on kimonos have particular meanings. Respect these meanings by selecting materials and patterns which are applicable for the event and your social standing.
8. Contemplate Your Age and Standing
The formality and magnificence of a kimono can convey the wearer’s age, marital standing, and social standing. Contemplate 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 along with your legs stretched out, as that is thought-about disrespectful. Moreover, by no means step on the kimono’s obi.
10. Find out about Completely different Kimono Kinds
There are quite a few kimono kinds, every with its personal historical past and cultural significance. Analysis totally different kinds to know the nuances and make knowledgeable decisions when sporting a kimono.
Kimono How To Put on
A kimono is a standard Japanese garment that’s worn by each women and men. It’s a lengthy, flowing gown that’s sometimes manufactured from silk or cotton. Kimonos are sometimes embellished with intricate designs and patterns. They’re worn for a wide range of events, together with formal occasions, festivals, and tea ceremonies.
To put on a kimono, you will have 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 in the back of the waist. Kimonos could be worn with a wide range of equipment, together with geta (picket sandals) and tabi (white socks).
There are numerous other ways to put on a kimono, relying on the event and the wearer’s private type. Listed here are a couple of ideas for sporting a kimono:
- Select a kimono that’s the proper dimension for you. The kimono needs to be lengthy sufficient to succeed in the bottom if you end up 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 best kimono?
When selecting a kimono, it is very important take into account the event, the climate, and your private type. For formal events, similar to weddings and tea ceremonies, you will have to decide on a kimono manufactured from a high-quality material, similar to silk or brocade. For extra informal events, similar to festivals and events, you possibly can select a kimono manufactured from a inexpensive material, similar 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 could harm the material. Cling the kimono to dry in a shady place. Don’t put the kimono within the dryer, as this could trigger the material to shrink.
The place can I purchase a kimono?
Kimonos could be bought at a wide range of shops, together with department 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.
