The kimono, a standard Japanese garment, has captivated the world with its class and charm. It’s a versatile garment that may be worn for each formal and casual events, making it a must have for any wardrobe. Nevertheless, mastering the artwork of sporting a kimono is usually a daunting activity, particularly for individuals who are usually not acquainted with Japanese tradition. On this article, we’ll offer you a complete information on put on a kimono, guaranteeing 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 girls, this sometimes features a white or beige kimono slip known 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 best facet going through you and the sleeves hanging down. Place the left facet of the kimono over the best, aligning the shoulders. Then, cross the best 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 each side. The hem of the kimono ought to attain simply above the ankles. Subsequent, it’s time to placed on the obi, the large sash that goes across the waist. The obi is wrapped across the waist twice after which tied in an ornamental knot. There are various completely different kinds of obi knots, so you’ll be able to select the one which most accurately fits your style and the event. Lastly, slip on a pair of conventional Japanese sandals known as “geta” and you might be able to go! With just a little apply, 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.
Choosing the Proper Kimono for Your Event
Selecting the suitable kimono to your event is paramount to make sure each consolation and cultural respect. Listed below are some detailed tips to think about when deciding on your ensemble:
Formality and Event
The formality of your kimono is instantly associated to the event you can be attending. For extremely formal occasions equivalent to weddings or tea ceremonies, select an elaborate kimono made out of luxurious materials like silk or brocade. For semi-formal events like events or dinners, a less complicated kimono made out of cotton or wool can be extra appropriate. Casual kimonos, sometimes made out of informal materials like cotton or linen, are excellent for on a regular basis put on or informal outings.
Seasonality
Kimonos are designed to be worn in keeping with the season. Summer season kimonos are made out of light-weight, breathable materials like hemp or cotton and have gentle colours to replicate warmth. Winter kimonos, however, are made out 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 class. 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 potential, strive on completely different kimonos to seek out the one that matches you greatest and makes you’re feeling assured.
| Formality Degree | 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 fabricated 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 cloth lay extra easily. Contemplate eradicating hair out of your legs, underarms, and chest. When you select shaving, moisturize afterward to stop pores and skin irritation.
Exfoliate and Moisturize: Exfoliation removes lifeless pores and skin cells, permitting the kimono cloth 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 stop 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 cloth, lowering friction and making the kimono extra snug to put on.
| Physique Half | Advisable Elimination Technique |
|---|---|
| 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 facet going through up.
2. Stand within the middle of the kimono, and place your left foot ahead.
3. Deliver 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. Deliver 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 each side.
2. Fastening the Obi
1. Tie the obi round your waist, with the bow on the again.
2. Be sure 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 internal lining is exhibiting.
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. When you’re sporting geta (conventional Japanese picket sandals), put them on over the tabi socks.
5. Extra Ideas for Carrying the Obi (Sash)
There are a number of other ways to tie the obi, every with its personal distinctive look. Listed below are some extra suggestions that can assist you get began:
| Obi Model | Description |
|---|---|
| Taiko Musubi | A easy and chic knot that’s appropriate for each formal and casual events. |
| Bunko Musubi | A extra elaborate and ornamental knot that’s typically worn for particular events. |
| Kuchinashi Musubi | A fancy and complex knot that’s sometimes worn by married girls. |
The kind of obi you select may even have an effect on the best way you tie it. There are three essential forms of obi: fukuro obi, nagoya obi, and hanhaba obi. Fukuro obi are probably the most formal kind 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 probably the most casual kind 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 toes on each side, with some further size for tying.
2. Create a Loop:
Deliver the best finish of the obi over the left and create a small loop on the middle of your waist.
3. Wrap Round Left Aspect:
Wrap the best finish across the left facet of your waist, in the direction of your again. Deliver it again over to the entrance.
4. Cross Over Entrance:
Cross the best finish over the left finish and tuck it below 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 facet of your waist, in the direction of your again.
6. Safe with Knots:
Deliver 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] | Deliver the left find yourself via the loop shaped 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] | Deliver the left find yourself via the loop shaped from Half 3, tightening the knot securely. |
Carrying Equipment
Kimonos will be accessorized with quite a lot of gadgets, together with:
- Obi (sash): The obi is a protracted, large 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 below 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, equivalent to:
- Zori (sandals): Zori are flat, thonged sandals which are fabricated from straw, leather-based, or rubber.
- Geta (raised sandals): Geta are platform sandals which are fabricated from wooden or plastic.
- Waraji (straw sandals): Waraji are easy, straw sandals which are worn by monks and different spiritual figures.
| Footwear Kind | Description |
|---|---|
| Zori | Flat, thonged sandals fabricated from straw, leather-based, or rubber. |
| Geta | Platform sandals fabricated from wooden or plastic. |
| Waraji | Easy, straw sandals worn by monks and different spiritual figures. |
Correct Etiquette for Carrying a Kimono
When sporting a kimono, it is very important comply with correct etiquette to point out respect for the custom and tradition related to this garment. Listed below are some important etiquette tips:
1. Carrying the Kimono Appropriately
The kimono ought to be worn with the left facet overlapping the best facet. The obi, or sash, ought to be tied on the again.
2. Footwear
When sporting a kimono, it’s customary to put on conventional Japanese sandals known 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 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, 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 mostly beneficial.
8. Detailed Obi Tying Directions
Tying the obi, or sash, is a vital a part of sporting a kimono. Listed below are detailed directions for tying the commonest kind 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 best. |
| 3 | Pull the best finish of the obi throughout the left finish and behind your again. |
| 4 | Deliver 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 facet of the waist. |
| 6 | Tie the obi by wrapping the remaining size of the obi across the waist a number of occasions. |
| 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 ought to be revered by those that put on it. Listed below are some facets 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 girls and married girls, respectively.
2. Put on the Appropriate Equipment
Equipment equivalent to obi (belts), obiage (belt ties), and zori (sandals) should match the type and ritual of the kimono. Totally different obi knots are tied relying on the event and the wearer’s age.
3. Gown 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 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 appropriately, and solely dry-cleaned by professionals who focus on kimono care.
5. Be Conscious of Cultural Context
Kimonos are usually not simply style 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 Carrying the Kimono Backwards
Kimonos are designed to be worn with the left facet overlapping the best facet. Carrying it backwards is taken into account disrespectful and inappropriate.
7. Respect the Material and Patterns
Totally 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 elegance of a kimono can convey the wearer’s age, marital standing, and social standing. Contemplate these elements when selecting and sporting a kimono.
9. Keep away from Disrespectful Habits
When sporting a kimono, keep away from sitting on the ground together with your legs stretched out, as that is thought of disrespectful. Moreover, by no means step on the kimono’s obi.
10. Study Totally different Kimono Types
There are quite a few kimono kinds, every with its personal historical past and cultural significance. Analysis completely different kinds to grasp the nuances and make knowledgeable selections 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 fabricated from silk or cotton. Kimonos are sometimes adorned 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 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 usually tied in a bow in the back of the waist. Kimonos will be worn with quite a lot of equipment, together with geta (picket sandals) and tabi (white socks).
There are various other ways to put on a kimono, relying on the event and the wearer’s private type. Listed below are a number of suggestions for sporting a kimono:
- Select a kimono that’s the proper dimension for you. The kimono ought to be lengthy sufficient to achieve the bottom when you find yourself standing up straight.
- Put on a juban below your kimono. The juban will assist to maintain you heat and also will stop the kimono from clinging to your pores and skin.
- Tie the obi securely round your waist. The obi ought 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.
Individuals 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, equivalent to weddings and tea ceremonies, you will have to decide on a kimono fabricated from a high-quality cloth, equivalent to silk or brocade. For extra informal events, equivalent to festivals and events, you’ll be able to select a kimono fabricated from a inexpensive cloth, equivalent to cotton or linen.
How do I take care of my kimono?
Kimonos are delicate clothes and ought to be cared for with care. Hand-wash your kimono in chilly water and delicate detergent. Don’t wring or twist the kimono, as this could injury the material. Hold 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 will be bought at quite a lot of shops, together with malls, specialty boutiques, and on-line retailers. When shopping for a kimono, it is very important select a good retailer that sells high-quality clothes.
