Kimono
Kimono is a traditional Japanese garment worn by women, men and children.
A woman’s kimono may easily exceed US$10,000; a complete kimono outfit, with kimono, undergarments, obi, ties, socks, sandals and accessories, can exceed US$20,000.
There are many types of kimonos for women.
Furisode literally translates as swinging sleeves, with the sleeves of furisode average between 39 and 42 inches in length.
Furisode are the most formal kimono for unmarried women, with colorful patterns that cover the entire garment.
They are usually worn at Coming Of Age Day ceremonies (Seijin no Hi).
A yukata is a casual summer kimono usually made of cotton, most often worn to outdoor festivals, by men and women of all ages.
The yukata is also frequently worn after bathing at traditional Japanese inns.
Hakama is a divided (umanoribakama) or undivided skirt (andonbakama) which resembles a wide pair of trousers, traditionally worn by men but contemporarily also by women in less formal situations …
… and for certain martial arts such as aikido, kendo and kyudo.
Hakama are often worn by young women at college graduation ceremonies …
… and by miko in shinto shrines.
The susohiki is mostly worn by geisha or by stage performers of traditional Japanese dance.
It is quite long, compared to regular kimono, because the skirt is supposed to trail along the floor.
Formal kimonos are also worn during traditional wedding ceremonies.
Absolutely stunning pictures. Great camera work! The kimono is the one exquisite garment I have always wanted to own. You have me dreaming here:)
Thank you for the nice comments, much appreciated. Kimonos are definitely very beautiful garments and does require a lot of practice and patience to wear (just ask my wife).
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Awesome photos. But I wonder, why is the kimono so expensive? Is it a prestige symbol? The prices are just crazy…
Actually, yukatas are relatively cheap. The more formal ones (ie. furisode) are quite expensive, even renting.
Nice Kimono