The kimono, a standard Japanese garment, has captivated the world with its magnificence and style. It’s a versatile garment that may be worn for each formal and casual events, making it vital for any wardrobe. Nevertheless, mastering the artwork of carrying a kimono is usually a daunting process, particularly for individuals who will not be aware of Japanese tradition. On this article, we’ll offer you a complete information on how you can put on a kimono, making certain that you feel and look your greatest on this iconic garment.
Step one in carrying a kimono is to placed on the suitable undergarments. For girls, this usually features a white or beige kimono slip known as a “nagajuban.” Males, however, 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 proper facet dealing with you and the sleeves hanging down. Place the left facet of the kimono over the proper, aligning the shoulders. Then, cross the proper facet 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 huge sash that goes across the waist. The obi is wrapped across the waist twice after which tied in an ornamental knot. There are lots of completely different kinds of obi knots, so you may select the one which most closely fits your style and the event. Lastly, slip on a pair of conventional Japanese sandals known as “geta” and you’re able to go! With a little bit observe, it is possible for you to to grasp the artwork of carrying a kimono and benefit from the magnificence and magnificence of this timeless garment.
Choosing 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 pointers to think about when choosing your ensemble:
Formality and Event
The formality of your kimono is instantly associated to the event you can be attending. For extremely formal occasions akin 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, an easier kimono made out of cotton or wool can be extra appropriate. Casual kimonos, usually made out 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 based on the season. Summer season kimonos are made out of light-weight, breathable materials like hemp or cotton and have mild 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 magnificence. A well-fitting kimono will improve your silhouette and intensify your greatest options. Take into account your peak, weight, and physique form when choosing a kimono. If attainable, strive on completely different kimonos to seek out the one that matches you greatest 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 optimum consolation, go for seamless, form-fitting underwear product of pure fibers like cotton or silk. Keep away from carrying brassieres with underwire or different elaborations that may create undesirable bulges.
2. Create a Clean 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. In the event you select shaving, moisturize afterward to forestall 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. 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 | Advisable Elimination Technique |
|---|---|
| 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 dealing with up.
2. Stand within the middle of the kimono, and place your left foot ahead.
3. Deliver the proper 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 proper half by about 10 centimeters.
5. Clean 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. Make sure 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 internal lining is exhibiting.
2. Clean 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. In the event you’re carrying geta (conventional Japanese wood sandals), put them on over the tabi socks.
5. Further Ideas for Sporting 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 suggestions that can assist you get began:
| Obi Model | 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 typically worn for particular events. |
| Kuchinashi Musubi | A posh and complex knot that’s usually worn by married girls. |
The kind of obi you select can even have an effect on the way in which you tie it. There are three most important forms of obi: fukuro obi, nagoya obi, and hanhaba obi. Fukuro obi are essentially the most formal kind of obi and are usually worn with ceremonial kimonos. Nagoya obi are a bit much less formal and are a good selection for on a regular basis put on. Hanhaba obi are essentially the most casual kind of obi and are sometimes worn with informal kimonos.
Tying the Obi Securely
To securely tie the obi, observe these detailed steps:
1. Alter the Size:
Earlier than tying, make sure the obi reaches your toes on either side, with some further size for tying.
2. Create a Loop:
Deliver the proper finish of the obi over the left and create a small loop on the middle of your waist.
3. Wrap Round Left Facet:
Wrap the proper 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 proper 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 proper 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 proper finish. |
| Sq. Knot (Half 2) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Deliver the left find yourself by the loop fashioned from Half 1. |
| Sq. Knot (Half 3) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Cross the proper finish over the left finish. |
| Sq. Knot (Half 4) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Deliver the left find yourself by the loop fashioned from Half 3, tightening the knot securely. |
Sporting Equipment
Kimonos might be accessorized with a wide range of gadgets, together with:
- Obi (sash): The obi is an extended, huge 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 usually worn with conventional Japanese footwear, akin to:
- Zori (sandals): Zori are flat, thonged sandals which are product of straw, leather-based, or rubber.
- Geta (raised sandals): Geta are platform sandals which are product of wooden or plastic.
- Waraji (straw sandals): Waraji are easy, straw sandals which are worn by monks and different spiritual figures.
| Footwear Sort | Description |
|---|---|
| Zori | Flat, thonged sandals product of straw, leather-based, or rubber. |
| Geta | Platform sandals product of wooden or plastic. |
| Waraji | Easy, straw sandals worn by monks and different spiritual figures. |
Correct Etiquette for Sporting a Kimono
When carrying a kimono, it is very important observe correct etiquette to indicate respect for the custom and tradition related to this garment. Listed here are some important etiquette pointers:
1. Sporting the Kimono Accurately
The kimono must be worn with the left facet overlapping the proper facet. The obi, or sash, must be tied on the again.
2. Footwear
When carrying 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 therapy akin 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 usually loose-fitting and might reveal the wearer’s physique. Train modesty by carrying applicable undergarments.
6. Respect for Particular Events
Sure formal events, akin 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 really useful.
8. Detailed Obi Tying Directions
Tying the obi, or sash, is an important a part of carrying a kimono. Listed here are detailed directions for tying the most typical 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 proper. |
| 3 | Pull the proper finish of the obi throughout the left finish and behind your again. |
| 4 | Deliver the proper finish of the obi again to the entrance and cross it over the left finish once more. |
| 5 | Tuck the proper 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 must be revered by those that put on it. Listed here are some facets to think about to make sure correct etiquette:
1. Perceive the Hierarchy
Kimonos are worn in several 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 Right Equipment
Equipment akin to obi (belts), obiage (belt ties), and zori (sandals) should match the model and ritual of the kimono. Completely different obi knots are tied relying on the event and the wearer’s age.
3. Gown 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 will not be 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 Sporting the Kimono Backwards
Kimonos are designed to be worn with the left facet overlapping the proper facet. Sporting it backwards is taken into account disrespectful and inappropriate.
7. Respect the Cloth 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. 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 carrying a kimono.
9. Keep away from Disrespectful Conduct
When carrying 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 Completely different Kimono Kinds
There are quite a few kimono kinds, every with its personal historical past and cultural significance. Analysis completely different kinds to know the nuances and make knowledgeable decisions when carrying 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 usually product of silk or cotton. Kimonos are sometimes adorned 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 have to 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 behind the waist. Kimonos might be worn with a wide range of equipment, together with geta (wood sandals) and tabi (white socks).
There are lots of other ways to put on a kimono, relying on the event and the wearer’s private model. Listed here are just a few suggestions for carrying a kimono:
- Select a kimono that’s the proper measurement for you. The kimono must be lengthy sufficient to succeed in the bottom when 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 must 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 proper kimono?
When selecting a kimono, it is very important think about the event, the climate, and your private model. For formal events, akin to weddings and tea ceremonies, you have to to decide on a kimono product of a high-quality material, akin to silk or brocade. For extra informal events, akin to festivals and events, you may select a kimono product of a inexpensive material, akin to cotton or linen.
How do I take care of my kimono?
Kimonos are delicate clothes and must be cared for with care. Hand-wash your kimono in chilly water and delicate detergent. Don’t wring or twist the kimono, as this will injury the material. Cling the kimono to dry in a shady place. Don’t put the kimono within the dryer, as this will trigger the material to shrink.
The place can I purchase a kimono?
Kimonos might be bought at a wide range 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.
