The kimono, a traditional Japanese garment, has captivated the world with its elegance and grace. It is a versatile garment that can be worn for both formal and informal occasions, making it a must-have for any wardrobe. However, mastering the art of wearing a kimono can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not familiar with Japanese culture. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to wear a kimono, ensuring that you look and feel your best in this iconic garment.
The first step in wearing a kimono is to put on the appropriate undergarments. For women, this typically includes a white or beige kimono slip called a “nagajuban.” Men, on the other hand, may wear a simple undershirt and pants. Once the undergarments are in place, it is time to put on the kimono. Start by holding the kimono with the right side facing you and the sleeves hanging down. Place the left side of the kimono over the right, aligning the shoulders. Then, cross the right side over the left and knot the himo (cords) at the waist.
After tying the himo, adjust the kimono so that it hangs evenly on both sides. The hem of the kimono should reach just above the ankles. Next, it is time to put on the obi, the wide sash that goes around the waist. The obi is wrapped around the waist twice and then tied in a decorative knot. There are many different styles of obi knots, so you can choose the one that best suits your taste and the occasion. Finally, slip on a pair of traditional Japanese sandals called “geta” and you are ready to go! With a little practice, you will be able to master the art of wearing a kimono and enjoy the beauty and elegance of this timeless garment.
Selecting the Right Kimono for Your Occasion
Choosing the appropriate kimono for your occasion is paramount to ensure both comfort and cultural respect. Here are some detailed guidelines to consider when selecting your ensemble:
Formality and Occasion
The formality of your kimono is directly related to the occasion you will be attending. For highly formal events such as weddings or tea ceremonies, choose an elaborate kimono made from luxurious fabrics like silk or brocade. For semi-formal occasions like parties or dinners, a simpler kimono made from cotton or wool would be more suitable. Informal kimonos, typically made from casual fabrics like cotton or linen, are perfect for everyday wear or casual outings.
Seasonality
Kimonos are designed to be worn according to the season. Summer kimonos are made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like hemp or cotton and feature light colors to reflect heat. Winter kimonos, on the other hand, are made from warmer materials like wool or velvet and often feature darker colors or patterns to retain warmth.
Body Proportions and Fit
The fit of a kimono is crucial for both comfort and elegance. A well-fitting kimono will enhance your silhouette and accentuate your best features. Consider your height, weight, and body shape when selecting a kimono. If possible, try on different kimonos to find the one that fits you best and makes you feel confident.
| Formality Level | Occasion Examples | Fabric Options |
|---|---|---|
| Highly Formal | Weddings, tea ceremonies | Silk, brocade |
| Semi-Formal | Parties, dinners | Cotton, wool |
| Informal | Everyday wear, casual outings | Cotton, linen |
Preparing Your Body for Wearing a Kimono
1. Choose the Right Underwear
For maximum comfort, opt for seamless, form-fitting underwear made of natural fibers like cotton or silk. Avoid wearing brassieres with underwire or other embellishments that can create unwanted bulges.
2. Create a Smooth Foundation
Remove Body Hair: Shaving or waxing your body helps the kimono fabric lay more smoothly. Consider removing hair from your legs, underarms, and chest. If you choose shaving, moisturize afterward to prevent skin irritation.
Exfoliate and Moisturize: Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, allowing the kimono fabric to glide over your skin more easily. Follow up with a moisturizer to ensure your skin is supple and hydrated, which can prevent the fabric from chafing or clinging.
Wear Slip or Undershirt: A thin, sleeveless slip or undershirt can act as a buffer between your skin and the kimono fabric, reducing friction and making the kimono more comfortable to wear.
| Body Part | Recommended Removal Method |
|---|---|
| Legs | Shaving/Waxing |
| Underarms | Shaving/Waxing |
| Chest | Shaving (for men only) |
Wearing the Kimono and Obi (Sash)
1. Putting on the Kimono
1. Lay the kimono on a flat surface, with the left side facing up.
2. Stand in the center of the kimono, and place your left foot forward.
3. Bring the right half of the kimono over your left and up to your right shoulder, with the back of the kimono against your body.
4. Bring the left half of the kimono over your right and up to your left shoulder, overlapping the right half by about 10 centimeters.
5. Smooth out any wrinkles and make sure the kimono is evenly distributed on both sides.
2. Fastening the Obi
1. Tie the obi around your waist, with the bow at the back.
2. Make sure the obi is tight enough to hold the kimono in place, but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable.
3. Arranging the Collar
1. Fold down the collar of the kimono until the inner lining is showing.
2. Smooth out any wrinkles and make sure the collar is symmetrical.
4. Wearing Socks and Footwear
1. Put on white tabi socks (traditional Japanese split-toe socks).
2. If you’re wearing geta (traditional Japanese wooden sandals), put them on over the tabi socks.
5. Additional Tips for Wearing the Obi (Sash)
There are several different ways to tie the obi, each with its own unique look. Here are some additional tips to help you get started:
| Obi Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Taiko Musubi | A simple and elegant knot that is suitable for both formal and informal occasions. |
| Bunko Musubi | A more elaborate and decorative knot that is often worn for special occasions. |
| Kuchinashi Musubi | A complex and intricate knot that is typically worn by married women. |
The type of obi you choose will also affect the way you tie it. There are three main types of obi: fukuro obi, nagoya obi, and hanhaba obi. Fukuro obi are the most formal type of obi and are typically worn with ceremonial kimonos. Nagoya obi are a bit less formal and are a good choice for everyday wear. Hanhaba obi are the most informal type of obi and are often worn with casual kimonos.
Tying the Obi Securely
To securely tie the obi, follow these detailed steps:
1. Adjust the Length:
Before tying, ensure the obi reaches your feet on both sides, with some extra length for tying.
2. Create a Loop:
Bring the right end of the obi over the left and create a small loop at the center of your waist.
3. Wrap Around Left Side:
Wrap the right end around the left side of your waist, towards your back. Bring it back over to the front.
4. Cross Over Front:
Cross the right end over the left end and tuck it under the loop you created in Step 2.
5. Wrap Around Right Side:
Take the left end of the obi and wrap it around the right side of your waist, towards your back.
6. Secure with Knots:
Bring the left end back over to the front and tie it into a square knot in the following sequence:
| Knot | Image | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Square Knot (Part 1) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Cross the left end over the right end. |
| Square Knot (Part 2) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Bring the left end up through the loop formed from Part 1. |
| Square Knot (Part 3) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Cross the right end over the left end. |
| Square Knot (Part 4) | [Provide an illustration or link to an image] | Bring the left end up through the loop formed from Part 3, tightening the knot securely. |
Wearing Accessories
Kimonos can be accessorized with a variety of items, including:
- Obi (sash): The obi is a long, wide belt that is worn around the waist to secure the kimono.
- Obiage (obi sash): The obijime is a narrow sash that is tied around the obi.
- Obi-ita (obi board): The obi-ita is a thin, rectangular board that is inserted into the obi to give it a stiff, flat shape.
- Eri (collar): The eri is a white, starched collar that is worn under the kimono.
- Tabi (socks): Tabi are white, split-toe socks that are worn with sandals or geta.
- Haori (jacket): A haori is a short, lightweight jacket that is worn over the kimono.
- Obidome (obi clip): The obidome is a decorative clip that is worn on the obi.
Footwear
Kimonos are typically worn with traditional Japanese footwear, such as:
- Zori (sandals): Zori are flat, thonged sandals that are made of straw, leather, or rubber.
- Geta (raised sandals): Geta are platform sandals that are made of wood or plastic.
- Waraji (straw sandals): Waraji are simple, straw sandals that are worn by monks and other religious figures.
| Footwear Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Zori | Flat, thonged sandals made of straw, leather, or rubber. |
| Geta | Platform sandals made of wood or plastic. |
| Waraji | Simple, straw sandals worn by monks and other religious figures. |
Proper Etiquette for Wearing a Kimono
When wearing a kimono, it is important to follow proper etiquette to show respect for the tradition and culture associated with this garment. Here are some essential etiquette guidelines:
1. Wearing the Kimono Correctly
The kimono should be worn with the left side overlapping the right side. The obi, or sash, should be tied at the back.
2. Footwear
When wearing a kimono, it is customary to wear traditional Japanese sandals called geta or zori.
3. Avoid Rough Handling
Handle the kimono with care, avoiding rough treatment such as wrinkling or creasing.
4. Sit Appropriately
When sitting down in a kimono, be mindful of keeping the lower part of the kimono from touching the floor.
5. Observe Modesty
Kimonos are typically loose-fitting and can reveal the wearer’s body. Exercise modesty by wearing appropriate undergarments.
6. Respect for Special Occasions
Certain formal occasions, such as weddings and tea ceremonies, require specific types of kimonos and accessories.
7. Maintenance and Care
Kimonos require proper care and maintenance to preserve their beauty and lifespan. Dry cleaning is generally recommended.
8. Detailed Obi Tying Instructions
Tying the obi, or sash, is an essential part of wearing a kimono. Here are detailed instructions for tying the most common type of obi, the nagoya obi:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the obi in half lengthwise. |
| 2 | Wrap the obi around the waist, with the left side overlapping the right. |
| 3 | Pull the right end of the obi across the left end and behind your back. |
| 4 | Bring the right end of the obi back to the front and cross it over the left end again. |
| 5 | Tuck the right end of the obi into the back of the obi at the left side of the waist. |
| 6 | Tie the obi by wrapping the remaining length of the obi around the waist several times. |
| 7 | Tuck the ends of the obi into the back of the knot to secure. |
Respecting the Cultural Significance of Kimono
The kimono, a traditional Japanese garment, carries deep cultural significance that should be respected by those who wear it. Here are some aspects to consider to ensure proper etiquette:
1. Understand the Hierarchy
Kimonos are worn in different styles and fabrics depending on the occasion and the wearer’s social status. Formal kimonos, such as the furisode and the tomesode, are worn by unmarried women and married women, respectively.
2. Wear the Correct Accessories
Accessories such as obi (belts), obiage (belt ties), and zori (sandals) must match the style and formality of the kimono. Different obi knots are tied depending on the occasion and the wearer’s age.
3. Dress Appropriately for the Occasion
Kimonos are worn for various occasions, from everyday wear to formal ceremonies. Choosing the appropriate kimono and accessories for the specific event is crucial to avoid cultural faux pas.
4. Care for the Kimono
Kimonos are delicate garments that require proper care. They should be folded and stored correctly, and only dry-cleaned by professionals who specialize in kimono care.
5. Be Aware of Cultural Context
Kimonos are not just fashion items but symbols of Japanese culture. It is important to be aware of their significance and to wear them respectfully in cultural contexts.
6. Avoid Wearing the Kimono Backwards
Kimonos are designed to be worn with the left side overlapping the right side. Wearing it backwards is considered disrespectful and inappropriate.
7. Respect the Fabric and Patterns
Different fabrics and patterns on kimonos have specific meanings. Respect these meanings by choosing fabrics and patterns that are appropriate for the occasion and your social status.
8. Consider Your Age and Status
The formality and style of a kimono can convey the wearer’s age, marital status, and social status. Consider these factors when choosing and wearing a kimono.
9. Avoid Disrespectful Behavior
When wearing a kimono, avoid sitting on the floor with your legs stretched out, as this is considered disrespectful. Additionally, never step on the kimono’s obi.
10. Learn about Different Kimono Styles
There are numerous kimono styles, each with its own history and cultural significance. Research different styles to understand the nuances and make informed choices when wearing a kimono.
Kimono How To Wear
A kimono is a traditional Japanese garment that is worn by both men and women. It is a long, flowing robe that is typically made of silk or cotton. Kimonos are often decorated with intricate designs and patterns. They are worn for a variety of occasions, including formal events, festivals, and tea ceremonies.
To wear a kimono, you will need to first put on a juban, which is a white undergarment. The kimono is then placed over the juban and tied closed with an obi, which is a wide sash. The obi is typically tied in a bow at the back of the waist. Kimonos can be worn with a variety of accessories, including geta (wooden sandals) and tabi (white socks).
There are many different ways to wear a kimono, depending on the occasion and the wearer’s personal style. Here are a few tips for wearing a kimono:
- Choose a kimono that is the right size for you. The kimono should be long enough to reach the ground when you are standing up straight.
- Wear a juban under your kimono. The juban will help to keep you warm and will also prevent the kimono from clinging to your skin.
- Tie the obi securely around your waist. The obi should be tied snugly, but not too tightly.
- Accessorize your kimono with geta and tabi. Geta and tabi are traditional Japanese footwear that can help to complete your kimono look.
People Also Ask About Kimono How To Wear
How do I choose the right kimono?
When choosing a kimono, it is important to consider the occasion, the weather, and your personal style. For formal occasions, such as weddings and tea ceremonies, you will need to choose a kimono made of a high-quality fabric, such as silk or brocade. For more casual occasions, such as festivals and parties, you can choose a kimono made of a less expensive fabric, such as cotton or linen.
How do I care for my kimono?
Kimonos are delicate garments and should be cared for with care. Hand-wash your kimono in cold water and mild detergent. Do not wring or twist the kimono, as this can damage the fabric. Hang the kimono to dry in a shady place. Do not put the kimono in the dryer, as this can cause the fabric to shrink.
Where can I buy a kimono?
Kimonos can be purchased at a variety of stores, including department stores, specialty boutiques, and online retailers. When buying a kimono, it is important to choose a reputable store that sells high-quality garments.
