Japanese Festive Attire

 Kimono: Wearable Folk Art

The kimono is extremely valuable type of clothing in Japanese culture. As early as the 8^th Century they began to be transformed shape and size into what is now called the straight-line-cut kimono. Accessories that often accompany the kimono include (but are not limited to) the obi; a belt that holds the kimono in place, an obijime; keeps the obi in place, tabi; a split-toe sock and getas; clogs made of wood with two straps.

Kimonos are truly fascinating because of the many parts they are composed of and the various occasions they can be used for. The more simple and most common type of kimono is called Yukata. Made of lightweight cotton it is intended for summer use.

Baby girls are often dressed in bright and/or dyed kimonos. Boys wear black kimonos designed with the family crest.

This popular wearable folk art - often decorated to represent seasons and clans -  is also considered appropriate attire for tea ceremonies, weddings, festivals, funerals and such.

If you want to learn more about the Japanese culture while eating delicious food and showing off your Kimono, don’t miss the upcoming 59th Annual Enmanji Buddhist Temple BBQ  taking place July 7 in Sebastopol, CA and the Bon Odori Festival that happens there on July 14.