Christina here and for today’s post I’m going Japanese! As you may have seen from Anne’s introduction of me (here), I was lucky enough to live in Japan for several years and I fell in love with everything about that country, including its beautiful traditional garments. So when the Victoria & Albert Museum in London put on an exhibition of kimono earlier this year, I just had to go and see it! It was glorious and as we’re now all stuck at home, I thought I’d give you a little taste of what was on display and tell you about these very special robes which featured in one of my very first novels, The Scarlet Kimono.
The kimono is instantly recognisable and the word itself (which just means “the thing to wear”) is known throughout the world. The fact that it is hardly ever translated I think is testament to its fame. As the first sign at the exhibition said, for the Japanese it “embodies national culture”. Its shape has stayed the same for centuries, making it timeless, although the aim of the museum was partly to show that it can indeed move with the times and be reinvented and incorporated into current fashions as well.
In Japan, by the beginning of the 17th century, almost everyone wore a type of kimono called kosode – men, women and children. The word means “small sleeves” and just referred to the size of the sleeve openings. Made of silk (for the aristocrats – the samurai – and the rich merchant class) or cotton, they were worn in layers, one kimono on top of another, sometimes as many as twelve or more (although I think that was only for court or high-ranking ladies as that made it extremely heavy and not very practical!). The innermost robe is white, showing slightly at the neck. Layers can be added or shed depending on temperature – it gets very hot and humid in Japan during the summer months, so less layers and cooler materials like linen or cotton would be preferable then.
The design of a kimono is very simple – everything is straight and it is made out of eight pieces of material, cut from the same piece of cloth, and made to fit together in a precise manner. The exhibition featured an animated film showing exactly how to do it which was fascinating. There are no buttons or fastenings; instead it is wrapped at the front and tied with a wide sash called an obi, and the various ways of tying this have different meanings. (Courtesans sometimes had theirs tied at the front – presumably to make it easier to take off?). A kimono doesn’t flatter the wearer’s body, the way European clothing does – indeed, to the Japanese the body inside was totally irrelevant. Rather, the important part is the surface where the design covers the entire garment and is displayed, as you can see from the photos.
There are several types, such as the kosode I mentioned, the most common style with narrow sleeves and a hem just by the ankles; furisode, which is a version with very long sleeves that was worn by young, unmarried women; uchikake, which is an outer kimono for special occasions; and yukata, informal summer wear or a robe to be worn after a bath, made of cotton and normally dyed blue or blue/white patterns (see photo on the left).
During the Edo period (1615-1868) the kimono really became a fashion and status item. The finest ones were created by commission for wealthy clients. There were various finishes available, such as dyed, hand painted or embroidered. Just like in Europe, embroidery was done with all the colours of the rainbow using lots of different stitches, often mixed with gold or silver thread. Some fabulous patterns were created. Many were nature motifs, but some people had writing (in Japanese kanji) and even parts of poems stitched onto their robes like this one.
By the 18th century, the capital Edo was the largest city in the world with a population that craved culture and entertainment. They found it in the so called ukiyo – “floating world” – of the Yoshiwara district, an area of the town solely for the sort of establishments where entertainment could be found.
There were celebrities, just like we have now, both famous courtesans and actors. Woodblock prints of them dressed in their finery were circulated and ordinary people copied their outfits. This meant an increase in new styles of fashion – sleeves for young women became longer, for example. If you were rich, you would want to show off your latest kimono. The samurai – ruling class – could naturally afford to do this, but the merchant class also flourished during this period and started to buy luxury items.
For men, the fashion was for a more understated look, perhaps just using beautifully woven fabric – the more extravagant and colourful ones were mostly for the ladies. Men could wear theirs with hakama, sort of loose-fitting trousers that look a bit like a pleated skirt and which can be worn on top. For formal occasions they would also wear a wide-shouldered sleeveless jacket (see photo). A lord would often have his crest – mon – embroidered onto the shoulders, back and sleeves. Each clan had their own, making them very distinctive. Here is the one for the ruling Tokugawa clan, of which the Shogun was head. I was fortunate enough to live next door to the present-day descendants of the Tokugawa family and I believe they still use their crest now.
There were lots of accessories needed for dressing and to complete the perfect look, such as mirrors, combs, fans and hairpins. Many of these were made of lacquerware, which I absolutely love. A kimono doesn’t have pockets so some way of carrying small items was needed – this is where the inro comes in. Inro are like tiny stacked boxes that hang off your belt, secured by a netsuke, a carved ivory or wooden object, which acts as a counter balance. The inro fit together neatly and you can open each compartment separately.
Here’s a selection (together with a pipe and tobacco pouch).
During most of the Edo period, Japan was closed to foreigners, but they still traded with other nations. The English tried to establish a trading post, but eventually only the Dutch were allowed to stay and they were confined to a tiny island in Nagasaki harbour called Dejima. They were sometimes given kimonos as gifts and took them back to Europe, together with other Japanese items. These created quite a stir – everyone was fascinated. Some people tried to copy the designs using European silk, adding wadding to make them into a sort of thick ‘night gown’ that could be worn at home when relaxing. These were probably the precursors to modern day dressing gowns.
Modern designers continue to draw inspiration from the kimono, with their own take on it. They are often incorporated into the annual catwalk shows in various permutations. Costume designers are also inspired by the Japanese style – who could forget the amazing outfits worn by Queen Amidala in the Star Wars prequel trilogy for example?
What I love most about kimono are the stunning patterns. Each garment is a work of art and I actually use them as such, displaying the ones I own as decorative objects. I have several uchikake – the outer kimono worn by a bride after the ceremony. (For the actual ritual she is supposed to wear white as in the photo on the right). They are incredibly heavy, with a weighted hem that drags on the floor behind you. This is fine indoors as the floors are usually made of tatami – woven rice – mats.
Uchikake are no longer worn for anything other than weddings but they are my favourites. I alternate mine as I only have one hanging rail – there are specially made ones just for kimono.
The obi – belts – can be every bit as beautiful with striking designs. During the Edo period, one of the major changes was that the obi became much wider than previously, with the most amazing and colourful patterns, both woven and embroidered. I will admit to having bought quite a few last time I visited Japan, although my favourite is this one with a pattern of Foo dogs (like the real ones I have), which my daughter gave me for my birthday one year. Obis are easier to display and when I lived in Japan the foreign ladies often bought them to make into table runners. (They are very long, up to about 4 metres, so you’d get more than one out of each obi). I think it’s a shame to cut them up, but of course they are of more use that way.
Before you start to think that I must have spent a small fortune on these items, I have to tell you it’s possible to buy second-hand ones, which is what I did. I could never afford a brand new kimono as they are hugely expensive!
As this is my first solo post for the Wenches, I’m doing a small giveaway – please leave a comment below to be in with a chance to win this beautiful notebook and fan from the V & A exhibition shop, and let me know what you think of these stunning garments!
I think they are exquisite a piece of art in every garment
I think they are exquisite a piece of art in every garment
I think they are exquisite a piece of art in every garment
I think they are exquisite a piece of art in every garment
I think they are exquisite a piece of art in every garment
I totally agree, Dawn, I never tire of looking at them!
I totally agree, Dawn, I never tire of looking at them!
I totally agree, Dawn, I never tire of looking at them!
I totally agree, Dawn, I never tire of looking at them!
I totally agree, Dawn, I never tire of looking at them!
Aside from the gorgeous fabrics, what I find intriguing is that the kimono seem actually comfortable to wear. Well, maybe not when you have a dozen of them piled on or the heavily weighted ones, but the usual ones. How clever of the Japanese to have chosen a garment like that and then stuck to it over the centuries. Sort of like, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Aside from the gorgeous fabrics, what I find intriguing is that the kimono seem actually comfortable to wear. Well, maybe not when you have a dozen of them piled on or the heavily weighted ones, but the usual ones. How clever of the Japanese to have chosen a garment like that and then stuck to it over the centuries. Sort of like, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Aside from the gorgeous fabrics, what I find intriguing is that the kimono seem actually comfortable to wear. Well, maybe not when you have a dozen of them piled on or the heavily weighted ones, but the usual ones. How clever of the Japanese to have chosen a garment like that and then stuck to it over the centuries. Sort of like, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Aside from the gorgeous fabrics, what I find intriguing is that the kimono seem actually comfortable to wear. Well, maybe not when you have a dozen of them piled on or the heavily weighted ones, but the usual ones. How clever of the Japanese to have chosen a garment like that and then stuck to it over the centuries. Sort of like, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Aside from the gorgeous fabrics, what I find intriguing is that the kimono seem actually comfortable to wear. Well, maybe not when you have a dozen of them piled on or the heavily weighted ones, but the usual ones. How clever of the Japanese to have chosen a garment like that and then stuck to it over the centuries. Sort of like, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
There’s so much tradition and meaning steeped into these garments – they’re pretty much works of art. I was in London too early for the exhibit at the V&A, so thank you for bringing a bit of it to us!
There’s so much tradition and meaning steeped into these garments – they’re pretty much works of art. I was in London too early for the exhibit at the V&A, so thank you for bringing a bit of it to us!
There’s so much tradition and meaning steeped into these garments – they’re pretty much works of art. I was in London too early for the exhibit at the V&A, so thank you for bringing a bit of it to us!
There’s so much tradition and meaning steeped into these garments – they’re pretty much works of art. I was in London too early for the exhibit at the V&A, so thank you for bringing a bit of it to us!
There’s so much tradition and meaning steeped into these garments – they’re pretty much works of art. I was in London too early for the exhibit at the V&A, so thank you for bringing a bit of it to us!
What a gorgeous post, Christina! I didn’t realize how little I know about kimono. The examples you’ve show here are amazing, and it’s interesting to read about the evolution of different types of garment. Pockets would be useful, though!
What a gorgeous post, Christina! I didn’t realize how little I know about kimono. The examples you’ve show here are amazing, and it’s interesting to read about the evolution of different types of garment. Pockets would be useful, though!
What a gorgeous post, Christina! I didn’t realize how little I know about kimono. The examples you’ve show here are amazing, and it’s interesting to read about the evolution of different types of garment. Pockets would be useful, though!
What a gorgeous post, Christina! I didn’t realize how little I know about kimono. The examples you’ve show here are amazing, and it’s interesting to read about the evolution of different types of garment. Pockets would be useful, though!
What a gorgeous post, Christina! I didn’t realize how little I know about kimono. The examples you’ve show here are amazing, and it’s interesting to read about the evolution of different types of garment. Pockets would be useful, though!
The fabrics are lovely;
I never realized the origination of this gorgeous clothing
Thank you for a bit of behind the scenes info
The fabrics are lovely;
I never realized the origination of this gorgeous clothing
Thank you for a bit of behind the scenes info
The fabrics are lovely;
I never realized the origination of this gorgeous clothing
Thank you for a bit of behind the scenes info
The fabrics are lovely;
I never realized the origination of this gorgeous clothing
Thank you for a bit of behind the scenes info
The fabrics are lovely;
I never realized the origination of this gorgeous clothing
Thank you for a bit of behind the scenes info
Yes, the changes in fashion seem to have only been in the details. As you say, they did well to stick to this design!
Yes, the changes in fashion seem to have only been in the details. As you say, they did well to stick to this design!
Yes, the changes in fashion seem to have only been in the details. As you say, they did well to stick to this design!
Yes, the changes in fashion seem to have only been in the details. As you say, they did well to stick to this design!
Yes, the changes in fashion seem to have only been in the details. As you say, they did well to stick to this design!
I’m glad you enjoyed it, Julie! I think I was very lucky to catch the exhibition as it had to close soon after I’d been. Hopefully it will reopen again soon – it’s definitely worth seeing!
I’m glad you enjoyed it, Julie! I think I was very lucky to catch the exhibition as it had to close soon after I’d been. Hopefully it will reopen again soon – it’s definitely worth seeing!
I’m glad you enjoyed it, Julie! I think I was very lucky to catch the exhibition as it had to close soon after I’d been. Hopefully it will reopen again soon – it’s definitely worth seeing!
I’m glad you enjoyed it, Julie! I think I was very lucky to catch the exhibition as it had to close soon after I’d been. Hopefully it will reopen again soon – it’s definitely worth seeing!
I’m glad you enjoyed it, Julie! I think I was very lucky to catch the exhibition as it had to close soon after I’d been. Hopefully it will reopen again soon – it’s definitely worth seeing!
Thank you, Mary Jo! Yes, I’m a pocket kind of girl too – always prefer them to carrying a handbag. I suppose, depending on which type of kimono you’re wearing, some stuff could be put inside the sleeves?
Thank you, Mary Jo! Yes, I’m a pocket kind of girl too – always prefer them to carrying a handbag. I suppose, depending on which type of kimono you’re wearing, some stuff could be put inside the sleeves?
Thank you, Mary Jo! Yes, I’m a pocket kind of girl too – always prefer them to carrying a handbag. I suppose, depending on which type of kimono you’re wearing, some stuff could be put inside the sleeves?
Thank you, Mary Jo! Yes, I’m a pocket kind of girl too – always prefer them to carrying a handbag. I suppose, depending on which type of kimono you’re wearing, some stuff could be put inside the sleeves?
Thank you, Mary Jo! Yes, I’m a pocket kind of girl too – always prefer them to carrying a handbag. I suppose, depending on which type of kimono you’re wearing, some stuff could be put inside the sleeves?
You’re very welcome, Ann, so pleased you enjoyed the post!
You’re very welcome, Ann, so pleased you enjoyed the post!
You’re very welcome, Ann, so pleased you enjoyed the post!
You’re very welcome, Ann, so pleased you enjoyed the post!
You’re very welcome, Ann, so pleased you enjoyed the post!
I think they’re gorgeous! My late father was a garment importer and designer and we have a great deal of (old term) Orientalia in the house from his travels.
I think they’re gorgeous! My late father was a garment importer and designer and we have a great deal of (old term) Orientalia in the house from his travels.
I think they’re gorgeous! My late father was a garment importer and designer and we have a great deal of (old term) Orientalia in the house from his travels.
I think they’re gorgeous! My late father was a garment importer and designer and we have a great deal of (old term) Orientalia in the house from his travels.
I think they’re gorgeous! My late father was a garment importer and designer and we have a great deal of (old term) Orientalia in the house from his travels.
Thank you, Robin – and that sounds fantastic, I love anything from the Far East! There’s just something about their designs that really appeals to me.
Thank you, Robin – and that sounds fantastic, I love anything from the Far East! There’s just something about their designs that really appeals to me.
Thank you, Robin – and that sounds fantastic, I love anything from the Far East! There’s just something about their designs that really appeals to me.
Thank you, Robin – and that sounds fantastic, I love anything from the Far East! There’s just something about their designs that really appeals to me.
Thank you, Robin – and that sounds fantastic, I love anything from the Far East! There’s just something about their designs that really appeals to me.
My son’s best friend had a Japanese Uncle so he was fascinated in everything Japanese. As a result, my son is also. We have had Japanese exchange students stay with us when we had our old house and the space for them.
I started learning Mandarin Chinese to speak greetings to a lot of my coworkers. I think we should all be able to at least say hello, goodbye, and thank you, in many other languages. But my son watches so much Japanese anime and manga undubbed that he understands a lot of Japanese. More Japanese than French actually and we live in Canada… 😉
These are gorgeous kimonos and you’re very lucky to have both them and the room to display them. Thank you for sharing.
My son’s best friend had a Japanese Uncle so he was fascinated in everything Japanese. As a result, my son is also. We have had Japanese exchange students stay with us when we had our old house and the space for them.
I started learning Mandarin Chinese to speak greetings to a lot of my coworkers. I think we should all be able to at least say hello, goodbye, and thank you, in many other languages. But my son watches so much Japanese anime and manga undubbed that he understands a lot of Japanese. More Japanese than French actually and we live in Canada… 😉
These are gorgeous kimonos and you’re very lucky to have both them and the room to display them. Thank you for sharing.
My son’s best friend had a Japanese Uncle so he was fascinated in everything Japanese. As a result, my son is also. We have had Japanese exchange students stay with us when we had our old house and the space for them.
I started learning Mandarin Chinese to speak greetings to a lot of my coworkers. I think we should all be able to at least say hello, goodbye, and thank you, in many other languages. But my son watches so much Japanese anime and manga undubbed that he understands a lot of Japanese. More Japanese than French actually and we live in Canada… 😉
These are gorgeous kimonos and you’re very lucky to have both them and the room to display them. Thank you for sharing.
My son’s best friend had a Japanese Uncle so he was fascinated in everything Japanese. As a result, my son is also. We have had Japanese exchange students stay with us when we had our old house and the space for them.
I started learning Mandarin Chinese to speak greetings to a lot of my coworkers. I think we should all be able to at least say hello, goodbye, and thank you, in many other languages. But my son watches so much Japanese anime and manga undubbed that he understands a lot of Japanese. More Japanese than French actually and we live in Canada… 😉
These are gorgeous kimonos and you’re very lucky to have both them and the room to display them. Thank you for sharing.
My son’s best friend had a Japanese Uncle so he was fascinated in everything Japanese. As a result, my son is also. We have had Japanese exchange students stay with us when we had our old house and the space for them.
I started learning Mandarin Chinese to speak greetings to a lot of my coworkers. I think we should all be able to at least say hello, goodbye, and thank you, in many other languages. But my son watches so much Japanese anime and manga undubbed that he understands a lot of Japanese. More Japanese than French actually and we live in Canada… 😉
These are gorgeous kimonos and you’re very lucky to have both them and the room to display them. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you, Karen! Mandarin seems an extremely difficult language to learn compared to Japanese, but I think you’re right – it’s always nice to be able to say a few words. My kids are the same, watching and reading lots of anime and manga. It’s a great way of learning!
Thank you, Karen! Mandarin seems an extremely difficult language to learn compared to Japanese, but I think you’re right – it’s always nice to be able to say a few words. My kids are the same, watching and reading lots of anime and manga. It’s a great way of learning!
Thank you, Karen! Mandarin seems an extremely difficult language to learn compared to Japanese, but I think you’re right – it’s always nice to be able to say a few words. My kids are the same, watching and reading lots of anime and manga. It’s a great way of learning!
Thank you, Karen! Mandarin seems an extremely difficult language to learn compared to Japanese, but I think you’re right – it’s always nice to be able to say a few words. My kids are the same, watching and reading lots of anime and manga. It’s a great way of learning!
Thank you, Karen! Mandarin seems an extremely difficult language to learn compared to Japanese, but I think you’re right – it’s always nice to be able to say a few words. My kids are the same, watching and reading lots of anime and manga. It’s a great way of learning!
Thank you for my lesson on kimonos. I never knew most of what you shared and I’m intrigued… will need to explore more online. I’m a Disney Passholder and my favorite store at Epcot is the one in Japan. They have an area with kimonos and next time I go I’m going to spend a bit of time looking at them.
Thank you for my lesson on kimonos. I never knew most of what you shared and I’m intrigued… will need to explore more online. I’m a Disney Passholder and my favorite store at Epcot is the one in Japan. They have an area with kimonos and next time I go I’m going to spend a bit of time looking at them.
Thank you for my lesson on kimonos. I never knew most of what you shared and I’m intrigued… will need to explore more online. I’m a Disney Passholder and my favorite store at Epcot is the one in Japan. They have an area with kimonos and next time I go I’m going to spend a bit of time looking at them.
Thank you for my lesson on kimonos. I never knew most of what you shared and I’m intrigued… will need to explore more online. I’m a Disney Passholder and my favorite store at Epcot is the one in Japan. They have an area with kimonos and next time I go I’m going to spend a bit of time looking at them.
Thank you for my lesson on kimonos. I never knew most of what you shared and I’m intrigued… will need to explore more online. I’m a Disney Passholder and my favorite store at Epcot is the one in Japan. They have an area with kimonos and next time I go I’m going to spend a bit of time looking at them.
Thank you for a fascinating post, Christina, and for the lovely photos.
My daughter is not far from Japan; she’s been living in South Korea since 2013 teaching English. She performs samulnori (Korean percussion) and wears traditional Korean clothing while doing so. Did you ever have the opportunity to visit Korea as a highschooler or more recently? The traditional clothing there is also fascinating.
Thank you for a fascinating post, Christina, and for the lovely photos.
My daughter is not far from Japan; she’s been living in South Korea since 2013 teaching English. She performs samulnori (Korean percussion) and wears traditional Korean clothing while doing so. Did you ever have the opportunity to visit Korea as a highschooler or more recently? The traditional clothing there is also fascinating.
Thank you for a fascinating post, Christina, and for the lovely photos.
My daughter is not far from Japan; she’s been living in South Korea since 2013 teaching English. She performs samulnori (Korean percussion) and wears traditional Korean clothing while doing so. Did you ever have the opportunity to visit Korea as a highschooler or more recently? The traditional clothing there is also fascinating.
Thank you for a fascinating post, Christina, and for the lovely photos.
My daughter is not far from Japan; she’s been living in South Korea since 2013 teaching English. She performs samulnori (Korean percussion) and wears traditional Korean clothing while doing so. Did you ever have the opportunity to visit Korea as a highschooler or more recently? The traditional clothing there is also fascinating.
Thank you for a fascinating post, Christina, and for the lovely photos.
My daughter is not far from Japan; she’s been living in South Korea since 2013 teaching English. She performs samulnori (Korean percussion) and wears traditional Korean clothing while doing so. Did you ever have the opportunity to visit Korea as a highschooler or more recently? The traditional clothing there is also fascinating.
That sounds lovely! And thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
That sounds lovely! And thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
That sounds lovely! And thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
That sounds lovely! And thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
That sounds lovely! And thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
That sounds great, Kareni! Yes, I did visit South Korea once, but it was a bit of a whirlwind tour so I didn’t get to see as much as I wanted to. I have seen their lovely outfits though and they are very beautiful!
That sounds great, Kareni! Yes, I did visit South Korea once, but it was a bit of a whirlwind tour so I didn’t get to see as much as I wanted to. I have seen their lovely outfits though and they are very beautiful!
That sounds great, Kareni! Yes, I did visit South Korea once, but it was a bit of a whirlwind tour so I didn’t get to see as much as I wanted to. I have seen their lovely outfits though and they are very beautiful!
That sounds great, Kareni! Yes, I did visit South Korea once, but it was a bit of a whirlwind tour so I didn’t get to see as much as I wanted to. I have seen their lovely outfits though and they are very beautiful!
That sounds great, Kareni! Yes, I did visit South Korea once, but it was a bit of a whirlwind tour so I didn’t get to see as much as I wanted to. I have seen their lovely outfits though and they are very beautiful!
Lovely post Christina. Kimonos are so beautiful and I enjoyed learning more about the different kinds. I have several that I bought second hand, and one that was brought back from Japan by friends who worked and lived there for several years. A couple of my secondhand ones are short, like short jackets, and I don’t think they were cut off long ones, but made that way — perhaps some modern permutation — because the sewing is all the same.
Lovely post Christina. Kimonos are so beautiful and I enjoyed learning more about the different kinds. I have several that I bought second hand, and one that was brought back from Japan by friends who worked and lived there for several years. A couple of my secondhand ones are short, like short jackets, and I don’t think they were cut off long ones, but made that way — perhaps some modern permutation — because the sewing is all the same.
Lovely post Christina. Kimonos are so beautiful and I enjoyed learning more about the different kinds. I have several that I bought second hand, and one that was brought back from Japan by friends who worked and lived there for several years. A couple of my secondhand ones are short, like short jackets, and I don’t think they were cut off long ones, but made that way — perhaps some modern permutation — because the sewing is all the same.
Lovely post Christina. Kimonos are so beautiful and I enjoyed learning more about the different kinds. I have several that I bought second hand, and one that was brought back from Japan by friends who worked and lived there for several years. A couple of my secondhand ones are short, like short jackets, and I don’t think they were cut off long ones, but made that way — perhaps some modern permutation — because the sewing is all the same.
Lovely post Christina. Kimonos are so beautiful and I enjoyed learning more about the different kinds. I have several that I bought second hand, and one that was brought back from Japan by friends who worked and lived there for several years. A couple of my secondhand ones are short, like short jackets, and I don’t think they were cut off long ones, but made that way — perhaps some modern permutation — because the sewing is all the same.
I love kimono. They’re such gorgeous, classy garments, and the use of fabric and color and small details can make such a simple cut look different on every wearer. They’re a style that’s truly timeless. I would love to wear one, but I feel like they would not suit me in the slightest. So I will admire from afar.
I love kimono. They’re such gorgeous, classy garments, and the use of fabric and color and small details can make such a simple cut look different on every wearer. They’re a style that’s truly timeless. I would love to wear one, but I feel like they would not suit me in the slightest. So I will admire from afar.
I love kimono. They’re such gorgeous, classy garments, and the use of fabric and color and small details can make such a simple cut look different on every wearer. They’re a style that’s truly timeless. I would love to wear one, but I feel like they would not suit me in the slightest. So I will admire from afar.
I love kimono. They’re such gorgeous, classy garments, and the use of fabric and color and small details can make such a simple cut look different on every wearer. They’re a style that’s truly timeless. I would love to wear one, but I feel like they would not suit me in the slightest. So I will admire from afar.
I love kimono. They’re such gorgeous, classy garments, and the use of fabric and color and small details can make such a simple cut look different on every wearer. They’re a style that’s truly timeless. I would love to wear one, but I feel like they would not suit me in the slightest. So I will admire from afar.
They sound wonderful, Anne! Perhaps the short ones are ‘haori’, jackets that can be worn over a kimono? I forgot to mention those!
They sound wonderful, Anne! Perhaps the short ones are ‘haori’, jackets that can be worn over a kimono? I forgot to mention those!
They sound wonderful, Anne! Perhaps the short ones are ‘haori’, jackets that can be worn over a kimono? I forgot to mention those!
They sound wonderful, Anne! Perhaps the short ones are ‘haori’, jackets that can be worn over a kimono? I forgot to mention those!
They sound wonderful, Anne! Perhaps the short ones are ‘haori’, jackets that can be worn over a kimono? I forgot to mention those!
Yes, I don’t think they would suit me either (I’m not the right shape) although it’s fun to try on the uchikake once in a while. I tried tying an obi round myself once but it was extremely difficult 🙂 Definitely better to just look at them!
Yes, I don’t think they would suit me either (I’m not the right shape) although it’s fun to try on the uchikake once in a while. I tried tying an obi round myself once but it was extremely difficult 🙂 Definitely better to just look at them!
Yes, I don’t think they would suit me either (I’m not the right shape) although it’s fun to try on the uchikake once in a while. I tried tying an obi round myself once but it was extremely difficult 🙂 Definitely better to just look at them!
Yes, I don’t think they would suit me either (I’m not the right shape) although it’s fun to try on the uchikake once in a while. I tried tying an obi round myself once but it was extremely difficult 🙂 Definitely better to just look at them!
Yes, I don’t think they would suit me either (I’m not the right shape) although it’s fun to try on the uchikake once in a while. I tried tying an obi round myself once but it was extremely difficult 🙂 Definitely better to just look at them!
Christina, if you sing, you just have to learn the ‘tune’ to speak Mandarin or Cantonese. Then you hit the correct tones to say the correct words. So I find it much easier to listen and learn than read and learn. But with Pinying you can see the accents of whether a word goes up, dips, down, etcetera. 🙂 (I read music) As soon as I made the connection in my head of music and learning the tunes, it became much easier. I did a lot of music in school so it helped a lot.
But Japanese is lovely to listen to as well. Good thing I like it too when you consider how often I’ve heard it from my son’s shows. His Uncle also spent a year working in Japan and if you wake him up he still says, “Hai. Hai. Hai.” Where he used to say “Yup, yup, yup.” 😀
Christina, if you sing, you just have to learn the ‘tune’ to speak Mandarin or Cantonese. Then you hit the correct tones to say the correct words. So I find it much easier to listen and learn than read and learn. But with Pinying you can see the accents of whether a word goes up, dips, down, etcetera. 🙂 (I read music) As soon as I made the connection in my head of music and learning the tunes, it became much easier. I did a lot of music in school so it helped a lot.
But Japanese is lovely to listen to as well. Good thing I like it too when you consider how often I’ve heard it from my son’s shows. His Uncle also spent a year working in Japan and if you wake him up he still says, “Hai. Hai. Hai.” Where he used to say “Yup, yup, yup.” 😀
Christina, if you sing, you just have to learn the ‘tune’ to speak Mandarin or Cantonese. Then you hit the correct tones to say the correct words. So I find it much easier to listen and learn than read and learn. But with Pinying you can see the accents of whether a word goes up, dips, down, etcetera. 🙂 (I read music) As soon as I made the connection in my head of music and learning the tunes, it became much easier. I did a lot of music in school so it helped a lot.
But Japanese is lovely to listen to as well. Good thing I like it too when you consider how often I’ve heard it from my son’s shows. His Uncle also spent a year working in Japan and if you wake him up he still says, “Hai. Hai. Hai.” Where he used to say “Yup, yup, yup.” 😀
Christina, if you sing, you just have to learn the ‘tune’ to speak Mandarin or Cantonese. Then you hit the correct tones to say the correct words. So I find it much easier to listen and learn than read and learn. But with Pinying you can see the accents of whether a word goes up, dips, down, etcetera. 🙂 (I read music) As soon as I made the connection in my head of music and learning the tunes, it became much easier. I did a lot of music in school so it helped a lot.
But Japanese is lovely to listen to as well. Good thing I like it too when you consider how often I’ve heard it from my son’s shows. His Uncle also spent a year working in Japan and if you wake him up he still says, “Hai. Hai. Hai.” Where he used to say “Yup, yup, yup.” 😀
Christina, if you sing, you just have to learn the ‘tune’ to speak Mandarin or Cantonese. Then you hit the correct tones to say the correct words. So I find it much easier to listen and learn than read and learn. But with Pinying you can see the accents of whether a word goes up, dips, down, etcetera. 🙂 (I read music) As soon as I made the connection in my head of music and learning the tunes, it became much easier. I did a lot of music in school so it helped a lot.
But Japanese is lovely to listen to as well. Good thing I like it too when you consider how often I’ve heard it from my son’s shows. His Uncle also spent a year working in Japan and if you wake him up he still says, “Hai. Hai. Hai.” Where he used to say “Yup, yup, yup.” 😀
Thank you for this beautiful post. It’s very much needed these days to delve into something so lovely.
The garments are spectacular. I’ve seen a geisha in NYC walking on Fifth Avenue in a gorgeous patterned kimono. The colors are arresting and so perfectly sewn.
I’ve seen many kinds of kimono designs in the Met Opera audience as I people watch and see the evening wear.
I love seeing what was displayed at the museum.
Thank you for this beautiful post. It’s very much needed these days to delve into something so lovely.
The garments are spectacular. I’ve seen a geisha in NYC walking on Fifth Avenue in a gorgeous patterned kimono. The colors are arresting and so perfectly sewn.
I’ve seen many kinds of kimono designs in the Met Opera audience as I people watch and see the evening wear.
I love seeing what was displayed at the museum.
Thank you for this beautiful post. It’s very much needed these days to delve into something so lovely.
The garments are spectacular. I’ve seen a geisha in NYC walking on Fifth Avenue in a gorgeous patterned kimono. The colors are arresting and so perfectly sewn.
I’ve seen many kinds of kimono designs in the Met Opera audience as I people watch and see the evening wear.
I love seeing what was displayed at the museum.
Thank you for this beautiful post. It’s very much needed these days to delve into something so lovely.
The garments are spectacular. I’ve seen a geisha in NYC walking on Fifth Avenue in a gorgeous patterned kimono. The colors are arresting and so perfectly sewn.
I’ve seen many kinds of kimono designs in the Met Opera audience as I people watch and see the evening wear.
I love seeing what was displayed at the museum.
Thank you for this beautiful post. It’s very much needed these days to delve into something so lovely.
The garments are spectacular. I’ve seen a geisha in NYC walking on Fifth Avenue in a gorgeous patterned kimono. The colors are arresting and so perfectly sewn.
I’ve seen many kinds of kimono designs in the Met Opera audience as I people watch and see the evening wear.
I love seeing what was displayed at the museum.
Thank you, Christina, for a wonderful newsletter. I have always been fascinated by the kimono and actually have a drawerful of kimono and obi silks that I MAY do something with one day. At this stage, I just keep drooling over them and then put them away again.LOL I need an idea that just grabs me, and then…..
Thank you, Christina, for a wonderful newsletter. I have always been fascinated by the kimono and actually have a drawerful of kimono and obi silks that I MAY do something with one day. At this stage, I just keep drooling over them and then put them away again.LOL I need an idea that just grabs me, and then…..
Thank you, Christina, for a wonderful newsletter. I have always been fascinated by the kimono and actually have a drawerful of kimono and obi silks that I MAY do something with one day. At this stage, I just keep drooling over them and then put them away again.LOL I need an idea that just grabs me, and then…..
Thank you, Christina, for a wonderful newsletter. I have always been fascinated by the kimono and actually have a drawerful of kimono and obi silks that I MAY do something with one day. At this stage, I just keep drooling over them and then put them away again.LOL I need an idea that just grabs me, and then…..
Thank you, Christina, for a wonderful newsletter. I have always been fascinated by the kimono and actually have a drawerful of kimono and obi silks that I MAY do something with one day. At this stage, I just keep drooling over them and then put them away again.LOL I need an idea that just grabs me, and then…..
I was struck by the large open sleeves in all of the kimonos …. perfect for a magician doing tricks! I must visit the V&A again sometime …. never taken much interest in national costume but your article tickled my inquisitive nerve. I have only met Japanese at scientific conferences where they always wear smart western style clothes. Would love to meet a geisha wearing a kimono sometime!
I was struck by the large open sleeves in all of the kimonos …. perfect for a magician doing tricks! I must visit the V&A again sometime …. never taken much interest in national costume but your article tickled my inquisitive nerve. I have only met Japanese at scientific conferences where they always wear smart western style clothes. Would love to meet a geisha wearing a kimono sometime!
I was struck by the large open sleeves in all of the kimonos …. perfect for a magician doing tricks! I must visit the V&A again sometime …. never taken much interest in national costume but your article tickled my inquisitive nerve. I have only met Japanese at scientific conferences where they always wear smart western style clothes. Would love to meet a geisha wearing a kimono sometime!
I was struck by the large open sleeves in all of the kimonos …. perfect for a magician doing tricks! I must visit the V&A again sometime …. never taken much interest in national costume but your article tickled my inquisitive nerve. I have only met Japanese at scientific conferences where they always wear smart western style clothes. Would love to meet a geisha wearing a kimono sometime!
I was struck by the large open sleeves in all of the kimonos …. perfect for a magician doing tricks! I must visit the V&A again sometime …. never taken much interest in national costume but your article tickled my inquisitive nerve. I have only met Japanese at scientific conferences where they always wear smart western style clothes. Would love to meet a geisha wearing a kimono sometime!
Thank you Patricia, really pleased you liked it! I agree we do need to look at beautiful things at the moment to escape from everything. Geisha are amazing, aren’t they? So elegant and graceful.
Thank you Patricia, really pleased you liked it! I agree we do need to look at beautiful things at the moment to escape from everything. Geisha are amazing, aren’t they? So elegant and graceful.
Thank you Patricia, really pleased you liked it! I agree we do need to look at beautiful things at the moment to escape from everything. Geisha are amazing, aren’t they? So elegant and graceful.
Thank you Patricia, really pleased you liked it! I agree we do need to look at beautiful things at the moment to escape from everything. Geisha are amazing, aren’t they? So elegant and graceful.
Thank you Patricia, really pleased you liked it! I agree we do need to look at beautiful things at the moment to escape from everything. Geisha are amazing, aren’t they? So elegant and graceful.
How wonderful! Yes, I can see it would be very tempting to do something with them – maybe a spectacular quilt? Or the table runners I mentioned, as they make a lovely display on any table. You’re giving me ideas now and if I ever get to travel back to Japan I might try to pick up bits and pieces for a quilt – thank you!
How wonderful! Yes, I can see it would be very tempting to do something with them – maybe a spectacular quilt? Or the table runners I mentioned, as they make a lovely display on any table. You’re giving me ideas now and if I ever get to travel back to Japan I might try to pick up bits and pieces for a quilt – thank you!
How wonderful! Yes, I can see it would be very tempting to do something with them – maybe a spectacular quilt? Or the table runners I mentioned, as they make a lovely display on any table. You’re giving me ideas now and if I ever get to travel back to Japan I might try to pick up bits and pieces for a quilt – thank you!
How wonderful! Yes, I can see it would be very tempting to do something with them – maybe a spectacular quilt? Or the table runners I mentioned, as they make a lovely display on any table. You’re giving me ideas now and if I ever get to travel back to Japan I might try to pick up bits and pieces for a quilt – thank you!
How wonderful! Yes, I can see it would be very tempting to do something with them – maybe a spectacular quilt? Or the table runners I mentioned, as they make a lovely display on any table. You’re giving me ideas now and if I ever get to travel back to Japan I might try to pick up bits and pieces for a quilt – thank you!
Yes, you could hide all sorts of things in there! 😀 I used to live close to the V & A and often popped in just to look at the clothing section – fascinating to see all the garments on display. And they do so many specialist exhibitions too. It’s a great museum because its collections are so eclectic and people seem to have donated all kinds of stuff to them. Must be hard to choose what to display! (If you want to meet geisha, you must go to Kyoto as there is a special area where they live and they wander round the streets in their finery – beautiful!)
Yes, you could hide all sorts of things in there! 😀 I used to live close to the V & A and often popped in just to look at the clothing section – fascinating to see all the garments on display. And they do so many specialist exhibitions too. It’s a great museum because its collections are so eclectic and people seem to have donated all kinds of stuff to them. Must be hard to choose what to display! (If you want to meet geisha, you must go to Kyoto as there is a special area where they live and they wander round the streets in their finery – beautiful!)
Yes, you could hide all sorts of things in there! 😀 I used to live close to the V & A and often popped in just to look at the clothing section – fascinating to see all the garments on display. And they do so many specialist exhibitions too. It’s a great museum because its collections are so eclectic and people seem to have donated all kinds of stuff to them. Must be hard to choose what to display! (If you want to meet geisha, you must go to Kyoto as there is a special area where they live and they wander round the streets in their finery – beautiful!)
Yes, you could hide all sorts of things in there! 😀 I used to live close to the V & A and often popped in just to look at the clothing section – fascinating to see all the garments on display. And they do so many specialist exhibitions too. It’s a great museum because its collections are so eclectic and people seem to have donated all kinds of stuff to them. Must be hard to choose what to display! (If you want to meet geisha, you must go to Kyoto as there is a special area where they live and they wander round the streets in their finery – beautiful!)
Yes, you could hide all sorts of things in there! 😀 I used to live close to the V & A and often popped in just to look at the clothing section – fascinating to see all the garments on display. And they do so many specialist exhibitions too. It’s a great museum because its collections are so eclectic and people seem to have donated all kinds of stuff to them. Must be hard to choose what to display! (If you want to meet geisha, you must go to Kyoto as there is a special area where they live and they wander round the streets in their finery – beautiful!)
Such a fascinating article. i too learned so much i never learned before.
I have an made in the U. S. men’s robe that I wear for warmth or decency over my night gowns. It has what I think of as Kimono sleeves. I truly think the design was modified from Kimono’s but the sleeves aren’t like any of those you’ve shown. I bring this up because the sleeves are always catching in something! They are the only flaw in the robe.
What you have shown is so very beautiful. But (because of my imitatiion sleeves) I wonder how practical those sleeves are.
Such a fascinating article. i too learned so much i never learned before.
I have an made in the U. S. men’s robe that I wear for warmth or decency over my night gowns. It has what I think of as Kimono sleeves. I truly think the design was modified from Kimono’s but the sleeves aren’t like any of those you’ve shown. I bring this up because the sleeves are always catching in something! They are the only flaw in the robe.
What you have shown is so very beautiful. But (because of my imitatiion sleeves) I wonder how practical those sleeves are.
Such a fascinating article. i too learned so much i never learned before.
I have an made in the U. S. men’s robe that I wear for warmth or decency over my night gowns. It has what I think of as Kimono sleeves. I truly think the design was modified from Kimono’s but the sleeves aren’t like any of those you’ve shown. I bring this up because the sleeves are always catching in something! They are the only flaw in the robe.
What you have shown is so very beautiful. But (because of my imitatiion sleeves) I wonder how practical those sleeves are.
Such a fascinating article. i too learned so much i never learned before.
I have an made in the U. S. men’s robe that I wear for warmth or decency over my night gowns. It has what I think of as Kimono sleeves. I truly think the design was modified from Kimono’s but the sleeves aren’t like any of those you’ve shown. I bring this up because the sleeves are always catching in something! They are the only flaw in the robe.
What you have shown is so very beautiful. But (because of my imitatiion sleeves) I wonder how practical those sleeves are.
Such a fascinating article. i too learned so much i never learned before.
I have an made in the U. S. men’s robe that I wear for warmth or decency over my night gowns. It has what I think of as Kimono sleeves. I truly think the design was modified from Kimono’s but the sleeves aren’t like any of those you’ve shown. I bring this up because the sleeves are always catching in something! They are the only flaw in the robe.
What you have shown is so very beautiful. But (because of my imitatiion sleeves) I wonder how practical those sleeves are.
The kimonos are gorgeous and show great craftsmanship! I am jealous of your collection. Thanks for educating me.
The kimonos are gorgeous and show great craftsmanship! I am jealous of your collection. Thanks for educating me.
The kimonos are gorgeous and show great craftsmanship! I am jealous of your collection. Thanks for educating me.
The kimonos are gorgeous and show great craftsmanship! I am jealous of your collection. Thanks for educating me.
The kimonos are gorgeous and show great craftsmanship! I am jealous of your collection. Thanks for educating me.
You’re right – they’re probably not practical at all! I suppose that’s why the ones with narrow sleeves were mostly worn for everyday use. I love the long ones because they show the patterns so beautifully but I can imagine I’d get them tangled up if I had to wear them 🙂
You’re right – they’re probably not practical at all! I suppose that’s why the ones with narrow sleeves were mostly worn for everyday use. I love the long ones because they show the patterns so beautifully but I can imagine I’d get them tangled up if I had to wear them 🙂
You’re right – they’re probably not practical at all! I suppose that’s why the ones with narrow sleeves were mostly worn for everyday use. I love the long ones because they show the patterns so beautifully but I can imagine I’d get them tangled up if I had to wear them 🙂
You’re right – they’re probably not practical at all! I suppose that’s why the ones with narrow sleeves were mostly worn for everyday use. I love the long ones because they show the patterns so beautifully but I can imagine I’d get them tangled up if I had to wear them 🙂
You’re right – they’re probably not practical at all! I suppose that’s why the ones with narrow sleeves were mostly worn for everyday use. I love the long ones because they show the patterns so beautifully but I can imagine I’d get them tangled up if I had to wear them 🙂
Thank you so much, Heather, glad you enjoyed the post!
Thank you so much, Heather, glad you enjoyed the post!
Thank you so much, Heather, glad you enjoyed the post!
Thank you so much, Heather, glad you enjoyed the post!
Thank you so much, Heather, glad you enjoyed the post!
The kimonos are lovely. I love the bright designs, but I don’t think I would care for all of that layering. I love that kimono means “that thing to wear”. The Japanese seem like a practical people.
The kimonos are lovely. I love the bright designs, but I don’t think I would care for all of that layering. I love that kimono means “that thing to wear”. The Japanese seem like a practical people.
The kimonos are lovely. I love the bright designs, but I don’t think I would care for all of that layering. I love that kimono means “that thing to wear”. The Japanese seem like a practical people.
The kimonos are lovely. I love the bright designs, but I don’t think I would care for all of that layering. I love that kimono means “that thing to wear”. The Japanese seem like a practical people.
The kimonos are lovely. I love the bright designs, but I don’t think I would care for all of that layering. I love that kimono means “that thing to wear”. The Japanese seem like a practical people.
This was LOVELY, and the photos are especially fine.
I’ve been fascinated with Japan since my dad was stationed there several times, and the deal was sealed when I read SHOGUN right after it was first published.
Also, Elizabeth Lowell/Ann Maxwell featured modern kimono fabric designs in one of her novels several years ago…I think it’s Shadow and Silk, one of my favorites of hers.
So this deep-dive look at kimonos with so many stunning visuals was especially fascinating
Anyway, thanks for the lovely, detailed exploration.
This was LOVELY, and the photos are especially fine.
I’ve been fascinated with Japan since my dad was stationed there several times, and the deal was sealed when I read SHOGUN right after it was first published.
Also, Elizabeth Lowell/Ann Maxwell featured modern kimono fabric designs in one of her novels several years ago…I think it’s Shadow and Silk, one of my favorites of hers.
So this deep-dive look at kimonos with so many stunning visuals was especially fascinating
Anyway, thanks for the lovely, detailed exploration.
This was LOVELY, and the photos are especially fine.
I’ve been fascinated with Japan since my dad was stationed there several times, and the deal was sealed when I read SHOGUN right after it was first published.
Also, Elizabeth Lowell/Ann Maxwell featured modern kimono fabric designs in one of her novels several years ago…I think it’s Shadow and Silk, one of my favorites of hers.
So this deep-dive look at kimonos with so many stunning visuals was especially fascinating
Anyway, thanks for the lovely, detailed exploration.
This was LOVELY, and the photos are especially fine.
I’ve been fascinated with Japan since my dad was stationed there several times, and the deal was sealed when I read SHOGUN right after it was first published.
Also, Elizabeth Lowell/Ann Maxwell featured modern kimono fabric designs in one of her novels several years ago…I think it’s Shadow and Silk, one of my favorites of hers.
So this deep-dive look at kimonos with so many stunning visuals was especially fascinating
Anyway, thanks for the lovely, detailed exploration.
This was LOVELY, and the photos are especially fine.
I’ve been fascinated with Japan since my dad was stationed there several times, and the deal was sealed when I read SHOGUN right after it was first published.
Also, Elizabeth Lowell/Ann Maxwell featured modern kimono fabric designs in one of her novels several years ago…I think it’s Shadow and Silk, one of my favorites of hers.
So this deep-dive look at kimonos with so many stunning visuals was especially fascinating
Anyway, thanks for the lovely, detailed exploration.
Thank you, Mary! Yes, I think they are very practical and incredibly patient! I agree about the layers – must be cumbersome.
Thank you, Mary! Yes, I think they are very practical and incredibly patient! I agree about the layers – must be cumbersome.
Thank you, Mary! Yes, I think they are very practical and incredibly patient! I agree about the layers – must be cumbersome.
Thank you, Mary! Yes, I think they are very practical and incredibly patient! I agree about the layers – must be cumbersome.
Thank you, Mary! Yes, I think they are very practical and incredibly patient! I agree about the layers – must be cumbersome.
Many thanks, Faith, really pleased you enjoyed it! Was your dad stationed near Tokyo? My high school there used to play football, basketball etc against the various US army/air force bases in that area 🙂 Shogun was a great book and fascinating that it’s based on a true story.
Many thanks, Faith, really pleased you enjoyed it! Was your dad stationed near Tokyo? My high school there used to play football, basketball etc against the various US army/air force bases in that area 🙂 Shogun was a great book and fascinating that it’s based on a true story.
Many thanks, Faith, really pleased you enjoyed it! Was your dad stationed near Tokyo? My high school there used to play football, basketball etc against the various US army/air force bases in that area 🙂 Shogun was a great book and fascinating that it’s based on a true story.
Many thanks, Faith, really pleased you enjoyed it! Was your dad stationed near Tokyo? My high school there used to play football, basketball etc against the various US army/air force bases in that area 🙂 Shogun was a great book and fascinating that it’s based on a true story.
Many thanks, Faith, really pleased you enjoyed it! Was your dad stationed near Tokyo? My high school there used to play football, basketball etc against the various US army/air force bases in that area 🙂 Shogun was a great book and fascinating that it’s based on a true story.
This was a great fun article. We’re a Navy family and lived in JAPAN in the 80’s. So it brought to mind wonderful memories of good times. Learning about all things Japanese was a real bonus of our Navy life. The friends we made are still in our lives. I’m a quilter and a sewer, so the kimonos were a marvel to see. I envy your collection!
This was a great fun article. We’re a Navy family and lived in JAPAN in the 80’s. So it brought to mind wonderful memories of good times. Learning about all things Japanese was a real bonus of our Navy life. The friends we made are still in our lives. I’m a quilter and a sewer, so the kimonos were a marvel to see. I envy your collection!
This was a great fun article. We’re a Navy family and lived in JAPAN in the 80’s. So it brought to mind wonderful memories of good times. Learning about all things Japanese was a real bonus of our Navy life. The friends we made are still in our lives. I’m a quilter and a sewer, so the kimonos were a marvel to see. I envy your collection!
This was a great fun article. We’re a Navy family and lived in JAPAN in the 80’s. So it brought to mind wonderful memories of good times. Learning about all things Japanese was a real bonus of our Navy life. The friends we made are still in our lives. I’m a quilter and a sewer, so the kimonos were a marvel to see. I envy your collection!
This was a great fun article. We’re a Navy family and lived in JAPAN in the 80’s. So it brought to mind wonderful memories of good times. Learning about all things Japanese was a real bonus of our Navy life. The friends we made are still in our lives. I’m a quilter and a sewer, so the kimonos were a marvel to see. I envy your collection!
Kimono make me happy, and your examples are exquisite. Thank you so much for sharing! I hope to get to Japan one day.
Kimono make me happy, and your examples are exquisite. Thank you so much for sharing! I hope to get to Japan one day.
Kimono make me happy, and your examples are exquisite. Thank you so much for sharing! I hope to get to Japan one day.
Kimono make me happy, and your examples are exquisite. Thank you so much for sharing! I hope to get to Japan one day.
Kimono make me happy, and your examples are exquisite. Thank you so much for sharing! I hope to get to Japan one day.
Thank you – the pictures are breathtaking.
Thank you – the pictures are breathtaking.
Thank you – the pictures are breathtaking.
Thank you – the pictures are breathtaking.
Thank you – the pictures are breathtaking.
I hadn’t though of that – Chinese is very melodic isn’t it!
I hadn’t though of that – Chinese is very melodic isn’t it!
I hadn’t though of that – Chinese is very melodic isn’t it!
I hadn’t though of that – Chinese is very melodic isn’t it!
I hadn’t though of that – Chinese is very melodic isn’t it!
Thank you, Helen! I’m glad you got to live in Japan as well – it’s such an amazing country! I too have many wonderful memories from my time there and lots of friends I keep in touch with. I think you bond even more with people when you’re living in a different country.
Thank you, Helen! I’m glad you got to live in Japan as well – it’s such an amazing country! I too have many wonderful memories from my time there and lots of friends I keep in touch with. I think you bond even more with people when you’re living in a different country.
Thank you, Helen! I’m glad you got to live in Japan as well – it’s such an amazing country! I too have many wonderful memories from my time there and lots of friends I keep in touch with. I think you bond even more with people when you’re living in a different country.
Thank you, Helen! I’m glad you got to live in Japan as well – it’s such an amazing country! I too have many wonderful memories from my time there and lots of friends I keep in touch with. I think you bond even more with people when you’re living in a different country.
Thank you, Helen! I’m glad you got to live in Japan as well – it’s such an amazing country! I too have many wonderful memories from my time there and lots of friends I keep in touch with. I think you bond even more with people when you’re living in a different country.
Many thanks, Nina – I do hope you can visit! I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do 🙂
Many thanks, Nina – I do hope you can visit! I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do 🙂
Many thanks, Nina – I do hope you can visit! I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do 🙂
Many thanks, Nina – I do hope you can visit! I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do 🙂
Many thanks, Nina – I do hope you can visit! I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do 🙂
Thank you, Annette, so glad you like them!
Thank you, Annette, so glad you like them!
Thank you, Annette, so glad you like them!
Thank you, Annette, so glad you like them!
Thank you, Annette, so glad you like them!
This was a lovely ramble through a fascinating historical culture, Christina. After a second look at your first image, I am trying to imagine what it would be like to wear one of these. How would I walk? (Very carefully, lol.) Would I appreciate those long sleeves with no clever pockets? I envision a slow, graceful style of being, living the minimalist life. So different from today and quite appealing, though perhaps I wouldn’t like to “live there.”
This was a lovely ramble through a fascinating historical culture, Christina. After a second look at your first image, I am trying to imagine what it would be like to wear one of these. How would I walk? (Very carefully, lol.) Would I appreciate those long sleeves with no clever pockets? I envision a slow, graceful style of being, living the minimalist life. So different from today and quite appealing, though perhaps I wouldn’t like to “live there.”
This was a lovely ramble through a fascinating historical culture, Christina. After a second look at your first image, I am trying to imagine what it would be like to wear one of these. How would I walk? (Very carefully, lol.) Would I appreciate those long sleeves with no clever pockets? I envision a slow, graceful style of being, living the minimalist life. So different from today and quite appealing, though perhaps I wouldn’t like to “live there.”
This was a lovely ramble through a fascinating historical culture, Christina. After a second look at your first image, I am trying to imagine what it would be like to wear one of these. How would I walk? (Very carefully, lol.) Would I appreciate those long sleeves with no clever pockets? I envision a slow, graceful style of being, living the minimalist life. So different from today and quite appealing, though perhaps I wouldn’t like to “live there.”
This was a lovely ramble through a fascinating historical culture, Christina. After a second look at your first image, I am trying to imagine what it would be like to wear one of these. How would I walk? (Very carefully, lol.) Would I appreciate those long sleeves with no clever pockets? I envision a slow, graceful style of being, living the minimalist life. So different from today and quite appealing, though perhaps I wouldn’t like to “live there.”
Thank you, Mary! I’ve seen the geisha walking in their beautiful outfits and it’s more of a shuffle than a proper walk 🙂 Very elegant though!
Thank you, Mary! I’ve seen the geisha walking in their beautiful outfits and it’s more of a shuffle than a proper walk 🙂 Very elegant though!
Thank you, Mary! I’ve seen the geisha walking in their beautiful outfits and it’s more of a shuffle than a proper walk 🙂 Very elegant though!
Thank you, Mary! I’ve seen the geisha walking in their beautiful outfits and it’s more of a shuffle than a proper walk 🙂 Very elegant though!
Thank you, Mary! I’ve seen the geisha walking in their beautiful outfits and it’s more of a shuffle than a proper walk 🙂 Very elegant though!
Thank you for this lovely and very informative post. I love the fabrics, and if I visited Japan I wouldn’t be able to resist buying something.
Speaking of Japan, my husband & I have discovered a Japanese station on our cable package. It’s called NHK World Japan(broadcasting in English), and it’s so soothing to watch! I recommend it if you can’t handle any more bad news in the world. There are programs about Japanese art, culture, business, food, and travelogues, and even a basic Japanese language class. I especially love the programs showing craftsmen doing traditional woodworking, pottery, calligraphy, metalwork, etc.
Thank you for this lovely and very informative post. I love the fabrics, and if I visited Japan I wouldn’t be able to resist buying something.
Speaking of Japan, my husband & I have discovered a Japanese station on our cable package. It’s called NHK World Japan(broadcasting in English), and it’s so soothing to watch! I recommend it if you can’t handle any more bad news in the world. There are programs about Japanese art, culture, business, food, and travelogues, and even a basic Japanese language class. I especially love the programs showing craftsmen doing traditional woodworking, pottery, calligraphy, metalwork, etc.
Thank you for this lovely and very informative post. I love the fabrics, and if I visited Japan I wouldn’t be able to resist buying something.
Speaking of Japan, my husband & I have discovered a Japanese station on our cable package. It’s called NHK World Japan(broadcasting in English), and it’s so soothing to watch! I recommend it if you can’t handle any more bad news in the world. There are programs about Japanese art, culture, business, food, and travelogues, and even a basic Japanese language class. I especially love the programs showing craftsmen doing traditional woodworking, pottery, calligraphy, metalwork, etc.
Thank you for this lovely and very informative post. I love the fabrics, and if I visited Japan I wouldn’t be able to resist buying something.
Speaking of Japan, my husband & I have discovered a Japanese station on our cable package. It’s called NHK World Japan(broadcasting in English), and it’s so soothing to watch! I recommend it if you can’t handle any more bad news in the world. There are programs about Japanese art, culture, business, food, and travelogues, and even a basic Japanese language class. I especially love the programs showing craftsmen doing traditional woodworking, pottery, calligraphy, metalwork, etc.
Thank you for this lovely and very informative post. I love the fabrics, and if I visited Japan I wouldn’t be able to resist buying something.
Speaking of Japan, my husband & I have discovered a Japanese station on our cable package. It’s called NHK World Japan(broadcasting in English), and it’s so soothing to watch! I recommend it if you can’t handle any more bad news in the world. There are programs about Japanese art, culture, business, food, and travelogues, and even a basic Japanese language class. I especially love the programs showing craftsmen doing traditional woodworking, pottery, calligraphy, metalwork, etc.
Thank you Karin! Yes, I have occasionally watched NHK World and there are some wonderful programmes! Japanese craftsmen are always meticulous and it’s fun to watch them at work.
Thank you Karin! Yes, I have occasionally watched NHK World and there are some wonderful programmes! Japanese craftsmen are always meticulous and it’s fun to watch them at work.
Thank you Karin! Yes, I have occasionally watched NHK World and there are some wonderful programmes! Japanese craftsmen are always meticulous and it’s fun to watch them at work.
Thank you Karin! Yes, I have occasionally watched NHK World and there are some wonderful programmes! Japanese craftsmen are always meticulous and it’s fun to watch them at work.
Thank you Karin! Yes, I have occasionally watched NHK World and there are some wonderful programmes! Japanese craftsmen are always meticulous and it’s fun to watch them at work.
Thank you all again for your comments – there were so many great ones that in order to pick a winner for the giveaway I had to just put your names in a hat and draw one out at random – and the winner is Jenny Wilcox! Congratulations!
Thank you all again for your comments – there were so many great ones that in order to pick a winner for the giveaway I had to just put your names in a hat and draw one out at random – and the winner is Jenny Wilcox! Congratulations!
Thank you all again for your comments – there were so many great ones that in order to pick a winner for the giveaway I had to just put your names in a hat and draw one out at random – and the winner is Jenny Wilcox! Congratulations!
Thank you all again for your comments – there were so many great ones that in order to pick a winner for the giveaway I had to just put your names in a hat and draw one out at random – and the winner is Jenny Wilcox! Congratulations!
Thank you all again for your comments – there were so many great ones that in order to pick a winner for the giveaway I had to just put your names in a hat and draw one out at random – and the winner is Jenny Wilcox! Congratulations!