As a traditional attire that designers have been remodeling and refashioning for decades, the kimono is no stranger to modern fashion. From kimono sets perfect for your brunch dates to beach cover-ups for summer, contemporary kimono designs are everywhere. Traditional styles of kimonos are just as varied as their modern variants. If you’re wondering what the different traditional types are, we’ve got you covered.
10 Japanese Kimonos You Should Know About
Women in Japan traditionally wear different styles of kimonos for every occasion. The design varies depending on their age and marital status, adding cultural significance to the garment. The intricate kimono dress comes in a wide variety, and knowing which one’s right for you is important.
- Furisode
- Tomesode
- Hikizuri
- Iro Muji
- Komon
- Houmongi
- Yukata
- Shiromuku
- Natsu no Kimono and Usumono
- Odori Isho
Furisode
The furisode is the most formal style of the kimono dress. It is distinguished by its long sleeves, which range from around 80cm to 114cm in length. Worn by women during occasions such as the coming-of-age ceremony, the kimonos come in classic traditional designs that are great for formal events. The term furisode refers to “swinging sleeves” and was created during the Edo period for young women.
There are three different types of furisode; the ofurisode, chu-furisode and kofurisode, each differing in sleeve length. While the ofurisode can be worn during weddings and other formal ceremonies, the kofurisode is commonly worn by Japanese school girls.
Tomesode
The tomesode is another formal style in the kimono dictionary. With comparatively shorter sleeves and designs on the lower part of the garment, the tomesode is a popular kimono style. Worn commonly by married women, it is interesting to note that the sleeves of the furisode would be cut during the coming-of-age ceremony. This process of cutting and fastening the sleeves is referred to as “tomeru” and hence the term “tomesode”. There are two types of kimonos, the kurotomesode which is the black tomesode and the irotomesode which is colorful in design.
Hikizuri
The Hikizuri kimono is an attire that is generally worn by wealthy women in Japan. It has a trailing skirt and is worn during traditional Japanese dance performances. The attire can be seen on geishas and maikos during these performances.
Iro Muji
The iro muji is a solid color kimono without any form of pattern or embroidery. It comes in all colors except black and white. Thanks to its simple and comfortable design, the iro muji kimonos do not draw attention to the wearer. They are typically worn to tea parties and ceremonies. Depending on the number of crests on the kimono, you can decide the events it is suitable for.
Komon
If you’re looking for a kimono that is appropriate for a stroll around the park or a quick shopping run to the grocery store, the komon is the way to go. It has repeating patterns and is perfect for casual events. Formal events require you to have a more sophisticated kimono, and the komon won’t do. You can think of the komon as your everyday jeans and t-shirt.
Houmongi
The houmongi comes in a range of different styles, from traditional patterns to modern ones. Considered a semi-formal attire worn by both married and unmarried women, the houmongi is suitable for a variety of occasions, including tea parties, graduation ceremonies or even a fun dinner party.
You can always pick the style according to the occasion. Bright and flashy for events like weddings, while something more subtle for graduation ceremonies.
Yukata
The yukata comes without underlining and is, therefore, the perfect pick for the summer months. It was formerly worn as bath clothes but is now donned on many other occasions. The yukata can be worn by women of all ages and is a common sight during summer festivals in Japan. If you’re in the country during the festival season, the yukata is the kimono to get.
Shiromuku
The shiromuku is the traditional white kimono worn by brides during their wedding ceremonies. It is one of the most important garments in Japanese culture and comes in different embroidery styles. The white of the kimono is associated with the color of the sun and the purity and sanctity of the nuptial ceremony. The brides usually change into a different kimono after the official wedding ceremony.
Natsu no Kimono and Usumono
The natsu no kimono is referred to as the summer kimono. It is also called the usomono, which means ‘thin clothing’. It is the perfect kimono when the temperatures start to rise. If you’re visiting Japan during the hot days of the year, the usumono is the way to go.
Odori Isho
The odori isho is a type of yukata worn by female dancers who are part of traditional festivals in Japan. It differs from the classic yukata in terms of the accessories and draping style of the kimono. It is popularly worn during the Awa Dance Festival in Japan.
A Kimono for Every Occasion
The Japanese have a range of styles when it comes to kimonos. Each design is unique and suitable for different events. If you’re heading somewhere formal, the furisode is the outfit for you. On the other hand, if a quick stroll through the garden is the plan for the day, a komon would do. Find the perfect kimono, and you’re all set to explore Japan the right way.
