Japanese Traditional Costumes and Their Symbolism

Throughout history, certain forms of clothing have been used to identify culture, socioeconomic status, and nationality. In Japan, traditional costumes, or kimono, are a way to express culture, personal style and stories. Kimono, the Japanese traditional clothing, is more than just a wardrobe garment. It carries a history, symbolism, and culture.

Kimono has evolved over the centuries and is one of the most important aspects of Japanese culture. People of all ages, from small children to elderly, wear kimono in important festivals, special events, and celebrations, or in everyday life. It is easy to observe the symbolism of kimono from its traditional designs to their careful wrapping.

Traditional kimono is the combination of long plain robes -- the umanori and the furisode -- and other items, such as tabi socks, haori, zori, and obi. Together, they create the full outfit of traditional Japanese kimono. Let's explore how each part of kimono holds special meaning and symbolism.

Umanori

Umanori is a long plain robe that can be divided into the mogura (inner coat) and the uwagi (outer coat). It is simple, with a flat collar, widely spread wrist-to-elbow sleeves and a long skirt that finishes at the ankles. The color and pattern of umanori vary, but usually people wear a solid color- either a black, dark blue or gray, which is easy to match with bright obi and obiage. The umanori wraps the body in a unique accordion shape.

Furisode

The furisode is a long-sleeved kimono for unmarried women. Unlike the umanori, it has long sleeves that reach the ankle. The furisode is composed of a more decorated than the umanori, with fabric designs including flowers, animals, butterflies and traditional patterns. The design pattern and color used on the furisode also expresses the personality and life story of the wearer.

Obi

The obi is a long and wide sash, usually made of Japanese silk of cotton. There are various types of obi according to the occasion, such as an informal tsuke obi (which lacks ornate decorations and is usually striped or checkered) and the more formal hikinuki obi (which is patterned with small circles, and can be very bright or a solid color).
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Zori and Tabi Socks

Zori are outdoor sandals or slippers that are traditionally made of zelkova wood and shaped like a base for the toe. This type of footwear is worn with tabi socks, white socks that are split at the middle so it can fit the zori. The zori and tabi socks provide comfort and coolness in the warm weather.

How Kimono Reveals Meaning and Symbolism in Japanese Culture

Kimono symbolize dignity and respect in Japanese culture. It is more than just an outfit, it speaks of the wearer’s social status, maturity, and awareness of the traditional culture. Furthermore, the design, color, and printing of each kimono tell the wearer’s story and personality.

Kimono is said to build equilibrium with nature, bringing balance and harmony. They are considered a part of Japan’s national character, and in fact, many pioneering Japan women wear kimono as a symbol of their nation.

Kimono is a part of the unique culture of Japan and is seen as a traditional symbol of modesty and etiquette, yet a sense of beauty and style. Despite current trends in fashion and modern style, the tradition of wearing kimono in Japan has been preserved.

Closing Thoughts

Kimono is an important part of traditional Japanese culture and symbolize respect, dignity, and elegance. Its history, design patterns and amazing wrapping technique make kimono fascinating. Investigating traditional Japanese kimono is an exiting way to learn about Japanese culture and history.

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