ISBN: 0870115006 9780870115004

Category: Art / Fashion

Page count: 139

"From gorgeous bridal kimono to kimono in subdued designs and quiet colors for everyday wear, the intriguing aspect of the kimono is that it always seems so correct.Textiles carefully crafted by traditional and modern methods--many now world famous--contribute to this sense of correctness, as does the widely admired sense of color and design. Of no less importance is the way the kimono is worn.This book makes available for the first time the basic knowledge and vocabulary of how to select and put on the kimono and obi, even by oneself.Whether for women or men, all kimono are cut and sewn essentially from a single pattern, but a number of variations must be considered, depending on the occasion. Guidelines are given to making these choices, and the way to dress in a kimono, from preliminaries to tieing the bustle sash, is described in detail and fully illustrated. For women, there are formal kimono, obi and accessories, and the lightweight summer yukata; for men, the yukata and the ceremonial ensemble of kimono, haori coat and hakama skirt. Children's kimono for festive events are also described.Kimono fashions have evolved over the centuries in response to varied influences. Today modern innovations are making the wearing of kimono at home and away from home an attractive and practical alternative to western garments. These are included, along with a discussion of aesthetics, the history of the kimono and the meaning kimono culture can have for wearers and admirers throughout the world."--