[Japan] The Kimono Thread - All kimono all the time

[slipthejab]

In this thread you can pretty much post anything you want about kimonos... from historical or factual sites to pictures of stunning examples of kimono.

I'll start if of with this site:
http://www.japanesekimono.com/index.htm

A good little primer for all things kimono.:)

[Lily]

I just find the intricacies of wearing a formal kimono (with its many layers) fascinating. How women especially moved around with such poise and grace in them is in itself a reflection of Japanese society. On one hand the strictures and protocol that bind them and on the other their appreciation for subtle beauty, their natural environment, economy of motion etc.

(check out www.okadadesign.com for some beautiful modern takes on the kimono)

http://www.okadadesign.com/kimono_3cu_butterfly.jpg

[slipthejab]

Yeah it's fascinating stuff. Japanese textiles have always fascinated me. They have an amazing range of subtle colors that you don't see in the west.

Japanese printers have a printing ink system that has about twice the amount of colors that western printers do. Back when I used to deal with more Japanese clients it was a bit hard to explain to them why we couldn't print the subtle colors they were specifying. Of course all CMYK colors would be the same but in terms of spot color (West=Pantone system... Japan=Toyo system) they have a massive selection to choose from that the western world doesn't.

Here is site with a good in depth article on traditional Japanese clothing:
http://www.hanamiweb.com/kimono.html

[slipthejab]

here is the back:

[Lily]

http://www.paintingsofbirds.com/gallery/images\small\Cuming_Kimono_sm.jpg

[Rhea]

Apparently if the obi is stiff it's very uncomfortable to wear for a long time! One of our parents who is Japanese wore hers at the anniversary dinner. It looked lovely though.