Why Do Japanese Women Wear Kimonos?

Japanese women wear kimonos for many reasons.

Kimonos are a type of traditional Japanese clothing worn by women and men. The word "kimono" literally means "clothing" in Japanese. Today, kimonos are worn in other parts of the world as well, having become a symbol of the Japanese culture. There are many types of kimonos and several reasons why women wear them.

Traditional Ceremonies and Holidays

Women often wear kimonos for special holidays and occasions, including New Year, ikebana class (Japanese flower arranging), tea ceremonies, graduation ceremonies and Shichi-Go-San, a rite of passage ceremony for girls of ages three and seven, and boys of ages three and five.

Weddings

Kimonos are often worn by Japanese brides, who go through several costume changes during a wedding. One of the pieces she wears is a white, embroidered kimono with an elaborate headpiece called a shiromuku. The fabric used for this type of kimono is heavier than that used for other types.

Funerals

Women and men wear a black kimono at funerals. While men also wear black kimonos for weddings, the difference is the tie they wear: a white tie is worn for weddings and a black tie is worn with funeral kimonos.

Coming of Age

Turning 20 is seen as a woman's coming of age in Japanese culture. Consequently, women celebrating their 20th birthday during the year will often wear a brightly colored kimono in January. Sometimes, the young women will accessorize with a feathered boa sash.

Older Women

Those who wear kimonos most often are older women, as they are more likely to own a nice one and know how to put it on, which is a complicated procedure. Younger women learn how to wear one from their mother or grandmother, or they may attend a kimono school.

References

• Japan Zone: Kimono