Introduction
The kimono is a Japanese traditional garment that is internationally known for its unique design. The garment got its popularity from the ancient ukiyo-e prints, which were clad in this garment. The ukiyo-e maidens have been a major tourist attraction especially in the western part of Japan and hence the unequivocal popularity of this garment. The kimono are made for both men and women but in different designs. On top of this, there are special kimono garments made for different occasions. This garment has been an important part of Japanese heritage and will remain so for a long time to come (Japan Zone).
Main Discussion
Unlike in the past, kimono is losing much of its former appeal in Japan. Today, the cloth is only worn by aged women or during celebration of special events. This is partly due to the high cost of obtaining the garment. Today, a decent silk kimono costs well over a million yen, which is obviously beyond the reach of many Japanese citizens. The other reason behind the waning popularity of the kimono is the intricate design used in its knitting. This makes it hard for inexperienced people to wear it properly. The obi, which is a decorative sash that goes hand in hand with the kimono also poses problems for many learners. Young women aspiring to wear the kimono have to get instructions from their mothers. On the other hand, the girls can go for special kimono schools, which are available throughout the country.
Over the years, the design used in making the kimono has greatly changed. In the past, both women and men wore a short-sleeved garment called the kosode as an inner garment. However as time progressed, this cloth was made to be an outer garment. In the beginning of the 18th century, the name of this garment was changed to kimono. Although this garment is not as popular as it was in the past, it is still a common sight among the Japanese people. The garment is common among women attending Japanese traditional art ceremonies. The cloth is also common among girls and single women in the society. This group wears a kind of kimono called the furisode, which is made of a bright material. The older women wear a simpler garment called the Edo komon that is slightly different from that worn by the young and single women. Unlike the furisode, the Edo komon is a bit plain and casual.
Apart from the traditional arts, kimonos are also common in weddings and during funerals. However, the color scheme used in weddings differs from the one used in funerals. In weddings, the bride wears a white kimono to signify purity while black garments are worn in funerals to signify mourning. In the past, the skill of making and putting on a kimono was passed on from generation to generation. However, this has greatly changed and today there are special schools meant to teach this skill.
Conclusion
The kimono has been a part of Japanese culture since time immemorial. Although the garment is not as popular as it was in the past, current trends show that this is a part of the Japanese heritage that is not about to disappear any time soon. Today, there are numerous schools where young people are taught how to make and put on the kimono. By looking at the high number of students who have been attending these special schools, one could easily tell that the Japanese people are still proud of this part of their culture.
Works Cited
Japan Zone. Kimono, 2010.