All about the Kimono Fabric

By: Agust Hauksson

The Japanese Kimono is one of the most treasured pieces of their culture. The handmade item is very special to them and is used to represent many occasions that are important to them and their people. The techniques of weaving and dying were originated from the Korea and China cultures. Over time the Kimono has become one of the most valuable treasures in this time. There are different fabrics for different reasons and they are all important to each one.

The construction of a Kimono is made up of weaves and patterns with fabric. They are made for both men and women and every color has its own symbol in this culture. The Kimono is made up of four main strips of fabric. Two patterns will make the panels covering the body and two panels for the sleeves. You will need additional strips for the narrow front panel and the collar.

The Kimono that is made up of woven patterns is more likely to be informal. The more formal ones have more freely designed styles on them. The Kimono is worn in many layers of different colors. There are many beautiful colors adding contrast and wander to the person that is wearing the garment. These days the Kimono is work with a single layer on top of slip underneath.

The more formal Kimono and the obi belts are made of silk. Because of the cost of this material there is a limited number of people in this industry making these unique garments. Most of the formal kimonos today are now made of rayon, cotton, polyester, and other synthetic fibers. There is still one very important Kimono that is still made from silk and that is the ones used for weddings.

A Japanese kimono is to be worn as the seasons change. There are different styles, colors and materials that are used for the changing seasons. The spring has brighter colors and in the fall there are the darker shades that match the season change. In the winter time, when the holidays are approaching the kimono patters that are used represent the woods or the trees and are a sign of good luck.

There are many styles and kimonos that are worn for many reasons. Older women wear different from the single ones. There are special ones for weddings and for funerals as well. It is important for the Japanese to understand the reasons behind each different and unique style of kimono and what they represent. This is part of a culture and is very important most of all for respect. Anyone that is wearing a kimono must know the purpose and what its intentions are for. This is called giving them the credit and the respect that their culture deserves.