Geisha kimonos are complex garments worn by Japanese geishas, featuring multiple parts including a low kimono, colorful kimono, and intricate obi belt. They are made of silk and hand-painted with intricate patterns. Geishas have specific kimonos for different seasons, and tying the obi can have special meaning. They are expensive and traditionally gifted by clients or provided as a clothing allowance. The exposed neckline is a common feature, and tying the obi is a skill learned by apprentices.
A geisha kimono is an intricate traditional garment worn by Japanese geishas. The true geisha kimono must meet certain standards; they differ considerably from the kimono worn by non-geisha women, as well as those worn by apprentices. The kimono geisha, along with its wearers, has a long and elegant history in Japan dating back centuries.
Geisha kimono are not simply individual dresses; instead, they are complicated assemblies comprising many parts. Even a basic version will include a low kimono, a colorful kimono, and an intricate belt called an obi. In the cooler months, the kimono underneath may be made of a thicker or layered material, while in the summer, lighter versions are preferred. The main kimono is usually made of silk and can be painted or embroidered by hand in intricate and incredibly artistic patterns of birds and flowers. The upper kimono is fastened by wrapping the layers of the robe-like garment around the body and then securing with the obi. Most kimonos also feature floor-length sleeves that can be rolled up around the arms to prevent getting dirty or tripping.
Most geishas will have specific kimono for different seasons. Each displays a color palette and decor that is considered seasonally appropriate; The spring kimono may have spring flowers, but no plants seen in autumn or winter. Wearing a seasonally incorrect geisha kimono is considered quite tasteless; almost as bad as a reindeer sweater in April.
Although geishas are generally required to have multiple kimonos, they are quite expensive. Since many are handmade and the best feature is the hand-painted paint, it’s not unusual for geisha kimono to cost thousands of dollars. Traditionally, new kimonos were gifts from clients, but geisha who worked with a geisha house could also receive a clothing allowance.
A common feature of a geisha kimono is an exposed neckline that dips slightly in the back. Geisha, apart from dancers, musicians and artists, is known for her charm and flirtatious demeanor. Since the neck is traditionally considered a sensual part of the body in Japan, geishas chose to take the slightly risqué chance of peeking at their cleavage. However, this is not common throughout Japan. Different regions have very specific and ancient customs about the style and appearance of a kimono geisha.
Tying the obiof of a geisha kimono can be done in many different ways. Apprentices spend hours learning to wrap and tie traditional knots, each of which can have a special meaning. Adult geishas use different knots than apprentices, and in general the style of an older geisha is more refined and quiet than that of a young one. However, the garments and the obi remain a striking combination, turning their wearers into colorful displays of beauty.
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