Obis are traditional Japanese belts worn by both men and women, made of silk, cotton, or brocade, and can be plain or feature decorative patterns. They are used to accentuate the waist in modern fashion and can be made of any fabric, including leather. Obis are also used in Japanese martial arts and traditional ceremonies.
An obi is a type of belt, usually tied rather than fastened with a buckle. Adapted from traditional Japanese fashion, obis are a popular method of adding an Asian flair to modern outfits. An obi can be easily purchased or made with basic sewing skills.
The obi, which means “girdle” in Japanese, was traditionally worn by both men and women, beginning around the 16th century. Men’s girdles are typically narrow strips of fabric, while women’s can be more than 12 inches (30 cm) wide. Obis can be very long, but they can be folded or tied into elaborate decorative bows. There are dozens of obi styles, each associated with traditional tying and folding methods.
Traditionally, an obi is made of silk, cotton, or brocade, and can be plain or feature a decorative pattern on one or both sides. The color of the fabric can be significant to the wearer; Modern Japanese brides, for example, often wear a pure white obi with their wedding dress. An older custom also calls for widows to wear white obis as mourning clothing, but in modern times a black sash may be worn. Traditional obis are often made to match or complement a specific kimono, therefore people may own different varieties and colors to match a large wardrobe.
Although the obi belt is an essential part of a Japanese kimono costume, this type of sash has other traditional uses. Some forms of Japanese martial arts include exercise outfits that are tied with an obi. The color of the band indicates the user’s skill level; New bands are awarded to students who successfully complete the skill tests. Children may also wear elaborate kimonos and obis for certain ceremonies, such as the Shichi-Go-San festival, where seven-year-old girls, five-year-old boys, and three-year-old boys of both genders are celebrated.
In modern fashion, the obi belt is a wide sash used to accentuate the waist. Unlike traditional versions, this new interpretation can be buttoned or feature hook-and-eye closures, although some also feature decorative ties. Modern obis can be made of any fabric, including leather, and often have spandex or elastic components to help the belt fit snugly. These belts can be worn with loose tunic-style tops to shape the torso, or can be part of a fitted outfit to draw attention to a narrow waist or hourglass shape.
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