Add Fashion to Your Wardrobe with Japanese Apparel

Traditional Japanese apparel includes kimonos, yukatas, happi coats, and maekake aprons. Most Americans are familiar with kimonos. They are worn by men, women and children. In Japan the cut, color, and decorations are reflective of age, sex, and marital status of the person wearing it. They are also reflective of the season of the year and the occasion. If you are not familiar with the other Japanese apparel, allow me to introduce you.

Yukatas are a type of robe, which was originally worn by court nobles after a bath. Over time, warriors began to wear them to public baths. Today they are a casual use garments. They are worn while lounging, as summer clothing, and relaxed evening wear. Happi coats are worn by shopkeepers. They are a knee-length coat with the stores logo or the family crest of the back. Matsuri happi is a shorter version worn during festivals. Samue are denim work clothes. They are very durable as well as comfortable. Traditional Japanese sandals are called geta and zori. They are worn only as outdoor summer footwear. They have properties that are known to be good for tired feet. The interior of the shoes are woven of a straw-like material or carved of wood. The tongs are colorful or they have a geometric pattern. Headbands are Japanese printing are designed to promote an idea or emotion. Obis are yukata and kimono belts. They are wide bands of colorful material that are wrapped around to enclose your garment. They are tied to the front or the side.

Vintage Japanese apparel is often not worn at all. Instead, it is hung as art. Care in details of garments known as haori are preserved and displayed on walls of homes, offices, and galleries. Ukiyoe T-shirts are works of art that are worn. They are wood block prints that show crisp details by Japanese artist. They are very popular and are made of 100% cotton. The artistry is worthy to be framed and hung on a wall as decor.

Contemporary Japanese apparel for young women and teens capture a “baby doll” or “slouch” look. Today, Japanese apparel consists of multi-colored jeans or leggings, layered with oversized tops and flat shoes or tennis. Part of the style is super short shorts with ruffled lacing showing beneath them. Another trend is knee-high boots with socks showing above them. Knee-high socks and high waistbands complete the look. Accessories are kept to a minimum. A long pendant, or a cap works well. Ruffles, laces, and plaids are frequently seen. Horizontal stripes are a popular choice. Slip dresses are popular. Materials are soft and extremely comfortable.

No matter if you are in search of traditional or contemporary Japanese apparel the cost can vary. Reasonable rates are available and surprisingly easy to find. Options are numerous. As with most searches start with the Internet. Try looking in antique or second hand clothing shops for vintage Japanese apparel. It might be worth searching a few estate or garage sales for a surprisingly good find.