I’m a twenty-something living in the southern part of the United States who loves to wear kimono.
Sometimes people will ask why I wear kimono, since I’m clearly not Japanese. To me, this is a simple answer, but I do know that there are times when myself (and others who wear kimono) doubt themselves or have a hard time explaining the why of it all. What does one say to those who are curious (or just plain rude)? I don’t know about others, but I tell those that ask that the kimono is in essence, a textile art. I’m wearing it because I appreciate it as a piece of art. One can appreciate and support art, no matter it’s ethnicity. (People would never tell you that you can’t enjoy Picasso’s work just because you’re not Spanish, that’d be silly!) Since kimono is also a form of art, and since textiles are meant to be worn, there is no reason for me not to wear it just because I’m not Japanese. That is the way I see it.
My interest in kimono started when I was a little girl. I do not remember the exact moment that I was introduced to the world of geisha and kitsuke, but I do remember that I once I was, I loved the way these ladies looked and dressed. My first kimono was a child’s furisode that I bought when I was 16, when I first discovered Ebay. Once I figured out that I could actually own one of the garments that I had admired for so long, there was no stopping me! At the time, I had no idea about the different types of kimono, formality, or that there was even such a thing as sizing. (I admit that I fell for the “one size fits all” myth spouted by internet salesmen) What I did know, however, was that I desperately wanted one. I suppose that, in hindsight, the old adage to “look before you leap” would have served me well, but I wanted a kimono so badly that I didn’t bother to do my research. I now know that I could never actually wear my child’s furisode. (although in the early days, I did try!) Nevertheless, it holds a special place in my heart as my first kimono. It is currently in storage, and I plan on giving it my daughter, if I have one in the future.
My next brush with kimono didn’t happen until almost two years after that original purchase, when I bought a yukata that actually fit in 2008. It was one of those mass-produced garments that was cheap and came with a pre-tied obi. I wore it on my 18th birthday (I had a costume party with all of my friends), and I did so many things wrong….(I’m pretty sure that I ran around barefoot with no padding or binding, and had those silly “chopsticks” in my hair)
My first “real” kimono kitsuke experience, however, did not come until 2009, when I first tried dressing in a full outfit…juban, otaiko musubi, and all. I had by then acquired all the necessary accessories needed for dressing, and had also discovered the amazing folks over on the Immortal Geisha forums. However, even with all that I learned from both books and internet tutorials, it still took me 3 hours to dress and another 2 to figure out how to tie the obi properly. I had actually given up on tying the obi once before, but I was determined to figure it out and finally managed it after several hours of failure. It was also my first experience in wearing zori, date-eri, and how to make a too-small kimono fit. (It was terribly tight, and way too short wingspan-wise) I can no longer fit in this kimono, (at least, not without some serious effort haha) but it was my first successful time putting on a kimono.
Today, I am still far from perfect (so far away that you can’t even see it, actually) but I am pleased to say that I am making progress. Each time I wear kimono, I improve as I learn what not to do, where this should go, etc. I still struggle with the obi, (It took me almost a half-hour last time to get it right) and am still nowhere near where I’d like to be kitsuke-skill-wise, but I am steadily improving. I have recently started to come into my own “style” as it were in kimono wearing (I love Taisho-era pieces and bold funky designs, as well as meisen kimono and long sleeves), and my kimono collection is expanding exponentially now that I have a steady income from my job. I am proud to say that wearing kimono has not only helped to define myself as a person, but has taught me valuable lessons in patience, individuality, and not giving up.
It is my hope that this blog can help inspire and encourage you to enjoy kimono and their beauty as well.
How interesting. And you have a very good welcome photo.
Thank you. Collecting and wearing kimono is one of my passions; I am glad that you read and enjoyed it.
Good for you! Life is too short to be boring or to deny yourself enjoyment. I wish more people would allow themselves to break out of the box and keep their minds open to the beauty of other cultures. When I got engaged my European family was all ready to take me shopping for a big, white wedding gown but I decided on full Indian bridal wear, including a royal blue, embroidered wedding saree (to match my hair) and about 5 lbs of ornate jewelry. I couldn’t be happier with the decision
Happy kimono collecting!
Thank you for your lovely message! If I ever get married, I’d consider wearing kimono to my wedding instead of a white bridal dress. I’d probably get a few people who don’t approve, or think it’s strange, but I feel it’s unique and a great expression of who I am as a person. It’s as you said…life’s too short to not live it to the fullest. There’s something so understated yet elegant about kimono that makes me love wearing them. Congratulations on your marriage and bridal gown choice! It sounds absolutely gorgeous. I love the look of sari, but haven’t gotten into wearing them yet. I have a weakness for Indian jewelry as well, so I understand the appeal of wearing it to one’s wedding.
Hope to see you around!
You know, you really look wonderful in kimono! I’m so envious. My body is wrong in every way, so I can’t wear them, but I’m totally fascinated with the many layers of colors and patterns and meanings. Do you know Kimono Hime magazine? It’s out of print, but there are still copies floating around, and I buy them whenever I can. It’s all about wearing vintage kimono with modern accessories, and the look is totally cool. I scanned one photo for my blog, but maybe you can find others online. Here’s the one I scanned:
http://jonellepatrick.me/2011/10/06/more-alike-than-you-might-think/
Off to check out more of your posts…
Why thank you! Really? Have you ever tried one on? I am of the belief that kimono look good on everyone.
I’m obviously no sure what body type you are, but I would recommend you read this article written by a fellow kimono friend, about body-image and kimono: http://kyotoredbird.wordpress.com/2012/04/11/kimono-and-body-image/
And yes! I love Kimono-Hime! I have several volumes, and have been trying to get the rest so I can complete my collection. I’ve done one super-KimonoHime style outfit, and I want to do more! (You probably saw it lol, the “zebra gum striped kimono” post.) I always admire the way the girls in that magazine look. Another good kimono mook that I recommend is….well, I don’t know the English name of it, but here is the link:http://www.amazon.co.jp/%E3%82%AD%E3%83%A2%E3%83%8E%E3%82%AC%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AB-%EF%BD%96%EF%BD%8F%EF%BC%8E%EF%BC%92-%EF%BC%96%EF%BC%92%EF%BC%94%EF%BC%98%EF%BC%94%E2%80%90%EF%BC%90%EF%BC%95-%E3%82%AB%E3%83%89%E3%82%AB%E3%83%AF%E3%83%A0%E3%83%83%E3%82%AF-401-%E8%91%97%E8%A8%B3%E7%B7%A8%E8%80%85%E8%A1%A8%E7%A4%BA%E3%81%AA%E3%81%97/dp/4048940937/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1335337831&sr=1-1…It’s really similar to KimonoHime but it’s smaller and still in print.
Thanks for the links! And duh, I hadn’t made it as far as the Zebra Gum post, but after seeing it, I hand my Kimono Hime crown to you! I’m actually thinking of wearing a yukata in Kimono Hime style this summer if I end up going to watch fireworks with Japanese friends, and if I do, I’ll know who to ask for inspiration. Gonna find some of those Kimono Girl magazines too…
No problem! And lol, I’m definitely looking forward to (hopefully!) seeing you wear yukata in Hime style! And I think Kimono Girl has another issue out, but I haven’t been able to find it….the one I have is 2012, so it’s fairly new. If you do find some more, please let me know!
I love your idea about not having to be Spanish to enjoy Picasso. I even shared it on my facebook. It’s a great way to explain!
I’m glad to have helped you out!
Hi again
Do you mind if I post a picture of your stripy green yellow red kimono? Love it so much!
Gabrielle
Hello! Of course I don’t mind, go ahead!
Thanks so much – I’ll put a link to your blog and say how great it is!
Gabrielle
Thanks yourself! It’s really nice of you to do that.
Hi
Really love your blog and have nominated you for a beautiful blogger award.
http://illostrophy.com/2013/01/05/beautiful-blogger-award/
If it’s ok, would you be able to continue the theme by posting a beautiful blogger award (from Google images), nominate 7 other bloggers and give 7 facts or New Year’s Resolutions about yourself? No worries if you don’t have time but just to say that your website is awesome!
Gabrielle
Wow, thanks so much! It’s really appreciated. Of course I’ll continue the theme. I really like reading your blog, hope to see more great stuff in 2013!
not much to read but taking the photos is fun. I can never quite get such good quality photos as yours! In fact, I was going to ask you what camera you’re using. My point and shoot just isn’t up to standard and I desperately want pin sharp clear shots. What camera do you use? I don’t want a heavy one as it’s difficult to be inconspicuous!
I use a Canon Rebel XS with the standard kit lens. I’m hoping to upgrade the lens soon though! It’s not heavy for a DSLR camera, but it is definitely heavier than a point-and-shoot. Have you ever used a DSLR camera before? It’s true that you can’t just slip it into your pocket and go, obviously…perhaps something like the coolpix cameras might be better for you. I’m not sure as to their quality though, since I’ve never had one.
I am also a kimono enthusiast in northern VA. Do you have anything special planned for the cherry blossoms this year?
Hello! I don’t have anything planned, but I do know that the Washington D.C. Kimono de Jack group is planning on doing something for the Sakura Matsuri this year: https://www.facebook.com/groups/283843534972242/?fref=ts