Above is a department store display of modern yukata, or a cotton kimono. The sash is called an obi and the shoes, which are traditionally wooden, are called geta. Many older women wear yukata everyday, and in Kyoto the traditional dress is even popular with young women. Antique kimono can still be seen in some stores, and they are more elaborate and made of silk. Silk kimonos are far more expensive than the cotton types.
Above is part of a fashion show we saw at the Nishijin Textile center. Polka dot yukata with white obi.
A lavender kimono with swirling flower pattern. A nostalgic design on a modern silk kimono. Elaborately tied matching obi.
Blue modern silk kimono with silver obi. Kimonos for men exist as well, I'll try to get a picture and post it soon. They are mostly only worn in stores or restaurants where it is the employee uniform, or anywhere in Kyoto.
I bought a new dress after oggling all the beautiful kimono. Men, tune out here. Modern Japanese women LOVE to shop, and designer shoes, purses, and clothing is very popular. Pleating and beautifully draped flow-y fabrics are popular styles. I find it interesting that even after all this time, well-draped and folded garments are still the height of fashion. It's really not hard to see the leap from traditional dress to modern. The shirt dress, which I am wearing, is elevated to a high art here. There are so many styles, and they actually fit me. Finally, clothing designed for short people! -Anna
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