'Kimono’ was the Japanese word for clothing and pronounced Kee-mo-no. The plural
of kimono is also kimono. They are traditional Japanese Straight cut kimono, as we know them today, originated during the Heian period (794 – 1192) and had many advantages. They were easy to fold and suitable for all weathers. They could be worn in layers for warmth in the winter and made of linen which is breathable and therefore cool for the summer. This meant that they became more accessible in everyday life. Wearing the kimono became very fashionable with elaborate sleeves rolled back to show more contrasting, coloured kimono underneath. The cloth and colour combinations often indicated the social or political status of the wearer and kimono colours changed with the season. Later, samurai warriors dressed in kimono with the colours and patterns representing their Warlords. At this time, kimono making became an art form, and therefore more valuable, and past from generation to generation as heirlooms. Nowadays, Japanese people wear kimono for special occasions such as weddings, tea ceremonies, festivals etc. Western influence has come into everyday clothes. The kimono is no longer purely a traditional robe. The very nature of its historical evolution invites you to create your own style.
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