Cotton yukata robes are popular during the summer months in Japan. The yukata being a summer version of the Japanese kimono is often made of 100% cotton. Traditional kimono robes introduced to the Japanese culture some hundreds of years ago was made using silk or satin fabrics. These fabrics for a kimono are more ideally worn during formal events and cooler climates. Cotton yukata robes are as aforementioned favored during the summer months. Many of Japan’s festivals surround the changing seasons, summer festivals, fireworks displays, ceremonies and special events during the warmer months will showcases a variety of cotton yukata wearer.

Similar to your typical kimono, the cotton yukata is made by following a simple T shaped structure. A sash or belt called an obi is used to keep the robe securely in place. Geta or wooden slippers are typical footwear choices to achieve a complete cotton yukata ensemble. Aside from being worn outdoors the yukata is a favored choice amongst many Japanese inns, hot springs and bath houses. Cotton yukata robes are light weight and because they are made of cotton are extra absorbent compared to silk kimono robes. The yukata worn at home or at inns are mainly used as an after bath garment or generally known as the bathrobe. Other than using cotton, nylon, rayon, polyester blends and synthetic fibers that emulate cotton are also used.

Considered a more casual version, the summer kimono is the perfect type of kimono for first time wearers. It does not adhere to too many strict rules, it is more manageable to wear and of course it is more inexpensive than the traditional Japanese kimono. In Japan it is easy to spot a cotton yukata. Nearly every store sells one, souvenir shops, specialty stores, costume stores and the like. If you are too far from Japan and cannot find a cotton yukata in nearby shops there are always online stores that sell a range of summer kimono robes. Men, women and children can wear a yukata. Just take note of the proper color and pattern that is appropriate to the age of the cotton yukata wearer. Young ones, meaning the kids can wear the brightest colors and the boldest prints. Young adults are allowed to have vibrant hues and a variety of patterns that can range from symbols, wrestlers, koi, cherry blossoms, leaves etc. While the more mature yukata robe wearer has more limited options the color palette chosen should be more subdued and rather dark and the prints revolve around geometric patterns. The cotton yukata is a fun and easy garment to wear. It is no frills and is best during hot summer days. Also an ideal option for travelers as the light weight fabric takes up very little room in your luggage. The yukata is one of the most iconic garments that have managed to infiltrate western shores.

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To add an instant touch of the orient to your wardrobe why not try a yukata dress. When Chinese traders stepped onto the shores of Japan they not only brought with them precious spices, fabrics and ornaments because it was not long after that the Japanese fell in love with the garment now known world wide as the kimono. Known as a traditional Japanese garment, the kimono is a robe often made of silk. It was worn by both men and women as well as children. Nowadays mostly women and children and a handful of men can be seen wearing a kimono. Compared to the hundreds of years ago, the kimono is no longer worn on a daily basis and is commonly reserved for festivities, ceremonies and special events. Yukata is a type of Japanese kimono which is made of cotton and not silk or satin like the traditional version. The yukata is referred to as the summer kimono. Worn during the summer months for its light weight, breathable fabric. Perfect for enjoying fireworks displays, festivals and gatherings. A casual version which is inexpensive and favored by the locals and foreign tourists.

It did not take long for the western world to appreciate the beauty of a kimono. Not long after fashion inspirations where derived from the simplistic style and cut of a yukata. The creation or rather rebirth into a modern everyday wear spawned the yukata dress. Following the same T shaped pattern and clean straight seamed design, the yukata dress immediately become popular upon its introduction into the market. The stylish and fashion conscious were eager to include the unique and trendy garment into their wardrobes. Like many clothes that are deemed beyond the norms of classic apparel, the yukata dress was thought of to remain a trend. One that would come and eventually be replaced by a newer style. Years past a trend’s expiration date and the yukata dress still remains as a good part of fashion. By now many would already deem the yukata or kimono dress a “classic” piece to own. There is nothing to hate about a yukata dress, its simple design, luxurious feel and sexy appeal is a hit to both women and men who cannot stop ogling. The yukata dress has undergone a few alterations over the years but the core design still remains. A major reason noted behind the success of the dress falls on the fact that it is impossible for the simple design not to flatter the wearer regardless of age, shape or size. Therein lies the beauty of a yukata dress, simplistic and yet elegant which can easily take you from day to night.

Major retailers, brand names and fashion houses each have their own version of a yukata dress. The variety allows women everywhere to choose a style that fits their tastes and their budget. Compared to the yukata robe, the dress does not have to follow any rules, does not require the use of traditional accessories an can be worn to suit personal preferences. Once a trend now recognized as a fashion staple, wear it long or short, fancy or casual the yukata dress is loved above all for its multi functionality.

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The male yukata is almost an extinct concept perhaps because the yukata is generally associated to females. Long ago when the kimono was created, it was worn by men, women and even children. Over the years eventually fewer men wore the kimono, those who did often reserved the garment for formal gatherings, special occasions and festivals. Yukata is not an interchangeable word for the kimono. As in fact the yukata is referred to as a type of kimono worn during the warmer summer months. Very little can be said about the difference of a male yukata from the female yukata robe. The pattern, shape and structure is still the same. Unlike a traditional kimono a yukata does not adhere to the same rules. The yukata has simpler rules which are easier to follow. It is perhaps because of this, that many Japanese locals as well as foreign tourists choose to wear a yukata.

Male yukata robes or a yukata in general is made of cotton. 100% lightweight cotton is the best choice however it is not limited to this fabric alone. There are yukata robes made of linen and polyester blends. A Japanese male yukata and female summer kimono is by no means made of shiny fabrics such as silk or satin. These slinkier and luxurious materials are commonly found in traditional or formal kimonos rather than in a yukata.

Print patterns and colors vary. The right style to wear can be decided on the age of the wearer. This is a rule which commonly applies to kimono wearing. Bright colors and bold prints are for the young while the more mature make yukata wearer should pick darker color fabrics and serious pattern prints like geometric shapes or symbols and scenery.

The male yukata does not involve too many additional accessories like that of the females. Though it is understood that many of the accessories for the female summer kimono are optional. Wooden slippers known as the geta are worn by both genders. In costume settings some male yukata outfits include a bamboo fan or even a samurai sword as props.

While women who wear a yukata need to tie their obi in place with the excess in a neat bow at the back the male yukata follows a different obi tying method. For better and clearer idea of how it is done, it is best to find videos and step by step picture guides to achieve a well made male yukata obi. The female and male yukata can be worn at home or in hot springs or Japanese inns as an after bath garment. When worn outside the yukata can often be seen in many summer festivities as its light weight material is perfect for warm weather.

A simple male yukata can go for as little as $50 and reach up to thousands. Boutiques and specialty stores carry a wide range of summer kimonos. If a male yukata robe is made using traditional weaving methods or dyeing techniques expect to pay a premium for it. The more inexpensive variety is mass produced thus making it more affordable. Those who are interested in wearing kimono robes would find it best to begin with wearing a yukata which is perfect for practicing in.

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The biggest faux pa a person wearing a summer kimono can make is wearing the wrong yukata fabric. The wrong fabric you say? Yes there is such a thing as the wrong yukata fabric and a right one. The yukata is a traditional Japanese clothing a summer version of the kimono. Considered as more casual, the yukata is known as a summer kimono. Although the kimono has gone from everyday clothing to now the occasional ceremonial or festival garment, the yukata version is by far the most popular especially amongst tourists who will often think that the yukata is simply another word for the kimono. The reason why the yukata is the most popular amongst the Japanese and many foreign tourists is mainly due to the fact that unlike the traditional kimono it is more inexpensive and requires fewer accessories and fewer rules to follow. Those interested in wearing a kimono will find that a yukata is a good place to start. You can think of it as training wheels.

Shaped like a T with wide sleeves and a hemline that falls around the ankles, the kimono and its versions follow these same pattern guidelines. There is however big difference when it comes to the yukata fabric and the fabric of a traditional kimono robe. The latter being a more formal choice is often made of fabrics that are luxurious, expensive and can be thick and heavy. Whereas the summer kimono or yukata fabric is more casual. In most cases in can be seen in bath houses, hot springs, Japanese inns and homes and is used as an after bath garment or a bathrobe. Therefore the use of light weight cotton makes for easier washing and is also better in absorbing moisture than silk or satin fabrics in a traditional kimono. It is also inexpensive hence it is a favorite by the aforementioned establishments. When worn as outerwear the common yukata fabric choices can range from again cotton, polyester blends, linen and synthetic fibers that are similarly light weight, affordable and absorbent.

Shiny fabric is considered as interpretations but should not be thought of as a Japanese yukata. In terms of yukata fabric patterns there are a variety available in the market today. Various hues and prints that range from flowers, nature, symbols, wrestlers, seneries and geometric shapes are the common options. The pattern and color is worn depending on the age. The more serious and more somber and darker the yukata fabric the wearer if of an older age range and the lighter, bolder and brighter the fabric is meant for younger generations. The price range of a yukata fabrics reliyon the quality. Those fabrics that have undergone mass production and the use of modern machinery for weaving or dyeing will often yield to a more affordable price tag. Whereas a fabric that has undergone more traditional weaving methods and dyeing techniques which are usually handmade will result to a more expensive product. Those who wish to make or have their own summer kimono made can find a lengthy list of yukata fabric resources either online or in many specialty stores, sewing supply shops and fabric outlets. No matter what price range you choose for your yukata fabric just keep in mind that for the finished product you get what you paid for,

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Looking for places to buy yukata robes? There are many resources for those wishing to buy yukata kimono robes. To start off it is necessary to understand what a yukata is. Often times people mistake the yukata as an interchangeable word for the kimono. The yukata for the record is a type of kimono often worn during the summer months in Japan. When kimonos where first introduced in Japan they were mainly made of silk thanks to the influence of the Chinese where the kimono robe originated from. Silk fabrics are soft, smooth and luxurious however they are better worn during the cooler months and eventually the Japanese realized that they needed a kimono that could be worn during the warmer weather and its related festivities. Here are a some pointers to remember when you buy yukata robes.

Pay attention to the fabric used. Any material that clings too much to the skin or is too thick is more of a traditional kimono that a yukata. Keep in mind that when you buy yukata it has to be preferably made of 100% light weight cotton. Polyester blend, linen and some synthetic fibers are also used. To buy yukata kimono in satin or silk means that you have come across a non Japanese yukata and most likely some copy or costume made by westerners. Basically stay away from shiny satiny like yukatas. Next when you buy yukata garments pay attention to the structure and the shape. It should be constructed in a T shaped pattern with clean straight seams. Find the right size, this is an essential part of the proper wearing of a kimono. The correct size is dependent on the length of the hemline. There are three typical sizing options based on a woman’s height, Petite 4′9″~ 5’3”, Regular 5’ ~ 5’6”, Tall 5’5” ~ 5’9”. Try to get the size closest to your height. Any excess can be hidden strategically under the obi. This excess folded yukata fabric length is called the Ohashori. It would be best not to buy yukata kimono that is too long as the overall look should be neat and any unnecessary bulk is frowned upon. If you want to make your ensemble look more authentic ask around for the accompanying accessories.

Kids can wear really bright colors and bold prints. Young adults often use nature inspired designs and some modern prints. The older generation have more reserved choices. When the old buy yukata robes the choices are often of more somber shades like dark blues or greens and patterns are of geometric shapes. In general when you buy yukata outfit it can be a relatively expensive experience. The bulk of ceremonial kimono robe can easily go up to $20,000. Though the yukata is considered a relatively reasonably priced garment, the average single yukata can cost from between $70 – $800. It does not mean that expensive yukata robes are immediately of better quality, many affordable robes are well made but if you wish to have traditionally made kimonos using ancient weaving and dyeing techniques then be prepared to pay the premium price.

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There are proper ways and rules to follow on how to wear a yukata robe. Yukata is a summer version of the traditional kimono that everyone has come to know. Kimonos date back to a Chinese dynasty, unlike popular belief the kimono has not originated from the Japanese. However it was eventually a garment adapted to their culture. In order to understand how to wear a yukata properly one must first know what a yukata is and how to differentiate it from a customary kimono. The yukata as aforementioned a summer kimono. There are many types or versions of the kimono depending on the season, event, wearer or occasion it is to be worn at. Traditionally a kimono is a silk robe worn by men, women and children.

The color and pattern to be chosen is dependent on the age and gender of the wearer. It follows that as a person ages the darker the hue of the fabric and the less fancy and more serious the pattern or print. Simply put kids are allowed to wear the brightest and boldest colors and pattern designs. Young men and women wear vibrant colors with prints that often include nature like flowers, leaves etc. Older generation of yukata wearers know how to wear a yukata that suits them. This is by incorporating geometric prints and patterns with a dark hued fabric. Somber colors and a more serious palette is preferable.

Those who seriously know how to wear a yukata or kimono are aware of the proper undergarments to use. Often times, plain or solid colors that are streamlined to reduce any bulkiness or unsightly bumps or creases and bulges in the fabric. In the olden times a traditional kimono maker would also produce an underwear set to go with the robe. Sometimes knowing exactly how to wear a yukata properly can be costly. Attention to detail is important and customization produces a cleaner more satisfactory outcome.

Part of properly knowing how to wear a yukata involves correct overlapping method. Generally speaking there is one simple rule to follow. When closing a kimono or a yukata the left panel overlaps the right never in reverse. Doing so, meaning having the right side over the left is a method reserved dressing the dead for a funeral. Tying an obi in place is another essential aspect for those who wish to learn how to wear a yukata. An obi is the Japanese kimono belt, it is often wide and comes in a solid color. The obi keeps the kimono securely in place around the waist of the wearer. Any excess material from the obi should be tied to the back in a neat bow, tying it otherwise in front implies the wearer to be a prostitute. The only other time a yukata can be tied casually is when it is worn as a bathrobe. Geta wooden slippers that can be found in many specialty stores, souvenir shops or online costume suppliers complete the look. Sometimes additional accessories are added again depending on the personal preference. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to learn how to wear a yukata the right way, all it takes is a few minutes and the person is good to go.

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Some people think that the yukata robe is just another word for the kimono. This is half true and half false. The kimono is a traditional robe first introduced by the Chinese and then later on adapted by the Japanese. Kimono is a general term used to refer to the Japanese robe. Ki meaning thing and mono meaning to wear, so basically the kimono translated to English simply means thing to wear. The yukata robe on the other hand is a type of kimono. Often worn during summer months the yukata robe is referred to as a summer kimono.

Structure

Like the traditional kimono, the yukata robe follows a simple straight seemed pattern. Laid down flat, it is noticeably structured in the shape of a T. Wide sleeves that vary in length, either elbow length or wrist length and in some occasions even long enough to reach past the knees. The yukata robe since it is a kimono style also has a front opening and closure which is held securely in place by a sash know an an obi. The obi is typically wide and is tied around the waist any excess is knotted neatly into a bow in the back, wearing a front bow often implicated the wearer to be a prostitute. When worn as a bathrobe the yukata can be simply tied with a sash without having to adhere to the aforementioned rule.

Fabric

While the traditional kimono is typically silk, it can also come in other fabrics. Some of the fabric choices includes: satin, nylon, rayon, cotton and a range of synthetic fibers. The yukata robe on the other hand is made of cotton and is unlined. The reason behind this is that cotton provides better air circulation, it is also more absorbent and easier to care for therefore making it a perfect choice for summer months. Imagine sitting in a crowded festival area waiting for fireworks or just enjoying a show during the summer season, imagine sweating. You get the picture right?

Pattern

There are general pattern rules to follow when wearing a kimono or a yukata robe. It has been followed that children are delegated to wearing bold prints and brighter colors. Flower patterns like the sakura or cherry blossom along with vibrant hues are often seen in young girls while the more mature woman can be seen wearing darker colors and with their yukata robe filled with geometric shapes. Not too many males where kimonos but basically in terms of color the same rules apply.

Where is it worn

A yukata robe is the official summer kimono thus it follows that it is worn is most summer festivals especially in Japan. Hot spring resorts, Japanese inns, bath houses are also some of the places to wear a yukata robe. Aside from being worn as outerwear, the yukata robe is used as an after bath garment or cover up just like you would with a standard bathrobe.

Footwear and accessories

Wooden sanals called the geta is worn to complete the ensemble. To date there are many modern variations of the geta, these variations are often popular amongst the younger yukata wearers. Bamboo fans, umbrellas and small pouch like bags are some of the additional items that women wear with their summer kimono.

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In Japan it is common to see people wearing a Japanese yukata. Often mistaken for having come from Japanese origin, the kimono originated from China. These robes were typically worn as a symbol of societal class. It has been said that one can easily tell if the wearer of the kimono came from a well to do family because during that time they were the only ones who could afford to have well fitting kimono robes that adhered to the set standards. There are many types of kimonos this is especially true for the Japanese.

The Japanese yukata is a casual type of kimono typically worn during the summer. Just like any kimono, it is patterned in the shape of a T with straight seams. Wide sleeves and a an obi is wrapped around the waist with the excess tied in a bow at the back, this is used to keep the Japanese yukata firmly in place. To have a bow tied in the front of a yukata often meant that the wearer was prostitute. When privately worn, as is the case of after baths, the Japanese yukata may be simply belted like you would your bathrobe or coat. The footwear accompaniment of choice for a Japanese yukata is called a geta which are elevated wooden sandals.

The word yukata means bath or bathing, thus it is often used as an after bath wear similar to the bathrobe in many traditional Japanese inns and hot spring resorts,but not limited to. Festival, fireworks displays and various summer events are the common places to find Japanese yukata wearers. Unlike a formal kimono which uses silk the Japanese yukata is made mostly of cotton and various synthetic fabrics and are unlined. Standard Japanese yukata robes were typically made of indigo dyed cotton fabrics, thanks to rapidly changing style and preferences, there are now a wide variety of designs and colors to choose from.

Similarly to the kimono the Japanese yukata follows a general rule wherein the younger the person wearing it m the brighter the colors and the bolder the patterns compared to more mature wearers. Children can be seen sporting multi colored prints, young women vibrant floral prints while an older woman would restrict herself to more traditional dark hues like blues, blacks, silvers etc. and would come in geometric patterns. Furthermore it is to be observed that the left side of a Japanese yukata robe overlaps or wraps over the right side unless of course in the case of a dressing a body for a funeral where overlapping is reversed. Yukatas can easily be found in many Japanese specialty stores, costume shops, lounge wear sections and souvenir shops as well as in many online boutiques.

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The most iconic garment related to the Japanese culture is the Japanese kimono robe. Amusingly this article of clothing is said to be of Chinese origin dating back to the Qing Dynasty. Many still dispute this and consider the kimono as something that is uniquely Japanese. Regardless of its roots, undoubtedly the most popular form is that of the Japanese kimono robe. While both robes from each country bare striking similarities it is noticeable how much more this clothing is embedded in the Japanese culture.

The word kimono literally means “thing to wear” as “ki’ means wear while “mono” means thing. A Japanese kimono robe is a traditional garment worn by men, women and children. When laid flat a kimono can be seen shaped like a T. The traditional Japanese kimono robe is straight lined, worn with the hem falling at the ankles, they come with attached collars and long wide sleeves. Whether it is a Chinese or Japanese kimono robe, it should always be wrapped with the left overlapping the right unless when dressing the deal for a burial. An obi or sash secures the kimono and is anchored at the back, the Japanese version of the sash is thicker and is not as stylized as the Chinese ones which include tassels and other adornments.. Traditional footwear combinations such as tabi or split toe socks paired with a geta or zōri slippers/sandals.

Unlike the olden times, the Japanese kimono robe today is worn mostly by women than men. This is especially true during special occasions or festivities. When it comes to the Japanese kimono robe, one can find a variety of styles depending on the occasion and the wearer. For instance there’s the Japanese kimono robe for that are for single unmarried women which is the furisode easily distinguished by it’s near floor length sleeves. Kimonos and the obi are commonly made with silk, silk crepes, satin weaves and silk brocade but not limited to. Many modern Japanese kimono robes are made from easy to care fabrics and are less expensive, fabrics such as polyester, various synthetic fibers, rayon and of course cotton. Silk is still the ideal fabric of choice however many opt for cotton kimonos during warmer months like summer. The typical standard kimono for women can easily exceed $10,000 especially if it were to be made with good quality materials. Part of well made kimono outfit surprisingly not only includes the obi, ties, socks, sandals and accessories it should as well include undergarments to match and give the kimono a perfect fit. There are of course other options other than making a purchase from renowned kimono makers, many enterprising individuals choose to make their own using patterns they find online or are available in many dress hobby or craft shops.

To date very few men still wear the kimono, typically they would now only wear it during weddings, tea ceremonies, and some very formal occasions. Sumo wrestlers however are an exception as they are required to wear a traditional male kimono robe whenever they are to appear in public. The traditional Japanese kimono robe as well as the method for making it is truly a form of art that should continue on for years to come.

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The term yukata is usually used in conjunctions with a kimono a Yukata kimono as a Japanese piece of clothing that is most commonly made from cotton and meant to be worn in the summer months. If you have every attended a Japanese festival you will defiantly see a yukata being worn.

The translation for Yukata means bathing clothes and will often be worn after baths or showers. In the western world you will probably here someone talk about a kimono robe, this is often what they are referring to. Although it is often worn after bathing you this is not the limit to the garments ability as mentioned before they will wear them outside to summer event, fireworks and other occasions.

The formal traditional Japanese kimono is made from silk however a Yakata kimono is made from synthetic fabric or cotton and has the traditional wide sleeve garment look. You can find a yukata in all sort of shapes and sizes however when they were first designed traditionally the sizes were limited and the colour was always indigo.

There is an unwritten rule when it comes to wearing a yukata kimono which implies that younger men and women should wear bright and colourful colours. Converse to this the older men and women usually ware darker more bland colours. 15 years ago the yukata was not being worn as much as it used to be however since this time it popularity has been increasing again and now the yukata kimono is back.

Whatever the occasion you are looking for a kimono yukata you can be sure they will be comfortable, well made and satisfaction is assured. I myself own two however only use them before bed. I have never regretted my decision to buy one and I’m sure that you will not either.

How to dress Yukata

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