Recently, many people have started traveling abroad, and a lot of them are choosing to visit Japan. When in Japan, would you like to try wearing a Japanese yukata or kimono? But where can you buy Japanese yukata and kimono? Which Japanese yukata brands are recommended? Today, I’m here to share 10 sets of exquisite Japanese yukata, including introductions for men, women, and children. We'll also share how to wear Japanese yukata, so you won't be confused about how to put them on anymore.
Yukata? Kimono?
Kimono is a traditional Japanese attire, characterized by its right-over-left collar style, square sleeves, and patterns imbued with distinct Japanese aesthetics. Yukata, as a type of Kimono, compared to kimono, is less formal, often considered a simplified version of the former. It's commonly worn during summer festivals or before and after bathing. However, the two differ significantly in terms of patterns and dressing procedures. Many people might be curious about the differences between Japanese yukata and kimono. In fact, they vary in terms of the season they are worn, fabric choices, and occasions they're worn for. Let's get to know them better right away.
1. Difference in fabric choice
Yukata, mainly worn during the summer, is made from lightweight and breathable fabrics. It's often crafted from materials like cotton, linen, and synthetic fibers, which are more affordable. On the other hand, kimono fabric choices tend to lean towards luxurious textures such as silk or satin. Wearing a kimono would give you a more upright, elegant, and dignified appearance, but it also comes with a higher price tag.
2. Difference in the season of wearing
Generally speaking, yukata is worn during the summer, while kimono, due to its thicker fabric, is more commonly worn during the winter. However, due to advancements in fabric technology, there are now many kimono options that are suitable for summer or can be worn year-round.
3. Difference in the place to wear
Originally, yukata was lightweight clothing worn after taking a bath. In modern times, it has evolved into clothing that Japanese people wear to relaxed occasions such as fireworks festivals and concerts. On the other hand, kimono, in comparison to yukata, is generally considered more formal attire. However, even kimono comes in various types for different occasions.
How to wear Yukata
Japanese yukata are primarily worn for two different occasions. One is the onsen yukata, worn before and after soaking in hot springs. These are often white or dark blue. The other type is the patterned yukata or colorful yukata worn for festivals and fireworks events. The steps to wearing a yukata are not as intricate as those for kimono, but there are still some small details to pay attention to.
Step 1: Take off your outer clothing (wearing only your undergarments) and then put on the yukata, making sure to wear it neatly and properly.
Step 2: Cross the front of the yukata by folding the right side over the left side, following the "right-down-left-up" method. Be sure not to cross it the other way around, as the "left-down-right-up" method is used when dressing the deceased in Japanese culture.
Step 3: Tie the Obi around your waist.
Step 4: Pay attention to keeping the neckline and hem neat. Avoid leaving them open to maintain a proper and dignified appearance.
Step 5: When it's cold, you can add a haori or a tanzen for extra warmth.
Yukata recommendation for women:
1. Elegant White Women's Yukata
2. Dark Floral Japanese Dyed Woven Women's Yukata
3. Vibrant Festival-themed Women's Yukata
4. Striped Floral Women's Yukata
Yukata recommendation for men:
1. Diamond Pattern Men's Yukata
2. Striped Men's Yukata
3. Dark Fireworks Design Men's Cotton-Linen Yukata
Yukata recommendation for children:
1. Children's Yukata with Floral and Lace Details
2. Polka Dot Children's Yukata
3. Children's Kimono-style Yukata
