Hello, everyone! I'm Alisa, a certified kimono dressing instructor in Japan.
For my inaugural column, let's delve into the distinctions between yukata and kimono.
You might be thinking, "I already know the difference if I've landed on this page!" However, can you explain the appropriate occasions for yukata?
If you've recently developed an interest in yukata and kimono, why not take the opportunity to learn the basic etiquette? Then, you can enjoy expressing your unique fashion sense.
Without further ado, let's start by exploring yukata!
Origin and History of 浴衣 - Yukata
The origin of the yukata dates back to the Heian period(around 794 - 1185/1192) in Japan. During that time, the aristocracy wore a garment known as 湯帷子 "yukatabira" when entering baths, serving as the prototype for the modern yukata. In the Heian era, baths were taken wearing dedicated clothing in a steam bath setting.
*The aristocratic image of the Heian period.
In the later part of the Edo period(1603 - 1868), as public bathhouses became more widespread, yukata gained popularity among the common people. It served as a garment to be worn after bathing, absorbing moisture from the skin. Essentially, it was a kind of bathrobe, allowing individuals to casually step out, perhaps even to nearby places.
The yukata, as we know it today, became widely adopted as casual wear during the Meiji era(1868〜1912).
Occasions to Wear Yukata
As mentioned earlier, yukata originally served as a post-bath casual indoor garment and later transitioned into nightwear following the Westernization of clothing in the Showa era(1926 - 1986). However, in modern times, yukata has become a fashionable item worn during the summer.
Originally used as pajamas, yukata is an exceedingly casual piece of clothing. To draw a comparison with Western attire, it would be akin to a T-shirt and shorts.
Therefore, it is recommended to wear yukata at outdoor summer events or casual dining establishments. In Japan, it is commonly worn during summer festivals, street fairs, and bon dances. On the other hand, it is advisable to avoid wearing it to high-end hotels or restaurants.
However, these guidelines might be less strict if you are wearing yukata outside Japan. Ultimately, yukata is just a form of traditional Japanese fashion, and how you enjoy wearing it is entirely up to you.
Master Yukata dressing!
Unlike kimono, yukata is extremely easy to put on and is an affordable traditional Japanese garment. I encourage everyone to give it a try!
If you're interested in a yukata dressing lesson, feel free to contact me here!
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