From 'Kyoto Kimono Stories' by Hiromi Ichida
Reprinted from 'Kyoto Kimono Stories' by Hiromi Ichida, illustrated by Kazuo Hozumi (published by Sousha).

How I Fell for Kimono

I'm sometimes asked, "Why do you wear kimono?" When that happens, I make it a habit to ask back, "Why don't you wear kimono?" The question itself serves as the answer.

I love kimono and wear them whenever I have an occasion. I always try to wear them in a way that suits me.

My journey into kimono began a few years ago when I was commissioned to illustrate a serialized historical novel in the newspaper. I realized I couldn't possibly depict kimonos accurately without wearing one myself.

I believe this approach was incredibly effective and useful for capturing the realistic gestures and movements of the characters. And so, I've been a devoted kimono wearer ever since.

The Plight of the Novice

My first kimono was an Oshima tsumugi 'oi' (a matching set of haori jacket and kimono) that my wife had ordered when she was having her own kimono made. The fabric shop recommended it to me at the time.

Despite owning it, I had never actually worn it. However, I had a complete set of accessories: juban (under-kimono), obi (sash), tabi (socks), setta (sandals), and so on. It seems I had always intended to wear a kimono someday. This was finally the impetus I needed.

However, the first time I wore it to a dinner party, a friend knowledgeable about kimonos criticized it severely. 'This isn't the kind of kimono for this kind of occasion,' he said. 'Your obi and haori himo (cord) don't match the kimono at all.'

As a beginner, my wearing technique was also quite clumsy. While walking, my obi would loosen and slip down. I'd have to hastily retreat to a secluded spot to readjust it – a truly embarrassing experience.

When to Wear Kimono

This led me to seek out and thoroughly study a 'beginner's guide' to men's kimono. It was then that I began to grasp, albeit vaguely, what kimono entails and how to wear specific types for particular occasions.

Of course, I don't wear them every single day. When I'm at home, I wear jeans and a sweater. So, when do I wear kimono? In other words, if I decide to wear one, I need a suitable place to go.

For me, it's for 'special outings' like parties and class reunions. I always wear kimono for events such as kobuta (short song) practice sessions, theater outings, and traditional Japanese dinners. If I don't wear them on these occasions, there's no opportunity. Kimono feel appropriate and enhance the mood for events like tea ceremonies and traditional music performances.

When you decide to wear a kimono, it's essential to consider where you'll be wearing it.