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The Book of Kimono: The Complete Guide to Style and Wear
This practical and attractive book makes available for the first time the basic knowledge and vocabulary needed to select and put on a kimono and obi.
Whether for women or men, all kimono are cut and sewn essentially from a single pattern, but a number of variations must be considered, depending on the occasion. Guidelines are given to making these choices, and the way to dress in a kimono, from the preliminaries to tieing the bustle sash, is
described in detail and fully illustrated. For women, there are formal kimono, obi and accessories, and the lightweight summer yukata; for men, the yukata and the ceremonial ensemble of kimono, haori coat and hakama skirt. Children's kimono for festive events are also described.
Kimono fashions have evolved over the centuries in response to varied influences. Today modern innovations are making the wearing of kimono at home and elsewhere an attractive alternative to Western garments. These are included here, along with a discussion of aesthetics, the history of the kimono,
and the meaning that kimono culture can have for wearers and admirers throughout the world.
Whether for women or men, all kimono are cut and sewn essentially from a single pattern, but a number of variations must be considered, depending on the occasion. Guidelines are given to making these choices, and the way to dress in a kimono, from the preliminaries to tieing the bustle sash, is
described in detail and fully illustrated. For women, there are formal kimono, obi and accessories, and the lightweight summer yukata; for men, the yukata and the ceremonial ensemble of kimono, haori coat and hakama skirt. Children's kimono for festive events are also described.
Kimono fashions have evolved over the centuries in response to varied influences. Today modern innovations are making the wearing of kimono at home and elsewhere an attractive alternative to Western garments. These are included here, along with a discussion of aesthetics, the history of the kimono,
and the meaning that kimono culture can have for wearers and admirers throughout the world.
144 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1987
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
September 2, 2021
A very good introduction to this disappearing Art Form. Very useful
September 10, 2016
I've seen more comprehensive books on this subject, but they are large and expensive, so this is a good compromise for lighter purses.
The opening chapter is a "brief history" with a thumbnail illustration for each period discussed: not an in-depth survey but enough visuals and description to get the general idea and figure out how styles fit with each other.
The following chapters cover the making of a kimono, the dyeing methods, different types and occasions to wear them, outer ornaments and garments, footwear, accessories... Most of them are illustrated, and though the pictures are small and black and white, again it is a useful survey to start from. The obi has a chapter for itself, and one of the most interesting sections is putting on the kimono and obi, illustrated step by step for both women and men. There are detailed instructoins for several obi knots. The proper way of wearing a kimono is described, as knowing what it's made of is not enough to draw or wear it properly. There are also chapters on how to clean and care for the kimono, and how to move in it.
All in all the book was made to teach people how to wear a kimono properly, which is also exactly what an illustrator needs to know. Not to mention, it is detailed enough to help textile artists make their own.
The opening chapter is a "brief history" with a thumbnail illustration for each period discussed: not an in-depth survey but enough visuals and description to get the general idea and figure out how styles fit with each other.
The following chapters cover the making of a kimono, the dyeing methods, different types and occasions to wear them, outer ornaments and garments, footwear, accessories... Most of them are illustrated, and though the pictures are small and black and white, again it is a useful survey to start from. The obi has a chapter for itself, and one of the most interesting sections is putting on the kimono and obi, illustrated step by step for both women and men. There are detailed instructoins for several obi knots. The proper way of wearing a kimono is described, as knowing what it's made of is not enough to draw or wear it properly. There are also chapters on how to clean and care for the kimono, and how to move in it.
All in all the book was made to teach people how to wear a kimono properly, which is also exactly what an illustrator needs to know. Not to mention, it is detailed enough to help textile artists make their own.
December 24, 2007
This is the book to start with for those interested in kitsuke (the art of donning kimono). It is a reference that I use very frequently. Information of the history, care and modern wearing of kimono. I do wish it was longer. Some information on basic obi ties - a good primer.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews