What is the difference between a Kimono and a Yukata in traditional Japanese clothing?
A Kimono is a more formal garment that has a back opening, neck and sleeves to make it durable in bad weather. It makes use of the latest in weaving techniques at the time and showcases elaborate embroidery on front panels. The most common color for kimonos is deep indigo but they come in other colors as well depending on type (shotai-kimono).
Kensa – A Kimono jacket with an inside lining of cotton or silk that looks like a robe worn over clothes. This kind can be found at “Oshinjin” shops specializing in Japanese clothing)
Tabi – An accessory for wearing! Originating from China, you wear them when you need your shoes taken off in a Japanese house or when you need to wear something between your socks and long skirt.
Komon – A kind of kimono that was worn by commoners and merchants. It is not as long as a formal Kimono and does not have elaborate embroidery on the front panels. Common to see many people wearing these at festivals because it is cheaper than a formal kimono, making them popular with kids too.
Yukata – A cotton garment that cuts open along the center of the back and has a string tied around it. It is very similar to an average ‘kimono’ that you wear over your clothes because it does not have any lining inside. A kimono one can find at “Bunkyoudou” shops which specializes in Japanese clothing)
