Expressing Four Seasons in The Japanese Traditional Garment, Kimono
I believe it's no exaggeration to say that introducing the kimono culture is one way to spread Japan's beauty to the world. When we talk about the beauty of the Kimono, we also have to understand the seasonal change.
Japan has four seasons. Sei Shonagon wrote the Pillow Book in 1002 has some unforgettable sentences to express the beauty of the seasons.
In spring it is the dawn that is most beautiful.
Summer is the nights...
In autumn, the evenings...
In winter the early mornings...
The Japanese have been very sensitive to the environment. They found a way to enjoy everyday life by being mindful.
Thus, they also match the kimono colors to the four seasons. In the past, there is a type of Kimono, twelve-layered ceremonial Kimono, which even weight up to 10kg. However, that's how they showed the beautiful gradation through the hem.
However, not all kimonos are as heavy as the twelve-layered one. There are many different types to fit various occasions.
Here, I would like to introduce the gradation of the Kimono that suits each season.
Spring, The Cherry Blossom Layers
Cherry blossom is one of the flowers that symbolize Japan. People love the light pink blossoms blew by the spring breeze, which is reminiscent of impermanence in life. The scene where the petals are scattered has a beauty that represents Japanese women as well. Here, the Kimono, "Sakura no Kasane," meaning the layers of cherry blossom.
Summer, The Wisteria flowers Layers
At the beginning of summer, I can't help but think of the aristocratic purple color. The wisteria flowers are impressive. In the past, only the highest-ranked emperor or aristocrats are allowed to use purple. Purple was designated as the highest rank because the plant (Shikon) used for dyeing fabric is rare and expensive. In the old days, purple symbolized authority and financial power. It's still a mysterious color in modern society. Here, the Kimono, "Fuji no Kasane," meaning the layers of wisteria flower.
Autumn, The Autumn Leaves Layers
Autumn is one of the most popular seasons among the Japanese. The colors of the autumn leaves at the beginning of the season are bright yellow and red. They start to turn dull in late autumn, but both of them are attractive. Therefore, many of them appear in Japanese poems. By incorporating the colors of autumn leaves into the costumes, people gain a sense of unity with nature. Here, the Kimono, "Momiji no Kasane," meaning the layers of autumn leaves.
Winter, The Pine Tree Layers
The age of pine trees is said to be over 1,000 years. The leaves are always green and do not fade. The dark green has vitality and is strong enough to withstand winter regardless of heavy wind or snow. It becomes a symbol of dignified immortality. Here, the Kimono, "Matsu no Kasane," meaning the layers of the pine tree.
Love for the Color and Seasons
In Summary, the Kimono has been loved for centuries and is still worn as formal wear on essential occasions nowadays. There are many variations of Kimonos, but it is the one thing that has never been changed. It's the love for traditional Japanese color and living along with the seasons.
