A lot of the time, when people project an image of Japan in their mind, one of the things that they may think of are traditional Japanese wear, namely kimonos. Japanese kimonos and yukatas have long been a symbol of Japan and of cultural importance. Some people are unaware that kimonos and yukatas are different, and sometimes can provide different functions as well. Although there are differences between kimonos and yukatas, one thing is true about both. There is something incredibly beautiful about kimonos and yukatas, and the often intricate designs and detailing stitched into them. 

Selfie in Kimonos

The main differences between kimonos and yukatas can be broken down into a few different categories including the material, the occasion/season it's worn for, and the overall design. For those didn't know there was a difference between kimonos and yukatas, don't worry! It's a common mistake people make, and they definitely are similar in look. 

History

Kimonos, literally translated to "something to wear", have evolved and changed throughout history to become what they are known as today. Kimonos were worn by both men and women and it simply referred to as something that you put on, and literally translates to that.

Around the Kamakura and Muromachi period, kimonos began to evolve to be more colorful. As with many fashion styles throughout history, certain styles and designs began to represent different social classes as well as occupation. Layering colors became part of the fashion, and a way to express socioeconomic status as well as being for fashion. During the Edo Period, there were various laws and regulations that were put in place against extravagance, that affected the way people wore kimonos. Red was a color that became banned, although some people would still sneak it to their attire. Since this period, kimonos are more often used for special occasions or certain holidays than everyday wear, and are not commonly seen in day to day life in Japan.

So enough with the history lesson;) Let's get to what this post is really about. How do we spot the differences? Knowing the differences may just impress people when you travel to Japan!

Differences

Occupation and season play a role in which is worn. Although kimonos can usually be worn year-round for many occasions, yukatas tend to be more of a seasonal and occasional thing. You're far less likely to see a yukata in the colder months than a kimono. And although kimonos can be worn year-round, it is less common to see them during summer as it gets extremely hot.

Occupation sometimes determines when the garments are worn. Maikos and geishas are known to wear kimonos daily. If you ever attend a maiko dinner show, you're sure to see them in kimonos. People participating in festival rituals and traditions may be required to wear some sort of yukata or kimono. Performers may also wear kimonos as part of their dress, especially in such theatrical performances such as traditional Japanese kabuki.

With many traditional events and ceremonnies, such as tea ceremonies, it is usually customary to put on a kimono as well.Japanese Theatre

However, throughout the general public, kimonos and yukatas are not worn in day to day life or with such frequency. Instead, they may be worn during special occasions such as festivals and holidays. One such occasion is the Seijin no hi, a celebration of the transition to adulthood when people turn 20 years old. Many people will dress up in kimonos and take commemorative photos.

Seijin no hi

Yukatas, in particular, are worn for festivals as well. Not only are yukatas lighter than kimonos, but they are a bit easier to put on. During summer and spring festivals, it is especially hot and festive, and the traditional and lighter garments are more pleasant to wear. As kimonos are a thicker material than yukatas, and involve more layers, kimonos are more often worn by people throughout the colder months, and yukatas are preferred through the summer. The yukatas are a bit cooler than kimonos which is a must during Japan's hot and humid summers. There are also yukatas that are found at ryokans and onsens that function more like robes, and also look different in style to the more traditional kind of yukata.

There are also more subtle differences between the two than just when it's worn. Often times the fabrics between the two will differ. The cost tends to differ a great deal, with kimonos being the more expensive one. Sometimes the stitching and patterns will also be different, with more fine details being done on kimonos. The length and cut, including the sleeve, will also vary. Kimonos have very long sleeves while yukata sleeves are much shorter in length. Yukatas are designed to keep you cool, so many aspects of it will be tailored for that.

The history and tradition behind kimonos and yukatas goes much further than what is discussed here. They continue to be an important part of traditional Japanese culture, and are still prevalent in modern culture today. The beautiful designs of the kimonos and yutakas truly represent the hard work it takes to make the garments and put them on!

Yukata

Try on your own kimono and experience Japanese culture here.