Kimono = Yukata?
- Gerald "Mutu"Froehlich
- Jul 29, 2016
- 2 min read
The Japanese Casual Kimono, Bathrobe and Pajama.
Comparing a Yukata to a Kimono is like comparing Sneakers to Shoes.
Every Sneaker is a Shoe, but not every shoe a sneaker.
The same is True for Yukata and Kimono, one is a subcategory of the other.
Yukata are the japanese Bathrobe, something you wear after you get out of the Bathtub, and then onto even as a Pajama in Bed.
So wearing Yukata on the Streets in normal everyday Live is fine, just don't do it from the morning on, or else it might look like you overslept and are just waking up. At least in Japan that is.
Yukata is the first Choice for Firework Festivals in Japan for many People in Summer.
It feels very nice, is light and easier to move around in, that most western clothing or a full traditional Kimono.
What's the Difference between a standard Kimono and a Yukata?
The standard Kimono is made from Silk, Wool and other more heavy Fibres, while the Yukata is mostly made of Linen and Hemp. So naturally Kimonos are usually more expensive, from a few 100 Dollars to far above 10000, the Sky's the Limit, depending on Artist , Materials and the Amount of Handmade Work.
Yukata on the other hand can start from below 50 Dollars, these are usually mass produced printed Versions, handmade ones are more expensive of course.
The total amount of Material used is far higher for a Kimono, also because a Yukata only has a simple Half-Obi, a Belt of only 15 cm width.
Therefore the Yukata is more common in Summer or indoors as Bathrobe and Pajama, many Hotels in Japan will supply Customers with one on a daily basis.
Most Visitors to Japan staying at these Hotels use these, without even realizing that they are wearing a traditional Piece of japanese clothing.
As there is also no Lining in a Yukata, contrary to the Kimono, and you just wear your normal underwear below it, it is more of a casual wear. So better don't show up at your japanese Friends wedding in your last Yukata Souvenir from Japan.
So all in all, i prefer the Yukata to the Kimono, you don't need help fitting, can just use it or casual piece of clothing or as a Bathrobe, it's just perfect for Summer or relaxing. Of Course for the more official Occasion nothing beats the Kimono, but every day life, the Yukata is the way to go in Summer.
Also very nice as a Souvenir or Present, just explain that it is not a formal Kimono.
Gerald "Mutu" Froehlich
Tell me what you like to do wearing a Yukata in Comments below!
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