Kimono and yukata are iconic attire in Japanese culture, but many people may be at a loss for words when asked about the difference between the two. While there are surprisingly many opportunities to wear traditional Japanese clothing, such as at fireworks displays and weddings, there are probably also situations where you might be unsure of how to use them. In this article, we will explain the differences between kimono and yukata from multiple perspectives, including how they are worn, the materials they are made of, and their uses.

What is the difference between a kimono and a yukata?

Before we discuss the differences between kimono and yukata, let's remember that yukata is a type of kimono. This time, we will look at the characteristics and differences between the two from six perspectives (purpose, fabric and materials, tailoring, dressing, obi, and footwear).

Differences in use

To sum up the difference in their uses in a nutshell, yukata is not used as formal attire and is not suitable for formal occasions. If you remember this, you will have less trouble deciding when to use them.

·kimono

Kimono are suitable for both casual and formal occasions. However, there are several types of kimono, such as tomesode (formal kimono), houmongi (formal kimono), and furisode (long-sleeved kimono), depending on the appropriate occasion. When going out in a kimono, be sure to choose the appropriate type.

·yukata

Yukata is everyday wear that was created for relaxing and enjoying the cool evening air in daily life. Therefore, it can be worn anywhere casual clothing is acceptable, such as at summer festivals and fireworks displays.

Differences in fabrics and materials

Kimono and yukata are made from many common fabric materials such as cotton, linen, and polyester, but they each have their own unique style.

·kimono

The most common fabrics used for kimonos are silk and wool. Compared to yukata, which emphasize coolness, durability and beautiful appearance tend to be prioritized.

·yukata

Cotton has long been the main material used for yukata. However, cotton and linen blends are also popular, as they are more convenient. This is perhaps a unique feature of everyday clothing, which requires practicality.

Differences in tailoring

The method of tailoring using only the outer fabric and no lining is called "unit tailoring," and this is common to both kimonos and yukatas. The main difference between the two is the way the "collar" is made.

·kimono

The most common styles of kimono tailoring are the most orthodox "lined" style and "wide collars" that allow you to adjust the collar width to your preference. When "unit tailoring" is used for summer kimonos, which is common to yukata, a "shikidate" (insertion) may be added to reduce the transparency of the lower body.

·yukata

The most common types of collars are the "bo-eri" (stick collar), often used by children and men, and the "bat-eri" (bachi-eri), which can be seen on casual kimonos. The "bo-eri" (stick collar) is a style of tailoring characterized by a uniform collar width from the center of the back to the collar tip. On the other hand, the "bat-eri" (bachi-eri) naturally widens as it moves from the shoulders to the collar tip.

Differences in dressing

The difference between putting on a kimono and a yukata is the number of steps required. You could say that a kimono is complicated, while a yukata is simple.

·kimono

Putting on a kimono requires careful steps, starting with the under-kimono, followed by the susodeke, nagajuban, and finally the kimono. The number of strings is relatively large, but they are properly adjusted, resulting in a beautiful final silhouette. Also, since nagajuban has the effect of preventing stains, it is important to always wear it even when wearing a summer kimono.

·yukata

One of the great things about yukata is how easy it is to put on. There are only a few steps, and any adjustments can be made by simply wrapping a sweat towel around the yukata. Although not originally necessary, it is now common to wear a "hadajuban" (undershirt) and a "susoyoke" (shoulder guard) as undergarments.

Differences in obi

When it comes to obi, both kimono and yukata can be coordinated in a wide variety of ways, but there are some differences in the width, materials, and items used. There are gender differences when it comes to how to tie the obi, with women being given preference for playfulness and expressing individuality. Furthermore, even for the same woman, this tendency is more pronounced with yukata than with kimono.

·kimono

Kimono obi belts are wide, and for men, both kimono and yukata use a belt called a "kaku obi." On the other hand, women have a wide range of accessories for the obi, such as "obi pillow," "obijime," and "obiage." By combining these items well, you can create a gorgeous look.

·yukata

Compared to kimonos, yukata obi belts are shorter. However, unlike yukata, there is no need to use accessories around the obi, which means there are many different ways to tie it. There are also many different materials used for obi, so women, in particular, can enjoy a wide range of coordination.

Differences in footwear

While there is no gender difference in footwear when wearing a yukata, there is a difference when wearing a kimono. There is a saying that fashion starts from the feet, but in order to avoid ruining your precious Japanese attire, it is important to check the rules for each.

·kimono

When wearing a kimono, women usually wear zori sandals, and men usually wear geta or setta sandals. As the times change, more and more fashionable sandals are appearing.

·yukata

Geta are the footwear worn with yukata for both men and women. They have a rather sophisticated image, but they come in a variety of names depending on their use and shape, so be sure to find a pair that you like.

summary

When you hear the word "Japanese clothing," you might think it's intimidating, but in recent years, it's not uncommon for people to enjoy casual kimonos and yukatas as everyday wear and as fashion. Even though they may look the same, there are many variations. Why not take this opportunity to give it a try?

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This article was originally published in Nihongo Biyori and has been partially re-edited by KARUTA.