The Black Kimono plays an essential role in Japanese society. In modern Japan, people wear it mainly for formal occasions , such as weddings, funerals, and special events. Historically, black dye was difficult to produce and obtain. Therefore, a Black Kimono was quite expensive and reserved for the elite , who only wore it for special occasions.
They often have an even deeper meaning than the kimono of the same style but different color. Let's look at some of the most popular Black Kimonos you can come across in Japan and see if it's appropriate to wear one.
Summary :
Yukata (浴衣)
If you have stayed in a traditional Japanese hotel (ryokan), you have probably worn this kimono as pajamas. Guests also use them at Japanese hot spring resorts. The kanji for "yukata" literally translates to "bathing clothes." The yukata is the most casual style of kimono ; it is inexpensive, easy to put on, and can be worn by both men and women.
A yukata is a summer kimono.
They don’t require an inner lining or undergarments, making them the ideal beach kimono . Black yukata remain officially casual, making them perfect pieces to wear to festivals and other outdoor summer events. If you wear a high-quality black yukata with the traditional Japanese sash (obi), you can even wear it to semi-casual events.
Komon (小紋)
In Japan, people commonly wear black kimonos as everyday clothing , the komon kimono being the most common. The komon kimono is accompanied by a nagajuban, a casual cotton undergarment. There are also komon for men, but they are usually less ornate than the women's version. The name komon means "small crest" and comes from the small patterns printed or woven into the fabric.
The komon features a simple, repeating pattern.
Wearing a black komon kimono in public is perfectly appropriate, as it does not carry any particular symbolism . However, changing perceptions around kimonos can sometimes make them too sophisticated for some casual settings, especially when they are made of high-end materials.
Iromuji (地無地)
The Black Iromuji Kimono is distinguished by the use of a single shade of silk, giving it a clean appearance. It is the least formal kimono, although it may include a family crest, called a kamon. The formality of the kimono is determined by the number of crests present. Typically, the Black Iromuji Kimono only features one crest , making it a preferred option for occasions such as tea ceremonies or graduations.
Iromuji uses only one color.
Black iromuji, known as mofuku (喪服), can feature up to five family crests , symbolizing the highest level of formality for a Black Kimono. However, it should be noted that mofuku are primarily intended for funerals and are best not worn in public.
Kurotomesode (黒留袖)
In Japanese tradition, unmarried women wore formal black kimonos called furisode , recognizable by their long sleeves that fell to the floor. Today, these kimonos are still worn by young women during their coming-of-age ceremony . After marriage, it was customary to shorten the sleeves to transform the garment into a tomesode . If the fabric is colored, the kimono is called an irotomesode , while if it is black, it is called a kurotomesode . This type of kimono is very formal and can be decorated with one to five family crests.
Close relatives of a married couple wear the kurotomesode at the wedding.
While the irotomesode is for any adult woman, married women specifically wear the kurotomesode, regardless of their marital status. At wedding ceremonies, it is mostly the mothers of the bride and groom who wear the Kurotomesode Black Kimono. It is also customary for the woman who introduced the couple to wear the kurotomesode at their wedding.
Montsuki (紋付)
During the Edo period , monsuki silk kimonos became increasingly popular among men. Originally, they served as semi-formal attire for samurai, but they gradually evolved to be worn on social occasions. Due to their formal appearance, these black kimonos feature five family crests.
Montsuki has five family crests.
Men wear the black monsuki on formal occasions such as award or engagement ceremonies , high-level tea ceremonies, funerals, and weddings. Sumo wrestlers also wear this outfit. These Black Kimonos should never be worn casually in public, as they are loaded with meaning.
Hikizuri (引きずり)
In the past, the hikizuri was a symbol of social prestige, mainly worn by wealthy and high-ranking women. Today, this garment is mainly used by geisha during tea ceremonies . Its particularly long hem drags on the ground, adding a touch of elegance and charm to traditional dances.
Many geisha wear hikizuri.
The black hikizuri has no specific symbolism, but it is not a casual kimono intended to be worn in the city. Wearing it indicates that one is a geisha or a maiko (apprentice geisha). That said, it is popular for cosplay, provided you accept the stares, its awkward length, and the maintenance costs!
CONCLUSION: The Black Kimono
In short, the Black Kimono symbolizes elegance thanks to its timeless style and refined sobriety . The sophistication of the black fabric reflects a unique refinement, while the meticulous craftsmanship and traditional patterns illustrate a rich cultural heritage.
Whether it is a ceremonial outfit or a fashion accessory, the Black Kimono naturally stands out and leaves a lasting impression. Its sober elegance and great adaptability make it a timeless emblem, beyond fashions , which seduces with its unique charm. Do you own a black kimono? Share it with us in the comments!
https://kiyomi-kimono.com/blogs/news