Antique Wedding Kimonos Uchikake

Antique Wedding Kimonos Uchikake 打ち掛け

As in the West, white is the color of brides in Japan, and symbolizes purity and the start of a new life. But while the white wedding kimono is a prized family heirloom, one of the most spectacular items in a bride's wedding outfit is the over garment, or uchikake in Japanese. These bright red or white silk kimonos feature elaborate designs, in gold, silver, and other colors, of auspicious symbols for the bride's future: cranes, turtles, pine trees, plum blossoms and bamboo. The symbols represent long life, endurance and happiness - all necessary for a long and successful union. Antique Wedding Kimonos Uchikake

History

Uchikake date to the Edo Period (1603-1868), when they were worn by high ranked women at court. As their color and style indicated social rank, uchikake came to be seen as a status symbol. Over time, ordinary people adopted uchikake as the costume of weddings. That is, one of most important events in a woman's life, and a chance for her family to show off its wealth and taste. Uchikake silk is made through various special weaving techniques to create raised figures such as birds and flowers.

Where to Buy Uchikake Kimono

Kyoto's famous Nishijin textile area has been making uchikake fabrics since the 16th century, and is still a main source of these textiles. Nishijin is in the west of Kyoto close to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and Senbon Dori. To get there ride a #203 Kyoto bus west along Imadegawa Dori towards Kitano-Hakubaicho Station.