Subtle Yukata

This is a VINTAGE Japanese Yukata. Yukata are informal kimono worn to and from the bathhouse and for street festivals. They are essentially the jeans and t-shirt combo of the kimono world. And they are meant to be worn only in the summer. This kimono likely originates in the mid Showa Period (1926 - 1989). This yukata is woven with a fine herringbone pattern that forms the shapes of swastikas. It is important to note that in Japanese culture, the swastika is not a negative symbol as it is in the west. The swastika was originally a Buddhist symbol which signifies drawing power from the four corners of the earth. So to the Japanese, it is a very positive symbol.

 

I have inspected this kimono in detail, and there is minimal damage; only a few faint marks on the interior and exterior. Overall I would rate this kimono as being in excellent vintage condition. There are no tears, holes or seam separations. I believe this garment is 100% cotton.

 

MEASUREMENTS:

146cm - Long (Collar to Hem)

120cm - Arm span

58cm - Width across the back

124cm - Total width of skirt

43cm - Sleeve drop

 

SIZING:

If you are unsure of how to interpret the kimono's size it is important to know that the length (collar - hem) should be approximately 10cm longer to 10cm shorter than the wearer's overall height (longer is better). This is because the excess length will be folded up at the waist. Meanwhile, the skirt should wrap around the hips a full 1.5 times. The armspan should also reach wrist to wrist on the wearer. In this case, the kimono will ideally fit a woman about 136cm (4'6") - 156cm (5'4") tall, with hips about 83cm (32.5") around. There is some give and take in these measurements though.

Done