What is the purpose of an obi?
The main purpose of an obi is to secure a kimono and keep it closed. But nowadays, obis for women’s kimonos are more extravagant and can rival a peacock’s feathers. They are made wider, more decorative , with under-sashes and ribbons, and there are several ways to tie knots.
What is an obi in Japan?
This item is an obi (oh-bee), a large sash used in traditional Japanese clothing for women. The obi functions as the tie used to keep traditional Japanese robes, known as kimono (kee-moh-no) secured in place. The obi is wrapped around the woman’s waist over the kimono and is tied in a large knot behind her back.
How do you clean an obi?
If you’re hand washing, use the lightest soap possible and don’t leave it to soak. If your piece is an obi, spot clean whenever possible. Some obi have layers of stiffener built into them, which may shrink if submerged. A single layer obi may be washable, but we’d recommend hand washing over machine.
What is the square thing on the back of a kimono?
The obi, which can be close to four meters long, is usually wrapped around the waist and tied on the back into a big square called a drum knot. There also are fancier ways to tie the obi, particularly for the type of kimono that single women wear.
What is a heko obi?
The heko obi is a kind of men’s obi (sash) used in wearing wafuku (Japanese traditional clothes). There two types as shown below. It is made by drawing chirimen (crepe) of either full-width (about 74 cm) or medium-width (about 50 cm) through hands. It has become popular since the Meiji period.
Is a kimono left over right?
The kimono is a T-shaped, wrapped-front garment with square sleeves and a rectangular body, and is worn left side wrapped over right, unless the wearer is deceased. The kimono is traditionally worn with a broad sash, called an obi, and is commonly worn with accessories such as zōri sandals and tabi socks.
Can you wear Nagoya obi with yukata?
Can I Wear the Same Obi Belt with Both Yukata and Kimono? Yes you can! Hanhaba obi and heko obi are more casual so they are perfect for both daily casual yukata or kimono.
Can I iron kimono?
Ironing your silk kimono should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. If you do choose to iron it, place it on an ironing board with the shiny side faced down. Place a thin piece of white cotton on the reverse of the fabric, and dry iron the kimono at a very low temperature.
Can you steam a kimono?
You can dry iron you kimono at low temperature (140-160 degrees), with a thin, white piece of cloth between the iron and the fabric. Use a thin piece of paper between iron and embroidering, gilts and crests. Do not use steam, as this may stain the kimono.