Long-sleeved kimono
Furisode, a long-sleeved kimono, is generally considered the first formal attire for unmarried women.
The longer the sleeve length, the more formal and sophisticated the look.
The prototype of the modern kimono is said to be the kosode (kimono with small cuffs) from the Muromachi period, and the name furisode was coined in the early Edo period.
At the time, furisode was a kimono worn by children and unmarried women up to the age of 18, and its long sleeves with furi (opening from the sleeve attachment to the underarm) were a symbol of youth.
The meaning of long sleeves remains the same today, but married women also enjoy wearing furisode for parties.
Furisode fabrics are made of silk, crepe, satin, etc., but polyester is also popular these days. Various techniques are used, such as Yuzen dyeing, tie-dyeing, stencil dyeing, and foil placement.
O-furisode, with sleeves 125cm long, is worn as a bridal dress. Sleeves 114cm long are simply called furisode and are popular for brides to change their clothes, come of age ceremonies, and thank-you parties.
The sleeve length of a medium-length furisode is approximately 87cm to 106cm. It is perfect for coming-of-age ceremonies, thank-you parties, wedding receptions, first tea ceremonies of the year, and other parties.
The sleeve length of a small furisode is roughly 76cm or 86cm. It is also worn for small parties and for young girls attending Jusan Mairi.
