#yagasuri

[apartment315]

[kyotokimono]

Meaning of Japanese Motifs

We found this fun article from Manga De Japan that covers the meanings behind some of the more common and popular Japanese design motifs.  The descriptions are no doubt simplified from their deeper origins, but the overview is great.  Here’s a sampling:

seigaiha (overlapping waves) - tranquility uchiwa (folding fan) - prosperity shippo (overlapping circles) - good relationship chidori (plover) - acheivement tsuru (crane) - longevity uroko (scales) - ward off evil

The article is in four parts - give them a read through especially if you’ve got a Japanese kimono that includes a traditional motif.  

CLICK HERE  to go to the first article.  Enjoy!

We try to use the traditional Japanese name as well as the English translation in the descriptions of our kimono that feature them, so just search our website for the motif you like and we might have something to offer you.

[tanuki-kimono]

That take on yabane (arrow fletching motif) look so sleek and modern!

I also like how lively Yuko’s pictures are. See below: she’s flashing ankle and juban (so shocking if you follow strict kimono etiquette!) but it shows that kimono are not just pristine magazine outfits and can simply be worn - as they’ve been for hundred of years:

[tsubame-kimonoya]

[apartment315]

[apartment315]

[apartment315]

[apartment315]