yUkaTa-SuMmEr cOtTOn KiMoNo

Yukata is the japanese summer cotton kimono.
Learn how to wear a yukata,
yukata robe and types of yukata fabric pattern.

The yukata is a japanese summer kimono worn by both men and
women.The name yukata comes from the word "yu" (bath) and
"katabira" (under clothing ). Thousandsof years ago,
Court Nobles wore linen "yukatabira" which were
draped loosely after taking a bath. It gradually
became worn by japanese warriors and then
by the general public when the sophisticated
japanese public bath became popular. Today,
the traditional japanese yukata is widely used
for everything from festivals, ryokan,
summer daily wear to simple night attire. In Japan,
the yukata is the most popular daily clothing wear
and is beloved for its 100% lightweight cotton fabric.
The fabric designs vary from the traditional
plain cross hatch pattern to more colorful scenery designs.
Like American clothing, there are many matching accessories
that can be purchased separately when buying a yukata.
The yukata comes from the manufacturer with a matching
cotton 2" sash made of the same fabric as the yukata.

For normal daily or night attire, just the cotton sash is used.
For festivals and public occasions a larger wider yukata belt
asshown in the picture is worn for a more formal appearance.
The belt is simply wrapped around the waist and
tucked in at the edge.An obi belt can also be worn
with the cotton yukata. A matching purse,
tabi socks and japanese sandals complete the attire.
(http://www.explorejapan.com)