Are WAFUKU (Japanese clothes) and KIMONO the same or different? In the Wikipedia, WAFUKU is described literally as Japanese clothes.
Before the Meiji era, Japanese clothes were referred to as KOSODEs or KOROMOs. Along with the introduction of Western clothes in the end of Edo period, Japanese clothes began to be called as WAFUKU, whereas Western clothes were called YOUFUKU. At the same time, the term "KIMONO" whose original meaning was "something to wear" began to represent WAFUKU...
Nowadays, many native English speakers understand the term "KIMONO". That shows KIMONO has been recognized worldwide indeed.
We often hear from people from overseas that the attraction of KIMONOs resides in artistry of patterns, especially when it expresses the beauty of Japanese four seasons. High-class KIMONOs such as FURISODEs or HOMONGIs, which you might have seen in KIMONO shows, are designed with high artistry based on elaborate and precise technique.
My mother and grandmother used to tell me that watching excellent KIMONOs is the feast for the eye. I know what they meant. Beautiful KIMONO is truly a work of art.
Click here to see a Blog by a Former MAIKO, "Do You Know?".
