An Exuberantly Patterned Shibori Yukata: Large Scale Flowers

early to mid twentieth century
shoulder to hem x sleeve tip to sleeve tip: 48" x 46", 122 cm x 117 cm

This indigo dyed cotton kimono is of a casual, unlined type called a yukata; yukata are often worn for summer evening strolls or for relaxing at home, at a hot spring or when staying as a guest at a traditional inn.

The shibori dyed cotton cloth from which this yukata was made was certainly dyed in Arimatsu, one of Japan's leading shibori production centers. It shows a large-scale, joyous pattern of what appear to be overlaid cherry blossoms against a background of tie dyed dots.

The yukata is folded up and held into place with stitches around its middle; this is a way of shortening it to accommodate the size of the person who is wearing it. These stitches are easily removed.

The yukata is in good condition with just a faint bit, hardly noticeable, on the collar at the nape area.

This is a really lovely thing with a dynamic pattern and, as it is in quite good condition, it is still very wearable.