Kimono

Had this sudden urge to do a bit of research on Kimono. Well, actually it isn't as elaborate as a research, I just felt like finding some pics as resources(and inspirations?). So I did. Had a hard time at first and I found a piece of jewel! It's really WOW!! It's a Japanese store selling vintage kimono, "Yamatoku Vintage Kimono".

I've only viewed the Furisode, which is the most formal kimono for unmarried ladies, which is also the most beautiful of all because unmarried women's Kimono tend to be more colourful and elaborate. Most of the Furisode I've seen in the website are from 1970s. There are some rare babes from 1930s and 1920s(they tend to be more expensive) and the most wonderful ones are those that come in complete sets!

The most expensive I've seen is the Geisha Hikizuri Complete Set from the 1930s, which costs $2000 (which I assume is US$) excluding the shipping.

You can see how every one of them is a piece of art. So much effort put into one set of clothing, no wonder they are freaking expensive. I'd really love to have one beautiful set in my future home, who wanna give me? :) Now look at the last image above with the light blue background and red, white, yellow prints... Don't you think they look so contemporary? They're actually from a 1930s kimono. See how we are influenced by Japanese culture? They are indeed one of the artistic, not forgetting creative, leaders of Asia.

I admire their ability to balance the old and the new. The Japanese are so modern and creative, so daring to try new things, yet they preserve some of their old customs and culture.