Kimono structure and how to measure your size

Kimono is a simple shape consisting of some rectangles, such as the collar,  front body, back body and sleeves. There are no zippers and buttons because of the use of sashes, belts and strings.

It is just like wrapping your body in a sheet of cloth.

By learning the structure of kimono, you can wear it beautifully.

Structure of kimono

Kimono dress maker measure your body size and calculate your kimono size. Then cut tanmono, a roll of fabric as the image below.

Front side

Back side

Kimono has two lengths, mitake and  kitake.

You need to understand the difference between mitake and kitake. It helps you buy kimono of your own size,

Now, let’s make it clear!

What is the difference between mitake and kitake ?

Women’s kimono is longer than your body.

The length of mitake is almost your height, which includes the length of ohashori.

There are two mitake, se-mitake (length of back seam) and kata-mitake (length from shoulder to hem). See the left in the photo below.

While kitake is the length when you are wearing. See the right in the photo above. You can adjust the length by yourself.

Kitake has also two lengths, se-kitake and kata-kitake.

The length of mitake to make enough ohashori

It is important to know your mitake when buying recycled kimono.

se-mitake = kitake + 25cm = approximately your height

When you buy kimono, please be sure to put it on and measure the length from the hem with your hand. If it is the hand span or more, it can be worn with enough ohashori.

The length of nagajuban

Kitake length of nagajuban, an undergarment is about 80% of your height.

When you buying, please check which is used, se-mitake or kata-mitake. Most of the listed lengths are se-mitake. Here is an example.

S : 118 ㎝ / M : 124 ㎝ / L : 129 ㎝ / LL : 133 ㎝

The length of each depends on manufacturers.

Measure your own size

The body sizes that need to be measured are shincho (height), yuki (length of the shoulder and arm), koshimawari (hips).

When you wear kimono, it is better to reduce your extra fabric. So you can put it on easily and wear it beautifully.

When you order a custom kimono in your own size,  a dressmaker calculates all part sizes from the measurements.

How to measure yuki

Measure from the center of the neck via the shoulder to the wrist, Do it for both sides 1 – 2 – 3 in order. If there is some difference, the average value is adopted.

If part of the size is larger than the hips, it takes precedence.

Please use it as a reference when choosing a ready-made yukata. Check your sizes of shincho (height), yuki (length of the shoulder and arm), maehaba (front width), ushirohaba (back width), and koshimawari (hips),

* The size of the ready-made product varies. It depends on manufacturers.

Measure your size and get a nice one!