Getting Dressed: Changing Clothes

June 1 is officially known as "Koromogae." Koromo is the word for clothing, kae/gae is the word for change. So Koromogae is the day that everyone changes over to summer clothing. This is a Japanese tradition dating back to the Edo period. It's done twice a year--at the start of Summer and the start of Autumn.

I've packed up the winter jackets, hats, and gloves. I had all my sweaters cleaned and bagged and put into storage. I put away our heavy winter blankets and flannel sheets, and got the lighter blankets and cotton sheets out for use. I put away my winter boots and busted out my cute, summery shoes and sandals.

For my Japanese clothing--specifically my kimono, that means I can put away my heavier, lined kimono and bring out my "hitoe"(unlined) kimono (and underkimono) Brighter colors and lighter weights of silk, as well as cotton, linen, hemp and ramie come out of storage to be worn and appreciated. Obi get lighter too! I got out my white leather summer zori and some cute geta for wearing with Yukata during festivals.

Speaking of the festival season's starting, it's time for yukata, unlined cotton robes worn with a simple obi and (traditionally) no undergarments. Yukata are a fun, affordable (although there are lavish ones) introduction to Kitsuke.

Maybe I'll put up some pictures of my summer kimono and yukata but given my lazy tendencies, don't bet on it.