Kimono

The sleeves on this kimono are very long, indicating that it would have been worn by a young, unmarried woman. It has a large padded hem and was designed as an outer kimono for winter wear. The plum motif is a popular design for such kimono as this tree is the first to blossom in the new year. The delicate design on the outside contrasts with the bold combination of lime green and bright red on the inside. The green silk is woven with a pattern that represents rippling water, the curving shapes echoed in the outline of the fabric on the red crepe which is embroidered in gold with scattered flowers. The theme on the lining, of blossoms falling by a riverside, is also suggestive of the coming pleasures of springtime.