The kimono as known today first appeared as a formal outer garment in the Edo era, having evolved through gradual changes in the shape and color of the formal undergarments worn by the nobility in the Heian perod.
For the most part, Japanese people today wear Western clothing in their everyday life, but the traditional kimono is still popular both as formal attire and as clothing for the home.
The kimono worn by Japanese women are well known abroad for their beauty. By far the most gorgeous is the uchikake, a long overgarment worn by the bride in a wedding ceremony. The silk fabric is embroidered with gold and silver threads, most commonly in patterns of flowers or birds.
There are various types of kimonos. Those of married and unmarried women differ in design, color, sleeve length and other aspects. Women also wear kimonos of different fabrics, designs, patterns and cuts in accordance with the occasion – formal or informal. Japanese women ordinarily wear kimonos during the New Year holidys, or on such occasions as the coming-of-age ceremony, college graduation parties, wedding ceremonies and reception as well as funeral services.