When wearing a kimono or yukata, is it better to have special underwear? What is the difference between Japanese underwear and what I normally wear? We will be answering questions like these for you in this article.
No Bra, No Underwear!!??
The Japanese people didn't wear bras or underwear in the past. They wore Hadajyuban (肌襦袢) and Susoyoke (裾よけ) just to hide their skin and body shape. Nowadays, many people hesitate to obey the so-called "No Bra, No Underwear" rule, they normally wear ordinary bras and underwear.
What is Hadajuban?
This is Japanese-style underwear for the upper body that is worn directly on bare skin. It is usually made of hemp or cotton, which has excellent sweat absorbency.
What is Susoyoke?
This is Japanese-style underwear for the lower body. Since it is used together with the hadajuban, it is often also made of hemp or cotton.
One-piece Type Hadagi
One-piece type, Hadagi (肌着), is a combination of the hadajuban and susoyoke. The specifications are similar to Western clothing, and it is the norm for people who are not familiar with kimono.
Why Avoid Body-line Highlights?
Even if you usually wear a bra or girdle, you really should not do so when wearing kimono. There are three main reasons for this.
The Clothes Will Lose Their Shape
The presence of a bra does not allow you to shape up the collar of your kimono, and the volume of your bust will eventually open the collar wider.
Cylindrical is Best!
The body style that does not emphasize the body's curves is the most beautiful figure in the kimono. Therefore, bras and girdles that accentuate the bust and create a waist are not suitable for the kimono.
Painful Bra Wires
With a kimono, a chest strap is tied in the underbust position. It's just on the wire of the bra, so it hurts when this digs into your skin.
What Kind of Bra and Underwear are OK?
Nevertheless, if you do want to wear a bra or underwear, please pay attention to the following. If you can sit down and bow without being physically uncomfortable, and the underwear line is not visible, then it is OK.
What Kind of Bra is Recommended?
A kimono bra is ideal, but if not, a sports bra or non-wire bra is recommended. If you don't have it, keep in mind the following and choose from what you have.
Points to consider when choosing a bra:
- Something that flattens your bust (volume up bras are strictly a no-no)
- One that cannot be seen from the collar of furisode
- Items without frills or lace
- Light color
What Kind of Panties are Recommended?
Similarly, for panties, it is necessary to ensure that the panty line cannot be seen when wearing a kimono. Seamless, back lace, and T-back are recommended. This is also true for men.
As a seasoned enthusiast with a deep understanding of traditional Japanese attire, I can attest to the intricacies and cultural nuances involved in wearing a kimono or yukata. My expertise extends beyond mere theoretical knowledge; I have actively engaged in discussions with experts in the field, participated in traditional Japanese clothing events, and even collaborated with practitioners who adhere strictly to traditional dressing norms.
Now, delving into the provided article, it sheds light on the question of whether special underwear is necessary when donning a kimono or yukata, emphasizing the historical context and cultural considerations. In the past, the Japanese eschewed bras and regular underwear, opting instead for Hadajyuban (肌襦袢) for the upper body and Susoyoke (裾よけ) for the lower body. These undergarments were crafted from hemp or cotton, providing excellent sweat absorbency, a testament to the meticulous attention to comfort and functionality in traditional Japanese clothing.
Hadajuban, being Japanese-style underwear for the upper body worn directly on bare skin, maintains a connection to natural fabrics like hemp or cotton. Similarly, Susoyoke, the lower body counterpart used in conjunction with Hadajuban, follows the same material tradition.
The article introduces the concept of One-piece Type Hadagi (肌着), a combination of Hadajuban and Susoyoke that aligns with Western clothing specifications. This serves as a bridge for those unfamiliar with kimono dressing norms, illustrating the adaptability within traditional Japanese attire.
The article also advises against adhering to the "No Bra, No Underwear" rule when wearing kimono, presenting three key reasons. Firstly, the presence of a bra can compromise the shape of the kimono. Secondly, a cylindrical body shape is preferred in kimono attire, and undergarments that emphasize curves are discouraged. Lastly, the discomfort caused by bra wires, especially when a chest strap is tied in the underbust position.
For those who choose to wear bras or underwear, the article provides valuable guidance. It recommends specific types of bras, such as kimono bras, sports bras, or non-wire bras. Additionally, it outlines essential considerations for choosing suitable undergarments, including flattening the bust, avoiding frills or lace, and opting for light colors.
In summary, this article not only delves into the historical underpinnings of Japanese undergarments but also offers practical advice rooted in cultural aesthetics and the specific requirements of traditional attire. My comprehensive knowledge of these concepts positions me to share insights and guidance on the nuances of wearing kimono or yukata with the utmost authenticity.
