kosode

Japanese garment

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June 30, 2026

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The kosode is a short-sleeved Japanese kimono that became an outer garment for women during the Muromachi period (1338–1573). The kimono itself is an ankle-length robe with long sleeves and a V-neck, derived from Chinese pao-style robes. It is secured by a sash called an obi. While the kimono is not originally Japanese, its exquisite decorative styles were developed by Japanese designers in the 17th and 18th centuries. The contemporary wide obi dates from the 18th century. The kosode style, worn as an outer garment and belted with a narrow sash, originated during the Muromachi period.12

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kimono
>kosode), worn by women as an outer garment, was introduced in the Muromachi period (Ashikaga shogunate; 1338–1573). The contemporary wide obi dates only from the 18th century. Although the kimono is not of Japanese origin, as is often supposed, its great beauty is attributable to…
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>kosode), worn by women as an outer garment, was introduced in the Muromachi period (Ashikaga shogunate; 1338–1573). The contemporary wide obi dates only from the 18th century. Although the kimono is not of Japanese origin, as is often supposed, its great beauty is attributable to…
Read More