KIMONO: FROM FORMALITY TO INFORMALITY

The top-class kimono

第一礼装 ("daiichi reisou") kimono are the highest class kimono formality-wise. They are used for family ceremonies such as weddings or graduations. The "Daiichi reisou" for married women and men is black and can be recognized by the 5 紋 ("mon", the Japanese family insignia) on the back, on both arms and on both sides of the chest.

The "Daichi reisou" for women is named 黒留袖 ("Kurotomesode"), and the one for men: 黒羽二重五つ紋付 ("Kurohabutae itsutusumontsuki") or 黒紋付 ("Kuromontsuki").

The "Daiichi reisou" for single women is the 振り袖 ("Furisode"), a formal kimono with long sleeves.