Haori is a traditional Japanese costume worn by both men and women. The haori is often worn over a kimono, like a jacket. Characters from Demon Slayer often wear this costume.
The Haori is a very versatile garment and can be worn in many ways. It can be worn over a kimono or other type of clothing, or it can be worn alone.
Read also:
- Kimono - All about traditional Japanese clothing
- Yukata – Japanese clothing for summer
- Clothing in Japanese – Clothing and Accessories
Table of Contents
What does Haori mean?
The word Haori [羽織] is composed of the ideograms [羽] meaning feather and wings and [織] meaning fabric. Haori really resembles a bird's wings.
The word is derived from the verb Haoru [羽織る] which means to wear a coat or dress.
There is a rumor that says that this garment began with a coat full of feathers from waterfowl such as Tsuru and Cisnei.
We also recommend reading: How to Make Tsuru Origami + Legend
How are the Haori?
Haori are often worn by Japanese women when they are attending formal events or when they are going out in public.
Haori come in a variety of colors and patterns, and can be made from a variety of materials. Silk is the most popular material for haori, but they can also be made from wool, cotton or synthetic materials.
The Haori is usually tied in front with two short cords called Haori Himo , which attach to small straps sewn onto the garment.
Different types of Haori
Some other pieces resembling traditional Haori can be found by other names. Below we will see some of these pieces of clothing inspired by or similar to Haori.
Hanten
It is a garment very similar to the Haori, its use is more informal and often padded for the winter. It also began to be used in the Edo period.
Hifu
Hifu is a padded sleeveless vest worn by young children during festivals such as Shichi-Go-San over the Kimono.
We recommend reading: Kodomo no Hi, Hina Matsuri, and 753 – Children's Day in Japan
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Such a jacket is often worn by shopkeepers or employees as a uniform, they are also often worn in Japanese festivals with some kind of pattern.
Jutoku Haori
It is a long Haori with unique tailoring, with silk threads, seams at the waist and wide sleeves. It used to be used by doctors, painters, monks and Haiku poets, today it is used in the tea ceremony.
We also recommend reading: Montsuki - The traditional costume for men
What is the Origin of Haori?
The haori dates back to the Edo period in Japan (1603-1868), when it was first used by the samurai class. Its initial use was just to protect clothes from dust, but it began to be styled.
The haori became increasingly popular among the general population during the Meiji period (1868-1912), when it was adopted as a form of national dress.
Today, the Haori is still worn on special occasions such as weddings and funerals, as well as by many women as a stylish everyday garment.
If you are interested in purchasing a haori, you can find a wide selection of new and vintage haori online, at Japanese clothing stores, or at specialty stores that sell traditional Japanese clothing.
