siria's review against another edition
4.0
In probably one of the best English-language surveys of the history of the kimono, [a: Liza Dalby|2920167|Liza Dalby|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1266598217p2/2920167.jpg] is meticulous at describing the evolution of the clothing form throughout the centuries in Japan: not just the change in the physical form of the clothing, though, but also in its cultural status and symbolism. It's now a little out-of-date and could do with updating, but as an introduction to the subject in English, it's the best one you're going to find.
beththebookdragon's review against another edition
3.0
The writing gets tedious in spots, but is full of detail on kimono--the history of Japanese traditional clothing, borrowing Chinese clothing styles and revising them to a Japanese style, class and gender differences, seasonal colors and patterns, and the role of geisha as fashion innovators. And there's a lot more, including color schematics showing the Heian-era layering traditions.
Good for someone who wants to get deeply into the history and meanings of kimono.
Good for someone who wants to get deeply into the history and meanings of kimono.
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