Traditional Japanese Bride Wedding Kimono Uchikake

This heavy-weight, padded Kimono in clean, excellent condition (though there is a very tiny bit of wear around the collar—not really noticeable) is meant to be worn over the bridal Kimono, like a sort of coat. It is not tied up and is meant to drag on the ground like a train—hence the length. It is not belted. They are often heavily and intricately embroidered, as this one is. The embroidery on this uchikake is very intricate: gold and sliver cranes and blue and silvery blue cherry blossoms, all on a cream and brilliant red background. Often made of silk (though this one isn’t I don’t think), these can cost thousands of dollars because they are walking art. The lining of this is red with gold threads running throughout. It is beautiful, either to be worn for a wedding or a performance or just displayed. I’ve included lots of photos, both of the whole thing and some close ups of the embroidery, but this really has to be seen to be believed.