"Unlocking Deeper Beauty: A Summary of the 'Meanings Behind Traditional Patterns' in Colorful Uchikake"

2016.10.07 published

Popular Brand Among Brides Across the Country ♡ CUCU RU Teaches About Traditional Japanese Garments＊

Hello. I am Ando, the producer at Aoyama's bridal kimono specialty shop 'CUCURU.' From now on, I will be writing articles about traditional Japanese garments on marry.

To help brides feel even closer to bridal kimonos, I will be sharing information about bridal kimonos in a series, so please look forward to it ♡

➡ Check out CUCU RU's website here ***

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[Celebratory] Choosing Bridal Kimono Patterns is Important♡

Have you ever thought about the 'patterns (monyō)' depicted on bridal kimonos? Each pattern has its own meaning, so if you’re going to select your favorite outfit, it’s nice to consider its meaning too＊

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The representative patterns depicted on bridal kimonos can be broadly categorized into two types. One is the 'seasonal patterns (shiki-monyō),' which represent the changing of the four seasons that are cherished by the Japanese.

The other is the 'auspicious patterns (kicchō-monyō),' which celebrate and signify happy events.

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Now, I'd like to introduce the meanings of each pattern while looking at the actual CUCU RU color uchikake. Please use this as a reference for your kimono selection ♡

Pattern 1: The Extremely Popular 'Crane Pattern♡ (tsuru-monyō)' for Bridal Kimonos

Can you see the large crane embroidered over the blue kimono? The crane pattern is called 'tsuru-mon.'

The crane is regarded as the most beautiful bird in Japan due to its graceful and dignified stance and flight. As an auspicious pattern symbolizing longevity, it is a staple in bridal kimonos♡

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Pattern 2: Grabbing Women's Hearts with Feminine Glamour and Cuteness 'Flower Raft Pattern♡ (hanaikada-monyō)'

The 'hanaikada-mon' is an elegant pattern depicting flowers scattered on the river surface that come together to flow like a raft.

This classic pattern has been loved for a long time and often appears on bridal furisode. This lovely outfit with a white base and pink is extremely popular at CUCU RU, so please come and check it out☆

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Pattern 3: Incorporating Various Seasonal Flowers in a Modern Expression 'Flower Pattern♡ (hana-monyō)'

The pattern full of flowers is called 'hana-mon.' This outfit, which looks like a painting, features poppies and azaleas, embodying the love for flowers. This kimono is very popular at CUCU RU regardless of the season, and a new original color will be arriving at the end of October, so please inquire about it.

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The patterns called 'monyō' are characterized not only by weaving, dyeing, and embroidery techniques but also by the expression of hundreds of colors in Japan. That’s why it’s essential to choose a kimono made of silk, known as 'shōken.' Furthermore, silk kimonos are notable for their beautiful form when worn.

➡ Check out CUCU RU's website for kimonos ***

Pattern 4: Highly Popular as a Modern Kimono Pattern, Overwhelming Viewers with Its Elegance 'Gosho-toki Pattern♡ (goshotoki-monyō)'

The 'goshodoki-mon' is a pattern inspired by objects frequently seen in classical literature, such as 'The Tale of Genji' and Noh. It features landscapes, flowers, and many themes like court cars and fans, making it a highly popular pattern even today♡

Its unique worldview is fantastic, and it’s especially favored by brides having their ceremonies at hotels and guesthouses at CUCU RU.

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Pattern 5: A Pattern with Very Deep Meaning Frequently Used in Bridal Kimonos 'Wave Pattern♡ (nami-monyō)'

As the name suggests, the 'nami-mon' pattern represents waves of the sea and holds very deep meanings＊

The limitless sea waves symbolize the 'eternal and imperishable' and 'birth and longevity.' Did you know this?

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Pattern 6 & 7: Currently Used as Auspicious Items '束熨斗 Pattern♡ (tabanoshimon-yō)' and '青海波 Pattern♡ (seigaihamon-yō)'

The 'tabanoshimon' and 'seigaihamon,' depicted prominently on the back, is said to be one of the auspicious patterns used for wedding gifts. The '青海波 Pattern' can be seen on the hem of the kimono. The origin of the semi-circle designs is from the costumes of the '青海波' dance, which may remind one of Kabuki.

➡ CUCU RU offers a variety of beautiful uchikake with meaningful designs ***

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This color uchikake showcases two auspicious patterns combined in its design. It's perfect for special occasions♡

Pattern 8: A Women's Amulet Believed to Ward Off Impurities '薬玉 Pattern♡ (kusudama-monyō)'

The 'kusudama-mon' features several depicted throughout the kimono. Kusudama is believed to exorcise evil spirits and was cherished as an elegant decorative item in the Edo period, made from various flowers. It is a good omen and is sometimes associated with the term '久寿玉' (Kusudama).☆

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Pattern 9 & 10: Patterns Featuring Traditional Instruments Often Found at Celebration Events 'Instrument Pattern♡ (gakki-monyō)' and The 'Plum Pattern♡ (ume-monyō)' Known for Good Fortune

The 'gakki-mon' and 'ume-mon' feature drums, traditional Japanese instruments used in Noh and festival music, and the most beloved pattern in Japan, plum blossoms. This outfit, fitting for a joyful day, is a CUCU RU original created by artisans over six months.

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The 'gakki-mon' and 'ume-mon' also depict scenes of floral banquets. Even with the same pattern, the variations in colors and expressions demonstrate the skill of the artisans!

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Bridal kimonos often depict flowers from all four seasons, making it interesting since there’s no need to choose based solely on the season like regular kimonos. Knowing various patterns and picking one can be a delightful part of the experience.

Pattern 11: Beautiful 'Opposite Crane Pattern♡ (mukaidori-monyō)' Known from Flying Companies in Japan

The 'mukaidori-maru-mon' features two cranes depicted facing each other with their wings spread out like a circle. This auspicious motif is fitting for formal attire. This outfit, summarized with delicate skill, is said to be a rare piece that will never be woven again due to its pale coloration♡

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Understanding the Meanings of Patterns to Choose My Uchikake!

What did you think, everyone? Although bridal kimonos might seem challenging at first, they are filled with familiar patterns. Since it’s an outfit for a significant day, I hope you can wear it while understanding its meaning.

Moreover, considering the coordination and symbolism for the wedding reception is trending among particular brides, so let’s think about that to surprise the guests! First, please visit CUCU RU, where knowledgeable coordinators are available.

➡ Check out CUCU RU's website here ***

➡ Follow CUCU RU's Producer here

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