The kosode is a basic Japanese robe for both men and women. Worn as both an undergarment and overgarment, it is what most people imagine when using the much broader term kimono. The literal meaning of the term kosode is "small sleeve," which refers to the sleeve opening.

Kosode are T-shaped, have a looser fit than the Kimono and come in varying lengths. Kosode are worn with an obi (sash)

Obi (sash)

is a sash for traditional Japanese dress, keikogi worn for Japanese martial arts, and a part of kimono outfits.The obi for men's kimono is rather narrow, wide at most, but a woman's formal obi can be wide and more than long. Nowadays, a woman's wide and decorative obi does not keep the kimono...

, that is considerably smaller than that of the modern Kimono

Kimono

The is a Japanese traditional garment worn by men, women and children. The word "kimono", which literally means a "thing to wear" , has come to denote these full-length robes...

. Often worn with hakama

Hakama

are a type of traditional Japanese clothing. They were originally worn only by men, but today they are worn by both sexes. Hakama are tied at the waist and fall approximately to the ankles. Hakama are worn over a kimono ....

 (pleated, divided skirt) for men or naga-bakama (very long hakama) for women, as in the case of the Miko

Miko

is a Japanese term that anciently meant a "female shaman, spirit medium" who conveyed oracles from kami , and currently means a "shrine maiden; virgin consecrated to a deity" who serves at Shinto shrines.-Word:...

.

Kosode evolved at some point in the late 14th century and replaced the many layered, unlined hirosodes. Over time kosode gradually developed into a wide variety of styles, with patterns and fabrics.

Relevant Links

• Tokyo National Museum - an example of period clothing, including Kosode.
• The Tale of Genji Costume Museum - Includes period clothing, including Kosode.
• Kosode Made Simple
• Kyoto National Museum