Reasons to be Japanese in the SCA
Here are some of the reasons to be Japanese in the SCA.
1. You never run out of blankets: it's perfectly period to use kimono as blankets, tent sides (for shade), decorations, etc.
2. One kimono will cover almost every time period: It's true... the cut and pattern of the Kimono did not change from the early 700's to the 1600's. The only thing that really changed was the style you wear them and the printing and dying techniques.
3. If you are too cold, simply put another kimono on: if you are warm, just take one off: the rule of 5 kimono is relative to the rank at court. Many lesser nobles wore fewer because Kimono were considered as to be money. The more you had, the richer you were. However, if you simply threw one more on, the outfit somply became more dressy.
4. Kimono are one size fits most: the basic pattern of a kimono is set up so that one size will fit most people. My friend Sei-chan and I borrow kimono often, though she is over 10 sizes smaller than I.
5. Kimono are easy to pack: Kimono are typically made of 15-16 1/2 inch wide fabric, making the seams easy to fold along and make uniform in size. I can pack nearly 20 kimono in one trunk.
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