Japanese woman dressed in traditional spring Kimono.
The traditional kimono of Japan was the common form of dress for men, women, and children until the early 20th century when Western clothing became popular. Designed during the Edo period (1603-1867), the kimono is still worn for a variety of formal occasions. Silk was the most common fabric for early women's kimonos. The sash or "Obi" worn with the kimono varied depending on the age of a woman. Note the rich use of color, the golden grass and flowing pink kimono and use of line characteristic of early Japanese postcards.