Clothing yukata

A long, single-layer summer yukata 浴衣 type undergarment made of printed cotton. The fabric is white and printed with highly stylised black and light blue spider chrysanthemum flowers (rangiku 乱菊), featuring recognisable thin petals in a chaotic arrangement with characteristic curled tips. The chrysanthemum motif symbolises autumn and is also associated with longevity due to the plant’s resilience and healing properties. The garment is a floor-length women’s robe in a standard fit with long sleeves. From the length of the sleeves, it can be seen that the yukata was intended for a woman of higher social status. The characteristic thickened collar, which merges into the front hem of the garment, is a few millimetres narrower in the centre front than it was in its original state, as a result of fabric damage and repairs. The entire garment is damaged and has been repeatedly sewn and mended, indicating frequent use. The yukata is an informal kimono made of lightweight material, usually worn during the warm spring and summer months. In Japan, it is worn primarily when attending summer festivals, staying at home, or at spas. (TB)