Geisha wear very expensive silk kimonos. However their kimono are different from those of maiko (geisha in training). For one they are less flashy, since geisha are experienced enough that they can rely on their skills of conversation, music, dance, etc. to entertain, rather than needing to distract the guests with their appearance. Geisha dress like married woman even if they aren't married. So the sleeves of their kimono are also shorter, a bit past hip level. The color, style, and pattern of the kimono depend on the season and event. Under the kimono they wear a red or pink nagajuban (under-kimono) with a white collar.
Over the kimono is the obi, the belt. The obi is brighter than the kimono to give it balance. It's tied in a simpler short knot in the back unlike the long tails of the maiko obis.
They wear the split toe tabi socks indoors (no shoes indoors), and the flat-soled sandal, zori, over them outdoors. Or if the weather is rainy or snowy, they wear the raised wooden clogs, geta.
Geisha wear wigs, unlike maiko who use their natural hair. There are many different hair styles. The have many hair ornaments (decorated combs and pins) which vary depending on status, occasion, and season.
Kimono
It is impolite to ask any woman of their age. A geisha's age is no big secret, it is simply rude to ask of it. One can usually tell a geisha's age if they are familiar with their customs. Due to the way they dress, or what stage of their training they are in.
No, it isn't disrespectful as long as it isn't done in mocking (to make fun of). Be sure to educate yourself about Geisha, that way if people ask you questions about your costume you will be able to give them the correct answers. :)
Geisha are probably inspired by the Geisha that have come before them. Geisha themselves are living works of art.
Geisha usually become 'full-fledged Geisha' around the ages of 20 to 22.
Geisha dress in very expensive, specially designed, silk Kimono.
To dress up like a geisha in Kyoto, you can visit a specialized studio or shop that offers geisha makeover services. They will provide you with a traditional kimono, hairstyle, and makeup to achieve the geisha look. It is important to respect and appreciate the cultural significance of the geisha tradition while participating in this activity.
Kimono
Geisha dress in very expensive, specially designed, silk Kimono.
It is a traditional dress. Perhaps in films you have seen Geisha wearing Kimono. It was Geisha who made Kimono such a popular dress at one time. Kimono is beautiful and Japanese culture is built around asethetics.
The 'gei' in Geisha means art, and 'sha' means person. So the literal translation is art person; ie Artists. Geisha are living artists, in the way they speak, dress, dance, sing, walk, and move. Everything about them is a work of art.
Traditional elements of a geisha dress include a kimono, obi sash, and elaborate hair accessories. These elements contribute to the cultural significance of the attire by symbolizing elegance, grace, and adherence to traditional Japanese customs. The intricate designs and craftsmanship of the dress also reflect the geisha's dedication to their art and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
It is impolite to ask any woman of their age. A geisha's age is no big secret, it is simply rude to ask of it. One can usually tell a geisha's age if they are familiar with their customs. Due to the way they dress, or what stage of their training they are in.
Traditional elements of a geisha dress up experience in Kyoto typically include wearing a kimono, obi sash, and traditional hair accessories like kanzashi. Makeup and hairstyling are also important, with white face makeup, red lipstick, and elaborate hairstyles being common. Additionally, geisha often wear tabi socks and geta sandals to complete the look. The overall experience aims to capture the elegance and beauty of a geisha's traditional attire.
No, it isn't disrespectful as long as it isn't done in mocking (to make fun of). Be sure to educate yourself about Geisha, that way if people ask you questions about your costume you will be able to give them the correct answers. :)
Geisha were main parts of 'Geisha, a life' and 'Memoirs of a Geisha'
Traditional Geisha always wear their hair in a traditional styled updo, or wig. And carefully planned kanzashi (hair accessories) and kimono. Their kimono, obi, and kanzashi will always match the season, and event in which they are to attend. In the link below you can see photos of a traditional Geisha.