Friday, April 19, 2013

Japanese Kimono Fashion Show part 4

I enjoyed seeing different kinds of Otaiko Musubi (ways to tie the obi sash) at the kimono show.
And I was lucky enough to shoot some of them on the runway and after the show.
These obi are awesome! 








With the models


Japanese Kimono Fashion Show part 3



Type of kimono:
Tomesode 
A Black-based kimono with short sleeves are usually worn 
for formal occasions including wedding ceremony.


This kimono with cherry flowers scattered in the blak-based kimono was one of my favorite one.








Japanese Kimono Fashion Show part 2


Kimono with high-heels


I had no idea what this hair accessory means, and asked the model about it, she didn't know what it was.











Japanese Kimono Fashion Show Part 1

I went to see the Kimono Runway Fashion Show at the Vanderbilt Hall of Grand Central Station in Manhattan this afternoon.

Wow, there were so many models and such beautiful kimono, I have never seen so many kimono show 
at once. 
It was inspiring to me indeed. I got to study how to wear all kinds of kimono.

I got to sit in the front row, where it was easy to take photos. 

The Fashion Show was organized by Hoshoen corporation based in Japan, and LIBRE.

I have gathered similar types of kimono as the ones in these photos. 

Type of Kimono
Furisode
(long sleeves, usually worn young or single woman)
Most of today's kimono was in the traditional motif.
The above blue kimono is modern, and I like the pattern
with roses and butterflies with gold leaves arranged
on a black and white base.
The Obi completely matches with the kimono.

Usually, kimono and obi are sold separately.
We prepare three obi for each kimono (ideally)
so that each time we dress in a kimono,
we can use a different obi for variety.



Some of the models live in New York, and many came from Japan. 
The Obi of the woman in front, in the red kimono holding the yellow fan, is so bold and impressive.








Thursday, April 18, 2013

CT Sakura Matsuri

I just received an announcement from the Japan Society of Fairfield County that their Sakura Matsuri is being rescheduled for Sunday May 5th due to the possibility of sever weather on the morning of April 20. 

Please visit Mill River Park on May 5th. 

Please enjoy cherry blossoms !


Sunday, April 14, 2013

Spring Kimono is ready to ware!


Today, I am hanging my Spring kimono.
Usually, Kimono have to be hung out to breathe before and after we wear them. 
I plan to wear one of  these kimono at the Cherry Blossom Festival this weekend. 



This pattern is called "Ryukyu Bingata dyeing".  

This type of kimono, on which the patterns are scattered across the entire kimono, is called 
Komon; they are worn for casual events. 
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A weeping cherry tree at my home is in full bloom today.

This is our home plant, a 
Christmas cactus.

Saturday, April 13, 2013

First Sakura Event of the season

Cherry blossom season has arrived in New York. 

Today, I attended a commemorative ceremony, celebrating the re-installation of the plaque honoring the first Japanese cherry trees planted in New York City 101 years ago,
organized by the New Heritage Theater Group. 
The event was held on the campus of City College (CCNY)
and the reception was held at Aaron Davis Hall, at City College.

Here are some photos from the reception. 

Ms. Okaru, a singer-songwriter, and I sung "Sakura Sakura" song along with
  musician Mr. Matthew. 




With the members of New Heritage Theater Group



Coincidentally, I met my friend Susan there, too!  

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My second cherry blossom event to attend will be next Saturday, in Stamford, Connecticut.
I will be dressing audience members in Japanese traditional Kimono. No kidding! Please see my website (www.junkofisher.com) for details. Come on down; you can dress up in a Japanese kimono!
Please visit us at 
Mill River Park, 
Mill River Street, Stamford, CT 06902
Sakura Festival will be held on April 20 (11:00am - 2:00pm)