Nowadays you can see a Japanese kimono dress even on the racks of some famous designer stores like BCBG kimono dress. But there were many changes in this kimonos dress since the fifth century when it first came to Japan. This is the most traditional kind of clothing hailing from the Japanese region and a lot of things were reflected in the wearing of a certain kimono. From seasonal changes to marital status, kimonos were worn for all the different reasons and events depending on how formal or informal they were.

Seasonal changes are definitely one of the major reasons why kimonos differ from one another. From spring patterns to winter patterns there are lots of changes in the kimono designs. The Japanese consider wearing clothes according to season as being a good luck charm and this is why certain luck bringing motifs and design patterns are always a part of the kimonos. These include the Chrysanthemum pattern for spring and other flower patterns and the bamboo and plum blossom designs for winter. Maple leaf designs in rust colors were left for the autumn season and for summer there were a number of water based designs. All these patterns make kimonos what they are today and the interesting design features of the kimono reflect seasonal changes first and foremost.

The fabric of the clothing of course is also dependant on the weather because during the winter some really heavy and lined kimonos are worn whereas the lighter and breezier materials are used in the warmer seasons. The kimono dress is also divided on the basis of whether they are formal or informal. As a general rule, the formal clothing is something with freestyle design patterns and which are usually elaborate or intricately designed. For rather informal uses, more repetitive ad printed patters are used which are crafted with dyed clothing and woven patterns. The Japanese are very serious about the matter of always making sure they are dressed right for the occasion. Wearing formal dressing according to what the occasion specifies is something that matters a lot in Japanese tradition.

The cotton yukata and dyed ikat kimono are perfect examples of casual kimonos that are worn only as house wear or for friendly visits. Another kimono is the woven cotton haori which is similarly used in informal events. But when it comes to formal events all Japanese clothes will be specially made and crafted in elaborate designs. The wedding is considered the most formal event and the uchikake wedding kimono is reserved for this festive occasion which is designed with joyful and vibrant designs. Generally the intricate and elegant designs in mellow tones are for formal visits or are reserved for married women who attend a function or wedding event. For funerals the closest in the family wear a black kimono with the wrapping done opposite to the way the kimono is usually tied. Those who are related but not too close, will wear a formal kimono in subdued colors or solid pattern designs.