A Brief And Stunning Visual History Of The Kimono

A kimono -- literally translated as "the thing worn" -- is a traditional Japanese garment defined by its straight seams, "T" shape, and intense decorative detail. Although it's been in existence since the late eighth century, it wasn't until the late 16th century that the articles of clothing began to resemble the long, hanging ensembles we recognize today. 

A newly released massive compendium, simply titled Kimono, dives deep into the history of these lavish robes, from their earliest beginnings in the Edo period to modern iterations of the 20th century. The book features detailed photographs of the saturated surfaces and enchanting visual tapestries that have captivated outsiders for centuries.