Kimono Bancho by Megumi Matsuda
きものの番長：松田恵美
Languages: Japanese
ISBN-10: 4072746541
ISBN-13: 978-4072746547
112-pages
Amazon.jp link
I saw this in a book store a few weeks ago, and when I went back I was drawn to it again and had to purchase it. It is a manga essay type book featuring lots of cords and ideas, and the kimono bancho (boss) does such lovely illustrations it is very accessible. She has connections to Mamechiyo (who positively reviewed this book) so the cords are very modern.
Contents:
Illustrations
Chapter 1: 12 months co-ordinates
May Party Cords
October Halloween Cords
I love her outfits! Each month has two cords with ideas for adding seasonal details to outfits and general ideas for komono. She also has great ideas for tieing outfits into seasonal events in Japan like Setsubun and Valentines day (which I am definitely going to be trying). There are a few simple hairstyling ideas too for different occasions.
Chapter 2: Softening Kimono - How to guide through manga
han-eri
Her kimono philosophy revolves around keeping kimono and obi to non-seasonal geometric patterns so you are able to get the most use out of them, and getting seasonal details in things like han-eri, obidome, hair accessories etc, and she has many ideas for hand making them, for example painting designs onto han-eri with acrylic paints.
Chapter 3: Special Occasion Kimono
Kimono Show
Here she talks about kimono outfits for shows and her wedding.
Chapter 4: Lets make Komono!
How to make obidome, and corsage
I really like this section, it has alot of simple crafty ideas for komono. I`m sure for more crafty people have been doing these kind of things already but for beginner crafty people (or people like me who have WIP syndrome) lots of quick things that can really personalize an outfit. It`s all in the details!
Chapter 5: How to wear kimono
hanhaba obimasubi
A short section on basic kitsuke and obi masubi with some practical hints and tips for everyday wear.
Review:
This book is going to be a staple for sure and I`m definitely a fan of Ms. Matsuda from now. I have already lent it out to a friend who loved the ideas too.
Recommended for
- those that like modern seasonal cord ideas
- those that like manga
- those with basic Japanese (but not necessary because of the illustrations)
- those who like every day wear
- crafty people
Not recommended for
-those interested in formal/traditional styles
-those wanting in depth kitsuke.
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