The participants in kimonos holding flags.
Kimono culture may be centuries old and steeped in tradition, but today, Japan is reaching out to share its culture with the world. With a new emperor and a new era, there is much interest in all things Japanese.
Just notice how active Haruhi Otsuka has been in Doha, sharing friendship and bringing Japan to her Qatari and international friends. Ambassador Seiichi Otsuka, the Japanese envoy to Qatar, has an extroverted colleague in his wife; a friend to all and a second ‘ambassador’ for the price of one.
At a recent Kimono-fest at the American Ambassador’s residence in Doha, the Japanese-American-Qatari bond of friendship was in colourful bloom. The event was hosted by Haruhi and Mary Knight, wife of William Grant, Chief of Mission for the American Embassy.
Also participating were 17 members of the Kimono Club Doha, in a visually and thoughtfully choreographed program by one of the founding members, Chiho Funeno. It featured several styles of formal kimonos, an obi-tying ritual and a mini-catwalk of models carrying the flags of Japan, Qatar and America.
Kimono Club Doha is an active and popular culture organisation in Qatar and was established in 2013. Chiho and her club members have developed many colourful programs, tailored to a wide variety of audiences, both young and old.
The club performed at the DCCC, during the 11th Haya Fashion Exhibition. At Qatar University and in several Doha schools, members have showcased the fine handiwork of these woven silk garments, and explained the traditions behind them.
Haruhi and Mary Knight at the event.
In a kimono ensemble, the obi is of great importance; it is a silk sash which is embroidered and richly decorated with symbols or textures, and wrapped around the waist. It requires ample length, approximately four meters, to be gathered into an elaborate, decorative bow.
During the kimono fest, Mary wore a formal black kimono and her pink obi was shaped into a cherry blossom—sakura in Japanese—apropos of the season and a legendary symbol of friendship.
There are many other details to explore on these unique garments, which saw daily use in times past, and which are still worn today at weddings and other formal occasions. Seasons of nature hold high value in kimono design, and accordingly, light and bright colours are popular in Spring, for example. Sleeve length signifies the married or unmarried status of women, and intricate family crests are generously applied.
A kimono with accoutrements can weigh up to three kilos, and cost $10,000.
The program ended with a full immersion experience. A member of the audience won the opportunity to step into a beautiful, red silk kimono, with Chiho performing the ritual tying of the obi sash into a Chocho, her own design of a butterfly.
