Should wear a haori when walk outside?
Answer
When going out in kimono, it is good manners to wear a haori or coat over the kimono to cover the obi. This is not only to protect the kimono from dirt, but also to avoid bringing dust and dirt into the house.
History
The haori was originally a men's garment with a short history, and it was not until the Meiji era (1868-1912) that women were allowed to wear them. During the Taisho period (1912-1926), it became popular mainly among girls from wealthy families. It then exploded into fashion twice more in the Showa 10s and 40s. From the Showa 10s to 20s, everyone wore a haori as a matter of course, and from the late Showa 30s to 40s, a black haori became the standard dress for mothers to wear when attending their children's entrance and graduation ceremonies.
As with kimonos, the pattern of the haori also determines where it is worn. A plain haori in a subdued color can be worn for semi-formal wear, but it is basically not suitable for formal wear. For fashionable or street wear, a haori with a komon pattern, shibori or Tsumugi is fine. The length can be longer or shorter depending on the fashion. Currently, knee-length is the standard.
How to wear
Fold the back of the collar When wearing a haori, the collar is folded halfway “outward”. The shape of the collar should be in line with the curve of the kimono's collar. From the shoulder to the bottom, it should be folded naturally outward.
