What is Hakama?

Hakama is a type of Japanese clothing that can be designed either as floor pants or as a long pleated skirt. Hakama is tied at the waist with a specially designed waist and are widely driven on the hem. Traditionally, they are made of silk and are usually worn above the kimono, which is tucked at the waist.

Hakama can have divided legs like pants or can be not divided as a skirt. Both styles have seven folds - two at the back and five arranged asymmetrically across the front. The Hakamy sides are divided from the waist to the hip and division of the waist into two sections. Each section has ties on both sides to secure the front and rear of the waist. The rear waist also has a stiff panel that extends several inches towards the upper torso. In men, the belt is tied into a complicated double bow on the front. For women, the belt is tied in a simple node. A special folding technique is also required to maintain folds while Hakama is stored.

For men, formal hakama is usually made of severe black or gray, striped silk. Those designed for women usually come in dark, solid colors, except bright red hakamas, which are worn by women who tend to broad in Japan. Women's styles for special occasions can also embroidered flowers in the hem and waist. Hakama accessories include white underwear, kimono full length and a few divided socks. In colder weather, a short kimono can also be worn like outer garment.

Hakama is worn primarily by men for official ceremonies and formal opportunities, including a wedding, funeral and tea ceremonies. Hakama is a traditional clothing for priests who stay in the Shinto shrine all over Japan. It is also worn for the practice of archery and fighting arts such as Kendo, Karate and Aikido. Women wear them only for specific occasions and activities such as graduation and traditional Japanese sports.

Hakama dates back to fThe eudal era of Japan when it was first worn as a protective clothing while driving on a horse. Later he became de rigueur for the nobility and samurai warriors in the courts of Shogun. The rustic version of Hakamy was also worn by farmers and foresters.