Hello! I'm Alisa, a certified kimono dressing instructor.
In today's third session, I'd like to talk about 半巾帯 "hanhaba obi".
What is a "hanhaba-obi"?
Have you heard of a hanhaba-obi before? The term "han" means half, and "haba" means width. While Nagoya obi and Fukuro obi are typically around 24 centimeters wide, a hanhaba-obi is about 12 centimeters wide, literally half the width. Many people associate hanhaba-obi with yukata, but they can actually be worn with a kimono as well. Most women wearing rental kimonos in tourist spots are indeed tying hanhaba-obi!
Rules for hanhaba-obi
You might have already noticed that hanhaba-obi is quite casual (Because it's often paired with yukata.). There are no strict rules on how to tie it, making it versatile. Many people come up with various tying methods and share them on social media.
One great thing about hanhaba-obi is its casual nature. Since it doesn't require an obi-makura (pillow), it's more comfortable to wear compared to Nagoya obi or Fukuro obi. Also, no obi-age is needed. Some people use it for fashoin though. Personally, I prefer hanhaba-obi, especially in the summer, as it keeps the back cool.
Styles of Hanhaba-obi
There are various ways to tie a hanhaba-obi, such as the "bunko," "karuta," and "kai no kuchi" styles. Recently, some people use sanju-karihimo (a support triple belt) and create elaborate arrangements. You can find many videos by searching for “半巾帯” on YouTube!
The first obi musubi(knot) my mom taught me in junior high school was the "bunko" with a hanhaba-obi. It looks like a three-dimensional ribbon and is adorable, making it the best style for girls.
*How to make the Bunko style
Many hanhaba-obi are reversible, allowing for different pattern appearances and changing the impression of the kimono depending on how it's tied. Since tying methods are simpler compared to other obi, it's highly recommended for beginners.
*How to make the Kainokuchi style
If you've been hesitant to try kimono because obi seems challenging, why not start with a hanhaba-obi? It's a fun and approachable way to dive into the world of kimono fashion!
Alisa's Kimono Room offers a 6-day kimono lesson that not only teaches kimono dressing but also delves into Japanese culture. If you're interested in the lesson, feel free to contact me here!
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