Class, Style and Kimono Culture

The John C. Weber Collection exhibition at the NYC Metropolitan Museum of Art

When you’re in New York City for whatever reason, you can never go wrong paying a visit to The Metropolitan Museum of Art, affectionately known as “The Met.” This museum, devoted to art, is the largest in the Western Hemisphere. The Met’s permanent collection contains more than two million works, divided among 17 curatorial departments.

And then there are all those wonderful exhibitions – some you definitely wouldn’t want to miss. One of those is upcoming and will be on during the time of the Pride parade on Sunday, June 26, so if you plan on attending the Big Apple’s Pride festivities and you love fashion and all things about Japanese culture, you won’t want to miss one of the most engaging Met museum events – Kimono Style: The John C. Weber Collection.

Part of Japanese Culture

The kimono is one of the most beautiful and elaborate of all Japanese garments and for generations, Japanese style was defined by its aesthetic, its symbolism and its exquisite elegance. The kimono’s history reaches back to the 8th century and its name is derived from the words ki (“wear”) and mono (“thing”). Kimonos come in a range of styles and patterns. They are typically hand-sewn into a “T” shape from four single pieces of fabric called tans and tied with an obi, or belt.

There are many style variations of the kimono and the particular style worn fits a number of criteria including marital status, gender and the event for which the garment is being donned. In addition, the patterns serve to communicate the status, traits, personality and virtue of the wearer.

Color and Fabric

A kimono’s color is also symbolic with dyes used embodying the spirit of plants from which they’re extracted. Medicinal properties are also believed to be transferred to colored cloth. For instance, indigo is used to treat bites and stings, so wearing that color fabric is believed to be a repellent to snakes and insects. Traditional kimonos are made from linen, silk and hemp, however, today’s creations use rayon, cotton and polyester. Traditional, non-synthetic fabrics are still favored, however.

Tracing Kimono History

Kimono Style: The John C. Weber Collection will chronicle the transformation of the kimono from the late Edo period (1615-1868) through the early 20th century. Some pieces will come from the remarkable selection of works from the renowned John C. Weber Collection of Japanese art exploring mutual artistic exchanges between the kimono and Western fashion, as well as highlights from The Costume Institute’s collection. The exhibition will present more than 60 kimonos alongside Western garments, paintings, prints, and decorative art objects.

So, if you are planning to attend the New York Pride parade, you might want us to add this informative and lovely exhibit to your itinerary. We can also arrange for you to stay in one of the most exquisite New York luxury townhomes – Townhouse Neri in Soho. Amenities include a wet bar, music room, zen space and a show-stopping open chef’s kitchen. With seven bedrooms, this home can accommodate up to 14 guests.

Getting plans underway now for the New York Pride parade makes sense and LVH can take care of it all for you! We invite you to get in touch with one of our client relations team members who will begin the booking process for you. You can relax knowing we have everything covered. If you give us an idea of your likes, we will also build an incredible itinerary for you with experiences that will make your heart sing!