Tradition

• The kimono is one of Japan's most unique wafuku (traditional clothing). It was once used as an everyday outfit but is now most commonly worn on formal occasions. As part of the kimono, the Japanese Obi was used to be both beautiful and practical. It is typically created with an ornate pattern of flowers and an intricate level of detail. On a more practical level, the obi secures the kimono and keeps the hips and breasts of the wearer hidden. The various parts of the Obi serve as added decoration for the kimono and as a signal to others of the wearer's age.
  
  

Obi-age

• The Obi-age is a scarf which is tucked beneath the Obi and indicates the age of the wearer. A younger woman keeps the Obi-age high and slowly pushes it downward as she ages. Once she becomes an elderly person (nenpai no kata), she completely conceals the Obi-age by placing it in a deep place under the Obi.
  
  

Obi-jime

• The Obi-jime is a rope that helps to tie the Obi in place. It is made of braided silk and is displayed in full view. Like the Obi-age, the Obi-jime's position depends on the age of the wearer. Younger women tie the Obi-jime at a high position and slowly lower it as they age.
  
  

Obi-dome

• Obi-dome is a type of jewelry that decorates the wearer's Obi. The Obi-jime goes through a small hole in the Obi-dome before it is tied around the wearer. Obi-dome are made of various materials such as glass, coral, shell, porcelain, precious stone and wood.