Koshimaki?

[LynseyM]

Hello!

Though I've had a passion for kimono for a year or two now, my interest in their beauty was rekindled by the book Memiors of a Geisha (Arthur Golden). I'm fairly ignorant about all the details and the proper way of dressing, though I am looking at books and such to help myself out.

One thing I need to know more about is the undergarments in general - especially because I've just purchased a yukata and hanhaba (sp?) obi for the summer. The yukata isn't entirely opaque (it's white fabric), so I thought I'd just buy a good knee-length slip until I can figure out what to wear beneath of it.

Anyway, I'm interested in something called koshimaki, or 'hip-wrap'. Never heard of it before, and as far as I can tell they aren't sold on the website. Any knowledge pertaining to this would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you muchly ^_^

[Kiyoaki]

I believe they are a rectangular piece of fabric, which is wrapped more than once around the waist (above the hips?). As to where the leading edge should end up, I can't say. Perhaps at one of the hips. The length should reach at least to the knees. Any longer and it could hobble a woman's gait.

For wear under a yukata, you may be better off with a sleeveless sheath (sans bra). Western style undergarments for women often leave lines and creases in the flesh, which doesn't fit with the kimono's lines.

[LynseyM]

Many thanks - like I said, I've seen very little mention of koshimaki anywhere. I think they might be for extremely formal and/or traditional wear...or maybe they've been replaced by a more convienent garment.

As for the undergarment advice, I'll take it and look for something that poses less of a threat

[Flock]

I think underwear is down to personal prefrences, as long as it doesn't know and the lines are ok it's fine as far as I'm concerned.
under kimono and juban I wear just a low neckline cotton top, and leggings.
It is a pity that kimono underwear isn't a well known topic, as it's just as interesting as everything else!