In Japan, mid-January marks Coming of Age Day, a time when young people are celebrated as they step into adulthood. One of the most recognisable sights on this day is young women wearing furisode — long-sleeved kimono traditionally worn to mark this important moment.
Historically, furisode were worn only by unmarried women, their long sleeves symbolising youth and availability for marriage. While the meaning has naturally evolved over time, the garment still carries a strong sense of transition, celebration, and possibility.
I don’t often sell furisode, but when I do, it’s only at festivals. Away from formal settings, these garments take on a different life — appreciated for their beauty, craftsmanship, and the stories woven into them, rather than their original social rules.
Moments like Coming of Age Day remind me how clothing can hold layers of meaning across cultures and generations. When worn or shared thoughtfully, traditional pieces can continue to feel relevant, expressive, and deeply personal.