Excellent Condition Vintage Unused Kurotomesode (Black Formal Kimono) Japan Vintage Kimono Length: 147cm, Sleeve Length: 48cm, Sleeve Width: 32cm, 裄 (Yukitake - from center back to wrist): 63cm Kurotomesode originated from kimonos known as "tomesode" and "edozuma" from the Edo period. While evolving over time, it has become established as the first formal attire for married women as it is today. The word "tomesode" originally came from the custom of young women "fastening" (cutting) the long sleeves of their furisode (long-sleeved kimono) short upon marriage. It is said to have originated as a kimono worn by women of the samurai class and came to be used in traditional formal occasions. During the Meiji period, influenced by Western black formal wear, black kimonos became recognized as even more formal. From the Taisho period to the early Showa period, black furisode and tomesode became common as standard bridal attire. After the war, the current style of kurotomesode was established and widely accepted as the most formal "first formal attire" for married women on celebratory occasions.