I have struggled for years with how to make this kitsuke a reality. I debated whether or not to alter mofuku items to fit the theme or to hunt out specifically black but non-mofuku items. I decided on the latter. Truly, the kimono itself was the most challenging part. Most black kimono are kuromontsuki and are far too formal what I had in mind. Other mostly black items have very bright patterns that detract from the aesthetic I was aiming for. This komon that I used for the ensemble was one that I had custom made (due to my "larger than average Japanese size"... that would be a US L typically...). It took several months for it to be tailored, so while it is awase, and it is now long past awase season where I live, I figured I could give it a go in my well air-conditioned apartment.
This was the final result:
Admittedly, some of the pieces are a little less black than the others, and I
wore white tabi because I’m not a fan of black or patterned tabi usually. The
hardest thing to see may be the obijime as it actually has small red threads
throughout.
The obi might be mistaken as having metallic threads, but it is actually cleverly woven to trick the eye into thinking that. It is actually just black and grey. It is one of two authentic Nishijin-ori nagoya obi in my collection that I had made-to-order, and it is one of my favorites.
The only plain black item is the haneri, but as white haneri are typically worn with mofuku, this should not be mistaken for funeral wear.
I’m really happy with the ensemble, and I can’t wait to wear it again!
