Kimonos in Japan are more formal, long and loose-sleeved, traditional gowns, that wrap around the waist similar to much more casual western dressing gowns or robes. A kimono was not considered appropriate attire for a young Edwardian woman when entertaining a visiting young man.
Q. I am a constant reader of your section and enjoy it exceedingly. Is it proper for a young lady to allow herself to be seen by gentlemen when attired in a kimono? I have answered the doorbell in my kimono when it has been unexpected gentlemen callers, or have been in the same room as they were ushered in. I always feel greatly embarrassed and leave the room immediately and dress. Is it wrong or proper? My girl friends say I am silly. They don't see the difference between a dress or kimono. Is my writing bad? – From "Blue Eyes"
A. If you are constantly caught with your kimono on, you are perfectly right in excusing yourself and putting on the proper attire. Of course, if you are ill you have an excuse, otherwise it is not good form to wear a kimono when callers are present and you have reason to feel embarrassed, for men do not usually call at times when they do not expect a girl to be properly dressed to receive them. — By Madame Merri, 1913
🍽Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia
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