Though the annual Hinamatsuri Festival celebrated at the Detroit Institute Of Arts has passed, we are still looking back at this exceptional annual event. Each year this event includes a wide assortment of cultural displays, including kimono dressings of exceptional skill and talent. For the 2023 celebration, there was a formal kimono display centered on Japanese weddings.
The kimono display was organized and arranged by the JSD Womens Club. Featured in the display is the bridal attire, groom's attire, and mother-of-the-bride attire. The mother of the bride is shown wearing a kurotomesode. The bride is shown wearing a multilayered complex outfit which on the topmost layer features a beautiful all-white type of kimono called a Shiromuku. The groom is shown wearing haori, kimono, and hakama. Wedding kimono dressing is considered among the more advanced skillsets one might have with kimono dressing.
What is Hinamatsuri?
Hinamatsuri is a traditional festival unique to Japan that is also known as the Doll's Festival or Girls' Day. It is celebrated on March 3rd every year and is a time to pray for the health and happiness of young girls. The festival dates back to the Heian period (794-1185) and has its roots in the custom of making dolls.
Still today the festival is still observed in Japan and elsewhere in the world. Globally, the festival is primarily associated with the display of hinamatsuri dolls, which are a set of ornamental dolls representing the Emperor, Empress, attendants, and musicians in traditional court dress of the Heian period. Families with young daughters will set up a display of these dolls in their homes, often with decorations like peach blossoms, a symbol of good luck and longevity.
Hinamatusri Festivals take place nationwide, so be certain to watch for a festival around March near you!