Originally published on Art UK.

One of Japan's most famous exports – the kimono – is a widely adored fashion garment symbolising Japanese identity and culture

Although the kimono has existed for centuries, it came into popularity during the Edo period (1603–1868), when it was first called the 'kosode' (meaning 'small sleeves'). It later evolved into the 'kimono' (meaning 'the thing to wear') during the Meiji period (1868–1912)...