The rainy season is over where I live and the hot summer is now here. I've been noticing yukata and all the accessories on display these days. Yukata are the brightly colored, lightweight, unlined summer version of the traditional kimono. They are often worn at summer festivals and fireworks (hanabi). Wooden geta shoes or simpler flip flops are worn on the feet and some type of handbag or pouch is carried for the necessary belongings. Kanzashi hairpins are often worn in the hair.
Kimono are difficult (maybe impossible) to get dressed in by your self, but yukata are not so difficult. Here are some instructions from an onsen site.
Here are a couple of warnings about wearing a yukata:
I haven't heard anything yet about summer festivals in my area. I'm sure many people are hoping the festivals will resume safely.
