Most nō costumes are made of silk, while typical kyōgen costumes are made from bast fibers like hemp. The garments are tailored as ‘T-shaped’ kimono with box sleeves that have small openings at the cuff (kosode), as broad-sleeved jackets with open cuffs (ōsode), or as pleated ‘divided skirts’ (hakama). They can be a solid color, or patterned in the weave, or given a surface decoration through dyeing, stenciling, or embroidering. Various accessories, like sashes, wigs, headdresses, and handheld objects complete the costume.
Contributor: Monica Bethe