The kimono is an indelible symbol of Japan, and is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. However, it’s more than just a pretty dress: The designs and methods of wearing kimono have a deep resonance for society as a whole.
Please join Dr. Sheila Cliffe, a professor at Jumonji Gakuen Joshi Daigaku and kimono specialist, as well as Chizuko Takahashi and Tomoko Yoshida of Kimono Tango, a contemporary design company creating exquisite designs from recycled obi fabrics, for a panel discussion at our October 13 meeting.
The dialogue will look at how the kimono has moved through the ages to find its place in current-day Japan, how it is reflected in modern fashions and how textile designers are helping it survive into the 21st century.
Dr. Sheila Cliffe
Dr. Sheila Cliffe is a professor at Jumonji Gakuen Joshi Daigaku, where she teaches oral communication, business English and kimono culture. She’s also been recognized as a kimono expert by the Cultural Foundation for the Promotion of The National Costume of Japan. Dr. Cliffe has published several articles and two books and speaks regularly about the history of the kimono and Japanese dress.
Chizuko Takahashi
Chizuko Takahashi is the owner, designer, and creator of Kimono Tango. Her goal, through Kimono Tango, is to enrich our world by integrating the beauty of the kimono into items we use daily. She breathes in a second life to vintage kimono and obi by creating one-of-a-kind hand bags, wallets, throw pillow covers, and decorative wall panels. A native of Toyama, Chizuko graduated from Chuo University and worked for the Hotel New Otani and the art gallery in Takashimaya Department Store prior to committing full-time to Kimono Tango.
About Kimono Tango
Currently, Kimono Tango is available year-round through Etsy and Kagurazaka Plus and through special events at Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi, the Tokyo American Club, and other venues.
Catering
FEW Monthly Meetings are catered by well-known gourmet food company Kiwi Kitchen. Based on providing healthy, delicious food from all corners of the globe, Kiwi Kitchen delivers gourmet meals and provides catering services for businesses and international schools, office functions and meetings, cocktail parties, BBQs and other functions requiring food delivered on-site within Tokyo Metropolitan area. The company also operates a cafe in Shirokane, right on Platinum dori, less than 10mins walk from Shirokanedai station.