Dressing a Maiko
A maiko’s kimono and massive obi were works of art, and a signal of her rank. The colors adapted to the season, from bright colors to deep jewel tones. Kimono were tied with a large, decorative obi selected to compliment the kimono and reflect the season. The maiko obi, a sort of thick fabric belt about five meters long, is tied high along her chest, with the excess fabric tied in the back in an artistic mass. Most kimono were owned by the okiya, the maiko borrowed them for their duties. The maiko wore wear extremely thick-soled sandals, called okobo, to give her height and a stride made up of small, careful steps. While the maiko carried the heavy kimono and obi with grace, her garb was challenging and dangerous. The fabrics could become quite heavy. The sleeves were long and cumbersome. And the okobo sandals were a tripping hazard.