Development of Clothing Supply from Japan to Europe in Late 19th – Beginning of 20th Century and its Cultural Influence

Abstract

The article deals with routs of exporting Japanese kimono to
Europe and prerequisites for the emergence of export adaptations of the Japanese clothing. The role of the World Exhibitions in the development of technologies for the production of textiles and clothing in Japan, as well as in the spread of Japanese costume and Japanese aesthetics abroad was important. Anglo-Japanese style emerged in Britain and Japonisme style flourished in western countries from the second half of the 19th century through 1920’s. History of trading companies of Iida Takashimaya and Shiino Shyobei shows us how flexible the marketing of Japanese kimono was, and how easily makers could change the construction and design of authentic kimono to please European clients. Production of traditional clothes was not in priority for Meiji government, and it was focusing only on producing interior textiles for new interiors of imperial palace in western style. That’s why export of kimono was held by private trade companies. As a conclusion the stages of influence of kimono on western fashion and style are given.