top of page
< Back

My dazzling purple training top

When still in junior high school, I purchased a really beautiful training top.


As to how the top itself looked, it was decorated using a random patchwork of purple and white squares, each of which measured about 5 cm. Furthermore, the purple ones were further broken up into some 10 different shades. Overall, there seemed to be no regularity in the design, but I remember the use of the white elements being attractive. Concerning the bluish-purple squares by comparison, within them lighter and darker shades of the color had been incorporated. I bought the top even though it was quite expensive when compared to other options.


Upon getting it home, I proudly showed it to my mother and father. However, contrary to my expectations, my parents proceeded to chew me out. As to the color purple when it is used in clothing, they told me that it was associated with both expressions of frustration and a lack of class. Accordingly, I was told in no uncertain terms not to be seen wearing the top in the immediate neighborhood. I ended up being quite upset for being criticized about something that I felt was quite beautiful. Conversely, I even remember being told at a local temple that “purple was the most princely of colors.” Recalling that just rubbed more salt into my wound. Then again, from the distance of many years, I now concur that the top was quite garish.


But still, I remember wearing that same trainer when I visited my grandmother’s home in Gion. Upon my arrival, there was an aunty of mine and a number of Geiko also in attendance. Having recognized me and my attire, my colorful clothing was very well received, and questions among the group flew back-and-forth regarding both the origins and the suitability of the 10 different shades of purple. What is more, the use of the white elements was also felt to be well balanced. Finally, the unknown person who decided upon the colors was unreservedly praised for their choices.


To change the topic slightly, at my grandmother’s house, there was always an air of confidence regarding the work of the kimono dyers. From a very young age, I remember that when I visited her, there was always a lot of interchange with my aunties regarding their evaluation of the colors and designs of the kimono worn by visitors. Accordingly, perhaps I unconsciously learned much about such things.


On the topic of classy and vulgar colors, I believe that the opinions of people vary.


To return to that top that I fell in love with at first sight, if it had featured any colors that I felt were unseemly, I might well have forgone the purchase. As to my next comment, it does not apply to manufactured goods, but rather to those one-off items that have been made by hand. I think that such offer a connection between the past and the present. Then again, on each occasion that I subsequently wore my top, my father expressed his displeasure. Upon reflection, I feel that such highlighted the fact that my father and I had quite different views regarding what constituted beautiful clothing.

My dazzling purple training top

© 2023 Ikai Yuichi All rights reserved.

bottom of page