Actually, for the sake of accuracy, it is a yukata as it is unlined cotton. Ai Ana loves it, and she looks so refined. It brings out the soft beauty of her features, and a certain calm grace she has about her.
The yukata was made mainly following these sets of instructions, with the exception of the collar where I used ribbons instead of material. I would add that you should hem all of your sleeve edges before attaching them, as it is very tricky to do afterwards. For a full sized kimono/yukata, three 35" panels are used, but for this one I used 20" panels, and it still fits both Ana and I. Because of the fold below the obi, the length is quite long (I think around 50"?), but is then tucked up. I liked this because it means she can wear it for a long time. The pillowcases made perfect sleeves, too. Her obi is not at all a proper one. I completely cheated here because we both loved this silk scarf of mine. I folded it around stiff paper, and tied it into place with velvet ribbon. I also made her hair chopsticks by shortening a bamboo pair and adding a bit of velvet ribbon and two mother of pearl buttons.
A huge thank you to all of you for your inspiration, tips and encouragement (especially you, Lori!).
Ana is ready and eager to host her friends tomorrow.
(and a confession-- I accidentally made her yukata cross in the wrong direction. You only do that for burial. Oooops. Don't tell her).
Oh. My. Heck.
This is so beautiful! And she looks so beautiful in it.
I don't imagine that her friends will know that she's dressed for burial... she looks completely like royalty.
Posted by: Amy | 09 February 2007 at 22:09
What was that you were saying about not being much of a seamstress? My gosh that is FABULOUS! The pillowcases are AMAZING! And I was more than happy to offer what little help I did. Score one for mom! And happy, happy birthday, Ana!
Posted by: laeroport | 09 February 2007 at 22:20
thoes dont look like any burial clothes to me. You have done an excellent, excellent job. My daughters 12, and 8 would LOVE it! I liked your idea with the hair things. Very creative. The colors are really pretty, and soft. I like that you used the embroidered things of your grandmother. That is a very special way to use them, and unique.
She looks lovely, and I know the party will be beautiful, and very special for everyone, especially your daughter.
Christina
Posted by: christina Gomez | 09 February 2007 at 22:22
Whoa. I gasped when the photo came up. It is beautiful, soft, and crisp and excellent colors. Love the pillowcase sleeves.
She is such a beauty and you've done a really great job momma. :)
Posted by: Angela | 09 February 2007 at 22:31
Stunning. And she is so beautiful.
Posted by: Courtney | 09 February 2007 at 22:36
Wow. You are good.
Posted by: Sarah Johnson | 09 February 2007 at 22:36
it looks wonderful - great job!
and she is such a beauty. hope she has a great party!
Posted by: liz | 09 February 2007 at 23:05
Absolutely stunning work! Ana looks like she would fit the part of a tea hostess perfectly!
Happy Birthday Ana! Enjoy your party and beautiful Yukata!
Posted by: Mhairi | 09 February 2007 at 23:13
It looks so great. I love the colors and how you have you hair up with the chopsticks. How exciting!
Posted by: Abby | 09 February 2007 at 23:14
I love this- it is really beautiful and it makes Ana look ethereal. Lovely!
Posted by: Sheree | 09 February 2007 at 23:39
You are so clever. I am constantly amazed.
Posted by: breana | 09 February 2007 at 23:39
"calm" and "grace" are two works i will never be able to use to describe my children. hmph.
Posted by: capello | 09 February 2007 at 23:48
So so beautiful!
Posted by: Amy | 10 February 2007 at 01:38
Wow, that is so beautiful! I think I'd wear clothes like that all the time if I could.
And I think it's true that what you wear affects how you present yourself (you know, the whole debate over "casual fridays"). Such a wonderful ensemble is sure to bring out the "calm" and "grace" in just about anyone!
Posted by: Elizabeth | 10 February 2007 at 03:09
you never cease to amaze me!
Posted by: wendy | 10 February 2007 at 03:11
Simply stunning! She looks so beautifu, and I was just sitting here thinking what a great time you guys are going to have at the party...what a fun theme...I can't wait to see the photos!
Posted by: sadira | 10 February 2007 at 03:34
Unbelievable. I literally got goose bumps.
Um, wow!
Wonderful, wonderful job.
I'm so anxious to see a full length picture. Please? Pretty please?
Posted by: Rebecca. | 10 February 2007 at 04:33
beautiful and perfect. can't wait to see pics from the party. i especially love the 2nd picture of her, with the authentic pose.
Posted by: shiso mama | 10 February 2007 at 05:26
So lovely. It's beautiful~~
Posted by: Norma | 10 February 2007 at 06:23
Simply stunning. You NEVER cease to AMAZE and ASTOUND me.
My first thoughts on the pillow cases were how can you touch them...ah...but now I see.
Your wisdom is great, oh wise one.
This party is going to be AMAZING. But how are you going to top it next year?
I also request a full length photo. And I think you should hire a photographer for the event as there are a whole heap of us out here in blog land waiting with baited breath to see how all these wonderful creations of yours are going to come together for the big day.
Posted by: Georgia | 10 February 2007 at 16:42
Ok that is insanley gorgeouse! I have been looking for one for me but maybe you just inspired me to make one myself!
Posted by: Stephanie | 10 February 2007 at 17:11