Pure Silk Cape Dress

Product Description

The pattern “Kaioke sakura nagashi” is one of the traditional patterns found on kimonos and obis, and is mainly a combination of two auspicious motifs: ‘Kaioke’ and “sakura nagashi” (cherry blossoms in running water). By understanding the meaning of each, the deeper meaning of this pattern can be understood.

1. The meaning of “Kaioke”
Kaioke is a box used to hold shellfish (mainly clams) for the Heian-era aristocratic game of “Kaiawase,” or shell-matching.

Symbol of marital bliss, good marriage, and chastity: In Kaiawase, the two shellfish can only fit perfectly with each other, which were originally a pair, and never with other shellfish. Because of this, the “Kaioke” was thought to symbolize a strong bond between husband and wife, good karma, and a woman’s chastity and dignity.
wedding tools: During the Edo period (1603-1867), the Kaioke was one of the most important wedding tool of the samurai class, and was so respected that it was often used as the first item in the wedding procession. It was so respected that it was displayed at the head of the wedding procession. For this reason, it is considered an extremely auspicious design for weddings and celebratory events.

2. Meaning of “Sakura Nagashi”
Sakura Nagashi is a pattern depicting “cherry blossoms falling and flowing in running water.
The beginning of things, abundance, and prosperity: The cherry blossom is the national flower of Japan and heralds the arrival of spring, when life begins to bud. In full bloom, it symbolizes abundance and prosperity.

The beauty of change and transition: The sight of falling cherry blossoms floating and flowing on the surface of the water represents the transient beauty of Japan’s unique sense of impermanence and elegance.

Continuous congratulations: Water is a symbol of eternity and purity because it flows continuously and never withers. The “sakura nagashi” or ‘sakuragawa’ pattern, in which cherry blossoms flow in running water, also has the meaning of “the beginning of things continues to flow” or “good things continue to flow”.

warding off evil ・ Purification: Water has long been believed to have the power to purify, and is sometimes used to ward off bad luck.

The overall meaning of the “Kaioke sakura nagashi” motif.
The “Kaioke sakura nagashi” pattern is a combination of the meanings of these two motifs.
In other words, it is a very auspicious design that wishes for the couple’s strong bond and good marriage to last forever, as well as for unending wealth and prosperity at life’s milestones and new beginnings.
It is often used for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and other celebratory occasions (e.g., kuro-tomesode), and is valued as a pattern that expresses the wearer’s wishes for happiness and prosperity and a sense of celebration.

This product is a one-of-a-kind item, so please forgive us if it is sold out.

Handling Precautions

As it is made of silk, please refrain from washing it at home and opt for professional dry cleaning after use.