Quick Answer
What is an uchikake?
An uchikake is a long, heavily decorated outer kimono robe, traditionally worn unbelted and open over an inner kimono, with a padded, trailing hem. Where the shiromuku is plain white for the ceremony, the uchikake is bold and colorful — often red, gold or richly embroidered — and typically worn later, for photos or the reception.
Last updated:
Last updated:
What is an uchikake?
Also called: uchikake kimono, the wedding reception robe.
If the shiromuku is the restrained half of a Japanese bride's wardrobe, the uchikake is the dramatic other half — a heavy, richly embroidered robe with a trailing padded hem, worn loose over another kimono rather than tied with an obi. It is the outfit most people picture when they imagine a Japanese bridal kimono, and it is usually saved for the second half of the wedding day.
What makes an uchikake distinct
- •Worn open, like a coat, over an inner kimono — it is not tied at the waist with an obi the way most kimono are.
- •Features a padded hem so the fabric holds its shape and trails slightly along the floor.
- •Commonly embroidered with auspicious motifs — cranes, phoenixes, cherry blossoms, pine — often in red, gold, black or vivid multicolor designs.
- •Traditionally worn after the ceremony, for the reception or photo session, rather than during the Shinto rites themselves.
Planning notes
- •An uchikake is heavy — factor in a short break for the bride to change and rest before the reception begins.
- •Because it is a photo-focused garment, coordinate timing with the photographer so there is a dedicated window for uchikake portraits.
- •Colors and embroidery vary widely by rental house — book viewings early if a specific color or motif matters to the couple.
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What is the difference between a shiromuku and an uchikake?
The shiromuku is all white and worn for the Shinto ceremony itself, symbolizing purity. The uchikake is colorful and elaborately embroidered, worn open over an inner kimono, typically for photos or the reception afterward.
Do all Japanese brides wear an uchikake?
Many brides having a traditional wedding wear one for at least part of the day, often alongside a Western-style dress for other parts of the reception, but it is not obligatory.
Why is the hem of an uchikake padded?
The padding helps the heavy fabric keep its shape and trail slightly along the floor rather than crumpling, giving the robe its distinctive silhouette in photos.
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By Mayank JaiswalLast updated