September Kitsuke of Hanafusa Geiko and Maiko

Autumn is around the corner, yet in Japan September is considered a Summer month. So do not hesitate to visit Kyoto Kagai sim to enjoy the last warm summery days and as well as the company of Geiko and Maiko from the Hanafusa okiya.

Now lets talk about the September  kitsuke of Hanafusa okiya ladies :)

Geiko Kikutsuru and Geiko Kikumaru

Atatori of Hanafusa Okiya Geiko Kikutsuru has chosen subtle navy blue kimono with design featuring summer flowers. It is tied with obi that has distinctive pattern known in japanese as "Kikko Mon". This pattern is a geometric pattern made up of many regular hexagons. It is considered auspicious as it resembles the geometrical pattern of the tortoise shell and tortoise are conspired to be the symbols for wisdom, luck, protection, and longevity; old beliefs mention that "Kame" unites heaven and earth, with its shell representing heaven and its square underside representing earth.
Her Katsura is decorated with white rabbit maezashi (as soon there will be "otsukimi" or moon viewing festival) and kushi. At the back there is Tama with nephrite.

Geiko Kikumaru is wearing dlicate pink kimono with flowers on uchiwa (summer fan) and a river design. Kawa(river) or winding stream represents continuity and the future. It also has a cooling affect on the viewer. Uchiwa with peonies, chrysanthemums, momiji and other plants and flowers is more of combined design, that can be worn from late spring till autumn. The green obi with golden geometrical pattern goes well with the kimono and is tied in a taiko musubi knot.
Her hair is decorated with Asagao hairpin, that is flower symbol of September. Morning glory flower is one of the few flowers today that is instantly recognized as a summer motif in Japan and can be seen on the kimono and pins from June till September.

Maiko Kikune and Maiko Kikushino

For September Maiko Kikune has chosen subtle white hikizuri. The design is Susuki or pampass grass and is worn from August to October. It is simple but elegant grass that is an essential decoration for otsukimi, the mid-autumn moon viewing festival. It is tied with bright green darari obi that goes well with hikizuri. Obiage is tucked into the obi - it is custom in Miyagwacho for their Maiko to start tucking obiage right after becoming Senior. 

Her hair is styled in Ofuku - Senior Maiko hairstyle and is decorated with big Kikyou hanakanzashi, kushi, smaller kikyou maezashi, bira bira kanzashi, hirauchi and nephrite tama.

In September you can see Maiko Kikushino wearing light hikizuri with colorful "tonbo" or dragonfly design all over the kimono. Another old name for dragonfly is “katsumushi” - victory insect, which made dragonflies symbols of courage, strength, and happiness. As a seasonal symbol, the dragonfly is associated with late summer and early autumn. The Darari obi, worn by Maiko Kikushino, is bright orange with dancing fan motif. 

Her hair is styled in Wareshinobu (this hairstyle is only worn by minarai and junior maiko) and is decorated with fashionable seasonal kanzashi(this month it is Kikyou or Chinese bellflower). 

August Kitsuke

Mid-August in Kyoto Kagai...Geiko and Maiko from Hanafusa okiya are enjoying a beautiful walk around the decorated Tanabata area (close to Tenmangu-ji) in their semiformal garments and this means the time has come for our monthly kitsuke post!
P.S. Don't forget about Tanabata and Obon that will take place this month, take your friends and family with you as there will be fun for children as well as adults! 

Geiko Kikutsuru

 

Geiko Kikutsuru's semiformal ro kimono for August features gorgeous river and willow design on a beige background. For centuries Willow was associated with Geiko and Maiko world and is a symbol of grace and strength. This kimono is exclusive and one of the kind, and belongs solemnly to Kikutsuru san.
Green obi, with Kikyou (bell-flower) and several Asagao (morning glory) flower design, holds the kimono close. Both flowers are used in summer kimono and obi designs and patterns right up until end of September. The obi is tied in Taiko Musubi knot
Her Juban (underskirt) has a design created in Shibori technique (is a Japanese manual resist dyeing technique, which produces patterns on fabric). 

Her katsura (wig) is decorated with small maezashi hairpin, kushi made from light wood and jade tama at the back.
Geiko have bigger choice in footwear than maiko - they can choose between several types of geta or comfortable zori, when weather is rainy/the area where they will be requires them to wear footwear.

Geiko Kikumaru

Geiko Kikumaru's semiformal outfit for August features water flows and summer flowers on the deep turquoise background. This kimono can be worn from beginning of summer right up until September.
Is it tied with exquisite woven silk obi that has styles golden flower on it. This piece belongs to Kikumaru san and was created for her by a famous Second life kimono artist.
As all Geiko wear wigs styled in style worn by married women in Edo, the decorations are also limited - maezashi at the front, a comb and seasonal tama at the back.
In her hands she is holding a kago on the day of her debut as geiko and has her name embroidered on it. As you might have noticed already both Geiko and Maiko are holding their kago, there they keep things that can be needed during ozahsiki - spare tabi socks, several fans, lipstic, comb, white powder, compact mirror etc.

Maiko Kikune

Senior Maiko Kikune has chosen subtle purple ro hikizuri for August. You need to look closely to admire the intricate flowery design that goes all over the kimono.

It is tied with black darari obi that goes well with hikizuri. The design on the obi features the iconic summer sight - the lit up paper lanterns of the Gion Matsuri Festival.
Obiage is tucked into the obi - it is custom in Miyagwacho for their Maiko to start tucking obiage right after becoming Senior. It is different in other Hanamachi, for example in Gion Kobu Maiko start tying obiage when they preparing for erikae.
Her hair is styled in Ofuku - Senior Maiko hairstyle and decorated with seasonal Asagao (morning glory) hanakanzashi, kushi (comb), smaller asagao maezashi, bira bira kanzashi at the front as well as hirauchi and jade tama at the back of the hair.

Maiko Kikushino

Maiko Kikushino, who is the youngest Maiko in the okiya, is wearing beautiful bright blue hikizuri with hand-painted goldfish and water circles design. Kikushino has stepped into her 3rd year as Maiko which means that soon enough she will have to give up all her junior maiko kimonos. Who knows :) 

It is tied with long white darari obi. This obi is sister version of the one worn by her neesan maiko Kikune - it features famous paper lanterns of Gion Matsuri festival but during the day.

Her hair is styled in Wareshinobu - Junior Maiko hairstyle and is crowned with silver color flower which actually is pampass grass designed in as if it is a flower. It is another seasonal motif for kanzashi apart from Asagao, that is worn mostly by Senior maiko. At the back she is wearing Kanakodome and Tachibana pin - these are distinctive details that can tell that it is a Junior Maiko has just passed by you :)

July Kitsuke

Hanafusa Okiya Members in their July's semiformal attires

👘 Geiko Kikutsuru is wearing gorgeous gradient kimono with morning glory flowers on the fence design. Morning Glory is one of the few flowers today that is instantly recognized as a summer motif in Japan. Her obi is eye-catching and is a unique piece, created by weaving beige and golden threads and created specially for her Erikae. Also her juban undergarment has blue summer flowers Nadeshiko, which is also a unique piece. In her hands she's holding a kago basket of pink color that resembles the color of some Asagao (morning glory flowers) on her kimono's hem. On her feet you can notice Rikyu Geta, and not the most commonly worn Atomaru geta
👘 Geiko Kikumaru's July semiformal attire consists of light blue kimono with golden clouds and colorful botan (peonies) and a golden woven obi that goes perfect with the kimono. Classically, botan is associated with summer (especially early summer) as that is when the flowers bloom naturally but there are some types that bloom in Autumn and even Winer. As all geiko in Kyoto she is wearing a wig styled in Geisha Shimada style. It also needs to be appropriately decorated - Kikumaru san has chosen a transparent silver comb depicting waves and a small gold peony maezashi pin. For July she has chosen Rikyu Geta as well as her oneesan, Geiko Kikutsuru
👘 In July you can spot Maiko Kikune wearing a gradient kimono that goes from pink at the top to blue at the hem - a beautiful summer creation from the Isomesh kimono shop. Carefully hand-painted water lily design are located on the sleeves and under the waist, reminding us that this piece can only be worn by a senior maiko. It is ties with a subtle green Ro obi. Her hair is decorated with same hanakanzashi as her younger sister's Kikushino except at the back Kikune san is wearing Kushi(comb) while Kikushino san - hanagushi (flower bridge).
👘 Maiko Kikushino is wearing dark purple hikizuri depicts pond with pure blue water and lilies growing in it. It is a pity that this masterpiece can only be worn in summer! The obi is simpler yet is also worth attention - it is ro with blue hydrangea flowers and hexagonal pattern. In her hands she is holding special kago bag that she firstly used during her misedashi - it has her name  kanji embroidered with silver. Kikushino san's hairstyle is wareshinobu and, as I have mentioned in my previous posts, Junior Maiko do not change their hairstyle right until the become seniors. Decorated with hanakanazashi that feature summer flowers and several small uchiwa, Kikushino san is an embodiment of summer!

June Kitsuke

Ah, Summer in Kyoto Kagai sim...Parks are covered with blooming hydrangea and water irises. The birds are relaxing in the shade of oaks and sycamores. You can undoubtedly feel that every inhabitant of the land is enjoying the summer heat. But Hanafusa Maiko and Geiko have no time for being lazy - you can spot them every day, walking towards their appointments; nevertheless they will be happy to greet you and show you around the sim. So be sure to visit Kyoto Kagai sim this month :)

from left to right: Geiko Kikumaru(green), Maiko Kikushino(white), Maiko Kikune(blue) and Geiko Kikutsuru(pink)

Geiko Kikutsuru has chosen to wear subtle pink kimono with flowers on uchiwa (summer fan) and a river design. Kawa(river) or winding stream represents continuity and the future. It also has a cooling affect on the viewer. Uchiwa with peony, chrysanthemums, momiji and other plants and flowers is more of combined design, that can be worn during late spring till autumn.
The obi is black with Gion Matsuri float design coming from the dark. Though this festival will happen in July, Maiko and geiko tend to wear designs that are to come in the near future - this is considered to be very "iki" or stylish (tradition that comes from Edo).

Geiko Kikumaru's June semi-formal attire consists of subtle green ro kimono and checkered obi that also has asagao (morning glory) design on it. "Ro" is a type of thin waved fabric used for natsumono (summer kimono) and you can easily distinguish it from others by its translucent stripes. This very classy way to weave silk is most popular and even be used for formal scenarios.
Her hair is decorated with Asagao hairpin, that resembles the ones on the obi. Morning glory flower is one of the few flowers today that is instantly recognized as a summer motif in Japan and can be seen on the kimono and pins from June till September.

Maiko Kikune is wearing one of the newest creations from Isomesh. The hikizrui is gradient, from blue at the top to almost white at the hem. The main design is Ayame(Iris/Shoubu) and kimono with this flowers can be worn from April till June. It is worth mentioning that traditionally iris is linked to Boy’s Day due to fact that the leaves resemble swords and the name shoubu is a homonym for militarism. Therefore you can often spot Irises on boy’s kimono as well. It is tied with Hakataori obi.
He hairstyle is Ofuku and it is decorated with seasonal June kanzashi that feature Ajisai (hydrangea) though sometimes senior maiko wear special willow kanzashi as well.

This month you can spot Maiko Kikushino wearing white hikizuri with fuji(wisteria) design. This common flower motif symbolizes longevity, peace and harmony therefore you can spot it on the bridal kimono. Wisteria plants are known to have very long lifespans, one of the oldest wisteria trees in Japan is 144 years old! The light purple color of the wisteria goes perfectly with the vibrant Yanagi (willow) kanzashi in her Wareshinobu hairstyle. The obi is black and has geometrical motif on it and holds the kimono close.

May Kitsuke of Hanafusa okiya memebers

The odori and sakura season is now officially over and the Karyukai returns to it's normal life. Maiko san and Geiko san start taking their lessons again and also more ozashiki are taking place on the Kyoto Kagai sim as well. Please enjoy reading my post about the May kitsuke of Hanafusa okiya Geiko and Maikos.

Geiko Kikutsuru

This month you can spot atatori(heiress) of Hanafusa okiya wearing deep green kimono with bamboo design. Bamboo, or ‘Take’, is deeply entrenched in Japanese culture. It is said to symbolize purity and innocence due to it’s unadorned and simple structure. Bamboo is also said to symbolize prosperity, strength and longevity. These ideas come from the fact that bamboo is an extremely strong plant. It is tied with white obi that has golden design on it. On her feet Kikuntsuru-neesan is wearing Senryoo geta.

Geiko Kikumaru

For the last month of spring Geiko Kikumaru has chosen pale yellow, should i say, even cream semiformal kimono with hand-painted irises and willow. Iris or Kakitsubata is the flower of May and you can see many of those all around Japan. Her obi is green with golden geometrical design on it. Willow is always considered as the symbol of Geiko world (courtesans were "flowers")

In her hands,as well as in the hands of her sisters, she is holding a kago bag, in which maiko and geiko carry items that might need during the events, for example spare pair of tabi socks, comb, traditional lipstick, mirror, comb, hanameishi(business cards) etc.

Maiko Kikune

During May you can see most senior maiko in Hanafusa okiya, Maiko Kikune, wearing gorgeous subtle hikizuri with exquisite iris design. It is tied with gold obi with flower pattern on it. Her hairstyle is Ofuku and is decorated with seasonal iris kanzashi that resemble irises on the hikizuri. Since Kikumaru san is soon to become Geiko, Kikune san will have mall of the Senior kimono to choose from. In her hands she is holding a very special kago - the one that was gifted to her on the day of her misedashi. Her hairstyle is Ofuku and is decorated with seasonal iris kanzashi that resemble irises on the hikizuri.

Maiko Kikushino

On May 15th Maiko Kikushino will step into her last stage as Junior Maiko - Nininmae. Omedetou san dosu ^_^

May is also month when kimono with peony motif, for example one that will be worn this month by Maiko Kikushino - on the sea green silk are light purple peonies, bell flowers, green leaves as well as some plum blossoms that are carried by the stream. Also known as the ‘King of Flowers’, the peony is a symbol of good fortune, bravery and honor. This kimono gives us a perfect feeling of the spring freshness, the full revival of the nature. It is firmly tied with green darari obi with yellow geometrical design.  Her hairstyle is Wareshinobu, the traditional hairstyle of the Junior Maiko, is decorated with another seasonal flower - Fuji or Wisteria. While Iris kanzashi are reserved for senior maiko only, fuji kanzashi can be worn by both juniors and seniors.

from left to right: Geiko Kikutsuru(green), Maiko Kikushino(teal), Maiko Kikune(subtle green) and Geiko Kikumaru(beige)

March Kitsuke

Members of Hanafusa okiya posing in Gion Higashi Ochaya, decorated specially for the Hinamatsuri celebrations
(from left: Maiko Kikushino, Geiko Kikutsuru, Geiko Kikumaru, Maiko Kikune

Geiko Kikutsuru is wearing light purple hikizuri with exquisite green leaf design. A perfect choice for the spring! It is tied with colorful stripe obi. Her katsura or wig is decorated with a very special maezashi which represents a pinwheel. You see, this type of kanzashi (full kanzashi ensemble of course - hanakanzashi, maezashi and hanagushi) is worn by Minarai in Gion Kobu and Pontocho and is often associated with youthfulness. As march is known of it's Hinamatsuri celebrations, therefore festival dedicated to young girls and women, Geiko Kikutsuru has chosen a hair decoration that represents this joyful event, that takes place only once a year.
Geiko Kikumaru has chosen beautiful light pink geiko hikizuri with white and red plum or ume blossoms carefully hand painted on the silk. This is extremely springtime piece and gives us a feeling of early warmth and yet that we still have to wait a little more to enjoy the spring in its fullest.
A nice white and golden obi with more plum blossoms accompanies her outfit. Her hair is decorated with sister maezashi of the one worn by her oneesan Geiko Kikutsuru
Maiko Kikune's march kitsuke consists of fabulous light blue hikizuri with hand-painted spring blossom motif and a golden obi, different from two of her Geiko sisters'  - it is much longer(over 7 meters!) called darari obi. Please notice a delicate butterfly pocchiri, tied with red obijime - this is the most expensive element worn by Maiko. Her hair is decorated with special seasonal kanzashi worn by senior maiko that feature peony (if you are interested, please read my post about Botan Kanzashi)
Maiko Kikushino, as the youngest of the Hanafusa okiya bouquet, gets to wear the newest and brightest hikizuri. This march you can spot her in a gorgeous black hikizuri with temari(traditional toys, which are nowadays used as a decoration, made by winding dyed thread around a ball construction). It is tied with exquisite obi that can be worn whole year round. Maiko Kikushino's hairstyle is called Wareshinobu and is decorated with colorful seasonal kanzashi. As you can see in the photo above, there is a huge difference in styles between the senior and junior kanzashi motifs. This month kanzashi for junior maiko, worn by Maiko Kikushino, represent the rape blossoms that are in bloom now.

February Kitsuke

Spring is slowly but firmly starts to take over Kyoto Kagai sim. Although there's still some snow the ground, first plum blossoms are starting to peak through the icy harden barks. One by one, all of the Plum trees will soon take over the area with their beautiful and magnificent sweet scent

Geiko Kikutsuru & Geiko Kikumaru

For this month, Geiko Kikutsuru has chosen to wear gradient pink kimono with spring motif: ume blossoms, pine, bamboo leafs, sakura petals. It is tied with elegant green obi with geometrical motif. Her juban is pink and features blossom pattern. Geiko also use red juban but mostly for the formal events where they wear kuromontsuki.
She is wearing a wig, styled in Geiko Shimada style also known as Chuu Taka Shimada. It is decorated with carefully chosen seasona maezashi pin featuring ume. blossom.
Her sister and imouto, Geiko Kikumaru, decided on wearing beautiful and very expensive marsala shibori geiko hikizuri, with bamboo motif on it. The hem of the kimono is colored in red which makes Kikumaru san look striking when she dances or even simply walks. This piece is held with silver obi that fits the kimono pefectly. As a finishing touch, Kikumaru san has added a small plum bosom maezashi(small hairpin) to her katsura.
Both Geiko Kikutsuru and Kikumaru are holding pink kagos made from chirimen silk. In these small "bags" Geiko and Maiko have everything they might need during ozashiki - Maioughi (dance fan), spare pair of tabi socks, special comb in case maiko san need to adjust her hair, maiko lipstick, white powder and, of course, meishi (business cards).

Maiko Kikune & Maiko Kikushino

In February you can see Maiko Kikune in gorgeous light purple hikizuri with eye-catching design  -waves are carrying fans with different flowers and butterflies etc.
The black Darari obi features hexagon pattern and holds the hkizuri close. Fact! Maiko's Darari obi is 7 meters long and needs to be tied in a special way.
As for her hair, it is decorated with seasonal triple ume hanakanzashi at the front and a simple kushi comb at the back. The kanzashi style of the Senior Maiko is more simple and mature tha the ones worn by the juniors.
The youngest flower of the Hanafusa okiya bouquet, Maiko Kikushino, is wearing light beige hikizuri with flower arabesque design, tied with bright orange Darari Obi. The style of the Hikizuri of Maiko Kikushino are getting more mature and simplistic which means that she is progressing on her path of a Maiko.
Her hair is decorated with seasonal kanzashi that feature small plum blossoms.
Both Maiko Kikune and Kikushino are wearing special style of geta, known as Okobo or Pokurri. These are only reserved for the Maiko and you can tell he rank by looking at the straps holding the foot - if you see red than it means that the wearer is Junior Maiko and if you see pink or other - Senior. You can notice the difference in the picture above.

January Kitsuke

After Shigyoshiki and Hatsuyori celebrations took place in the Karyukai, it is time to get back to semi-formal hikizuri and hairstyles. All antique hairpins, expensive obi and luxurious kuromontsuki  are hidden as okiya's precious belongings till special event occurs. Now let's have a look at the kitsuke worn in January by members of Hanafusa okiya

Geiko Kikumaru(blue), Maiko Kikune(shibori black), Maiko Kikushino(shibori red and black) and Geiko Kikutsuru(green)

Geiko Kikutsuru, during January events at Kyoto Kagai sim and outside, will wear solid green semiformal kimono with colorful chrysanthemums, plums,fans and also peonies. Gorgeous piece! Chrysanthemum or Kiku (in Japan) is considered an auspicious flower as well as is the part of names of all Hanafusa okiya members so no wonder that a lot of this flower design is going to be seen on the outfits of Kyoto Kagai members. Why auspicious? Well, this flower is considered auspicious as these flowers bloom when no other flowers do as well as plums. The obi is golden and hold the kimono close. The juban features red plum blossoms and remind us that soon the winter will be over.
Geiko Kikumaru decided on wearing eye-catching semiformal kimono with chrysanthemums and waves on the blue background. The pattern is located under the waist line and is a perfect winter design for a Geiko. It is tied with colorful stripe obi, that was bamboo. Both Kimono and Obi belog to Kikumaur san and were part of the wardrobe ordered for her erikae. Obiage and obijime are of red color and go well with the ume(plum) blossoms on the juban.
On her feet she has Yuki geta with a special cover that is used for winter walks especially duing snowfall. Both covered and uncovered geta can be used during winter, that's why you can see both variants worn by 2 geiko san from Hanafusa okiya.
In the first month of 2020, Maiko Kikune san is wearing black hikizuri made in a shibori style. Most kimonoes created in this style are extremely expensive as it takes months to complete one piece (shibori is a Japanese tie-dying technique, using a variety of techniques in different shapes to make different patterns. Shibori technique dates from the 8th century. Amazing!). The kimono is tied with a green obi, that has golden geometrical design. The green on the obi goes beautifully with the green of the undergarment as well as green hanakanzashi. The Seasonal kanzashi for seniors most often feature pine, bamboo and plums in more subtle, pinkish and beige colors than worn by Juniors.
For January Maiko Kikushino san is wearing black and red hikizuri, made in shibori style (same style as her neesan Kikune). The darari obi has green and gold woven pattern representing bamboo. It goes really nice with the hikizuri! Her eri is also different from her sisters' - some white elements embroidered on the red background symbolizes that she's still a "baby" and a junior Maiko.
As for the hairstyle, it is called Wareshinobu and is decorated with special seasonal kanzashi - Sho Chiku Bai (pine, bamboo and plum).
Kago is red, with Maiko Kikushino's name sewn on it. This special kago was given as a present on the day of her Misedashi.
As Junior Maiko, Maiko Kikune is wearing high okobo but with red stripes

Shigyoshiki Kitsuke of Hanafusa okiya memebers

"Shigyoshiki" refers to the beginning of a new year in Kyoto's five hanamachi or "flower towns". Wearing black formal kimono, called Kuromontsuki, the Geiko and Maiko of the neighborhood renew their vows and visit the local ochaya(teahouses) and important patrons to wish the beginning of a prosperous new year. Many beautiful pieces were spotted and it was decided to write a post that would focus on the formal kitsuke worn during the Shigyoshiki 2020 by Hanafusa Geiko and Maiko

from left to right: Maiko Kikushino, Geiko Kikumaru, Okaasan Kikuyu, Geiko Kikutsuru and Maiko Kikune

For Shigyoshiki 2020 Okaasan Kikuyu has chosen a tomesode. Her tomesode features different elements such as green momiji leaves, matsu, chrysanthemums, pampas grass making this tomesode perfectly fit for the season. This formal maru obi is pink with silver tied carefully into otaiko style knot worn only during formal okasions
Her hair is in Yoohatsu style which basically means "western hairstyle" and made from geikos own hair. It is not as complicating as Maiko san's wareshinobu or ofuku, rather some simplified and mature, yet still need to be done by a professional hairdresser. You can often spot geiko wearing this type of hairstyle during the day or some jikata geiko during the events.
No juban elements are seen and on her feet okaasan is wearing comfortable golden zouri.

Geiko Kikutsuru's Kuromontsuki is one of a kind and has many multi-seasonal and eye-catching motifs that are hand-painted - strong boats fighting the high waves, pine etc. It is tied with golden Darari obi, that not only gives the finishing touch the ensemble but also supports the back of geiko, as the kimono, especially formal kuromontsuki, are extremely heavy. No obijime or pocchiri are worn with formal outfit.
The wig Kikutsuru san is wearing in japanese is called Katsura, and it is styled in Geiko Shimada style. For formal events, kanzashi hairpins that are used for decorating katsura, are made from most precious and luxurious materials, such as tortoiseshell, gold, expensive stones etc. Tortoiseshell kanzashi are most unique and antique as nowadays the craftsmen that work with this material are almost non-existant.

It is first Shyoshiki for Geiko Kikumaru san so as a fresh geiko she is wearing full geiko set with kuromontsuki and oshiroi. Her formal black kimono features tsuru(cranes) flying upon the waves. It is tied with white and golden obi that has fan flower motif. Geiko's obi (apr. 440 cm long) are bit longer than simple women's obi. Also, for geiko's obi, patterns are created upside down, so when it is tied in Geiko Taiko knot, the pattern will have the correct position, facing upwards.
She is wearing a katsura wig, same as her oneesan Geiko Kikutsuru. Kikumaru san has decoraed it with Bekko (tortoiseshell) comb that features mon of Hanafusa okiya, Bekko Kogai at the back and a traditional dove and rice maezashi (worn only a small period of time during January). Though worn by both Maiko and Geiko, these maezashi are placed on different sides of the hairstyle.

During Shigyoshiki guests and patrons could witness Maiko Kikune san for the first time as senior maiko. Her Kuromontsuki has many lucky as well as multi-seasonal motifs that are hand-painted - ox-drawn carriages, chrysanthemums, waves, peonies, plum blossoms, pine, summer grasses etc. It is tied with golden Darari obi, that not only gives the finishing touch the ensemble but also supports the back of maiko, as the kimono, especially formal kuromontsuki, are extremely heavy. No obijime or pocchiri are worn with formal outfit.
Formal wear also means that Senior maiko will change from ofuku hairstyle to Yakko Shimada. This is also first time Kikune san wears this hairtyle. As well as geiko san, Maiko san too are given opportunity of wearing gorgeous and expensive kanzashi - if you look at the hair of Kikutsuru san, you can notice Bekko Kushi (comb) with Hanafusa okiya mon, Bekkou Hirauchi, Jade Tama, special January daikan (front) kanzashi, maezashi with bira oghi and small pin called bira dome. For Shigyoshiki both Junior and Senior maiko wear rice husk maezashi with eyeless dove - rice grains can be given to customers and are considered symbols good luck and fortune

As the youngest maiko in the okiya, Maiko Kikushino san wears most colorful and elaborate kuromontsuki in the okiya. This exact piece features seasonal flowers, leafs as well as many good luck motifs - everything hand-painted on the silk by a skilled master. The obi was carefully selected for this special event as is created with beige and golden silk threads. As junior maiko, she ties obiage cloth on the top of the obi, rather than seniors who tuck it into.
As she is still young maiko, her own hair is styled, even during formal events as Shigyoshiki, into Wareshinobu hairstyle. Decorated with elaborate bekkou kushi, Bekkou Hirauchi with coral Tama, carefully selected maezashi with seasonal hanakanzashi, more colorful than senior maiko. As for the rice husk maezashi with eyeless dove - not only grains bring luck, but also the eyeless dove has its special meaning - maiko or geiko fill in one eye and ask guest/very special person they like to draw the other for good luck in the coming year. This tradition differs from hanamachi to hanamachi, nevertheless it is considered as lucky charm.

December Kitsuke

Dear readers and patrons,
This is last kitsuke post in 2019, next one will be in January 2020. Hanafusa okiya members - Okaasan Kikuyu, Geiko Kikutsuru, Geiko Kikumaru, Maiko Kikune, Maiko Kikushino and Shikomi  Junko hope that the Christmas Holidays and New Year celebrations will bring happiness and joy into your house, and that soon we will meet again in the new 2020 - year of the metal rat.
Now, let's return to the December kitsuke post

Geiko Kikutsuru

Geiko Kikutsuru

Geiko Kikutsuru has chosen beautiful kimono of marsala color and shibori bamboo design at the bottom. Bamboo itself is often associated with winter and symbolizes longevity while shibori is a Japanese tie-dying technique: artist uses a variety of techniques in different shapes to make different patterns. It is tied with light beige obi and features small white and silvery designs.
 The eri(collar) is white, and is the symbol of pureness, femininity and maturity.
As we look at Kikutsuru san's katsura(wig), we will see small yet beautiful silver mazeashi - this small but very stylish hairpin features pampas grass. Light wooden comb is placed in the middle of the wig and gives the finishing touch to whole ensemble.

Geiko Kikumaru

Geiko Kikumaru

In December Kikumaru san will wear light purple kimono with Pine(matsu). This design is associated with New Year and winter itself and symbolizes longevity, steadfastness and wisdom in age. The white and golden obi holds the kimono close and is tied at the back in a Taiko ("drum") knot.
Her juban is light pink and features leaf patterns. Geiko also use red juban but mostly for the formal events where they wear kuromontsuki.
Both Kikutsuru san and Kikumaru san wearing for semiformal events wear wigs styled in Geiko Shimada style also known as Chuu Taka Shimada. This is quite liberating as geiko can sleep on regular pillows as well as wearing western clothes. Maiko can do that too but no when having their hair styled in Ofuku or Wareshinobu.

Maiko Kikune

Maiko Kikune

In December Kikune san will be wearing fabulous green hikizuri with hand-painted matsu or pine tree and snow cloud motifs.
In December all kimonos that maiko san and geiko san wear are linned so to keep the wearer warm during winter coldness.
Her obi is created with golden threads that make a geometrical and flower pattern on lighter background. End of the obi has okiya mon or emblem(as every family in japan, all okiya and yakata in have their own emblems too) which means she comes from this family - Hanafusa okiya.
Her hairstyle is called Ofuku and decorated with seasonal matsu take kanzashi that have 2 blank boards that are signed by kabuki actors during the Kaomise Soken event (you can read more abut event and these kanzashi in this post).

Maiko Kikushino

Maiko Kikushino

In December you can spot Kikushino san wearing hikizuri of regal, deep purple color - a silk masterpiece kept in Hanafusa okiya warderobe. You can see momiji(maple leaf), ougi (fan) and kiku(chrysanthemum). It is held with light beige obi that has leaf design. Both kimono and obi give us feeling of a cold wind that has blown away everything that reminded us of autumn days.
You might have noticed that less and less red is being shown on the Kikushino san's collar. It has been almost 2 years since her debut so no wonder her kitsuke is getting more and more mature.
The juban Kikushino san is wearing has pine needle pattern.
Tabi, worn by maiko, are always white! In case they get dirty or get wet, no need to worry - maiko and geiko always have spare pair or several of those in their kago baskets.

November Kitsuke

Mizuekai odori is over but there is not time to relax on the soft futon - November is here and this means more classes to attend, more ozashiki to hold and events to perform at. Please do not be shy to visit our beautiful sim to enjoy the peak of the fall colors and a sneak peak into the lives of SL Karyukai members.

Hanafusa okiya members posing for photos in their November attires
from left to right: Maiko Kikune(green), Geiko Kikutsuru(beige), Geiko Kikumaru(marsala) and Maiko Kikushino(blue)

For November Geiko Kikutsuru has chosen solid beige kimono with a matsu(pine) design. Perfect kimono for autumn! Her obi is eye catching as it features Japanese giant festival floats appearing from the dark background. Obiage and obijime are of red color and go well with the flowers on the juban.
Geiko Kikumaru: This month you'll be able to see Kikumaru san wearing solid marsala hikizuri with bamboo design. The background of her obi is dark grey and the design on it is of same color as the bamboo on her hikizuri. As for the hair, it is a wig and is decorated with seasonal momiji pin, decorative kushi comb and a red Tama at the back.
Maiko Kikune is wearing a solid green hikizuri with flowery design. You can clearly see branches with chrysanthemums and ume(plum blossoms). Hanafusa okiya also has a sister kimono of this piece, with is specially made for Geiko san and Geiko Kikumaru wore it last month. In her hair she has colorful momiji hanakanzashi, kushi comb and a petite leaf maezashi pin.
Maiko Kikushino: Most colorful of all bunch, Maiko Kikushino chan is wearing beautiful solid blue hikizuri with a bamboo leaf and clams design. If you look closely onto the clams, you'll see red momiji and hexagons painted inside. Her obi is green and has a gold design. Seasonal kanzashi for Junior Maiko san are most eye-catching as they feature many elements and small flowers or leafs.

October Kitsuke

Autumn has fully conquered Kyoto Kagai sim - the trees are now dressed in beautiful brocade of red and orange while grasses have turned into yellowish hay. Maiko and and Geikofrom Hanafusa okiya are quickly walking towards Miyagawacho Kaburenjo theater for Mizuekai rehearsals. Only chrysanthemums, symbols of October, are quietly reigning in gardens and parks.

Maiko and Geiko from Hanafusa okiya posing in their October kitsuke
from left to right:
Maiko Kikune(yellow gradient), Geiko Kikumaru(green), Geiko Kikutsuru(purple) and Maiko Kikushino(pink)

Geiko Kikutsuru this month decided on wearing solid purple semiformal kimono with bamboo and decorative clouds - the pattern is located under the waist line and is a perfect autumn design for a Geiko. It is tied with light silver obi, that was woven maple tree branch. Obiage and obijime are of red color and go well with the momiji leafs on the juban.
Geiko Kikumaru during October events will wear solid green semiformal kimono with colorful chrysanthemums and also peonies. Chrysanthemum or Kiku (in Japan) is the flower of October as well as is the part of names of all Hanafusa okiya members so no wonder that a lot of this flower design is going to be seen on the outfits of Kyoto Kagai members. Also this flower is considered auspicious as these flowers bloom when no other flowers do. The obi is golden and hold the kimono close.
Maiko Kikune's September kitsuke consists of gorgeous gradient hikizuri that has maple leafs hand painted on the lower part the hikizuri, black obi with tucked in obiage and obijime that is holding precious pocchiri. The eri (collar is is white from the embroidery on it yet at the back there still is a red part). Also she has her hairstyle is decorated with seasonal kanzashi that feature the flower of the month - chrysanthemum.
Maiko Kikushino is wearing solid  pink hikizuri with Chrysanthemum and Bell flower hand painted on the precious silk. Although simple, this kimono is one of my favorite ones due to perfect combination of colors.  her hair she has colorful chrysanthemum hanakanzashi, flowerbridge and a petit chrysantemum maezashi pin.

September Kitsuke

Autumn is around the corner yet in Japan, September is considered Summer month. So do not hesitate to visit Kyoto Kagai sim to enjoy the last warm summery days and enjoy the company of Geiko and Maiko from the Hanafusa okiya.
Now lets talk about the September  kitsuke of Hanafusa okiya ladies :)

from right to left: Geiko Kikutsuru(beige), Geiko Kikumaru(black), Maiko Kikune(subtle purple), Maiko Kikushino

Geiko Kikutsuru's semiformal ro kimono for September has gorgeous river and willow design on a beige background. Willow for a long time is associated with Geiko and Maiko world and is a symbol of grace and strength. Green obi with Kikyou(bellflower) design holds the kimono close. Her wig is decorated with Asagao maezashi, kushi made from light wood and jade tama at the back.
Geiko Kikumaru is wearing dark blue ro kimono with a wave design. Kimono made of ro fabric are very popular. You can define it due to its translucent stripes. This very classy way to weave silk is most popular and even wearable for formal occasions so no wonder that some Okiya or Geiko own several of those in their trunks for the summer. It is tied with red hakata obi and white obijime. As any other Geiko, Kikumaru san uses red obiage.
Maiko Kikune has chosen subtle purple ro hikizuri for September. You need to look closely to admire the intricate flowery design. It is tied with black and golden darari obi that goes well with hikizuri. Obiage is tucked into the obi - it is custom in Miyagwacho for their Maiko to start tucking obiage right after becoming Senior. Her hair is styled in Ofuku - Senior Maiko hairstyle and decorated with big Kikyou hanakanzashi, kushi, smaller kikyou maezashi, bira bira kanzashi, hirauchi and jade tama.
Maiko Kikushino, who is the youngest Maiko in the okiya, is wearing deep purple hikizuri with handpainted water flow and momiji leaf design. It is tied with long golden darari obi. Her hair is styled in Wareshinobu - Junior Maiko hairstyle and is decorated with new fashionable seasonal kanzashi(this month it is Kikyou or Chinese bellflower). Flowers of the hanakanzashi are smaller in size but bigger in quantities, her hanagushi(or katsuyama bridge kanzashi) consists of smaller Kikyou flowers and at the back she is wearing Kanakodome and Tachibana pin - these are distinctive details that can tell that it is a Junior Maiko standing before you .

Geiko Kikumaru(black), Geiko Kikutsuru(beige), Maiko Kikushino(purple), Maiko Kikune(subtle purple)
Photo taken at Kyoto Kagai sim: 

August Kitsuke

Mid-August in Kyoto Kagai...Geiko and Maiko from Hanafusa okiya are enjoying a beautiful walk around the sim in their semiformal garments and this means the time has come for our monthly kitsuke post!

P.S. Don't forget about Obon that will take place this weekend, take your friends and family with you as there will be fun for children as well as adults!

from left to right:
Geiko Kikutsuru(green), Maiko Kikushino(navy blue),  Maiko Kikune(pink gradient) and Geiko Kikumaru(beige)
Photo taken at Kyoto Kagai sim(http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Kyoto/147/160/31)

Geiko Kikutsuru is wearing gorgeous green kimono with a bamboo design. Her obi is eye-catching and is a unique piece - it features lit paper lanterns of the Yamaboko floats during Gion Matsuri Festival. Also her juban undergarment has both red and pink, which is also a unique piece. In her hands she's holding a kago basket that has a kawaii golden fish charm hanging from it. On her feet you can notice Rikyu Geta, and not the most commonly worn Atomaru geta. 

Geiko Kikumaru's semiformal outfit for August features waves on the beige background. You can see at the back er kimono has waves hitting the rock design. As she is a fresh Geiko, who had her erikae in the end of the last month, her make up has some pink, less of course than her younger maiko sisters. With time there will be only red and black colors left to apply. As she is now wearing a more mature hairstyle, a wig actually, the decorations are also limited - maezashi at the front, a comb and seasonal tama at the back.

Maiko Kikune, as the most senior maiko in Hanafusa okiya, gets the first pick of newest hikizuri. So for August she is wearing a gradient kimono that goes from pink at the top to blue at the hem - newest creation from the Isomesh kimono shop. Carefully hand-painted water lily design are located on the sleeves and under the waist, reminding us that this piece can only be worn by a senior maiko. Her hair is decorated with newest seasonal kanzashi from the Kisetsu store - beautiful Asagao or Morning Glory.  

Maiko Kikushino is wearing beautiful dark navy hikizuri with fireflies design. It is one of the summer activities - to watch or catch fireflies so there is no wonder that the maker of this kimono wanted to depict this beautiful tradition. Her wareshinobu hairstyle is crowned with silver color flower which actually is pampass grass designed in a way of a flower. It is another seasonal motif for kanzashi apart from Asagao, that is worn mostly by Senior maiko. 

from left to right: Geiko Kikumaru, Maiko Kikune, Maiko Kikushino, Geiko Kikutsuru
Photo taken at Kyoto Kagai sim (http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Kyoto/147/160/31)

June Kitsuke

Ah, Summer in Kyoto Kagai sim...Parks are covered with blooming hydrangea and water irises. The birds are relaxing in the shade of oaks and sycamores. You can undoubtedly feel that every inhabitant of the land is enjoying the summer heat. But Hanafusa Maiko and Geiko have no time for being lazy - you can spot them every day, walking towards their appointments nevertheless they will be happy to greet you and show you around the sim. Apart from traditional weekly events, there will be several special ones that will take place this month: Maiko Kikushino starts her 2nd year as a maiko and her oneesan Maiko Kikumaru begins wearing sakkou. So be sure to visit Kyoto Kagai sim this month :)

from left to right: Maiko Kikushino(purple), Maiko Kikune(white), Maiko Kikumaru(black) and Geiko Kikutsuru

Geiko Kikutsuru: a gorgeous kimono is wont by Geiko Kikutsuru this month - the hem has painted water and irises are growing out of it. The water and the dark background has a cooling effect on the viewers which comes quite in handy during hot summer months in Kyoto. The obi has morning glory flowers on the black and white checked background. It is tied in Otaiko knot at the back and holds the kimono close.
Maiko Kikumaru: the most senior Maiko in Hanafusa okiya has stepped into the last stage of being a Maiko - the Sakkou stage. From 22nd of June till mid/end of July you can spot her wear Sakkou hairstyle and formal kuromontsuki kimono. This signifies that she will continue to be an active member of the Second life Karyukai, which is a good thing as nowadays there are only several active geiko around(2 of which come from the same okiya: Geiko Kikuyu and Geiko Kikutsuru). There is a special post about Maiko Kikumaru's style worn during the Sakkou stage.
Maiko Kikune: this month you can spot Kikune san wearing white hikizuri with fuji(wisteria) design. The light purple color of the wisteria goes perfectly with the Ajisai(hydrangea) kanzashi in her Ofuku hairstyle. The obi is black and has geometrical motif on it.
Maiko Kikushino: the only imouto of Kikumaru san, Maiko Kikushino, is wearing bright gradient hikizuri that has hydrangea, pond and lilies - perfect for summer heat. Her hair is decorated with willow hakanazashi - another  seasonal design, most commonly worn by Junior Maiko. It is also rank appropriate as has now passed her first year as Maiko. I have created a special post that is dedicated to the new looks of Maiko Kikushino as 2nd year Maiko.

May Kitsuke of Hanafusa okiya members

The odori and sakura season is now officially over and the Karyukai returns to it's normal life. Maiko san and Geiko san start taking their lessons again and also more ozashiki are taking place on the Kyoto Kagai sim as well. In a way this May is quite special for Hanafusa okiya but i will later reveal why. As for now, please enjoy reading my post about the May kitsuke of Hanafusa okiya Geiko and Maikos.

Maiko Kikumaru(left) and Geiko Kikutsuru(right) posing in front of a small Shrine

Geiko Kikutsuru
This month you can spot atatori(heiress) of Hanafusa okiya wearing light yellow kimono with iris pattern. Iris or Kakitsubata is the flower of May and you can see many of those all around Japan. Her obi is silver and also has small irises on it. In her hands she is holding a kago bag, in which maiko and geiko carry items that might need during the events, for example spare pair of tabi socks, comb, traditional lipstick, mirror, comb, hanameishi(business cards) etc.
Maiko Kikumaru
This month is very special for Maiko Kikumaru as this month is her pre last one before she becomes geiko. I will write another post precisely about this stage but as you can see now she is wearing crested hikizuri with formal underskirt. Not seen from this angle but her hair i styled in Yakko Shimada hairstyle and she is wearing more expensive type of kanzashi than her younger sisters. Her obi is golden and has a decorative pattern on it. In her hands she is holding a kago bag as well as her oneesan Geiko Kikutsuru.

Maiko Kikushino(left) and Maiko Kikune(right) posing in font of  Maiko Theater

Maiko Kikune
During May you can see Kikune san wearing gorgeous subtle hikizuri with exquisite iris design. It is tied with gold obi with flower pattern on it. Her hairstyle is Ofuku and is decorated with seasonal iris kanzashi that resemble irises on the hikizuri. Since Kikumaru san is soon to become Geiko, Kikune san will have mall of the Senior kimono to choose from. In her hands she is holding a very special kago - the one she was gifted to her on the day of her misedashi.
Maiko Kikushino
The youngest Maiko in the flower bunch of Hanafusa okiya, Maiko Kikushino, is wearing light purple hikizuri with flower fans and leaf design. This kimono gives us a perfect feeling of the spring freshness, the full revival of the nature. It is firmly tied with green darari obi with yellow geometrical design. Her hairstyle is Wareshinobu, the traditional hairstyle of the Junior Maiko, is decorated with another seasonal flower - Fuji or Wisteria. While Iris kanzashi are reserved for senior maiko only, fuji kanzashi can be worn by both juniors and seniors.
It has been almost a year since Kikushino san debuted as maiko and that means that soon possibly we will see her painting her upper lip. Who knows, lets wait and see :)

March Kitsuke

Members of Hanafusa oiya posing in front of Hina Matsuri doll display
(from left: Maiko Kikune, Geiko Kikutsuru, Maiko Kikumaru, Maiko Kikushino and Shikomi Junko)

Geiko Kikutsuru is wearing deep blue kimono with hand-painted plum blossoms. Silver obi accompanies the kimono well and holds kimono close to the body. Coral mezashi decorates her geiko wig.
Maiko Kikumaru is wearing Marsala hikizuri with plum and sakura blossom design hanging upon a water flow. It is tied with long colorful darari obi. Her hair is decorated with Peony hanakanzashi, (another seasonal flower associatated with March).
In March you can see Maiko Kikune wearing subtle hikizuri, that gradates from light yellow at the top to light purple at the bottom. This piece features chou(butterflies), sakura and plum blossoms as well as spring grasses. Obi is made in Hakata style and fits the kimono perfectly. As she s a young Senior Maiko, she is wearing triple hanakanzashi with march seasonal flower - daffodil.
Maiko Kikushino, as the youngest member of the okiya, gets to wear pieces with more childish and lucky designs, such as this hikizuri with has plum blossoms, temari hand balls (mostly associated with Girl's Day) and itomaki (silk-reel bobbin, very spring-ish motif). Her hair is decorated with nanohana (rapeseed flower) hanakanzashi.
Shikomi Junko is wearing salmon color tsukesage with spring flowers (peony, plum blossoms, narcissus etc.). No elaborate hairstyle is worn by shikomi, just simple updos as they need to grow their hair for the future coiffures.

February Kitsuke

Okaasan Kikuyu

Okaasan Kikuyu

During February you can see Geiko Kikuyu attending ozashiki and events wearing gorgeous stripe Marsala kimono.
It is tied with beige nagoya obi that has green and white geometrical pattern.
In her hands she is holding a purse of the same color a her kimono. Kago are mostly used with semiformal geiko and maiko outfits while purses like that with comon, iromuji, tomesode or tsukesage.
On her feet you can see white tabi and zori that are as well of marsala color.

 Geiko Kikutsuru

Geiko Kikutsuru 

Kikutsuru san if fully prepared for the spring, even more - she looks like a plum blossom herself . Her kimono has light pink background and features hand painted ume(plum). Plum Blossom is the first flower to bloom in the spring and is known as the ‘Flower of Peace’. A protective charm against evil, it also represents longevity, renewal and perseverance. How can you Identifiy one? Simply loot at it's petals - they are rounded.
Her eri collar is purely white and is symbol of a mature woman, rather than ones worn by her younger sisters, theirs still feature red color (symbol of youth, childhood).
It is tied with unique obi, that was specially commissioned for her during her erikae. This unique obi features "tsuru" or crane, which not only is part of Kiktsuru san's name (her name means "chrysanthemum crane") but also is a symbol of longevity and good luck because it is thought to have a life span of a thousand years.
On her fet she is wearing special geta called as Senryou geta and are worn only by Geiko san

Maiko Kikumaru

Maiko Kikumaru

This month Maiko Kikumaru will be wearing one of her oneesan's creations - light blue hikizuri with plum blossoms. I would like to mention that blue is a color which represents purity,calmness, stability and cleanliness (purifying blue water). It is considered a feminine color and is often worn by young women.
Her long golden Darari obi is tied in a very special way, worn only by maiko. On the obi you can spot a belt called obijime, which ties one of the most expensive objects worn by maiko - the pocchiri. These are made of incredibly fine materials such as gold and diamonds or emeralds, as well as very detailed enamel workmanship and are extremely expensive.
In her hands she is holding pink kago made from chirimen silk. In this small "bag" Maiko have everything they might need during ozashiki - Maioughi (dance fan), spare pair of tabi socks, special comb in case maiko san need to adjust her hair, maiko lipstick, white powder and, of course, meishi (business cards).
Her hair is made into Ofuku hairstyle and is decorated with seasonal plum blossom kanzashi.

Maiko Kikune

Maiko Kikune

In February you can see maiko Kikune in gorgeous red hikizuri with eye-catching design  -waves are carrying maple leafs, chrysanthemums and peonies almost like preparing the earth for the new flowers and leafs that will be born in spring.
Her obi is called Darari Obi and is almost 7 meters long and it is tied in way that it's ends are hanging down. This is done so to show the small stature of maiko as during previous centuries maiko san were children. Nowadays maiko san are between 15 and 20 years old, and erikae often take place when they are about 21.
Since January her hair is styles into Ofuku hairtyle and decorated with senior maiko kanzashi, which are more simple and mature. In February her hair is decorated with seasonal triple ume hanakanzashi at the front and a simple kushi comb at the back.

As she is senior maiko now, the stripes on her okobo are of pink color. As she progresses through her career as a maiko, she will be able to use blue, green, yellow and other colored stripes.

Maiko Kikushino

Maiko Kikushino

Maiko Kikushino looks so young and fresh, truly she's little spring flower. At the moment she is the youngest member of Hanafusa okiya, yet during this spring it will be 1 year since she has debuted. Hikizuri worn by her has a soft white background with little colorful plum blossoms on it. You can see that though maiko wear. As you can see, hikizuri with plum blossoms can be worn both by maiko and geiko of any rank, it mostly depends on the design. The more junior the maiko is, the more childish design will be on the hikizuri. Geiko and Senior maiko will wear smaller, mature and  more sophisticated designs
Her Obi is decorated with marvelous woven golden ornaments, that really suits the plum flowers on the hikizuri.
her juban is red and features spring flower pattern
As Junior Maiko, Maiko Kikushino, as well as her maiko neesan Maiko Kikune and oneesan Kikumaru, is wearing high okobo but with red stripes.

January Kitsuke

Geiko Kikuyu

Starting from the 2019 Kikuyu san has decided to switch to more natural looks and wearing oshiroi and trailing kimono only during special events and odori.
Now, during January okaasan Kikuyu has chosen to wear homongui of peach color, with a camellia and plum blossoms design. It is tied with woven golden obi that has bamboo and momiji leafs and small plum blossoms.
Her hairstyle is called Yōhatsu which literally means “Western Style” as it is modeled on Western up do's. It is decorated with stylish miniature kushi kanzashi at the back. Very refined!

Geiko Kikutsuru

Geiko Kikutsuru has chosen to wear gradient pink kimono with winter-spring motif: ume blossoms, pine, bamboo leafs. It is tied with elegant navy blue obi with snowflake design, blossoms and more bamboo.
Her juban is pink and features blossom pattern. Geiko also use red juban but mostly for the formal events where they wear kuromontsuki.
She is wearing a wig, styled in Geiko Shimada style also known as Chuu Taka Shimada. This is quite liberating as geiko can sleep on regular pillows as well as wearing western clothes. Maiko can do that too but no when having thier hair styled in Ofuku or Wareshinobu.

Maiko Kikumaru

Great news! On January 1st Kikumaru san has started second part of the last stage being maiko. This means that very very soon we might celebrate another erikae in Hanafusa okiya. Omedetou san dosu!

In January Kikumaru san will be wearing dark blue hikizuri with hand-painted plum tree and bamboo leafs covered in snow design. A truly winter masterpiece! Her obi has white background with golden "turtle" hexagon pattern known as kikko. "Kikko" pattern is symbol of longevity and is an auspicious pattern. It can be often seen on misedashi and erikae kuromontsuki ensembles.
As senior maiko, she continues to wear Ofuku hairstyle, decorated with seasonal kanzashi. This month kanzashi feature bamboo leafs, plum blossoms and pine needles. The only change is that from now on she can switch the cloth in the back of her hair into blue and green colors.

Maiko Kikune

Great news! Maiko Kikune is now Senior Maiko! Omedetou san dosu!

Starting from January Kikune san has switched her red eri collar and wareshinobu hairstyle of Junior to the white embroidered eri and ofuku hairstyle of Senior Maiko. In January she will wear solid purple hikizuri with pine trees, snowflakes and plum blossoms painted onto the silk.
As well as changing from junior to senior hairstyle, she has also changed kanzashi to more mature  ones. As she is a fresh "senior" maiko her tegara at the back of her hairstyle is red. After one year she will switch to pink and during final months of being a maiko she will be able to wear other colors as well.

Maiko Kikushino

Bright blue hikizuri worn by Maiko Kikushino reminds us that winter is in its peak - her hikizuri has hand painted peony flowers(a winter flower). Peony is the symbol wealth, high honor (nobility) and ageless beauty. They also embody romance and love, and are regarded as the omen of good fortune. Peony is known as the ‘King of the Flowers’.
Her darari is feature abstract geometrical golden motif on it.
Hairstyle of Maiko Kikutsuru is called Wareshinobu (special hairstyle that maiko start wearing when the become minarai until they are senior) and is decorated with special colorful January kanzashi.

December Kitsuke

Dear readers and patrons,

This is last kitsuke post in 2018, next one will be in January 2019. Although this has been a hard year, i feel sad that it is ending. I hope that the Christmas Holidays and New Year celebrations will bring happiness and joy into your house, as well as a wish to meet You in the new 2019 year.

Now, let's return to the December kitsuke post.

From left to right: Maiko Kikune, Maiko Kikumaru, Geiko Kikutsuru, Maiko Kikushino

Geiko Kikutsuru
It has been almost 2 months since Kikutsuru san has become geiko, and she is feeling more and more confident in her mature role. For November she wears black kimono with a matsu(pine) design. Her obi is eye catching as it features Japanese scenery with pagoda and a forest. If you look very close you can even see people.
Maiko Kikumaru
In the final month of 2018, Kikumaru san is wearing black hikizuri made in a shibori style. Most of the kimono made in this style are extremely expensive as it takes months to complete one piece. The kimono is tied with a green obi, that has golden geometrical design. The green on the obi goes beautifully with the green of the undergarment as well as green hanakanzashi. The Seasonal kanzashi for seniors most often feature pine, bamboo and most important - 2 small maneki boards.
Maiko Kikune
As her older sister, the kimono of Maiko Kikune features shibori motif such as butterfly as well as white snow on the black silk background. Obi is of bright orange color and golden design goes all over it. The kanzashi worn by maiko  Kikune during this month feature many good luck motifs as well as 2 maneki boards. This style is more for junior maiko.
Maiko Kikushino
Another shibori masterpiece is worn by Maiko Kikushino - very vivid red with is associated with youth on a black background. The obi that is holding the kimono closely has a green background with beautiful golden bamboo design. The kanzashi are the same as worn by her neesan, Maiko Kikune and have many lucky charms and winter holiday items(hagoita).