1. What Is a Kimono?: A kimono is a traditional, T-shaped wrapped garment from Japan with long, sweeping sleeves that reaches all the way down to the ankles.

2. The Meaning of the Name: In Japanese, the word kimono literally translates to "thing to wear" (ki means wear, and mono means thing)!

3. Wrapped and Secured: Instead of buttons or zippers, kimonos are wrapped snugly around the body left-over-right and held tightly in place by a wide, gorgeous sash called an obi.

4. Art You Can Wear: Traditional kimonos are stunning works of art; many are made of silk and are painstakingly hand-painted or embroidered with beautiful nature scenes like cherry blossoms, waterfalls, and cranes.

5. Special Outfits for Big Events: While people in Japan used to wear kimonos every day, today they are mostly saved for super special celebrations like weddings, graduations, and traditional festivals (matsuri).

6. Stepping in Wooden Shoes: To complete a traditional kimono outfit, people often wear split-toe socks called tabi and step into raised wooden sandals called geta or zori.

7. A Family Heirloom: Because authentic handmade kimonos are so gorgeous and expensive, families often pass them down lovingly from parents to children as treasured family heirlooms.