The word "yukata" (浴衣) literally means bath clothes. It comes from the word "yu" (bath) and "katabira" (under clothing).
Yukata is widely worn in ryokan (Japanese traditional inns). First time I wore yukata is also at a Japanese traditional inn. Though the yukata was not that eye catching as what I can see at the summer events, such as firework displays and bon-odori festivals.
Yukata is mainly made of light weight cotton with different pattern designs and colors. The left side of the yukata should be wrapped over the right side. A wider belt called obi (ribbon) should put around the waist. There are many different ways to tie the ribbon. To be lazy, you can even go for a already-tied ribbon. For the whole look, a pair of wooden sandals (geta) is important.
Bright color such as pink and yellow is always popular for yukata. However, this year, dark colors seem more popular. No doubt that this is a new trend, and even black yutaka is widely worn. It gives a new of classic and modern fusion.
