Machiko

$460

SOLD

Features:

• Countless hours have gone into this young lady - most of them researching kimono and maiko (apprentice geisha), figuring out the best pattern to use for the kimono, as well as tracking down authentic materials and supplies. All that is in addition to the 30 or so hours of actual work. This creation is not intended as an authentic version of a Maiko, rather, I have taken traditional styles elements and mixed them with my modern, quirky, Western aesthetic.
• Formerly a 'Smasheroo' reproduction Twist n Turn Barbie.
• Rerooted with 'Midnight Black' KatSilk saran hair, styled in themanner of the traditional katsura (wigs). Assorted Kanzashi (traditional hair ornaments, imported from Japan) adorn her hair.
• Complete facial repaint with artist-quality acrylics, sealed for protection. Finished with applied lashes.
• Kimono is made from a vintage girl's rayon kimono and is full of traditional Japanese motifs. Due to the limited amount of this fabric that I was able to purchase, this will be the only time it is used in a kimono. It is partially lined with a rayon chirimen, and features two faux collars and faux inner sleeves of the same chirimen, to give the illusion of a second kimono underneath, as it's traditonal to wear layers of kimono. When sewing in 1/6 scale, this would add too much extra bulk of fabric.
• To wear the kimono, Barbie had her waist padded (from what I have read, the preferred shape for Japanese women is a non-curvy form), then the kimono was carefully tied into position according to traditional methods which have been slightly adapted. The kimono is full length - you can just make out the oshashori (he fold at the waist in women's kimono to bring them up to the correct length) below the obi. Due to the complex nature of dressing the kimono, the obi has been sewn closed, to discourage undressing - it is not advised to remove it, except for archival purposes. Care should be taken not to pull hard/tug on the kimono, especially the bottom hem area.
• The obi is made from a synthetic/metallic mix and was also imported from Japan. Itis lined with a silk dupioni. The purple obijime is worn in the top third of the obi, as befitting a young woman. A silk shibori obiage is tucked into the top of the obi and peeks out alluringly, again as befitting a young woman (as a woman ages, the obi-age is tucked further and further in).
• Turquoise repro bow shoes adorn her feet.