noun
formal black kimono with hem designs for married women
A formal kimono worn by married women at ceremonial occasions such as weddings. Typically black with five family crests and a design along the lower skirt.
結婚式では、新郎新婦の母親は黒留袖を着ることが多い。
At weddings, the mothers of the bride and groom often wear black tomesode.
留袖は既婚女性の第一礼
Tomesode is the most formal attire for married women.
From 留め (tome, 'fastened') + 袖 (sode, 'sleeve'), referring to the shorter, sewn-shut sleeves that distinguish it from the long, swinging sleeves of unmarried women's kimono.