black formal kimono with hem designs; married woman's ceremonial kimono
A formal black kimono worn by married women at ceremonies such as weddings. It features five family crests and a design along the hem.
At weddings, the mothers of the bride and groom often wear a kurotomesode.
The kurotomesode is the most formal attire for married women.
Compound of 黒 (kuro, 'black') + 留袖 (tomesode, 'a kimono with shortened sleeves'). The term tomesode refers to the style where the sleeves are sewn shorter, indicating a married woman.