OHM Gnomes live in many different countries with different cultures, just like humans. One thing that Gnomes all over the world have in common is their red pointy hats. This OHM Gnome couple is from Japan.

Our OHM Gnomes are wearing the best known traditional fashion in Japan: the kimono (which literally translates as “something to wear”). Japanese kimonos are wrapped around the body, often in many layers, secured in place with sashes, ties, and a wide cloth belt called an “obi”. There are kimono schools specifically built to teach all these multiple steps and layers of wearing the kimono properly. Originally, kimonos were made of hemp or linen. Today, silk is considered the ideal fabric for a kimono.

GNOME CHAN - In feudal Japan, women of higher social status covered their bodies from collarbone to feet, with long sleeves to hide even their fingertips. Today, kimonos are worn for weddings, tea ceremonies, New Years, and graduation celebrations, as well as “coming of age” ceremonies for young ladies.

The suffix “Chan” is the more personal and affectionate form of the Japanese term of respect “San”. Chan is used for a close female friend, family member, or even a lover, especially if they are cute or lovable. GNOME CHAN is certainly cute and lovable. She is wearing a beautiful silk kimono decorated with plum blossoms called “ume”. These blossoms symbolize elegance and loyalty and they bloom in Spring, just before the cherry blossoms. She has woven these delicate flowers into her hair as well.

GNOME CHAN is kneeling in the Japanese posture of respect called “seiza” (kneeling on the floor with legs folded underneath). Her “obi” sash is tied into an elaborate series of folds in back. The Japanese say there are five hundred ways to tie an obi and often a beautiful obi can cost more than the kimono itself.