Edo Period

The 15th and 16th centuries saw the common people becoming the principal standard bearers of Japanese fashion and clothing designs.

The demand of luxurious fabrics in the country plummeted during this period, mainly because of a series of disastrous harvests. Instead of succumbing when the capital was moved from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, the Nishijin silk industry found its adrenaline. Exhibiting their desire to preserve the craft, Nishijin weavers adapted advanced Western weaving technology into the fold. And towards the end of the period, their industry was stronger than ever, being able to produce luxurious Nishijin-style textiles and cheap machine-produced fabrics at the same time. Thus, the birth of Nishijin-Ori.

Also well-used during the era were hemp, ramie, and cotton. Up until the widespread cultivation and domestic manufacture of cotton in the 18th century, common folks made use of hemp and ramie as their main fibers. Yarn-dyed cotton fabrics and other dyestuff manufactures were also in demand during that time, with indigo and safflower being the more popular dyes. The Tsujigahana textiles, considered to be the peak of Japanese textile arts, depicted historical changes of the country.