Cooking apron - Kappogi

An outerwear designed to prevent the sleeves of Japanese clothing from getting in the way, to prevent the kimono from getting dirty, and to make cooking and housework easier. It is also called a cooking apron. It has long sleeves that fit the sleeves, and the cuffs are elasticated, covering the front and tying with a string attached to the back. It reaches slightly below the knee and has a square or V-shaped collar. It is made of durable and washable fabrics such as calico, broadcloth, gingham, and cotton-synthetic blends. It is mainly white, with light solid colors and fine patterns, and some have frills, fabric lace, and edging. It was designed by incorporating a Western-style apron and spread as work wear. It became popular in the Showa era, and became the uniform of the National Defense Women's Association when it was formed in 1932 (Showa 7). It became popular among rural women as professional clothing for cafe waitresses and also as farm workwear.

[Kazuko Okano]

Source: Shogakukan Encyclopedia Nipponica About Encyclopedia Nipponica Information | Legend

和服の袖(そで)がじゃまにならないように、また着物の汚れを防いで、調理、家事労働がしやすいようにと考えられた上っ張り。割烹前掛けともいう。袂(たもと)が収まるぐらいの筒袖で、袖口はゴムで絞り、前面を覆い、後ろ身頃(みごろ)についた紐(ひも)でしばる。丈は膝(ひざ)よりやや下まであり、衿(えり)は角型やV型など。布地はじょうぶで洗濯のきくキャラコ、ブロード、ギンガム、木綿と化繊の混紡ものなど。色は白を主とし、薄色無地、細かい柄物などで、フリル、布レース、縁取りなどをつけたものもある。洋風のエプロンを取り入れて考案され、労働着として広まった。昭和に入ってから流行し、1932年（昭和7）国防婦人会結成のとき、そのユニフォームとなった。カフェーの女給の職業服として、また農作業着としても農村の婦人の間に浸透した。

［岡野和子］

出典　小学館　日本大百科全書(ニッポニカ)日本大百科全書(ニッポニカ)について　情報 | 凡例