Kimono and obi are adorned with various patterns.
The meaning of these patterns is truly profound and fascinating.

"Seigaiha" (Waves in a blue ocean)

Seigaiha literally refers to a pattern of continuous waves, like ocean waves.
It is said that this pattern originated in ancient Persia, passed through China, and then came to Japan.

One theory suggests that this name comes from its use in the costumes for "Seigaiha," a form of gagaku (ancient court music and dance) performed during celebrations at shrines and the imperial court.

Given the name "Seigaiha," meaning "blue ocean" and "waves,"
I believe many people associate it with "summer."

However, since it is a stylized wave design, it is a pattern that can be worn year-round,
without much regard for the season.

The meaning embedded in "Seigaiha"

Waves endlessly come and go...

From its endlessness, it expresses a wish for "eternity."

What desires for eternity does it represent? Perhaps "longevity," "happiness," or "peace."

There is one more important element to this.

That is, "gentle waves."

Seigaiha is a pattern that wishes for gentle, eternal happiness.

When it comes to wave paintings, what generally comes to mind is

Katsushika Hokusai's "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji: The Great Wave off Kanagawa."

I believe this is the case.
Overseas, it is sometimes called "The Big Wave" and is said to be the most famous ocean painting.

A life like these powerful and dynamic waves would also be powerful, but

What is depicted on kimono is a "wish."

So that the next generation can live more abundantly,
and more happily than now.

Parents and grandparents wish for the happiness of their descendants.

The Japanese national costume, "kimono," is a message card from our ancestors to us.