all about kimono and yukata

There are styles of Japanese kimono for various occasions, ranging from extremely formal to very casual. The level of formality of women’s kimonos is determined mostly by the pattern and fabric, and also the color. The choice of which type of kimono to wear is laden with symbolism and subtle social messages.

The specific choice relates to the woman’s age and marital status, and the level of formality of the occasion. In descending order of formality:

Furisode:
furisode literally translates as swinging sleeves - the sleeves of furisode average between 39 and 42 inches in length. Furisode are the most formal kimonos for unmarried women. They have patterns that cover the entire garment, and are usually worn at coming-of-age ceremonies (Seijin Shiki) and by unmarried female relatives of the bride at weddings and wedding receptions.

Kurotomesode:
a black kimono patterned only below the waistline, kurotomesode are the most formal kimonos for married women. They are often worn by the mothers of the bride and groom at a wedding. Kurotomesode usually have five kamon printed on the sleeves, chest and back of the kimonos.

Irotomesode:
a single-color kimono, patterned only below the waistline. Irotomesode are slightly less formal than kurotomesode, and are worn by married women, usually close relatives of the bride and groom at a wedding. An irotomesode may have three or five kamon.

Homongi:
literally translates as visiting wear. Characterized by patterns that flow over the shoulders, seams and sleeves, homongi rank slightly higher than their close relative, the tsukesage. Homongi may be worn by both married and unmarried women; often friends of the bride will wear homongi at weddings and receptions. They may also be worn to formal parties, such as galas.

Iromuji:
single-colored kimonos that may be worn by married and unmarried women. They are mainly worn to tea ceremonies. The dyed silk may be figured (rinzu, similar to jacquard), but has no differently colored patterns.

Komon:
fine pattern in English. Kimonos with a small, repeated pattern throughout the garment. Somewhat casual: may be worn around town, or dressed up with a nice obi for a restaurant. Both married and unmarried women may wear komon.

credits to :

http://kimono.sighvogue.com/japanese-kimono-styles.html