裾模様

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 裾模様 (reading すそもよう) is a noun for a pattern or decoration placed along the lower hem of a kimono or other long garment.
• Basic usage: It describes a wave design at a kimono hem or an artisan adjusting the colors of that design on each garment.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Location defines the term
  • 模様 is a pattern generally; 裾模様 narrows it to a design positioned at the lower 裾.
• Not an all-over pattern
  • It refers to decoration composed around the hem rather than a pattern repeated across the entire fabric.