Japanese clothing

[Jennifer Kubenka]

Okay, all you learned sages out there....

I've done my research on historical Japanese clothing....I've read 
the books, I've found a basic kimono pattern that, while NOT 
authentically period, can be modified into something period.

However, using my modern fabric store, Hancocks, Cloth World, 
Walmart, what types of patterned fabrics could be suitable for making 
something "periodish"?

and no, Archibald and I are not changing personae; we are, however, 
taking Japanese through SMU, and were thinking of making an attempt 
at basic Japanese garb for the Brad Leah event on April 5-7.

I am at a loss here, and running out of sewing time, so any helpful 
responses would be much appreciated.

Emher, in Dallas, but wouldn't you know even the Hamon Fine Arts 
Library has very little on historical Japanese art, clothing, or 
culture?