Japanese clothing underwent a dramatic transformation during the Meiji period (1867–1912) following the 1868 Meiji Restoration, which ended centuries of isolation and propelled the nation towards Westernization. Western-style fashion, or yōfuku, was first mandated for government officials in 1872 and quickly became associated with modernity, industrialization, and high status, often enhanced by new synthetic dyes like purple and red. Despite this, the general public initially resisted, with many preferring traditional kimono (wafuku) for daily wear, especially women, though gradual adoption led to phases like Bunmei kaika (1868–1883) and Rokumeikan (1883–1890s) where Western styles grew in popularity among men. However, a nativist revival in the 1890s saw the kimono re-established as Japan's primary dress for most, with yōfuku largely relegated to uniforms, formal wear, and specific male professional roles.