The proper way to wear a yukata is not necessarily obvious. The left side of the yukata is wrapped over the right side, and an obi (belt) is used to keep the yukata from falling open when worn in public. In private, as after a bath, the yukata is usually simply belted. Also, a type of thonged wooden sandal called geta is usually worn with the yukata.

Yukata are light summer kimono worn by both men and women. Yukata obi are frequently more colourful and may be made of a variety of fabrics. Some men's yukata obi are similar to or the same as kimono obi, while others feature decorative tassels or are made of very wide strips of cotton which are gathered at the ends and are tied loosely around the waist and secured with a bow at the back.