Each morning, a Maiko will rise and begin applying the traditional apprentice make-up.  A thick white base is applied from the forehead down to the collar bone, and the entire neck is painted, except for hairline near the nape of the neck.  The skin shown is to accentuate the mask-like facade the geisha is trying to create.  By revealing a glimpse of the skin under the heavy base suggests one's innocence and sensuality, driving the patrons' imagination wild!  The mouth is also partially painted a bright red hue to create a pouting effect.

Once a week, the Maiko visits with a hairdresser trained in the style of the Split Peach (the traditional style for young Maikos.)  The hair is oiled and synthetic pieces are sewn in creating a thicker and fuller head of hair.  It is then pulled tightly back into the shape of a split peach, hence the name the style.  It is said that the peach symbolizes the Maiko's vagina, with it's cleft and reddish tint, implying one's innocence and virginity.

    A Maiko will typically dress in a brightly colored kimono, red collar, and obi worn high on the bust to give a childlike look.  The art of waking with the toes pointed inwards must be mastered for the kimono to flow and properly display its beauty and design.

    Once the Maiko has completed her apprenticeship and is ready to become a geisha, the process is called the "Turning of the Collar."  Reason being that the once worn red collar of the Maiko will now be turned over to a white collar.  Now, the geisha's style is much more elegant than that of a Maiko's.  Little make-up is worn, hair is kept in a bun, and only subdued colored kimonos are worn.