PERSPECTIVE: Red/White (paneled) Obi

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This one is going to rankle some folks and that is ok because this is about facts and accuracy and attention to details. If I am wrong, let me know in the comments. 

I quote the following from one Judo source, i.e., “Around 1930, the Kodokan created a new belt (‘obi’) to recognize the special achievements of high ranking black belts.

Jigoro Kano chose to recognize sixth, seventh, and eighth degree black belts with a special obi made of alternating red and white panels (kōhaku obi - literally translated as ‘red and white belt’). The white color was chosen for purity, and red for the intense desire to train and the sacrifices made. The colors red and white are an enduring symbol of Japan, and they have been used in Judo since Jigoro Kano started the first Red and White Tournament in 1884. - http://www.sandokai.co.uk/pages/info/yudansha/red-white-kohaku-belt.php

The selection of red-and-white colored belts to distinguish the highest ranks may have also been based on a simple cultural preference … Japanese typically divide groups into red and white sides, based on a pivotal historical event, the Genpei War - a dispute between two rival clans, the Genji and Heike. The Genji used white flags to identify their troops on the battlefield, while the Heike used red flags.

The ‘kōhaku’ [紅白]: red and white; colors for festival or auspicious occasions; red and white singing contest; first character means ‘crimson; deep red,’ the second means, ‘White,’ obi is often worn for special occasions, but it is not required to be worn at any specific time and the black belt remains the standard obi for all the dan grade ranks.”

It then is easily understood that the red/white paneled obi is similar to the special titles like “kyoshi or hanshi” that are honorary and not used in general thus used in very special circumstances with more emphasis on its use as a symbol rather than a worn means in the dojo or seminar or tournament, etc. 

Visualize the paneled obi as similar in nature and usage as the tuxedo cumberband, worn only on those appropriate special occasions. Does one wear a tuxedo to go to work? Does one wear a tuxedo at a special dinner engagement (like a seminar or tournament)?

For reference and sources and professionals go here: Bibliography (Click the link)