About Fashion in Japan

In recent years, Japan has showcased some of the world's most unique fashion trends and styles. Though influenced by traditional and Western-style clothing, many of the styles are likely to be found only in Japan.

Harajuku

Harajuku-style fashion is popular among teenagers and young adults. The style consists of mixing and matching clothes to suit what you think looks best on you or just for a look you like. Mismatching is acceptable and layers and a plethora of accessories are common. Hair and makeup are often dramatic or even theatrical. Brand-name clothing is becoming more popular, but Harajuku is still mostly a do-it-yourself style.

Gothic Lolita

The Gothic Lolita style is a mix of Victorian with the Western goth subculture style along with clothing that porcelain dolls are often dressed in. Basic colors are black and white or pastel colors with white trim. Despite the "Lolita" in the name, Gothic Lolita is meant to be a frilly, sweet and innocent look. It is very modest and has nothing to do with the Western notion of "Lolita."

Kogal

The kogal look is characterized by conspicuously brand-name items, along with dyed blond hair, fake tans and sometimes large amounts of makeup. It is thought to have been inspired by the stereotypical California "valley girl" look.

Cosplay

Cosplay is "costume play," which is essentially dressing up as a character from a movie, musical group, comic book or cartoon. Most often seen in Tokyo on the weekends, it is very popular with teens and young adults. Costumes can be bought in the shopping districts but are just as often homemade.

General

Overall trends for Japanese women are platform shoes for younger women and mules for those who are in the mature age ranges. Pale pink is a very popular shade for clothing, and dark denim is the most common. Scarves are the favored accessory, along with sling-style purses. Hair is often dyed a coppery red shade.

References

• Harajukustyle.net : Dress Harajuku Style
• Japaneselifestyle.com : Kogal
• Japanesefashion.net : Japanese Female Fashion

Resources

• Japaneselifestyle.com : Gothic Lolita
• Japaneselifestyle.com : Cosplay