Gothic clothing emerged from the Early Gothic and Late Gothic periods. Early Gothic costumes (1200 to 1350) were flowing and elegant, whereas Late Gothic fashions (1350 to 1450) became stiff and more defined. Gothic clothing colors resembled gemstone hues in shades of vermilion, green, gold, blue, red, amber and brown. Ancient Goths were dramatic and intense in their style, featuring a never gaudy, refined twist.
Modern goth culture takes much of its inspiration from the 18th and 19th century romantic gothic literature. Often seen as a reaction to industrialization, gothic and romantic novels were full of references to medieval times. Original gothic culture was associated with The Goths, who lived in Northern Europe and fought the Roman Empire. Through this, the term gothic became associated with barbarian culture and, before the romantic revival, was applied to a type of architecture at the end of the medieval period. You can take influences from all of these historical times to create authentic ancient gothic hairstyles.
The Japanese have long been recognized for their intricate fashion sense and genetically pin-straight hair, which has paved the way for creating some iconic traditional hairstyles. Japanese children aren't exempt from this trend and there are a number of unique hairstyles to prove it.
The many trends and fashion movements of Japan mean that it is a rich source of inspiration for hairstyles. You can choose a Japanese hairstyle to suit every taste, style and budget, from the classically elegant to the edgiest styles around. A few distinct styles can be easily imitated and worn by Americans.
Japan is the perfect source of inspiration for anyone looking for fashion with an edge. There are numerous trends at any one time in Japan and many subcultures of Japanese people, all with varying types of dress and hairstyles. Japanese hairstyle trends are all about individuality--a little imagination and some unusual inspiration are all that is required to create an edgy Japanese hairstyle.
Modern-day Japanese hairstyles represent a broad range of traditional and contemporary influences. From the short, spiky and layered look of a teenage Asian pop star to the layered look of a successful businesswoman, modern-day Japanese hairstyles vary greatly. Short, medium-length and long-haired styles are all popular, with trends including short and curly, layered and straight cuts.
Many Japanese hairstyles require special cuts, bleaching or other major alterations that make it difficult to quickly change styles. However, there are a few hairstyles from Japan that you can create quickly, when the mood strikes–no cutting required. Some of the following options are good for everyday, but others are best for special occasions, such as a costume party, or just for fun.
Japanese hairstyles have undergone many changes throughout the nation's history--hairstyles varied with cultural influence and between different socio-economic classes. Traditional Japanese hairstyles varied from the topknot of the samurai to the elaborate hairstyles of the geisha to the long, flowing hair of ancient nobility. Japanese hairstyles were often dictated by Imperial or shogun mandate.
Japanese men and women enjoy the fastest growing hair, according to Loreal Hair Science--which helps those Asians who want long, punky Japanese hairstyles, like the mullet or a rockabilly look. Asymmetrical cut and color are emphasized more than length when Japanese choose the Harajuku hairstyle, but all three types can sport wild colors, bangs and unique cuts and shapes.
Japanese women with long flowing dark hair may not choose to keep this way. Infusing drama into modern Japanese hairstyles allows creativity to mold a hairstyle fueled by the culture of the east and the influences of the west. Pencil-straight hair and elaborate geisha styles have given way to flowing curls, heavy bangs and anime-inspired hair-dos.
Although they feature prominently in video games, manga cartoons and anime movies, real Japanese women often have hairstyles as different and versatile as their 2-D counterparts. Trendsetting Japanese pop stars and fans alike sport funky, artistic hair that suits both female and male fashionistas. Some styles require a commitment of dyeing or cutting the hair, while you may achieve others with just a few products from the cabinet.
Japanese hairstyles for girls are somewhat similar to punk styles in America, using sharp angles, distinctive bangs and bright colors to emphasize the hairstyle. Although the base color can range from platinum blonde to chestnut brown, the most famous base color has always been jet black. The bold color compliments the equally bold style, and the two go hand in hand when creating a famous Japanese hairstyle.
Asian men's hairstyles are known for being extreme, creative and cutting edge. Japan, with its fast-paced culture, is a hotbed for contemporary men's hairstyles. Color, texture and razored edges are just a few ways that men in Japan take hair care and grooming to the next level. From punk to goth to softer, more conservative looks, Japan has a variety of hairstyles for men to choose from.
Popular Japanese fashion is often fragmented into many sub-genres or sub-fashions. Gothic fashion is no exception. There are many different types of Japanese Gothic fashion. However, hairstyles from different Japanese popular fashions can be used as part of a Gothic look.
Extremely straight hair, a blunt cut and "piecey" bangs are staples of Japanese hairstyles. Most Japanese men and women have naturally straight hair, and they use it to their advantage by letting it flow loose. Elaborate bangs and fringes give hair personality and style. Anime cartoon characters are also a major inspiration for these styles. Male and female hairstyles are very similar, with men's hair usually a few inches shorter than women's hair.