Japanese Fashion (or J-Fashion) is known for its bold, colorful looks! From Gyaru to Kawaii, we explore the Top 5 Most Popular Japan Fashion Styles!
So, what are the 5 Most Popular Japanese Fashion Styles?
Japanese fashion offers a plaethora of styles that come and go. Here are the Top 5 most influential fashion trends that are coming straight from Japan:
Now, let's explore in detail what it's all about!
1. Kawaii Fashion: So loveable you just can't resist!
Kawaii Fashion: Definition
In Japanese, Kawaii (かわいい or 可愛い) simply means "Loveable".
In other words, it means anything cute and adorable!
Kawaii fashion is a Japanese style characterized by its cute and playful aesthetic, has gained widespread popularity around the world in recent years.
From oversized sweatshirts and t-shirts with cartoon characters to pastel-colored dresses and skirts, there are a variety of ways to incorporate kawaii elements into your wardrobe.
Here are some of the different styles of kawaii fashion.
Kawaii Outfits Inspo
2. Lolita Fashion: Dress Cute as a Doll!
Lolita Fashion: Definition
The Lolita Fashion style, which originated in Japan in the late 1980s, is characterized by its Victorian-inspired dresses and skirts with puffy sleeves and full skirts.
Lolita fashion often incorporates doll-like, girly and childlike elements, such as bows, ribbons, and lace.
The goal of Lolita fashion is to look like a beautiful antique porcelain doll, and it can be either on the darker side, like the Gothic Lolita style, or on the softer side, like Pink Lolita.
Lolita Outfits Inspiration
3. Gyaru Fashion: Glam Style in Shibuya
Gyaru Fashion: Definition
Gyaru fashion, which means "Gal" in Japanese, is a style that originated in the 1990s and is characterized by its glamorous and edgy aesthetic.
It often involves bold makeup, fake tan, and bleached hair. Gyaru fashion can range from casual to formal, with a focus on trendy clothing and accessories.
Many Japanese fashion magazines, such as Egg, were considered the bible for Gyaru style, featuring the most popular models, singer and students who greatly influencend Gal fashion.
Gals and Gyarus also had their own Anime, Super Gals, following the adventures of the cute but rebellious Ran Kotobuki in the Shibuya district!
Gyaru / Gal Outfit Inspo
4. Decora Fairy Kei Fashion: Playful Childhood Memories
Decora Fairy Kei Fashion: Definition
Fairy Kei fashion, which originated in Japan in the 1990s, is characterized by its colorful and playful aesthetic. It can be considered a mix between Kawaii and Kidcore styles.
It often involves pastel colors, bold patterns, and cute accessories such as bows and stuffed animals. Fairy Kei fashion is inspired by 1980s pop culture, such as cartoons and video games.
Fairy Kei aesthetic has a lot of similarities with the Kidcore Aesthetic trend, although less americanized.
This particular style is called Decora for the abundant decorative accessories and ornaments used un this fashion.
Fairy Kei Outfit Inspiration:
5. Harajuku Fashion: True Self Expression
Harajuku Fashion: Definition
Harajuku fashion is named after the Harajuku district in Tokyo. is known for its eclectic and bold style. It often involves mixing and matching different styles and trends, such as streetwear, punk, and goth.
The Harajuku fashion style is all about self-expression and creativity, without boundary or attachment to any particular style.
Harajuku Style takes inspiration from:
- Hip Hop Fashion
- Punk Fashion
- Kawaii
- Gothic Style
- Kidcore Aesthetic
Harajuku Outfits Inspo
J-Fashion: Key Takeaways
- No matter what style of kawaii fashion you prefer, the most important thing is to have fun and wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable.
- Japanese fashion is all about embracing your true self and expressing your unique personality through your clothing and accessories.
Where to buy Japanese Fashion Outfits, Shoes and Accessories?
There are many places you can go to!
Here are some tips:
- Try thrifting or swapping outfits with friends if you are on a budget!
- Travel to Tokyo to find the real deal in Shibuya and Harajuku.
- Explore Aesthetics Boutique for some Japanese Fashion influenced clothing and accessories!