The Japanese fashion scene is ever changing.
The streets of Japan showcase a wide range of styles, from women clad in high end labels like Chanel to Harajuku girls and heavily made-up gothic Lolitas. Kimonos also make appearances, especially on special occasions. Contemporary Japanese fashion is a blend of international styles and distinctly Japanese elements, and its influence can be felt both in Asia and the west.
Then
Western fashion first began to influence Japanese clothing when Japan's borders became open to western trade in the mid-19th century. After European and American trade increased, western clothes replaced kimonos as everyday wear. The shift in attire was partially due to convenience. Western clothing was eagerly accepted by many because it was easier to wear than traditional Japanese clothing.
Now
The Huffington Post says Japan is "home to the hippest designers and street style stars" and many would agree. Neighborhoods like Shibuya and Harajuku are known as hangout spots for trendsetters and have attracted the attention of celebrities like Gwen Stefani and Sofia Coppola. Interest in Japanese clothingly has been greatly fueled by the Internet. Founded in 2002, the popular website Japanese Streets claims that it was "one of the first fashion blogs on the net, and the very first to cover Japanese street fashion." Its influence can be felt all over the blogosphere.
Apparel Industry
In spite of its innovation, the New York Times reports that in 2008, "Japan's clothing and apparel-related exports came to a mere $416 million". This number is miniscule in comparison to the nearly $4 billion exported by American garment manufacturers and the whopping $113 billion in Chinese clothing exports. Japan's modest trade figures prompted Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to launch Japan Fashion Week in New York in January 2009. It is hoped that this overseas introduction to Japanese designs will stimulate the Japanese garment industry.
Luxury Brands
In retail quarters, Japanese people have long been known as lovers of luxury goods. Shoppers in Ginza, Tokyo's toniest shopping district and home to some very large Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Prada stores, can attest to that fact. Meniscus Magazine explains that prominent brands like Burberry have even "created labels solely for the Japanese market." And yet, Yuri Kageyama also claims that "trend-conscious Japan is outgrowing its longtime love affair with luxury brands and turning to a new passion: Fast fashion." It seems that "younger Japanese are becoming more frugal than their parents and more confident about how they dress, rather than depending on high-end brands for status". Part of a growing trend, Fusako Suzuki, a 33-year-old pharmacist, says "I used to go to expensive brands when I was single but not any more, now that I'm married."
Lolita Style
One of the most uniquely Japanese clothing styles is Lolita. New York Times explains that "although Lolita style is a reference to the Vladimir Nabokov novel 'Lolita,' its look is more covered-up Victorian schoolgirl than skin-baring teenage vixen". It contains several subsets, including Gothic Lolita, Sweet Lolita, Punk Lolita, and Classic Lolita. Lolita styles are generally playful, hyperfeminine and demonstrate the "kawaii," or cute ethos that is popular in Japan. Kawaii styles are becoming popular in other Asian markets.
Tags: Japanese clothing, claims that, explains that, influence felt, Japanese fashion, York Times