Japanese culture is based on beauty inspired by the natural world. The kimono, the traditional garment worn by men and women, is an object of beauty in its use of color, fabric and pattern. Japanese fashion, particularly for young people, has absorbed many influences from the west but the kimono is still held in affection by most Japanese people. It is still mostly worn by older people and it fell out of favor amongst the young. Recently however, it has become more common for young ladies to wear one at special occasions or to go out on Sundays in all their finery. The kimono contains many elements and there are schools where instruction is given on how to wear the kimono and the significance of different designs.
As a modern, largely urban society with a successful economy, the affluent want to look good in keeping with their Western counterparts. They have taken inspiration from the outside and given it their own unique twist. Foreign imports are a part of modern Japan and up market shopping areas have boutiques selling famous labels, such as Louis Vitton, Prada, Chanel and Burberry. The prestigious store, Abercrombie and Fitch is scheduled to open in 2009.
The young generation want to express themselves in, what is known as Street Fashion. Many different styles have been adopted, comprising of store bought clothes and home sewn items. It is fascinating for tourists to see people parading in their, sometimes eccentric outfits. Lolita Fashion is a mixture of Victorian clothes and French fashion from the 18th century. It is further subdivided into punk and gothic influences. The clothes tend to include overknee socks, petticoats, lace shirts, pinafores and child like shoes. Lolita is combined with dramatic make up.
Anime, manga comics, video games, TV shows, pop groups and fantasy films have a big impact on the young and Cosplay is the term given to the Japanese fashion movement that bases its designs on characters from all this media. American television shows have an influence too, as seen in Kogal. This Japanese fashion is taken up by young women who want to emulate the Californian beach look, complete with fake sun tan and blonde hair. A great deal of make up is used and mini skirts and platform boots are also part of the look.
Other fashion statements include Bosozoku, involving jumpsuits, military coats, baggy trousers and headbands. Elegant Gothic Aristocrat is followed by men and women, a style with dark clothing and thickly applied, dark make up. Japanese fashion is an intriguing melting pot and a long way from the demure wearing of the kimono.
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