Two Steps Ahead: Japan at the Forefront of the Fashion Game

            
 
            Upon arriving to what I already believed to be the fashion capital of the world, I was still surprised at the level of fashion that exists in Japan: at every building on every corner of every street of every neighborhood–literally, everywhere–were stylish people with impeccable taste. It was as if fashion sense was an inherent trait possessed by all but a fraction of the Japanese people. A people of poise, sophistication and modesty, and simultaneously of spontaneity and fun, the Japanese have always been ahead of the curve whether in technology, toilets or fashion! What’s “in” in Japan does
 inevitably reach us the U.S., usually a year or more later.

            Trending then, summer 2010, trending now, Spring 2011: ruffles and floral and platforms, oh my! Fashion has taken a girly turn this Spring season but, although new to the eyes of many Americans, these trends were so totally last year on the streets of the fashion epicenter of Tokyo.

Girls flaunted exaggerated expressions of femininity with lace collars, ruffled gloves and all else delicate. A year later the same trends can be seen on the runways in our beloved America. Unfortunately, we’re merely being copycats…just to a less extreme extent.

Believe it or not, our version of this Lolita-like style has toned down from its original Japanese birthing. Their take on the trend was much more…frilly! The trend has a flamboyant flair exemplified by long, lace gloves worn casually instances and platform shoes made of thick, symmetrical blocks of wood.

Wondering how this trend will evolve and what to expect next? Look for straw accessories such as wide-brimmed hats (but not super floppy), and bags embellished in some way with the
 feminine touch of a scarf or floral pin.

If you want to get ahead of the game, look for staple items like these before they become cool…you’ll look like a complete trendsetter. Other trends from Japan’s Summer 2010 are stripes (look for horizontally striped shirts) and, ironically, the ‘boyfriend’ look with overalls and sailor-inspired gear.

To spice up a plain outfit, try throwing in some overstated Harajuku pieces such as a big, colorful bow with a rather conservative look. These trends can be mixed and matched. For example: a Lolita style top under oversized overalls accompanied by sky-high, chunky platform sandals will give you an unprecedented look. But as we now know, it’s probably already been seen in Japan.
 
Future Looks: Fall 2011/Winter 2012
Mixed Prints – Stripes, plaid and polka dots
‘Menswear’ – Suspenders, Pleated pants, sleuth capes
Ponchos
 
Summer 2012: Evolution of Sailor Style
1970s (beginning to trend in U.S. now!!)