The mood of Japanese fashion

Japan has long intrigued the fashion world with its contrasts. Here, delicacy meets rebellion, strictness coexists with doll-like naivety, and on the perfectly organized streets of Tokyo neighborhoods, you can spot looks worthy of the runway. In everyday life, Japanese people often opt for a restrained and practical style – but step into fashion-forward districts like Harajuku, and a whole different world opens up before you: expressive, experimental, and absolutely unique.

Minimalism with perfect tailoring

Back in the 1980s, Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto helped popularize minimalism around the world, and black, for its simplicity and mystery, became his favorite color to emphasize the essence of design. In Japan, minimalism has since evolved into a cultural code, allowing details to set the mood of the outfit. Logos are almost taboo for the Japanese; prints are rarely seen and mostly worn by progressive zoomers. The main focus is on architectural silhouettes, fabric quality, and meticulous finishing. Even Japanese mass-market labels like the well-known Uniqlo stand out for their exceptional garment construction, unmatched by other brands in the same segment.

Photo: Spotlight / Hatra

Photo: Spotlight / Fetico

Echoes of anime and K-pop in the wardrobe

Fashion in Japan has long drawn inspiration from pop culture. Anime, manga, and video games have become the visual language of Gen Z. Today, in Tokyo, you can spot looks reminiscent of iconic Japanese anime characters: pleated miniskirts, fitted tops, chunky platform boots, and lace-trimmed socks. K-pop has also made its mark: despite its Korean roots, K-pop culture heavily influences Japanese youth, who enthusiastically emulate idols by blending K-pop gloss with local flair.

Photo: Spotlight / Grounds

Photo: Spotlight / Tokyo Street Style

Urban comfort: style that works for you

While expressive in style, the Japanese also prioritize functionality. Layering, water-repellent fabrics, lots of pockets, and adjustable hoods – all these elements cater to Japan’s changing weather and fast-paced urban lifestyle. The techwear trend, which blends street fashion with military and sport-chic influences, is gaining traction among both youth and forward-thinking local brands.

Photo: Instagram / Tokyofashion

Secondhand as new luxury

Some of the world’s best designer thrift shops are found in the Land of the Rising Sun. Here, you’ll find archival Comme des Garçons pieces, vintage kimonos, rare sneakers, and authentic Y2K fashion – all cared for with Japanese attention to every button. In Japan, taking care of clothing and shoes is almost a form of Zen – a way to slow down and relieve stress. This reflects the deeply rooted principle of mottainai, or not wasting things. Instead of chasing fast fashion, Japan increasingly exemplifies a post-consumerist future where every item has value, and fashion lives longer.

Photo: Instagram / Aiinoshima (Shibuya shop)

Local brands over global luxury

Unlike Paris, where people often dress for photos and attention during Fashion Weeks, Tokyo tells a different story. In Japan, fashion remains personal and authentic. There’s no influencer cult – instead, focus is placed on the clothing and its message. At Tokyo Fashion Week, it’s not the celebrities that steal the spotlight, but the designers, their ideas, and their creativity – a rare thing in today’s fashion world, and a great value that Japan continues to protect.

Photo: Spotlight / Tokyo Street Style

Japanese fashion isn’t about chasing trends – it’s about seeing and feeling the world. Here, eccentricity doesn’t scream, but speaks clearly and consciously. Every detail is like a brushstroke in calligraphy, reflecting inner discipline and respect for form. Perhaps that’s why we keep turning our eyes back to Japan.