Despite Japan’s obsession with conformity, when it comes to fashion, there are a good number of people who defiantly have nothing to do with such deference. Bold individuals who, whether one likes what they wear or not, brighten up the day with their creativity, or even courage.
Like this young lady for example, unconventionally combining East and West to construct her own, very distinct look.
It’s actually working visually for me. The hat, the bag, the pocket watch are coherent together, but not overpowering. I mean, sure, it’s an unusual combination but it seems to work…
That’s just what I thought. What initially seems like a very eccentric outfit, really does work. Really striking too.
It’s an awesome look but not a wholly original one. Mamechiyo Modern (two or three influential shops) and the intermittently published Kimono Hime mook both champion this 1890s-1950s pseudo-retro East-West thing and champion both high fashion kimono and “everyday kimono.” I like it.
Cheers for the info Lillian. Very interesting. And like you say, original or not, there’s a lot to like about it.
出る釘は打たれる, as they say in Japan. Kudus to the nonconformists in Japan,.
Yes, even with my rudimentary knowledge of fashion, it’s clear that a lot of trends are copied and replicated to make them seem almost uniform-like. But thankfully there are a good number of people like the young lady pictured who are very happy to have none of it. And like you say, more power to them.
Beautiful picture!
She looked really cool and dashing.
The lady beside her is sweet Lolita which is also called ama-loli. Look kawaii too!!
I like Lolita Fashion!!
Thanks Winnie!
Yes, she did look very cool. Quite a contrast to her friend too!
Very cool. Love it!
Yeah, I thought it was pretty cool too.
She also is carrying one BIG purse; or bento box; or toolbox . . .
Yes, it’s a suitably unusual bag. One that, whatever it may be holding, goes surprisingly well with the outfit.
Reminds me of a wedding I saw at Meiji jingu: the bride and groom were in traditional garb, as were their respective parties, but the guests were an amazing mix of traditional and mod and gangsta and even 30′s retro. Got some great photos at that one, and was even invited by the official photographer to take my pictures next to him! Good memories!
Wow, that must have been quite a sight. Wonderful to photograph too, especially with ‘access’.
No one was more surprised than I was. Even though the wedding was taking place in a public area, and there were plenty of shutterbug tourists around (like me), I certainly didn’t want to intrude into their “personal bubble”. I was very grateful for the informal invite!