The cute side of Japanese street fashion

MANILA, Philippines - Japanese street fashion, like its counterparts in different parts of the world, is closely associated with its youth culture, and most often seen in major urban centers like Harajuku, Ginza, Odaiba, Shinjuku and Shibuya.

Though styles have changed through the years, young adults can be found wearing subculture attire influenced by iconic Japanese street fashion styles. Foremost of this is Lolita, which is now gaining interest worldwid: it brings out the “cute” side of fashion with its childlike Sweet Lolita, experimental Punk Lolita, traditional Classic Lolita, and dark but still cute Gothic Lolita styles.

Then, of course, there’s Kogal, a take-off from the high school uniform; Bosozoku, which has been portrayed in anime and manga; and Visual Kei, an androgynous mix of striking makeup, unusual hairstyles and flamboyant costuming. Dolly Kei, which includes a lot of vintage skirts and dresses, is a newly emerging style based on Japan’s view of the Middle Ages and European fairy tales; while Fairy Kei is a sweet Lolita and decora blend with a hint of the 1980s.

And it’s all about real people, real clothes, and real cool, as SM channels Japanese street fashion in its Girls Teens Wear collection.

With fun colors, skirts, tiered lace dresses, quirky accessories, and lots of attitude, it’s all about being young and style spirited. The collection is available at the Girls Teens Wear Department of all SM stores. Fashion available at the SM Department Store.