Clothes in Japan
Japan’s clothing can be divided into two main categories: traditional clothing, called wafuku (和服), and Western clothing, known as yōfuku (洋服). Wafuku includes iconic garments like the kimono, Japan’s national dress, while yōfuku refers to all other clothing not considered part of Japan’s or another country’s traditional attire.
Traditional Japanese fashion has a rich history, influenced by various cultural elements. The color palettes were shaped during the Heian period, and its flowing silhouettes were inspired by Tang dynasty styles. Many traditional garments feature motifs from Japanese culture, nature, and literature. The kimono, meaning “something to wear,” is the most famous example, while other traditional attire includes the Ainu people’s attus and the Ryukyuan people’s ryūsō, made from traditional fabrics.
Today, yōfuku dominates daily fashion in Japan, but many designers, such as Issey Miyake and Yohji Yamamoto, incorporate traditional elements into modern fashion. Their fusion of tradition and modernity also influences Japan’s vibrant street fashion scene, where traditional and contemporary styles coexist.
Two types of Japanese fashion have become increasingly popular both in Japan and worldwide: “petit-pura fashion” and “select shop”.
Petit-pura fashion refers to affordable clothing, with “プチ (petit)” meaning “little” in French and “プラ (pura)” standing for “price.” Brands like UNIQLO, GU, and MUJI are popular examples, offering a wide range of inexpensive clothing for all ages, from casual wear to formal outfits.
Select shops, on the other hand, sell products from multiple brands, including their own. These stores are like smaller department stores and typically have higher prices compared to petit-pura fashion.
Tips on dressing up in Japan
Wear appropriate shoes:
Opt for footwear that’s easy to slip on and off, as you’ll need to remove your shoes when visiting temples, entering homes, and in some traditional shops or restaurants.
Look neat and clean:
In Japan, attention to detail and a polished appearance are highly valued. Your clothing doesn’t need to be expensive, but maintaining a smart and tidy appearance goes a long way.
Modesty is key:
Fashion in Japan tends to be more modest compared to some other places. Revealing clothing, such as low-cut tops, belly-exposing shirts, lingerie-like tank tops, and transparent fabrics showing underwear, are generally seen as inappropriate.
Dress according to the season:
Seasonal dressing is important in Japan. For example, in traditional kimono styles, patterns often reflect the current season. In casual wear, shorts, sandals, and short sleeves are reserved for the warmer months, while longer sleeves and jackets come out in cooler weather.
Mix traditional with contemporary:
While dress norms in Japan can be quite traditional and Tokyo fashion might sometimes appear monochromatic, there’s still plenty of room for personal expression.
