Top 10 Most Adored Fashion Styles in Japan

Lolita is a fashion style influenced by 19th-century Victorian clothing and the intricate, colorful decor of the 18th-century Rococo movement in France. It aims for the elegant, innocent, and pure beauty of young girls. Lolita enthusiasts often wear elaborate patterned dresses, stockings, puffy skirts, cute accessories, vibrant makeup, and style their hair in doll-like curls. Many indulge in hobbies like tea-drinking, reading, sewing, and domestic activities to resemble true noble ladies.

The term 'gyaru' is the pronunciation of 'gal' in Japanese, referring to trendy, fashionable girls who keep up with the latest trends. Gyaru enthusiasts often boast a healthy sun-kissed complexion, brightly dyed hair, and bold makeup with a hint of sexiness. They embrace dynamic outfits, such as short pants or skirts paired with boots or high heels, exuding the allure of modern and captivating Western girls. Additionally, gyaru serves as a form of resistance by Japanese youth against contemporary beauty standards.

Decora, derived from the English word 'Decoration,' is a style where enthusiasts aim to 'adorn' themselves with as many accessories as possible. They deck out in necklaces, hair clips, ribbons, bows, sunglasses, temporary tattoos, stickers, and even carry toys such as plushies, magic wands, crowns, and more. Decora outfits typically feature vibrant colors, and hair is often dyed or highlighted in bold shades. Overall, the Decora style aims for a cheerful, playful, eye-catching, and vibrant look reminiscent of childhood.

Fairy kei is a fashion style pioneered by the store 'Spank!' and draws inspiration from animated series like 'My Little Pony.' Enthusiasts of Fairy kei often dress to resemble fairies from fairy tales. Their attire features pastel or fluorescent colors that are eye-catching but not as intense as Decora, creating a cute and sweet sensation. They commonly wear clothing with cartoon or polka dot patterns, layered puffy skirts or soft chiffon dresses, paired with high heels, converse shoes, various socks, white leggings, or multicolored leggings. Hair is also dyed to match the pastel color scheme of the overall outfit.

Cái tên Kogal được ghép từ "ko" trong "kokosei" của tiếng Nhật, nghĩa là học sinh trung học, và từ "gal" trong tiếng Anh chỉ những cô gái thích chạy theo mốt. Các tín đồ theo phong cách này thường mặc đồng phục học sinh với váy đã được biến tấu sao cho ngắn hết mức có thể, đi cùng với tất trắng rộng và tóc nhuộm, có người còn thích nhuộm cả màu da. Phong cách Kogal hướng đến sự sành điệu, năng động của các thiếu nữ hiện đại. Vì thế tín đồ Kogal thường thích hàng hiệu và la cà quanh những cửa hàng thời trang đắt tiền.

Inspired by a Japanese fashion store originally named 'Cult party,' later transformed into 'Virgin Mary,' Cult Party kei boasts lightweight attire reminiscent of... sleepwear, featuring elegant and gentle colors, usually in shades of white or cream. This is paired with DIY jewelry or accessories like cross necklaces. Cult Party enthusiasts may incorporate items like nightdresses, pajamas, babydoll dresses, or home-wear pants into their outdoor attire, maintaining an elegant look by layering multiple clothing items. Their hair is often styled in intricate ways such as curls, bob cuts, braids, and their makeup resembles that of dolls.

Mori kei is a fashion style inspired by lush forests, as 'mori' in Japanese means 'forest.' This style draws inspiration from the actress Yu Aoi in the 2006 film 'Honey and Clover,' attracting introspective girls seeking tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of life. Mori kei is characterized by natural tones such as moss green, earthy yellow, deep brown, light beige, and oversized, comfortable dresses layered together. Accessories include subtle, classic items like flower crowns, straw hats, or vintage pocket watches. This style predominantly aims for the rustic and simple charm of young women.