- Kimono: Kimonos are traditional Japanese garments consisting of long robes wrapped around the body. They come in various styles and are often associated with formal events, such as weddings, tea ceremonies, and festivals.
- Yukata: Yukatas are lightweight cotton kimonos, primarily worn during the summer months. They are more relaxed and informal compared to kimonos, used for casual occasions or festivals.
- Hakama: Hakama are pleated trousers traditionally worn over a kimono. They are commonly seen in martial arts, Zen meditation practices, and certain formal ceremonies.
Contemporary Japanese Fashion:
1. Street Fashion (Harajuku): Harajuku in Tokyo is known for its vibrant street fashion scene, characterized by bold and eclectic styles, such as Lolita, Cyberpunk, Fairy Kei, and Decora Kei.
2. Casual Wear (Shibui): Shibui refers to a sense of understated elegance in Japanese fashion. Simple cuts, natural textures, and neutral colors like black, white, gray, and navy are common in casual wear.
3. School Uniforms (Seifuku): Japanese school uniforms are highly recognizable, with distinct designs for male and female students, often including skirts, pleated pants, blazers, and iconic sailor-styled tops.
4. Business Attire (Saitai Biz): Japanese business fashion involves a formal dress code, emphasizing conservative and tailored outfits, suits, and ties for men and pant/skirt suits or dresses for women.
5. Global Influence: Contemporary Japanese fashion incorporates global influences, such as Western fashion trends, Korean pop culture, and vintage styles, creating a diverse and ever-changing fashion landscape.
6. Fashion Designers: Japan has produced notable fashion designers recognized globally, including Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto, Rei Kawakubo (Comme des Garçons), and Kenzo Takada.
Remember, these are broad categories, and Japanese fashion encompasses a wide range of styles that blend tradition with modern influences, catering to different occasions and personal choices.