Where to Shop: Street Style Through the Decades
Fashion in Japan has had a rich history. From the 50s through to the 00s, it has often been the subcultures of the time that have defined Japanese street fashion. Fashion is often about nostalgia and remixing the old to make something new, that’s why we at The COMM have decided that the COMMunity is in desperate need of a run-down of the best shops for enjoying Japanese street fashion through the decades!
Image courtesy of Psycho Apparel.
1950s: Psycho Apparel
In Japan, western clothing, trends, and culture became popular following the end of World War II. One of the most iconic styles of the time—and currently having a resurgence today!—is the pin-up and rockabilly fashions of the 50s. If you’re a fan of the fit-and-flare shape, pencil skirts, Peter Pan collars, neck scarves, or any other 50s fashion staples, Psycho Apparel is the place to go. They stock classic silhouettes in bright and bold colours befitting any modern pin-up girl. After you’ve bought yourself a new outfit, why not have your very own retro photoshoot? They’ve got a vintage car outside ready and waiting!
Image courtesy of Star Blinc.
1960s: Star Blinc
While the Mod style didn’t peak in Japan until the 90s, it was a major subculture in London during the 60s. Star Blinc’s online shop provides an authentic recreation of Mod. Their designs include bright colour blocking, angular patterns, and the oh-so-iconic raised hemline. Some designs reference space age fashion trends while others focus on girlish youth. But have no fear! There’s also something for those looking for a more elegant look—mint green beret, anyone?
Image courtesy of Closet Child.
1970s: Closet Child
Punk is another fashion style that didn’t peak in Japan until the 90s, but it reached its prime in the UK during the 70s. Vivienne Westwood, an icon of the subculture to this day, played a major role in both the 70s and 90s punk movements. Her designs are so sought after that second-hand retailer Closet Child opened a store specifically for vintage Vivienne Westwood. If you’re looking for a piece of punk history, 70s or otherwise, this is the place for you!
Image courtesy of Spank!
1980s: Spank!
One of the most well-known brands of the 80s-inspired Fairy Kei aesthetic, Spank! has been a go-to destination for local and international kawaii communities alike. The pastel colour palette brings a softer edge to this striking look, and their pieces can easily be styled with everyday basics or other kawaii items for a more nostalgic co-ord. Head over to Spank! if you’re looking for a brand that pays tribute to the 80s in its own unique way.
Image courtesy of Faith Tokyo.
1990s: Faith Tokyo
Many believe the 90s were the peak of Harajuku fashion, and Faith Tokyo is a vintage boutique that harks back to that time. From the classic tracksuit, grunge, skater culture and more, Faith Tokyo has all the edgy 90s styles covered. Their pieces are striking enough to clash with other items to make that “thrown together” look, but they can also be styled like a matching set more typical of 90s fashion trends.
Image courtesy of Nimcompoop Capacity.
2000s: Nincompoop Capacity
The fashion of the Harajuku scene in the 2000s was kitschy, eclectic, and bizarre. People wore clashing outfits to make unique looks that were printed in street snap magazines. Nincompoop Capacity, founded in 2007, takes vintage pieces and mashes them together into that kind of style. While many modern fashion styles aim for a more editorial look, Nincompoop Capacity embraces that funky, naive side of fashion that was so prevalent in Harajuku during the 2000s.
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The evolution of fashion is fast and unstoppable, but brands like these remind us to appreciate the history and diversity of fashion throughout the decades. And the recent revival of these styles lets us know that fashion is truly timeless.
Written by Cora.
Featured image courtesy of Tokyo Fashion.