Why Tokyo?: The Fashion Capital Where Rules Are Being Rewritten (2024)

FAQs

Why did Tokyo become a fashion capital? ›

In the 1980s, Tokyo claimed its place as a fashion capital with a new generation of avant-garde designers, including Issey Miyake or Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons gaining worldwide attention, even if most of the city's newcomers gained prominence after showcasing their clothing in Paris.

For decades, Harajuku has been the epicenter of unorthodox clothing styles. Beginning with Kawaii in the 1970s, Harajuku's styles have grown to include gothic elements, big-name brands like American Eagle and H&M, and otaku. Vintage is also a popular aspect of Harajuku style.

Historical significance of the relocation of the capital functions. Throughout its history, when confronted with major turning points, Japan relocated its political center as a means of political reform in order to achieve what was thought to be required and to build a new governing system appropriate for the new age.

Fashion in Japanese culture is used as a creative outlet to reflect their inspirations, values and challenge societal norms. This allowed Japanese fashion to come so far in the realm of fashion and amaze the world with its unique blend of contemporary and oriental style of fashion.

Tokyo is known for its historic shrines and temples, and performing arts such as Noh, Kabuki and Rakugo, which have been enjoyed for centuries. Major venues which celebrate Japanese cultural traditions include the Kabukiza Theatre, the National Noh Theatre and the Kokugikan Hall.

The metropolitan area is the largest industrial, commercial, and financial centre in Japan. Many domestic and international financial institutions and other businesses are headquartered in central Tokyo. The city is an important wholesale centre, where goods from all parts of the country and the world are distributed.

Being Well-Dressed in Japan

In Japan, it is understood that not dressing well is disrespectful. Japanese people are taught from a young age that they should not bother other people with their own problems. If your appearance is untidy and unclean, it doesn't appear polite.

Paris. There is little doubt as to why Paris is regarded as the most fashionable city. This fashion capital has a prestigious fashion institute, well-known fashion schools, world-class fashion houses and ateliers, and exhibitions.

Harajuku. Harajuku is often thought of to be the start of street fashion and youth trends in Japan, but is now known for its kawaii (cute) fashion. Expect frills, pink, and big skirts. Takesh*ta street is the most famous street in Harajuku, with a crowded 400 meters of clothing stores, cafes, and games to play.

Tokyo did not experience fast economic growth until the 1950s. After the occupation of Japan ended in 1952, Tokyo was completely rebuilt and was showcased to the world during the 1964 Summer Olympics, such as the Yoyogi National Gymnasium and the 0 Series Shinkansen, the first bullet train of its class in the world.

When did Tokyo street fashion start? ›

So where did it start? Arguably, the kind of Tokyo Street Fashion which we know and love today began around the 60s. During this period the American influence was rampant, the biker style, vintage style, alongside the music and popular culture all inspired the ways that the Japanese dressed.

Since the early 50s, Japanese fashion designers have consistently impacted Western fashion, with their vision, craft, and creativity. In the 60s, the legendary Rei Kawakubo, founder of Comme des Garons, revolutionised women's fashion with her avant-garde masculine approach.