Japanese fashion has become very popular these days, because of the unique pieces of clothing that the designers promote, inspired by the Japanese culture and history. One of the many styles of Japanese fashion is Harajuku style, which describes the fashion style of the teenagers and young adults who are in the area of the Harajuku train station.

Harajuku style has known a sudden popularity after the American singer Gwen Stefani began to promote this Japanese fashion trend. However, this style has been adopted by the Japanese after World War II, so it has a tradition of more than 60 years. Harajuku style is basically a type of street fashion and it includes many looks and styles. While it is difficult to describe, as it infuses multiple looks and styles, Harajuku style is a very original and extravagant one. It is influenced by many subcultures and it includes different fashion styles: Gothic Lolita, Visual Kei, Ganguro, Kawaii, Cosplay and Ura-Hara.

Gothic Lolita involves mixing and matching gothic, feminine and elegant clothes and the Harajuku girls who adopt this style basically look somewhat like a Victorian doll. Cosplay is adopted by the young adults who love to dress like their favorite anime or manga character. Kawaii literally means ‘cute’, so people who like to dress childish and sweet will definitely be comfortable with this style. Ganguro is another Harajuku style, which refers to the average teenagers, who rebel against the traditional ideas of beauty and it is highly inspired by punk. Visual Kei is a style derived from the metal bands trends, which were very popular in the 80s, so the fans of this trend dress up and paint their faces to look like their idols. Ura-Hara is characteristic for the boys who are interested in hip-hop, graffiti and skaters.

Harajuku style can match the personality of many people and it is very versatile, as it is constantly changing. However, a few ground rules have to be followed when you adopt the Harajuku style. You must always mix and match, you must shop for the most extravagant clothes and for vintage accessories, you must not be afraid of wearing multiple colors at once or to mix different kinds of patterns. The imagination is your limit, and with the Harajuku style you will definitely stand out wherever you go and your clothes will make a statement.