Hair Mistakes That Make Women Look a Lot Older

This article appeared in Pensandpatron and has been published here with permission.

Hair Mistakes That Age You!

Sometimes a girl just needs a change, and often that means a new haircut. Hairstyle trends like clothes change rapidly. This means that you may find yourself with a hairdo that looked good for one season, but is no longer is on-trend. But worse than that is when you choose a hairstyle that makes you look older than you are actually. As an example, we have compiled a list of hair mistakes that have the potential to age you!

Perms

For those that wanted a tighter curl back in the ’70s, ’80s, and even ’90s, it seemed like one of the go-to options when it came to hair was the perm. There were different types of perms. You could get a tight perm or a looser-looking one.

Perms

However, if you’re looking to make yourself look a little younger, the perm is no longer the way to achieve this. Not only is it an outdated hairstyle, but it also can cause damage to your hair that you may not be able to repair.

Crimping

If you grew up in the ’80s, then you crimped your hair at least once. This was one of those hairstyles that made every girl feel like they were edgy and with the times Plus, it gave a lot of texture to their hair. But, we’re not in that decade anymore and now the look is no longer promoted.

Crimping

The only time you should crimp your hair nowadays is if you’re going to an ’80s party. Otherwise, you’re going to look older and there’s a good chance you’ll damage your hair in the process.

Bouffant

The bouffant was a big deal back in the day when Hollywood starlets donned it for all the major events. It is a hairdo that takes a long time to achieve, and so those looking to sport it nowadays have opted for a less-teased poof.

Bouffant

The bouffant does look good, but the teasing and hairspray used will affect your hair for days after. This hairstyle may also age you because it is an outdated trend.

Eye Length Banged Bobs

Some ladies prefer a look that is easy to maintain and style in the mornings. That is why a lot of them go for a bob with eye-length bangs. This hairstyle takes minimal effort to look good, but unfortunately for older ladies, it is not as flattering a cut as for the younger.

Eye Length Banged Bobs

Because the bangs are so short and cropped on the face, they may draw attention to your eyes. We all know that as you get older, lines and wrinkles start to form around this area, and having attention there will in turn age you a bit.

The Farah Fawcett

This feathered look of the ’70s and ’80s that was made so popular by actress Farrah Fawcett is also another hairstyle that some ladies today may be unable to let go of it. However, this is a mistake as it is a hairstyle that will make you look older.

The Farah Fawcett

The layered look doesn’t really draw attention to any features that will show your age but because the hairstyle itself is outdated, that will be sure to make you come across older.

Long Front, Short Back

You may know this haircut under its pop-culture name, “the Karen. “In the early part of the 2000s, this was a big trend when it came to hairstyles, however, it soon lost traction due to the unflattering association.

Long Front, Short Back

Not only because of the connotations of this hairstyle but also because it does reveal the neck and expose the jawline. As a result, women who opt for this may look older than their license says they are.

Pigtails

OK, so when we were all kids, we are sure that we put our hair up in pigtails at some point. This is cute when you’re a kid or even a young adult. But as an older woman, it only serves to tack on years.

Pigtails

Pulling the hair away from the face reveals the neck and that will show signs of aging that have already begun. Also, since this is a more youthful look, it may make you look like you are trying a little too hard.

Extra Short Bangs

It is super cute on women in their 20’s when they have the extra short bangs to frame their faces. But as you get older, you probably should look for a new style as this one emphasizes the forehand which is notorious for showing off our wrinkles and lines.

Extra Short Bangs

Also, this style doesn’t look like a style you’d want for a while but more a trendy and spur-of-the-moment cut. Think about all these factors when you choose your next hairstyle!

Slicked Back Bob

Many people opt to go with the bob cut as you can style it in many different ways to make it your own. One of the ways, especially when looking at more dressy occasions that people choose to style the bob, is to slick it back. Here you can see this beauty has done so with gel.

Slicked Back Bob

But for an older lady, not only will this make your hair look greasy and a little dated, as the trend is not really big right now, it will also leave your face exposed to show any blemishes that are present.

Darker Roots

Remember when it used to be the big style to have darker roots than the rest of your hair? Stars like Shakira and many others opted for this look, and so we all followed suit. However, if you choose to go this route now, you may be outdating yourself.

Darker Roots

Leaving your roots exposed and choosing to lighten the bottom half of your hair sometimes can make you look like you do not take care of your dye job, which could make you look messy and even a little older.

Wavy Frizz

In the ’80s and ’90s, girls and women loved to tease their hair to get as much height as possible. Big hair was the talk of the town! Because of this, the result of all that teasing would often leave your hair with a rather frizzy look, especially after you’d crimped it…

Wavy Frizz

The frizzy look makes your hair look unhealthy and even messy. So in choosing this look, not only will you be sporting an out-of-date trend, but you also look like you don’t care.

Big Buns

Sometimes it is just nice to tie up your hair into a big old bun and head out to do your daily errands. It doesn’t take long to swoop your hair up and away from your face but that doesn’t mean to say this look is timeless.

Big Buns

For some ladies trying to jump on this trend now, this may make you look a little aged. Not only because it takes all of your hair away from your face leaving it exposed but also because it is harder for you to get the volume as women tend to lose hair as they get older.

Extremely Long Hair

Having long hair is hard enough to take care of, but when it is extremely long, it could actually impact your day-to-day life. A lot of us associate long hair with our youth, and that may be why many of us just can’t let go of our hair length.

Extremely Long Hair

But having hair that is so long and straight is often not very healthy for it and this can leave you with poor quality hair that can add on some years to your look. Plus, the straightness of your hair often looks less full, which is another problem that comes with age.

Layered Bouncy Bob

Adding layers to your bob can change the dynamic. So often, when going for a lengthier bob cut, women will do this, and for those of a younger age, this may be a great idea. But framing your face even with longer layers is known to add on some years.

Layered Bouncy Bob

Though this look may not make every woman look older, it will accentuate the lines and blemishes on the face and neck. If you’re trying to look younger, definitely stay clear of this hairstyle!

Asymmetrical Cut

One of those trends that have been going for quite a while is asymmetrical haircuts. This style also belongs to the bob cut category but is a little edgier and often uses razor cuts to achieve this.

Asymmetrical Cut

It does frame the face like many of the other bob cuts and therefore this does emphasize any blemishes that have appeared. While this has the potential to make you look older, if done right, this style can actually make you look hip and cool.

Messy Blunt Cut

Many celebrities have worn this hairstyle, and it is quite easy to manage, no matter if you have a little curl or if your hair is straight. In addition, it can be styled in many different ways, which is perfect for those who go to various events.

Messy Blunt Cut

Because of the layers, it does give you more volume, but it also cuts your jawline which, much like the bob, will frame your face and accentuate any wrinkles. This is a big no-no when we’re trying to stay forever young!

Short & Curly

If you have curly hair, you may find hairstyles hard to choose between. However, for those that love their curls, they can always go with the sweet and short curls by adding a little bit of a texturizing product to the hair. What you see here is the end result.

Short & Curly

But if you are of a certain older age, you may find that this is not the best choice for you. Not only will it be unflattering to your face, but it is hard to maintain and does little good for you.

The Chelsea

The Chelsea cut is basically a reversed bob where it is short and shaved in the back and allows for longer bangs and sides. Though it is still popular (somehow), it is not a hairstyle that makes you look younger.

The Chelsea

The short back and sides shine a light on the neck area, which, much like your face and hands, are the first places that show age. So anything that draws attention to those areas is recommended to be avoided.

Buzz Cut

Rocking a buzz cut is not advisable for everyone. Though it may be pretty easy to manage, you have to have the face and head shape to rock it. The shorn look will also add some age and it is an all-revealing haircut.

Buzz Cut

This means that there is no hair to help hide the lines, blemishes, or wrinkles, and this, in turn, will make you look a lot older. So it may be best to opt for another haircut.

Banged Bob

The blunt bob with accompanying bangs that many women like to rock is not a look for those that want to appear younger. The hairstyle is known to accentuate your jawline and eyes, so any flaws in these areas will be even more defined.

Banged Bob

While this type of bob is certainly cute, there’s an expiration date on the age at which women should don it. Oftentimes when older women try to pull off a younger look it actually backfires. Don’t you agree?

The Undershave

For several years one of the biggest trends, especially in certain hipster circles, was the undershave haircut. This would allow women to look both elegant and edgy at the same time. But, of course, this type of cut is an acquired taste and is no longer a go-to trend.

The Undershave

Because the look is outdated, if you choose to go with it, you will then look a little older as you are out of touch with what the current fad is. Plus, the undershave draws attention to the neck area.

Pin-Up Curls

Some people like to rock this vintage look, and that is fine, but you have to understand that because it is a vintage look, it may make you look exactly that. Also, the tight curls of this pin-up style are difficult to maintain.

Pin-Up Curls

If done properly, it actually looks super glamorous. However, you have to tie it in with the same old Hollywood makeup. If not, you may seem older than you are.

Mom Cut

We have all seen this cut, yet we may not have known the name until now – say hi and bye to the mom cut. This shorter cut with a lot of texture can be great if you’re in your 60s but otherwise, you should avoid this style.

Mom Cut

Often very short hair gives an older vibe so we don’t recommend this if you’re trying to maintain your youth. Plus, it also lacks a feminine touch with women often look for with their hairstyles.

Top Knot

The top knot had its heyday, unlike with many other trends, that day has passed. The look is now seen as off-season and somewhat uncool. And though in certain situations it looks great, for the most part, it lacks approachability.

Top Knot

For the ladies looking for a more sophisticated look, they may be tempted to try this hairstyle. But it also pulls the hair out of your face making it super visible to see any signs of aging.

Extreme Color Change

We’re all for self-expression — whether you prefer to communicate that through means of fashion, music, or even hairstyles. Still, it’s important to remember that, even when you want to mix up your look, you need to find the right balance.

Extreme Color Change

An extreme shift to a darker shade can look downright fabulous… if you have a skin tone that complements the shade, an on-call glam team, and all the right clothing and accessories. Otherwise, for the day-to-day, transitioning to a shade this dark can end up aging you.

Bad Blow-Dry

Believe it or not but even something as simple as blowing out your hair can really age you. According to expert hairstylists including Jasmine Anna Galazka, a bad blow-dry can sometimes really backfire. Why?

Bad Blow-Dry

Not only can it cause your ends to frizz, but it may also lead to unwanted volume, especially if you have curls. Having the right tools can help, though — including a proper brush, blow-dryer, and the right product. Patience also goes a long way!

Split-Ends

Whether you prefer to wear your hair short or long, it’s important to keep the ends of your hair fresh. This means that you should be going to the salon at least once a month for a trip and deep-conditioning treatment.

Split-Ends

According to stylist expert Jasmine Anna Galazka, “A lot of times we do so much mechanical damage to our hair, we forget to treat it. Not only will [a deep-conditioning treatment] keep your strands looking shiny but younger-looking as well.”

The Wave

It may not be common knowledge that certain hairdos have more of an effect on our appearance than others do. Take the wave, for example.

The Wave

According to Los Angeles-based celebrity colorist Chad Kenyon, “Waving the hair toward the face […] can make facial features appear hardened, aging the face. When using a curling iron around the face, waves should be rolled away from the face, which will soften facial features and ‘open things up.’”

Bad Gray Coverage

While some people prefer to age naturally and embrace all their grays, others opt to cover or dye those pesky hairs. If you’re one to do the latter, just remember that a permanent color is necessary.

Bad Gray Coverage

According to celeb colorist Jeremy Tardo, there are a lot of “ineffective attempts at gray coverage.” This can cause the roots to look too light or translucent. Tardo also suggests that for those who color at home to go back “through your application to check for any potential areas that you can add extra product to.”

Sleek Ponytail

The sleek ponytail is another hairstyle that often gets dragged out for fancy events. Though it isn’t easily done and can withstand almost anything you put it through during the evening, it is not a hairstyle that works on a daily basis.

Sleek Ponytail

The sleek ponytail pulls your hair back, and as you’re getting older, your hair becomes less durable. This could result in possible hair loss. This hairstyle is definitely one that is donned more by a younger demographic.

Spiked Short Cut

Volume when it comes to hairstyle is your friend as you get older as it does tend to give you a more youthful look. So, opting for a short and spiked look will obviously have the opposite effect.

Spiked Short Cut

If you still decide to go for this shorter style, do be aware that all your fine lines and wrinkles will be visible. Also, remember to try and stay away from adding layers, especially if you have thin hair.

Edgy Cropped Bob

There are many different types of bob cut, and that includes the more edgy version that many younger ladies like to go for. This type of cut often makes them look more lively, and you can dress it up or down depending on what you’re going for.

Edgy Cropped Bob

Once again, this cut tends to focus on the face and neck area, which as we now know, are the age-revealing parts of our body.

Tight Braids

Braids had their day once but that time is now over. This youthful hairstyle, because of the pulling and braiding, can actually damage your hair and cause breakage. So though occasionally this hairstyle is still seen, for the most part, it is no longer rocked.

Tight Braids

Like other childlike hairstyles, it is not ideal for women of a certain age. Not only does it damage your beautiful mane, but it also can show the hair thinning process that occurs as you age.

Short Pixie

The Pixie haircut is quite cute, but when you’re older, you have to be careful of the length that you choose to go with. Having your face framed with your hair will make it a focal point, and this could lend itself to people assuming that you are older than you are.

Short Pixie

While we do see a lot of older women rocking this hairstyle, that doesn’t mean to say it’s the way to go if you’re trying to lose a few years off your look.

40+ Japanese Fashion Trends That Are Almost Too Weird to Be Real

Japan is known for a lot of things. They have some of the politest people, hard-working people, and delicious cuisine. However, you might not know that Japan also has a vibrant fashion subculture where some trends are weirder than usual.

Lolita

Reminiscing our childhood is something we all have done at some point. The times felt simpler. Let us introduce you to a fashion trend that you might think takes that nostalgia factor up a notch.

Lolita

People try to look like a child or a doll as much as possible. Cute or absolutely weird? You decide.

Cosplay

Cosplay may be a more familiar trend for the western audience. Have a favorite game or manga character? Why not be them? Cosplay has most definitely crept its way into the mainstream culture of America. Cosplayers dress up exactly like their favorite characters.

Cosplay

The outfit is not the end of it, though. It is trying to be the characters. This includes embodying the character’s demeanor, actions, speech, and the way a character moves. All these play a role in cosplaying.

Kigurumi

Kigurumi is a well-known Japanese street fashion that is related to costumes featuring cartoon animals. The “Kiru” in its name comes from a Japanese verb that means “to wear” and the latter part comes from a noun called “nuigurumi,” which means “stuffed toy.”

Kigurumi

Somewhat similar to cosplaying, Kigurumi is, as the name suggests, the trend of dressing up as cartoon characters. If you ever wanted to dress up as your favorite cartoon character and do it without getting any looks, Japan is the place to do it.

Kogal

Here is another weird Japanese fashion trend that is sure to make you think about what is going on over there. The Kogal fashion trend has girls in Japan dress up as schoolgirls with school outfits and short skirts. Rolled socks are also worn and, sometimes, the girls dye their hair too.

Kogal

The districts of Tokyo, such as Shibuya and Harajuku, are considered the center for Kogal culture in Japan. You are sure to find some girls embracing the Kogal trend in those parts of the country.

Mori Kei

Some fantasy stories romanticize the forest and portray it as home to mystical creatures, which only a few lucky ones get to encounter. If you ever find yourself in Japan, you might not meet any actual mystical girl in the forest, but you might encounter the Mori Kei fashion trend.

Mori Kei

A Mori Kei girl is meant to look like a forest girl – one who lives off the Earth. It includes clothes with natural fibers and many layers of clothing. Sometimes ruffled hemlines also make an appearance.

Visual Kei

Visual Kei can be described in two words: loud and colorful. This style has gotten really popular with Japanese musicians. Some hallmarks of this trend include very over-the-top makeup, crazy hairdos (although we quite like some), and very playful costumes.

Visual Kei

Some Visual Kei bands include Bis (a Japanese rock band), Guruguru Eigakan, and more. The style has actually gotten very popular amongst many genres of music from heavy metal to electronica.

Rockabilly

Here is a style that takes an old fashion trend and gives it a modern Japanese twist. The trend started around the 1950s in Japan and is still popular to this day.

Rockabilly

Men adorning the fashion trend wear clothes that resemble that of Elvis very closely. The women may be seen wearing poodle skirts. There are a lot of dark shades of clothing and a ton of leather happening in this style.

Shironuri

A little spooky, a little unsettling, and a lot of weird – the Shironuri fashion trend seems to be obsessed with ghost-like looks achieved with heavy pale makeup and clothing.

Shironuri

The clothing style for this trend consists of a lot of flowy fabrics and, more often than not, white hair dye. The name “Shironuri” literally translates to “painted white.” One thing is for sure: the trend definitely stays true to its name.

Otaku

Otaku can be described as the Japanese version of a nerd or geek. The Otaku fashion trend is embraced by people who are huge fans of a particular anime or manga. Most Otakus are something considered as the opposite of fashionable.

Otaku

However, over recent years, many brands have been offering clothing to help embrace the trend fully. You can love a particular anime and be able to express in its full galore with Otaku.

Reki-jo

Some like to read about history while others like to relive it. That is the weird Japanese fashion trend that is Reki-jo. A Reki-jo refers to a girl who loves Japanese history – traditional Japanese history, to be precise.

Reki-jo

They would visit historic sites, familiarize themselves with historical texts, and just generally be really deep into Japanese history. The trend actually was considered as a type of Otaku. Over the years, it has grown to be its own thing.

Fairy Kei

Old school cuteness for the modern world – this fashion trend from Japan is called Fairy Kei. It has little to do with fairies and a lot to do with cutesy clothes and fashion trends from the 1980s.

Fairy Kei

People who dress according to the Fairy Kei trend may take inspiration from cute cartoon characters from My Little Pony or The Care Bears. For what it’s worth, some Fairy Kei looks are hard not to go ‘aww’ at.

Decora

Put together tons of accessories with very brightly colored clothing – layers and layers of clothing – that do not always seem to go together, and you have the Decora fashion trend.

Decora

The style is meant to turn heads and catch the eyes, and we must say that the loud colors and crazy accessories do a very good job of that. The style started during the 1990s, but it was not until the 2000s that it really started catching on.

Me No Shita Chiiku/Byojaku

While most girls will apply eye makeup on the upper eyelids, the Me No Shita Chiiku/Byojaku trend does the opposite. The idea of the trend is wearing eye makeup under the eyes to give them a somewhat tired or sickly look.

Me No Shita Chiiku/Byojaku

Think of a damsel in distress, but more Japan! The makeup or fashion trend is meant to make a girl look vulnerable and in need of help. So, if you see someone with flushed eyes in Japan, you don’t need to worry about rushing to her assistance.

Gyaru

The Gyaru trend peaked during the early 2000s in Japan. The style, as some see it, is all about an exaggerated version of the American Party Girl. The name of the fashion trend is the Japanese transliteration for girl or gal.

Gyaru

You can spot Gyaru trend enthusiasts having tanned skins, long hair, large eyelashes, and very boisterous makeup. It is also meant to challenge the traditional beauty ideals in Japan.

Yaeba

Most people will probably feel quite insecure if they had twisty teeth or teeth that stick out a bit too much – not the Japanese, though. Yaeba is the fashion trend that extends the canine tooth and makes it pointier.

Yaeba

It requires some surgical implants, of course. The dentist will make a ceramic tooth extension to put on top of the canine to make it stick out. You can even choose it to be fixed or removable.

Gyaruo

Gyar-oh or Gyaruo is a complete subculture in and of itself. This fashion trend from Japan is for the super fashionable guys. The dresses are loud and make a statement, and people who embrace the trend are not afraid to show it.

Gyaruo

It consists of tanned skins, shades, and, of course, hairsprays. Some styles will also have very flamboyant hairstyles to go with the whole look as well – quite the interesting trend, if we might add.

Takenokozoku

This trend was started by a single dance group. The name “Takenokozoku” translates to “bamboo shoot tribe.” It has become more than just a fashion trend – it is now an activity too. The group is also responsible for popularizing Harajuku fashion around Japan.

Takenokozoku

The style’s iconic elements include jumpsuit-like clothing with lots of colors. We have to say, the suits are not the only things that make this style. You also have to have an attitude.

Manba

Deep tans seem to be a common element in some of the Japanese fashion trends. The Manba fashion trend is a very eye-catching look that uses a dark skin foundation to achieve the tanned look. The girls who follow the trend also perform a specific dancing routine called the Para Para dancing.

Manba

The name of the look comes from Yamanba, a witch from Japanese folklore. While most girls follow the Manba look, boys who take on the look have developed their own unique signature style.

Nagomu Gals

The Nagumo Gal trend isn’t really that popular; it used to be more of a groupie style. Most people consider a Nagumo gal as an annoying fan. It was born in 1983 because of a record label named Nagomu.

Nagomu Gals

The style consisted of a grunge-rock look – kind of like an-emo-meets-a-book-nerd vibe. They preferred long-sleeved tees, knee socks, pants or fluffy skirts, and thick rubber-soled shoes. The trend ultimately died down with the label itself.

Over-The-Top Trenches

Over-the-top trench coats can be a great edgy look if you can pull it off. The trend itself spread out to many countries – we always see the Kardashians and the Hadids strutting down the street with oversized shirts or coats.

Over-The-Top Trenches

Ariana Grande, who is quite popular in Japan, also popularized the style of oversized clothing. Now, chic fashion in Japan means oversized trench coats, whether it’s denim blue, crème, or vibrant red – pair it with your favorite heeled boots, and your look is served.

Agejo

Agejo is another one of the trickled down sub-cultures from Gyaru trends. Agejo consists of being more glamorous, with silk slip-in dresses and big hairdos. The trend used to include big stone jewelry, a lot of sparkles, and glitters.

Agejo

In time, however, it adopted a more subdued look. From hot pink and black lace silk dresses, it went to more pastel-colored soft frocks. The style now includes cascades of curls and soft dewy makeup.

Personalized Pieces

Remember the infamous pair of jeans from Sisterhood of Travelling Pants, where the friends added each little memory in the form of tokens drawn or sewn into their jeans? That’s a type of personalized piece. It’s a trend where you use your creativity to make your clothes your own items.

Personalized Pieces

Japanese people cut up big squares, add big dangling pockets, draw their favorite anime character, write song lyrics, and whatnot – it’s all up to you, but the most important thing is, it’s edgy, and it’s cool under your terms.

Silver Statement Looks

The silver statement looks celebrate the ‘90s flair for fashion. The metallic looks can be served as futuristic, nostalgic ‘90s, disco, and street style hip-hop. Silver look ascends the time/season concept, and Japan is all about it.

Silver Statement Looks

Many subcultures have incorporated silver into their style, starting with metallic silver to sparkle to monochrome to silver-white, in various forms as well – pants, skirts, oversized coats, statement pieces, camo pants, and, of course, into thick rubber-soled knee-high boots.

Rasuta Gyaru

Rasuta was also derived from many sub-cultures of Gyaru fashion. You can even call it a sub-culture of a subculture because it’s an addition to the Ganguro world. The Rasuta Gyaru dawns on looks inspired by reggae music. They are fans of Bob Marley and celebrate the colors of the Jamaican flag, which is green-yellow-red.

Rasuta Gyaru

They also use accessories made of straw, like handbags, and their clothing is mostly hemp material. They sport stylized weaves to match their reggae spirit too.

Shorts Over Sweatpants

Shorts were mostly worn over pants for exercise or sports back in the 1980s, but now it’s nothing compared to how Harajuku flaunts it. It’s dark and chic. Many Harajuku enthusiasts – both men and women – wear it in various styles.

Shorts Over Sweatpants

The shorts itself could be of any material – even faux leather – and the size of the shorts also depends on the wearer. It could be short-shorts or half-pants over tight or oversized pants. Most importantly, it’s never tacky

Sleepy Time Chic

This trend of flaunting in your PJs or homewear has been around for some time now. The outfits aren’t similar to regular PJs. Overused pajama bottoms and oversized tees – these items are mostly incorporated in this style.

Sleepy Time Chic

It can start from colorful PJs made of cotton or silk accessorized with chic uneven bed hair look and makeup, or the drabby side of well-worn home clothes contrasted with over-sized sneakers or designer glittery Skechers, RayBans, and bracelets.

Fluffy Accessories

Who doesn’t love a little fluff? Well, the Japanese street fashion took it up a notch. You’ll see many eye-catching colorful poofy accessories gracefully carried by people. They come in various styles and sizes of bags or earrings of different colors.

Fluffy Accessories

People sport fluffy headbands, ankle bracelets to wear with their combat boots, or pretty pastel backpacks. In the world of Japanese fashion, you cannot help but be awed by the extent of creativity. This style is popular amongst tween, teens, and adults.

Military Jumpsuits

The whole trend of wearing military jumpsuits or any kind of khaki jumpsuit is one of the most versatile trends out there. There are many different kinds of looks that can be birthed from it.

Military Jumpsuits

There’s the laid-back look paired with white sneakers or the strong assertive look with combat boots that looks beautifully intimidating. The most amazing thing is, in Japan, they keep on playing with the two extremes and create wonderful fashion statements.

Street Harajuku

This style also incorporates a brilliant pairing of items because the final outfit can have so many possibilities! It absolutely depends on the wearer, but generally, oversized hoodies are paired with fishnets and sneakers, and then comes the personalized effects.

Street Harajuku

Many wear ordinary sneakers, a big bright belt with the end just left dangling, and a cross belt across the chest. Another could be a gothic-inspired look with ripped fishnet, sneakers with spikes, black eyeshadow, and an oversized black hoodie with big blood-red earrings.

Oneegyaru

Oneegyaru also is part of a Gyaru trend, a subculture which refers to the “graduated” look, such as Agejo, “Onee” in Japan means “older sister,” so Oneegyaru is a more mature fashion from Agejo. It is a kind of grown-up look that still celebrates the original styles of Agejo or Gyaru.

Oneegyaru

The clothing is a bit more sensual mixed in with a lot of practical items such as a coat. Lacy high heels are replaced with pumps, lace pumps, or knee-high leather boots.

Oshare Kei

Oshare Kei fashion has been around for quite a while now. It’s a subset from Visual Kei and started gaining popularity around 2001. “Oshare” means “fashionable.” Since it’s the opposite of Visual Kei, which is the popular trend of rock band themes, Oshare Kei encompasses the pop and synthetic style music.

Oshare Kei

It’s colorful, bright, loud, and portrays a party vibe. There are major bands who follow the Oshare Kei theme, like B’laive, No Gosan, Vivaush, etc., which leads more fans into Oshare Kei themselves.

Dolly Kei

This is a bit of an antique musical box doll style. Dolly Kei resembles mystical creatures who have lost their way and ended up in this concrete jungle. The clothes consist of vintage summer frocks – long or short – paired with patterned tights, printed pantyhose, etc.

Dolly Kei

The clothes are always modest and layered. Many of the Dolly Kei enthusiasts also sport muslin frocks with ruffles and laces, wrapped with shawls to create a vintage look.

Spank

Spank is another one of the doll-like fashion trends in Tokyo. The spank fashion, however, is a lot more retro and reminiscent of the ‘80s with tie-dyed tees and bleached jeans. In Tokyo, it’s much more than that, tough.

Spank

It transcends the level considerably since spank fashion is much louder and brighter. The colors are not necessarily neon. It includes ranges of pastel colors, sweaters with solid colored pom-poms, fringes, shredded hemps, and so on.

Angura

“Angura” translates to “underground.” The style itself derives from the dark underground theaters that produced shows back in the 1930s, which went against societal norms and views. It contrasts traditional Japanese garments, but are worn with emo grunge vibes.

Angura

Many anime artists are, in fact, heavily influenced by Angura fashion and art when creating their characters. The garments include kimono, old-school uniforms, or attires blended with gothic hairstyles and makeup.

Pastel Goth

Pastel goth is one of the most intriguing styles out there. It’s terrifyingly beautiful, but instead of dark colors, it’s all bright pastel – doll-like colors – which makes it all the more intimidating. The pastel goths do not abandon black, though.

Pastel Goth

They adore adding black accessories with the soft pastels – a combination that plays with patterns, big bows, pink glasses, earrings, and pastel hair. The hair colors may include mint green, lilac, pastel pink, and baby blue – not to mention, silver and purple.

Uchuu Kei

Uchuu Kei fashion mixes both fairytale and futuristic styles. The colors of galaxies are the limit. The look is inspired by a number of concepts but mainly focuses on pixies and aliens – futuristic looks.

Uchuu Kei

There’s a lot of use of silver and purple in many as well as white. A true uchuu kei look may involve a silver crop top, purple latex mini skirt with silver fishnet, and smooth white high-heeled knee-high boots with very thick rubber soles.

Natural Kei

A look derived from Mori girls, Natural kei enthusiasts pretend like it’s the 1800s. The trend could be traced back to the 1970s, where the girls celebrate the natural, soft femininity.

Natural Kei

It includes modest clothes that represent village girls – single pieces of sleeveless frock worn over full-sleeved ruffled pieces inside and petticoats as well. The shoes are buckled shoes, or sneakers of brown suede or brown leather polish paired with striped socks.

Otome Kei

Otome Kei can be seen as a kind of look that is related to Lolita. The style is more refined and looks similar to the fashion of upper-class girls back in the 1940s to 1970s. “Otome” translates to “refined lady.”

Otome Kei

It is a look that inspires the innocent, good girl looks with plaid skirts, jackets, white knee-length socks, and black buckled shoes. The hairstyle also adds to the refined look with two mature ponytails.

Cult Party Kei

Cult party kei’s main motif is to create looks that use both ‘80s-‘90s characters and religious influences. The looks mostly play with different shades of white – white laces, white muslins, and light pastels as well as bright red contrasts.

Cult Party Kei

Many create doll-like looks with such hairstyles and then keep adding layers of white-silk robes to give a cult vibe. The shoes also stay in ranges of whites. The overall look could also be characterized as doll-like mourning.

Guro Lolita

If you love bandages and creepy dolls, you will love Guro Lolita. Guro Lolita specializes in broken doll imagery as well as gothy imagery. The creepiness is celebrated here. The Guro Lolita is a subculture under Lolita that is quite popular among mainstream Lolita girls, but it isn’t really a look for Lolita tea-parties.

Guro Lolita

The most fascinating thing is, a Lolita girl can go from sunny doll-like cutesy daylight Lolita to a dark and gore Lolita simply by adding some dark makeup and corn-syrup splatters.

Kawaii

In English, kawaii translates to cute, adorable, or loveable. It is the overarching trend of cuteness that transcends so many aspects of Japanese culture, including fashion. Beyond clothing, kawaii culture also appears in Japanese toys, food, entertainment, and everyday mannerisms.

Kawaii

Examples of kawaii culture, or “cuteness culture,” include famous animated characters like Hello Kitty and Pokémon’s Pikachu. The myriad of cutesy subcultures that made this list all owe a debt of gratitude to the Kawaii trend.

Yami Kawaii

“Yami” in Japanese can mean both “sick” and “dark.” The aesthetic consists of a gorey look, with practitioners wearing t-shirts adorned with dark messaging. Think the American equivalent of goth fashion.

Yami Kawaii

While it may seem odd to an outsider, those that are a part of the culture dress this way as a means of supporting other people afflicted with the same type of dark feelings and are seen as an important way of supporting one another’s mental health.

Harajuku

Harajuku can best be described as a sort of fusion, combining fashion trends and blending them together in a fun way. For example, one could take elements of lolita fashion and twist it up with punk rock or street style for a unique look.

Harajuku

The key is to have fun with it. Second-hand clothes are popular, along with older, and completely mismatched looks. With Harajuku, the possibilities for an outfit are literally endless; just make sure to go overboard with the accessories.

Japanese Sneakerheads

Okay, sneaker culture definitely isn’t an exclusive thing in Japan, but the Japanese do have a remarkable interest in extremely high-end streetwear, and are known for their own, Japan-inspired limited editions.

Japanese Sneakerheads

Notably, the trend in Japan and Asia in general tends to have a preference for brighter colors than the American and European markets. A nice pair of Nike’s to let the people in the street know that you’re a serious collector, but this colorway is far less popular in North America than it is in Japan.

Traditional Tabi Socks

Here’s a little 2020 fashion secret – slides with socks will be the new 2020 fall and winter look, taking inspiration from the several months that people all over the world have been homebound in their respective quarantines.

Tabi Socks

In Japan, the tabi sock is a style that dates back to the 15th century. For someone looking for the socks and slides look without having to ditch their thonged sandals, these are the ones to get!

Japanese Wooden Sandals

Sandal wearers worldwide may not know that the sandals on their own feet were designed after the Japanese zōri. Traditionally accompanied by the tabi sock, the style has stood the test of time, remaining trendy for centuries.

Japanese Wooden Sandals

After World War II, sandals became popular in Europe and America as soldiers took home zōri to their home countries. In the old days, the shoes were made from a combination of wood and bamboo, but now can be found in cloth and a variety of other materials.

Penny Loafers

Penny loafers may not be an exclusively Japanese trend, but the fact is that no matter which country you might see someone rocking a pair, there’s just something weird about them.  It takes a certain sense of fashion boldness to pull off the look the right way.

Penny Loafers

For Japanese girls that are attending college or just into the Kogal fashion trend, owning a pair of pennies is a must-have, (although it should be said that in Japan nobody is putting real pennies in their shoe lapels).

Shirt Dresses

Somebody has to say it, it looks like she’s wearing a huge tee-shirt, with no underwear. While the big tees, no pants look is cool when you’re hanging around the house, we strongly do not recommend wearing this style in public.

Shirt Dresses

As far as fashion is concerned, we believe that an article of clothing should remain as it is. Once different cuts of clothing begin to morph into one another, it just creates a strange look that will be here one day and gone the next.

Russian Streetwear

Japan is definitely on the cutting edge of the streetwear scene. More recently, sellers are having success importing new styles from Russia and from Scandanavia, with Japanese consumers often flocking to buy Cyrillic-lettered t-shirts and hoodies before they sell out.

Russian Streetwear

Stores like Bunker Tokyo even advertise in Russian on their website and Instagram. Japan may be ahead of the curve when it comes to streetwear, but as a general rule of thumb, we strongly advise not wearing any article of clothing that displays writing that you cannot read yourself.

Doggy Dress Up

In Japan, eccentric style isn’t limited to just humans. Kawaii, cosplay, and other Japanese fashions have transcended species, becoming popular amongst canines.

Doggy Dress Up

Dressing up pets isn’t an exclusively Japanese thing either, but Japan and other countries in Asia were definitely the first to take pet pampering mainstream. Interestingly, the rest of the Japanese society isn’t always as tolerant. Taking a dog on public transportation in Japan is forbidden, and owning one could lessen your chances of renting a nice apartment.

Sukeban

Sukeban is the style for the strong and independent girl that fears no one. The word “Sukeban” translates to “mean, boss girl.” One look at the trend, and you can immediately tell where it got its name from.

Sukeban

The style took shape and formed its own identity around the 1970s. Of course, the trend is mostly adopted by women. It includes brightly colored hair, clothing modifications (mostly to school uniforms), and a whole lot of attitude.

Yankii

If we know anything about Japan, they are a polite, respectful, and cultured bunch. Yankii, on the other hand, is meant to challenge that exact notion – so far, it seems to be doing a good job. It is more of a lifestyle choice rather than a specific fashion trend.

Yankii

Yankii, spelled with “I,” consists of tracksuits, drinking, and extravagant demeanors. The Yankii community is close, and some community members have been a part of it from as early as middle school.

Bagel Head

The Bagel Head trend must be one of the weirdest ones on this list. This fashion trend uses a saline solution to swell the forehead. Some even push a finger down in the middle of the swollen forehead to give it a more bagel-y look.

Bagel Head

The look lasts for a couple of hours. Surprisingly, this weird fashion trend originated in Canada but has gained massive popularity in parts of Japan.

Kegadoru Bandage Fashion

Apparently being injured and bandaged is attractive? Yep, it is in Japan. “Kegadoru,” which translates to “injured idols,” is among one of the weirdest trends, where girls artistically wrap themselves in bandages and patches.

Kegadoru Bandage Fashion

The fashion appeals to a distinct group of people who likes the idea of injured, vulnerable girls. The color of bandages itself acts as a symbol, ranging from white being virginal grace to black being evil and kinky.

Dekotora

Who said fashion trends could be only for people? Certainly not the Japanese. Dekotora is a crazy trend in Japan that includes revamping trucks with bright and colorful neon to give them a flamboyant look.

Dekotora

Trucks tricked out to embody the Dekotora look are very fun and colorful to look at. You certainly won’t miss one at night. The word “Dekotora” is an abbreviation for ‘decorated truck,’ and we must say that it is quite appropriate.