Harajuku fashion is a unique style that originated in the Harajuku district of Tokyo, Japan. It is a mix of different subcultures, including punk, goth, cosplay, and Lolita, among others. This style is known for its bright colors, layered clothing, and eclectic mix of different patterns and textures.
What is harajuku fashion?
Harajuku fashion can be traced back to the 1980s, when young people in Tokyo began to express themselves through fashion. At this time, Harajuku was a hub for street fashion and music, and it was a place where young people could gather and socialize. The fashion of the time was heavily influenced by punk and rock music, and it was characterized by ripped clothing, leather jackets, and spiked accessories.
In the 1990s, Harajuku fashion began to evolve and diversify in Japan. Different subcultures emerged, including Gothic Lolita, which combined Victorian-style clothing with punk and goth influences. Another subculture was Decora, which was characterized by bright, colorful clothing and accessories, such as hair clips, stuffed animals, and toys. Other subcultures included Visual Kei, which was influenced by glam rock, and Cosplay, which involved dressing up as anime or manga characters. It is not uncommon in Japan for Japanese people to dress up as their favorite character or in their own style while visiting harajuku street.
One of the most popular subcultures of Harajuku fashion is Kawaii, which means “cute” in Japanese. Kawaii fashion is characterized by pastel colors, fluffy fabrics, and adorable accessories, such as plush toys and bows. One of our favorite kawaii harajuku style outfits is this cute school pastel outfit with bowties and pastel skirts, some of which are available in our clothing selection.
Despite the diversity of Harajuku fashion, there are some common elements that are present across different subcultures. Many people like to wear multiple layers of kawaii clothing with different patterns and style for a visually stunning appearance, as well as other accessories such as kawaii earrings and hair ties to complement their outfit. You can find a lot of these kawaii hoodies and sweaters with bright pastel colors at Kawaii Therapy; they are perfect for wearing out and will add a cheerful vibe to your day.
Harajuku fashion is a unique and vibrant style that has evolved over several decades in Tokyo, Japan. It is a mix of different subcultures, including punk, goth, cosplay, and Lolita, among others. The beauty about harajuku fashion is that you can dress up according to your own personal preferences to create your very own “kawaii” style with cute outfits and attires. Today, Harajuku fashion continues to evolve and change, and it remains a popular and influential style around the world.
At Kawaii Therapy, we take pride in bringing you the latest harajuku fashion styles straight to your doorstep. Check out our collection of cute harajuku clothing items here.
Where to buy Harajuku clothing in Japan?
There are many places to buy Harajuku clothing in Japan. Here are some popular shopping destinations for Harajuku fashion:
- Takeshita Street: Takeshita Street is a pedestrian-only street in the Harajuku district of Tokyo that is known for its fashion boutiques and trendy shops. It is a popular destination for young people looking for the latest Harajuku fashion.
- Laforet Harajuku: Laforet Harajuku is a shopping mall in the heart of the Harajuku district that is known for its fashion boutiques and designer shops. It is a great place to find unique and high-end Harajuku fashion.
- Shibuya 109: Shibuya 109 is a shopping center in the Shibuya district of Tokyo that is known for its trendy fashion and Harajuku-style clothing. It is a popular destination for young people looking for the latest fashion trends.
- Koenji: Koenji is a neighborhood in Tokyo that is known for its vintage shops and second-hand stores. It is a great place to find unique and retro Harajuku fashion.
- Osaka’s Amerikamura: Amerikamura, or “Amemura,” is a district in Osaka that is known for its street fashion and alternative culture. It is a popular destination for young people looking for the latest Harajuku fashion.
- Nakano Broadway: Nakano Broadway is a shopping complex in Tokyo that is known for its anime and manga merchandise, but it is also a great place to find Harajuku-style clothing and accessories.
- Harajuku Closet: Harajuku Closet is a boutique in the Harajuku district that specializes in Harajuku fashion. It features a mix of different subcultures, including Lolita, Gothic, and Kawaii.
These are just a few examples of the many places to buy Harajuku clothing in Japan. There are many other boutiques, shops, and markets that offer Harajuku-style clothing, so it’s always worth exploring different neighborhoods and shopping areas to find the best deals and unique pieces.
At Kawaii Therapy, we also sell Harajuku and Japanese style clothing items which reflect Kawaii aesthetic and are great for styling your outfit. Check out our clothing collection here.
How Do I get to Harajuku street?
Harajuku is a popular district located in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan. To get to Harajuku street, you can take several transportation options, depending on your starting location:
- Train: Take the JR Yamanote Line or the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line to Harajuku Station. Once you arrive, take the Takeshita Exit and walk down Takeshita Street, which is the main street in Harajuku.
- Bus: Take a bus to Harajuku Station or Omotesando Station. Many buses run through this area, including the Tokyo Metro buses and the Toei Bus.
- Taxi: You can also take a taxi to Harajuku, but keep in mind that taxis in Japan can be expensive.
It is worth noting that Harajuku is a popular tourist destination, especially on weekends and during holidays. Therefore, it can be quite crowded and busy. If possible, it is recommended to visit Harajuku during weekdays or early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
