The Girls of Harajuku, Japan
For the Virgin traveller in Japan, Harajuku is one of those 'must see' places on the Japan tourist circuit. Without a doubt the most famous street of Harajuku's is Takeshita. It is highly doubtful that you will see such a place back home - taking into consideration that I am orginally from a place of 3,000 people and sheep outnumber humans by 1000:1 it holds especially true for me.
So who are these infamous Harajuku Girls?
Harajuku gyaru (girl) is the phrase most commonly used to identify girls who hang around Tokyo's Harajuku district. And of the many varied sites, definitely some of the more eye-catching are the lithe figures of the girls that flank the streets there. A word of warning though, "All that glitters is not gold" and all that looks like a girl is often not either.
You will find the fashion styles not only diverse but in some cases exceedingly bizarre. I often notice myself mentally 'high fiving' the girls for their courage and complete lack of self-consciousness. Here are a few of the genres that I have been privileged to see in my trips down those lanes: Gothic Lolita, Gothic Maid, Wamono, Decora, Second-Hand Fashion, and Cyber Fashion (which tends to feature goggles, masks, leather and latex.) In one of my more memorable trips I even saw several girls wearing fake blood and bandages.
What possesses these girls to dress in such an outrageous (and often provocative) way you ask yourself...
A number of of them are evidently doing their best to imitate rock bands such as Japan X (this band almost deserves a post of it's own.) If we put on our social anthropology coats and glasses (or goggles if you want to get into the swing of it) and burrow deeper we can appreciate that for many others this is a form of escapism. At the peril of over-generalizing I have observed Japan to be a very homogeneous society and this weekly indulgence allows them to briefly escape the majority of the rules of Japanese society. It gives them individuality not as certainly apparent while wearing their usual school uniforms or workplace costume. And perhaps at the heart it gives these wonderful ladies an outlet to express, often in very sexual ways (with ripped stockings, garters, and mini-skirts, etc), the oppression of the Japanese female in their predominantly male dominated society.
I have created the opportunity to talk to quite a a small number of of these girls over the years to try and grasp what makes them 'tick' and found the Harajuku Girls, underneath all the make-up and bling, to be like the girl next door - tremendously polite, gracious and warm-hearted.
Haydn Stevenson provides you with Free Tips for a more stress-free, fun and enriching life in Japan (including the secrets of how he creates income on 100% 'auto-pilot' while being a full-time solo dad.)
For those starting out living in Japan or are just plain 'curious' http://japanfordummies.com shows you this wonderful country through the eyes of an 'outsider' who has bumped up against the Good, the Bad and Ugly.. and lived to tell the tale ;-)
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Haydn_Stevenson
Harajuku Fashion Style
Japan is not only famous for its automotive and electronic that has already spread all over the world market, but it is also famous for its lifestyle which is extreme and seduce the youngsters' desire. This culture is called Harajuku.Harajuku refers to the area in the middle of Tokyo, exactly around Harajuku Station, in Sibuya District, Tokyo. In the beginning of 1990s, it is an important area that connects Tokyo to other surrounding districts. 1n 1906, The station was opened as an expansion of Yamanote railway. Several years later there were various kind of department stores around the place that led to the existence of fashion centers. This area became famous all over Japan after having been broadcast through some fashion magazine like Anan and non-no. That time, some girls groups were recognized wandering around Harajuku area. Their fashion imitated the style of fashion models in the Anan and Non-no magazine. Until now, group of youngsters wearing extreme styles can be seen in this area. Harajuku becomes icon of fashion style rebellion in Japan.
In Tokyo, most officers generally wear dark coats, dark trousers, white shirts, dark ties, dark suitcases, their hair was well combed, and they walk fast because they do not want to waste time. Students wear uniform determined by school authority. But in Harajuku, there is a rebellion of fashion. The youngsters refuse to wear neat and tidy clothes. Their desire to be creative is expressed through extreme, glamorous fashion and hair style. Not only extreme hair style they perform, but also extreme hair color like green, purple, red, blue, golden blond, silver, pink, and ash.
The contrast performance between color, design, motif, size, and the kind of clothes is the specialty of this fashion style. Harajuku style is divided into several types. Sometimes the style is adapted to the beautiful doll from Japan with white pale skin and nice dressing like the doll displayed in the window. This style is called Lolita. There is also a style called Cosplay (costume play). This style imitates the character of a hero or bandit in Japanese cartoon movies. Those styles are mostly adopted and promoted by J-Rock (Japanese Rock bands). The asymmetrical hair with loud color is one of their hair style. The asymmetrical hair is the hair that is cut unevenly. For example, one part is long but other part is short. Or the length on the left and right side are different.
In America, the Harajuku fashion style is getting more famous after a singer from America, Gwen Stefani, created a song that carried the theme of Harajuku fashion entitled 'Harajuku Girls'. In promoting her song, Gwen seemed employing some dancers wearing Harajuku fashion in some of his concert all over the world. The fashion style becomes more famous in many countries. And it may spread to your country.
Marsudi Suwarnaadi is a stylist & professional writer. He invites you to see his haircut ideas, including Harajuku style, Rockabilly haircut, and many more.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marsudi_Suwarnaadi
Japanese Hairstyles latest Trends 2010
Hot. Cute. Trendy. These are all words that describe the latest Japanese haircuts. The Japanese naturally have hair that is sleek and shiny and their styles always show off that asset. Westerners are often looking to the Japanese to find styles that will let them mimic those hot looks. If you want to sport the latest Japanese hairstyle, go for short and sassy cuts.
One great Japanese hairstyle is the modern bob. Get your hairdresser to cut your hair into a bob and add feathery layers all over. This will add volume and texture (great for those with fine hair) and a bit of height. Try out different length layers and turn this cut into one of your own. Add highlights for some spice. This is a great style for anyone because it’s so easy to adapt.
The medium slice is another popular haircut. This is perfect for medium straight hair and this cut has heavy graduation. A razor is used to texture your hair so go to a reputable hairdresser to avoid damage. This is great for thick hair and good for those with thin hair if volume is added. This style is sassy and gorgeous day or night.
Summer Clutch Bags 2010
Marchesa Swarovski crystal beaded clutch
Marchesa clutch has silver sequin and bead detailing, silver-tone chain, a hand-beveled quartz crystal clasp, crystal drops in line with the base of the bag, is fully lined in pink satin and has an internal pocket and gold designer tag. Silver Swarovski crystal drop bead frame clutch.
Carry it with a floor-sweeping gown to look red-carpet ready. Marchesa’s sparkling silver Swarovski crystal beaded clutch will lend your eveningwear an elegant vintage accent.
Shown here with Jimmy Choo shoes, Philippe Audibert bracelet, Giles & Brother bangles and a Roberto Cavalli dress.
Marchesa Swarovski-embellished satin clutch
Marchesa clutch has a faceted raw-trimmed quartz push-clasp, transparent Swarovski detailing on clasp, gunmetal-tone frame, gunmetal-tone rope-style chain handle that can be hidden inside the bag, an internal pouch pocket and is lined in oyster satin with a black mesh overlay. Black satin box clutch with a Swarovski bead-embellished bow at front.
Set this sparkling piece against a ruby red cocktail dress to make a serious impact. Sprayed with shimmering black beads and finished with Swarovski crystals and a quartz clasp, Marchesa’s black satin box clutch is a dazzling choice for evening.
Shown here with Christian Louboutin shoes, Fendi belt and an Oscar de la Renta dress.
Marchesa Swarovski crystal-embellished clutch
Marchesa clutch has large hand-beveled quartz crystal clasp, burnished silver-tone frame, is fully lined in pink satin and has an internal pocket and designer-stamped gold-tone tag. Silver Swarovski crystal-embroidered rounded box clutch.
Set it against an all-black palette to let this trophy piece truly shine. Stand out and sparkle at cocktail hour with shimmering accessories like Marchesa’s silver Swarovski crystal-embroidered box clutch.
Shown here with a Bottega Veneta bracelet and bracelet, Philippe Audibert bracelet, Yves Saint Laurent shoes and a Roberto Cavalli dress.
Judith Leiber Slender Curve fine crystal-embellished clutch
Judith Leiber clutch has a silver-tone frame and chain-link handle that can be hidden inside the bag, faceted clear crystal embellishment on handle and on push-clasp at top, comes with a designer-engraved miniature vanity mirror and is fully lined in silver leather. Black hard box clutch with hand-placed fine crystal embellishment.
Tote this leather-lined classic by the optional chain-link handle or carry it as a clutch for evening splendour. Judith Leiber’s glittering black and silver-tone box clutch with hand-placed fine crystal adornments is an opulent investment piece.
Shown here with an Aminaka Wilmont dress and Emilio Pucci shoes.
Judith Leiber Dachshund fine crystal-embellished clutch
Judith Leiber clutch bag is hand-painted, has a silver-tone chain-link handle that can be hidden inside the bag, a silver-tone base and push-clasp at top and is fully lined in silver leather. Multicolored hand-placed fine crystal-embellished Dachshund clutch bag.
This decadent party piece will bring a flash of glamour to every cocktail look. Meticulously hand-detailed with multicolored fine crystals, Judith Leiber’s exquisite Dachshund clutch bag is guaranteed to become a stylish woman’s best friend.
Shown here with Current/Elliott pants, Yves Saint Laurent shoes, Kain top, Stella McCartney jacket, Aurélie Bidermann ring and a DANNIJO necklace.
Judith Leiber Zebra fine crystal-embellished clutch
Judith Leiber clutch is hand-painted, has a silver chain handle that can be concealed inside the bag, a push-lock to open at the top and is fully lined in silver leather. Silver, black and light-pink zebra clutch with hand-placed fine crystal embellishment.
Carry this ultra-luxe style as a quirky accent to a cocktail dress. Go global this season with exotic accessories like Judith Leiber’s hand-detailed black, silver and pale pink fine crystal-encrusted zebra clutch.
Shown here with a Kenneth Jay Lane ring, Yves Saint Laurent shoes, Aurélie Bidermann ring and a Roberto Cavalli dress.
Miu Miu Runway satin pochette bag
Miu Miu bag has two matching satin straps and is fully lined in black canvas with an interior zipped pocket and a smaller pocket with designer tag. 100% silk. Gold satin frame bag with printed black swallow pattern and silver-tone metal flower-fastening.
Show off this bold piece by carrying it in contrast to an all-black palette. No fashionista’s wardrobe is complete without a statement evening accessory like Miu Miu’s gold satin swallow print bag.
I was recently invited by Sarenza, a French online shoe retailer that has just launched a UK site, to enter a competion to win a shopping trip to Paris. All I had to do was choose a pair of shoes from Sarenza, wear my most fashionable outfit to match the shoes and take a picture of myself. The blogger that gets the most votes between 5 and 10th July will win a shopping trip to Paris. You can follow the competiton on the Sarenza Blog. I will be eternally grateful for any votes (I shall post a reminder a bit nearer the time)
The shoes that I chose were by Pare Gabia whose range I have a crush on because they combine elegance and wearabilty and flatter my feet, yes gorgeous shoes that I can actually walk in.
As I wouldn't consider any of my clothes to be the height of fashion, I decided to wear my faithful beige dress which fits in well with the summers trend for neutrals but is also is the perfect back drop to show of gorgeous accessories and of course these shoes.
The shoes that I chose were by Pare Gabia whose range I have a crush on because they combine elegance and wearabilty and flatter my feet, yes gorgeous shoes that I can actually walk in.
As I wouldn't consider any of my clothes to be the height of fashion, I decided to wear my faithful beige dress which fits in well with the summers trend for neutrals but is also is the perfect back drop to show of gorgeous accessories and of course these shoes.
Leighton Meester Fashion Style Celebrities
Gossip Girl has a style that is chic, sophisticated, and modern. She can be seen wearing the latest designers and adding her own spin for a fab mix that is divine. In fact the young actress dresses much older for her age but she does so with such elegance and class. She knows what works for her body and she uses makeup as an accessory to many of her classic looks. Look below to see her style.
Beach style essentials
Are you ready to hit the beach? You can look just as cute in the sand as you do when you're landlocked with these cute beach style essentials. We've compiled a convenient list of everything you need to stay chic and safe in the sun.
1. A bathing suit - duh! We love these adorable picks from Pac Sun that are also affordable: Each piece is less than $50 and right now if you buy one piece, you can get the other half free!
Reef Inca Trail Bikini Halter Top, $45, and Tie Side Bottom, $39; Billabong Isabella Bikini Triangle Top, $38.50, and Tie Side Bottom, $39.50; and Kirra Nautical Stripe Bikini Halter Top, $24.50, and Bottom, $24.50 at pacsun.com.
2. A cover-up - for when it gets windy or you need to give your skin a break from the sun, throw on one of these comfy and trendy pieces. We love this neutral-colored options with fashion-forward details, like fringe.
B. Righteous Romper Cover Up, $58 at inswimwear.com; Printed Kaftan Cover Up, $40 at topshop.com; and Roxy Mermaid Cover Up, $44 at zappos.com.
3. Sunglasses + a hat - keep your eyes and face out of the sun with these fashionable items. Sunglasses are a must to shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, and a hat will keep your face looking young and fresh. If you plan on spending the day on your beach chair try a floppy hat. For more active girls who plan on playing volleyball or running, we've got a style for you too!
Sunglasses: Leather Trim Aviators, $30 at topshop.com; A.J. Morgan Boom Rectangular Sunglasses, $25 at endless.com; and Juicy Couture Ju Squire Sunglasses, $98 at Sunglass Hut. Hats: OndadeMar Straw Hat, $66 at inswimwear.com; Toes on the Nose Hibiscus Trucker Hat, $30 at inswimwear.com; and American Eagle Cowboy Hate, $24 at ae.com.
4. Beach bag - a sizeable tote to carry all the other items you need: sunscreen, water, hair brush, a good book, and a snack.
New Celebrity Hairstyles trends
These are some of the new hairstyles for the second half of 2008 as worn by top models and celebrities around the world. Take a look at the hairstyle pictures below and see what suits your style. They are mostly easy to make hairdo's that you can do by yourself in your homes if you have the right hairstyling materials of course. Check them out!
2008 Ultra New fringe Hairstyles For Women
2008 Ultra New runway Hairstyles For Women
2008 Ultra New braided Hairstyles For Women
2008 Ultra New Hairstyles For Women
2008 Ultra New curly Hairstyles For Women
2008 Ultra New celebrity Hairstyles For Women
2008 Ultra New celebrity hiar styles
2008 Ultra New fringe Hairstyles For Women2008 Ultra New runway Hairstyles For Women2008 Ultra New braided Hairstyles For Women2008 Ultra New Hairstyles For Women2008 Ultra New curly Hairstyles For Women2008 Ultra New celebrity Hairstyles For Women2010 Medium Length Hairstyles
There are a lot of things that you can make a medium hairstyle. If we also want to create a unique taste of the medium hairstyle, go through the following proposal.
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