The JS Guide to Japanese Style
Let’s talk Japanese style, Jetsetters, and no, not just kimonos. The Japanese are amongst the top consumers of international luxury items, so it makes sense that fashion-conscious Tokyo is its own hotbed of design and creativity. Putting aside the Harajuku District, what’s ultimately synonymous with high-end Japanese style is the monochrome “Wearable art" produced by Japan’s “Big 3” designers: Yohji Yamamoto, Issey Miyake, and ReiKawakubo of Comme des Garcons. Genderless silhouettes, like billowing dresses, relaxed tunics and trousers, and geometric power pieces characterize the look, completed with flat shoes. Here, our favorite picks to help you pull off the style.
Raey Asymmetric-Hem Maxi Dress
We love this black, minimalist standalone maxi dress, which can work day or night.
Ashley Rowe Short Denim Dress
Deconstructed details, like the frayed edges on this boxy shift, are a Japanese fashion feature and are very on-trend.
leats Please Issey Miyake High-Neck Pleated Top
When it comes to pleats, Issey Miyake is the man. The signature textured vertical pleats from his Pleats Please line never lose their shape, making them a great travel choice.
Frye Erica Oxfords
This is a perfect menswear-inspired option to be worn not only with pants, but dresses and skirts too.
Elizabeth and James Drew Floral-Print Chiffon Jacket
Now, we know we said to think beyond the kimono, but we don’t want to ignore it all-together. It's a great second layer, and a good way to inject color into an outfit.
Nile Lotan Libson Pant
Don’t forget to pick up a pair of cropped, wide-leg pants in BLACK--another wardrobe essential.
Pleats Please by Issey Miyake Flat Circle Top
We love this sculptural top. The billowing movement in the back is both graceful and dramatic.
Women Striped Wide 3/4 Sleeve T-Shirt
A simple, boxy T works with absolutely anything.
H&M Calf-Length Skirt
The paper bag cinch creates a flattering shape on this wear-anywhere skirt.
Bao Bao Isley Miyake Lucent Small Crossbody
Around since 2000, the Bao Bao collection uses an engineering-based approach to create “infinite versatile shapes.” These modern and wearable bags and accessories are a great addition to any outfit.
AG Frequency Oversize Tunic
The Japanese have mastered the art of elegant simplicity. This oversize tunic nails the aesthetic.
Junya Watanabe Oversized Circle Dress
This Junya Watanabe dress is rather subdued in comparison to the designer's many avant-garde designs. But this little black dress still has a lot of personality.
Isabel Marant Quilted Leather Slides
These slides are another perfect warm-weather option and pair perfectly with looser pieces.
Want More?
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