It’s certainly odd to present a stereotype referring to a nation as having a singular style or look, but during my travels throughout Japan over the past few weeks, some all-encompassing trends were so evident that they were impossible to miss. Naturally, I had pre-conceived notions about what to expect when it came to fashion and beauty there, that for the most part, I reconsidered practically all of them throughout my trip.
I also never realized how “American” I dress, until this trip, and how I am distinctly categorized as such, despite feeling that I tend to not “follow the herd” when it comes to trends. The most dramatic of observances of my “American-ness” in dress was that my silhouette was completely off. Skinny jeans/pants have altogether disappeared for women there, although quite a bevy of American brands and products that harp back to nostalgia, are still relevant, seeing a reincarnation as an “it” brand or product, once again (more on that on the blog later this week).
Naturally, I did a bit of shopping for both fashion and beauty items, and enthusiastically folded these goods into my routine and aesthetic upon my return to the USA. A favorite discovery was certainly Sou Sou Kyoto, a brand that radiates a Marimekko-like vibe in its high quality and iconic prints, coupled with modern interpretations of traditional Japanese kimono, which unbeknownst prior to me, the word actually has many meanings, but more generically means “garment”.
The resulting designs by this brand are just lovely, and I wish I would have more money, and space in my luggage to buy more to wear head-to-toe (although the brand does have a store in San Francisco, and is currently doing a t-shirt collab with Uniqlo!). If I were in Japan still, perhaps I’d pair this top with some gaucho pants instead of skinny cropped ones, but maybe I will get there in due time; sometimes it just takes a little while for the eye to adjustment to a new clothing shape,and figure out how to wear and pair everything else around it!
In This Look:
Vince Cashmere Cardigan via Shopbop (c/o the retailer)
Banana Republic Navy Lightweight Wool Boy Crop Pants
Talbots Camel Car Coat (c/o)
Sole Society Huxley Silver Loafers (c/o)
Henri Bendel The Carlyle E/W Tote in Lizard (c/o; no longer available)
Fendi Pom-Pom Ball Charm (attached to the bag; c/o Fendi)
Rings: Pandora Light as a Feather Ring (c/o), Banana Republic Stackable Rings
Bracelet: gift; Earrings: gift
Baume et Mercier Linea Collection Watch (c/o)
