Japanese fashion is recognised for the wide variety of styles and subcultures that it encompasses. However, if you’re interested in wearing these styles, where should you shop and which brands should you look at to find summer clothing? Read this article to find out what Japanese summer fashion is trending and where you can find new pieces from authentic Japanese brands.
What Summer Fashion Is Popular in Japan?
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If you walk through the streets of Tokyo in 2023, you may be surprised to find that you recognize a lot of the clothing! Brands like Zara, H&M, and Gap have become commonplace in Japan, bringing with them a lot of Western fashion influence. However, Japan also hosts its own incredibly popular fast fashion stores! In addition, city lifestyle and the hot weather also influence what threads are commonplace. Tank tops and sleeveless shirts have taken Tokyo by storm! A lot of trends are similar to what you might see overseas, but with a Japanese spin.
Here’s a list of what I’ve see in Japan recently:
Women’s Fashion Trends
- Tank tops
- Platform sandals (Crocs, anyone?)
- Oversized button down shirts/cover ups
- Long dresses and skirts
- Crop tops – new trend!
- Cargo skirts
- Empire waist linen dresses
- T-shirts with 2/4 sleeves
- Ruffled sleeves
Men’s Fashion Trends
- Baggy shorts
- Patterned button down shirts short sleeved
- Long, “dad-style” socks
- Loose slacks/trousers
Unisex Fashion Trends
- Tinted glasses – purples, oranges
- Tote bags
- Sun umbrellas
- White, tan, and neutral fabrics
What Japanese Fashion Brands to Shop From
If you live in Japan or want authentic Japanese clothing, these are some of the most popular (yet affordable) fashion brands that you should shop at!
Coca
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If you want to shop at a local Japanese brand, you have to check out Coca. Here you can find long skirts, dresses, and cardigans! Coca primarily sells women’s fashion, depending on the location. The average price of items is about ¥1,990. However, Coca mainly sells larger pieces, and doesn’t offer many shoes or accessories.
You can shop in English online at cocacoca.jp/en, or browse in person at their locations in Jiyugaoka, Ikebukuro, or Kichijoji.
Uniqlo
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Uniqlo is a classic staple for clothing in Japanese styles. This brand is great for t-shirts without text- no need to worry about tops that look like they came from Forever 21! The clothing often is higher quality, with breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics. If you find a top that you like, it will often be available in multiple colors! Uniqlo is an international favorite for a reason, so make sure to check it out in store or online.
The biggest Uniqlo store in the world is located in Tokyo. Located in Ginza, the Uniqlo flagship store has over 12 floors of merchandise, as well as a custom t-shirt printing service!
GU
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Considered the younger sister of Uniqlo, GU offers similar clothing with a younger twist. You can find character t-shirts, cute hair accessories, and items that follow the trend cycle more quickly than Uniqlo. It often can be slightly cheaper as well, with most items never costing more than ¥4,000.
Just like Uniqlo, GU offers clothing for men, women, and children.
Wego
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A staple of Harajuku for trending accessories, WEGO has established itself as a provider of both kawaii and streetwear fashion. At WEGO you can find anything from jewelry, skirts and shoes- they have a very diverse inventory! However, only the larger branches have men’s clothing. Also, outerwear is limited, so while you might find a cute summer dress, you’ll need to go somewhere else to find a jacket.
You can find in-person locations at Takeshita street or shop online (with overseas shipping!) at wego.jp .
Honeys
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Honeys’ customer base leans younger, targeting teens and young adults. The brand is available online only, and exclusively sells women’s clothing. Items typically cost between ¥2,000 to ¥5,000. If you love bright colors, fun patterns, and cute designs, you will love this store!
Nano Universe
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Nano Universe may not be as well known, but it is a holy grail for office wear and business casual pieces! If you’re looking for thin overshirts or tapered trousers, this is the shop for you. Prices typically range from ¥5,000 to ¥10,000. However, during sales some items can drop as low as ¥2,000, so make sure to watch out for seasonal sales for great deals!
Nano Universe can be found in Shinjuku, Shibuya, or online.
Buy Japanese Summer Fashion!
Whether you live in Japan or are planning to visit, you absolutely should plan to pick up some new clothes from Japanese brands this summer. Check out the recommended articles below to get some tips and tricks for where and what to buy!
Related articles:
- 5 Top Recommended Shopping Spots in Tokyo
- Get Thrifting With These Hidden Gems in Shibuya
- Essential Items to Buy in Japan in Summer
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