In Tokyo, Fashion is Genderless

Japanese fashion has always been recognised on the international stage thanks to its conceptual, avant-garde approach. A new era then dawned, one which showcases unisex pieces to break down the barriers of heteronormative fashion. These values are notably promoted by Yohji Yamamoto and Rei Kawakubo in their collections, and indeed have been since the 1980s.

Today, western fashion has a tendency to twist archetypes, and in Tokyo, it has been genderless for several years now. In a report, Magazine ID asked young Tokyoites about their style and vision of fashion. All of those questioned were unanimous in their response: currently, everyone is free to dress as they wish. They also mentioned having noticed a rise in men adopting kawaii fashion with growing ease thanks to the increasing presence of feminine style in Japanese men’s fashion.

Strongly influenced by k-pop, the Kapanese are no longer afraid to wear skirts, skinny jeans and make-up, all whilst having fun mixing up their colour palette. And girls are eager to wear suits, juxtapose different garments or wear much looser cuts which are often reserved for males. Some individuals may still observe this with a judgemental eye, but the fear of appearing vulgar is gradually fading. This gradual eradication of gender leads young people in Japan to wear outfits which reflect their personality and which inspire their western counterparts.