Image courtesy of ThoughtCo.
Fortunately, vintage fashion isn’t just experiencing a revival in Europe and North America, but also in other parts of the world. This article is the first in a series of blog posts focusing on highlights of vintage fashion around the world; to begin with we’ll be focusing on the amazing nation of Japan.
Japan’s golden age of fashion, generally accepted as being between 1926 to 1989, is referred to as the Showa period. As it lasted for the majority of the 20th century, it encompasses fashion from WWII, the starvation period, economic growth in the post-war period and into the swinging fashion of the 60s, 70s and 80s. Although Japan adopted many aspects of Western fashion, they thankfully put their own spin on it (the world would be a bit boring if everyone dressed in the same way). Over the last decade, there has been a steady resurgence of Showa fashion. As retro fashion has become increasingly popular, what was once shunned by modern fashionistas is now back in Vogue.
This resurgence of Showa fashion began in the mid-90s, as it permeated its way into mainstream popular culture such as movies and TV dramas. After this success became apparent to Japanese businesses, they capitalised on this interest in nostalgia. As an example, theme parks such as Shibamata and Odaiba, which were focused on retro Showa 30s style, were opened. Traditional fashion such as kimono has also seen a rise in popularity amongst the youth of Japan, as people look towards their heritage for fashion and personal guidance.
1920s/ 30s image of a woman in traditional kimono.
Since the end of WWII and the beginning of the post-war period, Japanese people and Japanese culture has looked towards the future, with more and more people focusing on the latest gadget (just as we do in the West). Because of this, there has been a movement away from interest in tradition and cultural heritage. Don’t get me wrong, this isn’t always a bad thing, but there should always be a place for history, and the appreciation of it, in the modern day.
Japanese culture and its popularity have exploded in recent years, which is in part thanks to famous You Tubers and our ease of access to the internet. Japan has become more easily accessible for tourists, with the major cities now having dedicated English-speaking taxis. This boom in popularity of Japanese culture has not missed the youth of Japan, how could it? Showa fashion has been part of this resurgence.
If you ever find yourself in Japan, make sure to check out the following vintage stores (although there are many, many more):
· Keshiki in Shibuya.
· The Sun Goes Down in Shibuya.
· Boy in Shibuya.
· Grimoire in Harajuku.
· Toro in Harajuku.
· Nude Trump in Shibuya.
· Eva Fashion Art in Daikanyama.
· Haight & Ashbury in Shimokitazawa.
· J’antiques in Nakameguro.
Please comment, share with your fellow vintage enthusiasts and let me know if there’s anything specific you want me to write about. To share this article, use the share buttons below. You can also use the social media buttons at the top and bottom of this page to visit my pages. If you want to keep up to date with my listings and discounts, then make sure to sign up for my mailing list and follow my store (https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/SwabyCollections) on Etsy.
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