
Harajuku’s Style Deficit Disorder
It’s just a few winding blocks in a city bursting with over twelve million people, but the influence of Tokyo’s fashion hub Harajuku extends way beyond its physical reach. Style Deficit Disorder is a new book by US born, Tokyo-based author and fashion editor, Tiffany Godoy, that documents the dizzying array of trends, movements, styles and designers the district has spawned in its short history. Heading out onto the streets like a fashion anthropologist, Godoy interviews wearers and designers of signature looks now synonymous with Japanese style like kawaii (cute) and goth-lolita, while feature essays from some key players in the magazine industry show just how crucial the neighbourhood is as a platform for new labels. From big hitters like Rei Kawakubo’s Commes des Garcons to Nigo’s A Bathing Ape, as well as smaller scale brands including Milk, Baby the Stars Shine Bright, Super Lovers and Sophnet, they all got their start on the streets of Harajuku.
Tagged: Japanese fashion, Tokyo
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I love the subtle colours and sense of quiet introspection in the photographic work of San Francisco-based Elena Kulikova. Her portraits, in particular, capture moments when you sense a little secret has been whispered, but only a few ears have caught it. Of her work, it’s said: ‘the micro-details of a scene contribute to the overall goal of creating an image fueled with complete feeling and purpose’. Read more
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