Tokyo Ultimate Fashion Guide Everything You Need to Know about

Tokyo, a city renowned for its vibrant and eclectic fashion scene, offers a unique blend of traditional and modern styles that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast, a casual visitor, or someone looking to blend in with the locals, understanding Tokyo's fashion landscape is essential.

Dressing Like a Local

To fit in with Tokyo's fashion-conscious crowd, it's crucial to follow a few key guidelines:

• Keep Your Look Neat and Tidy: Tokyoites take pride in their appearance, ensuring their clothes are well-maintained and tidy. Avoid ragged hems, torn shirts, or sloppy ensembles.
• Stay Seasonally Appropriate: Seasonal dressing is important in Tokyo. For instance, shorts and sandals are best kept for warmer months, while longer sleeves and suit jackets are more suitable for cooler months. The "Cool Biz" initiative encourages workers to wear short sleeves and ditch ties between May and September.
• Modesty is Key: Tokyo fashion tends to be more modest than what you might be used to. Avoid showing too much skin, such as cleavage, belly-exposing shirts, or super short skirts and shorts. This is particularly important to avoid offending older generations.

Footwear and Accessories

• Comfortable Yet Fashionable Shoes: Given the extensive walking involved in exploring Tokyo, opt for comfortable shoes that are also stylish. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, as you'll need to remove them at temples, homes, and some traditional shops or restaurants. Sandals are acceptable, but flip-flops are strictly for beach attire.
• Accessorize Thoughtfully: Add a touch of personality to your outfit with accessories like clean socks (especially if you plan to remove your shoes), a stylish bag that's not too bulky, and practical items like a power bank and a stored-value train card.

Exploring Tokyo's Fashion Districts

Tokyo is divided into several distinct fashion districts, each with its own unique style and atmosphere:

• Harajuku: The Kaleidoscope of Kawaii: Known for its colorful and whimsical style, Harajuku is a playground for self-expression. Here, you'll find pastel-laden Lolita dresses, punk wear, and other eclectic styles. To incorporate Harajuku flair into your daily wear, add playful accessories or bold pieces like bright socks or graphic tees.
• Shibuya: Sleek, Chic, and Street: Shibuya is the heartbeat of Tokyo's youth culture, offering a sophisticated blend of high fashion and street aesthetics. Focus on quality basics and layering, such as pairing a crisp white tee with a bomber jacket and tapered trousers.
• Omotesando: Sophisticated Elegance: Just one train stop from Harajuku, Omotesando offers a more refined and expensive fashion atmosphere. This area is ideal for those looking for high-end brands and sophisticated styles.

Traditional Fashion and Etiquette

• Kimono Etiquette: If you're interested in trying on a kimono, it's best to hire a professional dresser to guide you through the process and teach you about its cultural significance. Kimono etiquette is full of rigid rules, such as the correct way to fold the robes (never right over left for the living).
• Second-Hand Kimono Shops: For a more affordable and unique kimono experience, visit second-hand shops like Chicago in Harajuku. These shops offer a range of pre-owned kimonos from various eras.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Carry Essentials: Given Tokyo's busy and sprawling nature, it's essential to carry a stylish yet practical bag. Ensure it has room for cash, cards, a power bank, and a stored-value train card. Don't forget to pack a washcloth or handkerchief, as restrooms may not always have drying facilities.
• Umbrellas: On rainy days, an umbrella is a must. Opt for a clear plastic one or a fancy folding umbrella as a souvenir.

Shopping in Tokyo

Tokyo offers a diverse and creative retail experience, with numerous unique stores and districts to explore:

• Classic Menswear: For bespoke tailoring and niche menswear, visit stores like Anatomica in Aoyama or Bryceland’s Co, which combines Italian tailoring with workwear and vintage pieces.
• Traditional Craft: To experience traditional Japanese craft, visit Motoji, a renowned kimono maker, or workshops like Igarashi and Osaku for bespoke trousers.
• Budget-Friendly Options: For more affordable fashion, consider brands like UNIQLO, which offers stylish yet wallet-friendly pieces.

By understanding and embracing these aspects of Tokyo's fashion scene, you'll be well-equipped to navigate and enjoy the city's diverse and vibrant fashion landscape.