What is Gyaru Fashion?
Gyaru fashion is a bold and expressive style that originated in Japan during the 1970s and gained significant popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s. This style is known for its glamorous, rebellious, and ultra-feminine aesthetics that break away from traditional Japanese beauty standards. It includes dramatic makeup, voluminous hairstyles, and statement clothing, making it one of the most recognizable fashion trends in Japan.
Understanding Different Gyaru Substyles
Gyaru fashion is diverse, with several substyles that cater to different aesthetics. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Kogyaru – The Classic Schoolgirl Look
Kogyaru is one of the most well-known styles, featuring short pleated skirts, knee-high socks, and platform shoes. This style often includes a school uniform-inspired outfit, making it a playful yet stylish choice.
Onee Gyaru – The Elegant and Mature Style
Onee Gyaru is a sophisticated version of gyaru fashion, often featuring elegant dresses, fitted blouses, and tailored coats. This style leans towards high-end fashion while maintaining gyaru elements like voluminous curls and bold makeup.
Hime Gyaru – The Princess-Inspired Aesthetic
Hime Gyaru, meaning “princess gyaru,” embraces an ultra-feminine and luxurious look. It includes pastel-colored dresses, lace, pearls, and extravagant accessories that create a fairytale-like appearance.
Manba & Yamanba – Bold and Extreme Looks
Manba and Yamanba styles are the most extreme versions of gyaru fashion. They feature heavily tanned skin, neon-colored hair, and dramatic white makeup around the eyes and lips. These styles represent a fun and carefree approach to fashion.
Rokku Gyaru – The Rock-Inspired Edge
Rokku Gyaru takes inspiration from punk and rock culture. This style includes dark clothing, leather jackets, plaid skirts, and bold accessories like studded belts and chains.
Agejo Gyaru – Glamorous and High-Fashion Vibes
Agejo Gyaru is all about glamour, featuring body-hugging dresses, high heels, and luxurious accessories. It often draws inspiration from hostess club fashion, emphasizing elegance and sensuality.
Essential Clothing Pieces for Gyaru Fashion
To style gyaru fashion correctly, you need the right clothing pieces. Here are some must-haves:
The Role of Short Skirts and Pleated Designs
Short skirts and pleated designs are a staple in gyaru fashion. They create a youthful and playful look while allowing room for layering and accessorizing.
Platform Shoes and Knee-High Boots
Footwear is crucial in achieving the gyaru aesthetic. Platform shoes and knee-high boots add height and drama to any outfit, making them essential for this style.
Bold Prints, Lace, and Ruffles
Gyaru fashion thrives on bold patterns, lace, and ruffles. These elements add texture and uniqueness to the outfits, making them stand out.
Statement Outerwear – Coats, Blazers, and Jackets
Outerwear plays a significant role in gyaru fashion, with fitted blazers, oversized coats, and stylish jackets completing the look.
Choosing the Right Accessories
Accessories are key to pulling off gyaru fashion successfully. Here are some essentials:
Over-the-Top Handbags and Purses
Large, stylish handbags and purses complement gyaru outfits perfectly. They often feature bold colors, embellishments, and unique designs.
Layered Jewelry and Statement Pieces
Layered necklaces, oversized rings, and statement earrings help enhance the overall look. Gold, pearls, and rhinestones are common elements.
Hair Accessories – Ribbons, Clips, and Headbands
Hair accessories are a fun way to elevate a gyaru look. Ribbons, hair clips, and decorative headbands are frequently used.
Nail Art – Long, Decorative, and Eye-Catching
Gyaru fashion includes elaborate nail art. Long, decorated nails featuring glitter, rhinestones, and bright colors are a signature element.
Mastering Gyaru Hairstyles
Hairstyles play a vital role in gyaru fashion. Here are some common styles:
Big, Voluminous Curls
Large, voluminous curls are a classic gyaru hairstyle. Achieved with curling irons or hair rollers, they add femininity and glamour.
Lightened and Dyed Hair Trends
Many gyaru fashion lovers dye their hair in shades like blonde, caramel, or light brown. These colors contrast well with the dramatic makeup.
Wig Styling for a Dramatic Effect
Wigs are commonly used to achieve different gyaru hairstyles. Whether long curls or straight cuts, wigs offer endless styling possibilities.
Gyaru Makeup: The Key to the Look
Makeup is a defining feature of gyaru fashion. Here’s how to perfect it:
Creating the Signature Doll-Like Eyes
Large, dramatic eyes are the focal point of gyaru makeup. This effect is achieved using circle lenses, false lashes, and heavy eyeliner.
The Importance of False Lashes and Eyeliner
False lashes are a must in gyaru fashion. They add length and volume to the eyes, while thick eyeliner enhances the dramatic look.
Choosing the Right Contact Lenses
Many gyaru lovers wear colored contact lenses to enlarge their eyes and enhance their facial features.
Contouring and Highlighting for a Gyaru Glow
Contouring helps define the face, while highlighter adds a youthful glow, completing the gyaru makeup look.
How to Put Together a Gyaru Outfit
Mixing and Matching Patterns and Textures
Combining different fabrics and prints creates a striking outfit. Gyaru fashion embraces bold contrasts and layering.
Color Coordination for Different Gyaru Styles
Choosing the right color palette is essential. Pastels work for Hime Gyaru, while darker shades suit Rokku Gyaru.
Seasonal Gyaru Fashion – Summer vs. Winter Looks
Gyaru outfits change with seasons. Summer outfits feature light fabrics, while winter looks include stylish layering with coats and boots.
Where to Shop for Gyaru Fashion
Online Stores That Sell Gyaru Clothing
Several online shops specialize in gyaru fashion, offering authentic pieces for beginners and experienced fashion lovers.
Finding Gyaru Pieces in Local Shops
With creativity, you can find gyaru-style pieces in local fashion stores by mixing and matching different items.
DIY and Customizing Clothes for a Unique Look
Customizing clothing by adding lace, pearls, or embellishments is a great way to create a personalized gyaru wardrobe.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make and How to Avoid Them
Overdoing or Underdoing Makeup
Balance is key in gyaru makeup. Too much can look messy, while too little may not capture the style’s essence.
Choosing the Wrong Clothing Fit
Gyaru fashion requires well-fitted clothing. Avoid outfits that are too tight or too baggy.
Ignoring Hairstyling and Accessories
Hair and accessories complete the look. Skipping these elements can make an outfit feel incomplete.
How to Stay Confident in Gyaru Fashion
Embracing the Bold and Unique Aesthetic
Confidence is essential when wearing gyaru fashion. Own the look and enjoy expressing yourself.
Dealing with Social Reactions and Opinions
Gyaru fashion may attract attention. Staying confident and comfortable is the best way to handle reactions.
Finding a Gyaru Community for Support
Joining online and offline gyaru communities can provide inspiration, support, and friendship.
Keeping Up with Gyaru Trends
Social Media and Influencers to Follow
Following gyaru fashion influencers on social media helps stay updated on the latest trends.
Japanese Fashion Magazines for Inspiration
Fashion magazines offer fresh outfit ideas and styling tips.
Attending Gyaru Meetups and Events
Gyaru events allow fashion lovers to connect, learn, and showcase their style.
Conclusion
Gyaru fashion is an exciting and diverse style that allows for self-expression. By understanding different substyles, choosing the right clothing, and mastering makeup and hair, anyone can confidently embrace gyaru fashion. Whether a beginner or experienced fashion lover, gyaru offers endless possibilities for creativity and individuality.