ASA 141
Week 5
This week's reading "Japanese Teens as Producers of Street Fashion" really interested me. I had never heard of any culture whose fashion industry was determined by the younger generation of consumers. I found it extremely interesting how the author delves into some of the specific subcultures and their significance in challenging norms in Japanese society. Through some of my own research, I found two different videos that explore the meanings behind particular subcultures in Japan and the importance they hold to those who engage in them.
The first one was Yami Kawaii which is a Harajuku subculture of Kawaii which stresses cuteness while combining symbols of death. This subculture plays an essential role in Japanese youth and their relationship with mental health. Often acting as a therapeutic outlet for those struggling with depression or suicide creating a community of support.
The other subculture I stumbled upon was one actually started by a male which made it extremely unique compared to the other subcultures predominately ruled by females. This hypnotic movement rejects the traditional ideas of fashion defining sexuality, celebrating genderless fashion, drawing on anime's fluid beauty standards.
I found the importance of these subcultures as methods to create unique communities fascinating especially when you then take into account the fact that the business side of fashion in Japan is supporting these communities by including these items in favorite stores.
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