Yesterday I went to the JAPAN FASHION NOW show at the Fashion Institute of Technology(FIT).
Comme de Garcons pink gingham skirtThis is one fabulous, huge exhibit of Japanese clothing design from the '70s till now on through January 8, 2011.
I was in Tokyo for 6 weeks in the '80's on a Parsons' graphic design program led by CBS Art Director, John Berg and the memories came flooding back. The dollar was good in those days. Comme De Garcons had navy blue trucks daily delivering new merch to the department stores and I was there (instead of in class) to grab it - I bought a ton of stuff, most I gave away. It was impossible to figure out how to put it on. We got invited to an Issey Myaki sale and given garbage bags! to fill up - I bought a red bus conductor's belt with attached purse - I wonder whose wearing it now..?
Current fashion trends called 'Cosplay' include "a kind of role play involving dressing up as characters from popular manga (comic books), anime (animated films), computer/video games" or as The New York Times mentioned,"a bizarre pastiche of Central European folkloric costume pieces." The WSJ has a video on the 'Hime' or princess style. Thanks Tami
Elegant & Gothic Lolita styles are represented in depth.
With lifelike Volk dolls in matching outfits...
Later there was a Lolita Tea party. Oh why did I leave my Sonia hairbow at home?
Hints of Alice
And Marie-Antoinette are part of the Lolita look.
Wear your cupcakes.
Or eat them.
Cat cookies for the cat fanciers.
And macarons bien sur!
Please wear pink shoes with your macaron skirt...
Bags with bows=essential
There's a dark side to this sweet Lolita subculture - like the Simpson's 'Itchy and Scratchy' - it's not all sugar and pink marshmallows. Character cats, Hangry & Angry creator, Gashicon, was there for a discussion with the show's fashion historian and curator, Valerie Steele pre-tea party to tell all.
A tea party attendee decked out in all the accoutrements - these outfits are elaborate and expensive...
If you're in New York, do NOT MISS the Japan Fashion Now show and there are lots more related events to attend.BONJOUR LOLITAS!