DIY Japanese Fashion.

How-To Tuesday!

Minimalist:

1. Pick one or two statement pieces to work your outfit around. Try a simple cotton shirt, a shift dress, Capri pants, large overcoat or structured skirt.
2. Dry-clean or wash and iron all clothing. Keeping clothes immaculately clean and pressed reflects Japanese culture and also helps the simple structure of the clothing to take center stage.
3. Adorn your outfit with eye-catching shoes, also in tip-top condition. Japanese women often wear kitten heels but your could try a high-fashion approach with smart pumps, brogues or wooden-soled shoes.
4. Accessorize your clothing with equally simple but striking items. A good quality leather bag, without too much decoration, is essential. Choose simple jewelry or a well-made leather belt.

Harajuku:

1. Apply a sheer layer of bronzing gel or light self-tan all over, paying attention to arms and legs. One characteristic of original Harajuku style was that the girls tanned their skin, appearing shocking to the older generation who preferred a pale look.
2. Slip on a cute outfit, such as a logo T-shirt with hot-pants or a mini. You could also cut-down old jeans to make short shorts. Other popular items include school-girl inspired outfits, such as pleated skirts, v-neck sweaters and tartan.
3. Wear striking shoes or boots. Popular styles include all types of platform or giant fluffy boots and shoes. Traditional-style wooden soles also work well with this type of look.
4. Clip neon or blonde sections into straightened hair. Try clip-in bangs to structure your look. Some Japanese teens dye their hair in vibrant colors, so for a party you could wear a bright wig.

[DIY Japanese Fashion @ eHow.com]