Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, is where fashion-forward innovation meets timeless tradition. You’ve probably heard of Japan’s bold street styles—think Harajuku, Kawaii, and Shibuya fashion—but that’s just one side of the story. Fashion in Japan is as exotic and fascinating as the country itself. Traditional Japanese attire still holds a special place in the country’s culture. From elegant kimonos to statement accessories and modern trends, we’re about to explore what makes Japanese fashion so unique. We’ll be spilling beans about Japan’s traditional clothes for men and women, but we won’t stop here. We’ll also talk about fashion pieces from japan as modern as the the country’s cityscapes. That will include iconic garments born in Japan but famous worldwide. And then there will be uniquely Japanese fashion accessories and storied jewelry pieces, you can read about, and yes there’s a lot to uncover. Let’s dive in and explore what Japan’s fashion profile has in store for you!
What do Japanese men wear?
Well, Japan is modern and a center of innovation, but they have deep rooted traditions that are still respected and are a source of pride. Here is a pictorial summary of the traditional garments still worn by men in Japan and are a part of its cultural identity.
Kimono
A long, T-shaped traditional robe with wide sleeves, wrapped around the body and secured by an obi belt. Made from silk, cotton, or synthetic fabrics, it is worn on formal occasions like weddings, tea ceremonies, and festivals. Its intricate patterns and elegant craftsmanship reflect cultural heritage and status. Fashion in Japan
Yukata
A lightweight, casual version of the kimono, typically made from breathable cotton or synthetic blends. Designed for summer wear, it is easier to put on, secured with a simple obi, and commonly worn at festivals, hot spring resorts, and ryokan inns. Its vibrant patterns evoke seasonal themes and festive spirit.
Hakama pants
Wide-legged pleated trousers, fastened at the waist with straps and worn over a kimono. Traditionally made from wool, silk, or polyester, they offer ease of movement and are worn by martial artists, Shinto priests, and on formal occasions. The structured pleats symbolize virtues like integrity, honor, and discipline.
image source Fashion in Japan
Montsuki
A formal black kimono, often crafted from silk, distinguished by family crests (mon) displayed on the chest, sleeves, and back. It is typically worn with a hakama for ceremonies, traditional performances, and official events. This refined outfit signifies prestige, lineage, and deep-rooted traditions in Japanese culture. image source Fashion in Japan
Jinbei
A relaxed summer ensemble featuring a short-sleeved, loose-fitting top with side ties and matching shorts. Usually made from cotton or hemp, it promotes airflow for comfort in hot weather. Commonly worn at home or during summer festivals, it embodies a laid-back aesthetic while maintaining traditional craftsmanship.
Samue
A practical work attire worn by Buddhist monks, artisans, and craftsmen, featuring a loose-fitting jacket and matching pants. Made from durable cotton or linen, it allows ease of movement and comfort during daily tasks. In modern times, it is also popular as loungewear, appreciated for its simplicity and function.
Fundoshi
A traditional loincloth made from a single long strip of cotton fabric, wrapped around the waist and tied securely. Historically worn as underwear by men, laborers, and samurai, it is now mainly used by sumo wrestlers and during festivals. Its minimalist design emphasizes tradition, freedom of movement, and durability.
Modern men’s garments with a Japanese traditional twist.
Japan has a great culture, that’s both modern and traditional, here are some modern attire pieces that are uniquely Japanese.
Sukajan Jacket
The ultimate East-meets-West fashion statement! Originally worn by American soldiers in Japan, these embroidered satin jackets now scream street style with their bold dragon, tiger, and cherry blossom designs. Perfect for that effortlessly cool, rebellious look.
Tobi or Nikka-Pokka Pants:
Baggy, high-waisted, and unapologetically bold! These pants, once worn by construction workers, are now a streetwear favorite in Japan. Their exaggerated silhouette gives them a futuristic yet traditional edge, making them a head-turner in urban fashion.
Kimono Cardigan or shirt:
Think of it as a relaxed, everyday version of the classic kimono. Lightweight, open-front, and effortlessly stylish, kimono cardigans bring a touch of traditional elegance to modern outfits, whether layered over a tee or worn with casual pants.
Kimono shirt is a popular casual shirt even outside of Japan, here are some outfit ideas with this exotic shirt.
Noragi Jacket
The original Japanese work jacket, now a must-have for anyone who loves rugged, laid-back fashion. Traditionally worn by farmers, today’s Noragi blends heritage with streetwear vibes—perfect for layering and adding a textured, earthy feel to any outfit.
Hanten Jacket
A cozy, quilted jacket that was once a winter essential for commoners. Today, it’s a staple for anyone who loves that traditional-meets-modern aesthetic—warm, stylish, and effortlessly cool, whether worn casually or as part of a unique streetwear fit.
Modernized Hakama Pants
Traditional samurai pants, but make them sleek! These flowy, pleated trousers are now a futuristic fashion piece, worn high-waisted or with edgy belts. They move like a dream, making them a favorite for dancers, artists, and urban trendsetters.
image source Fashion in Japan
Wagara Print Hoodies and T-Shirts –
Traditional Japanese patterns meet everyday streetwear! Featuring waves, cranes, cherry blossoms, or kanji prints, these hoodies and tees bring heritage into modern fashion, adding a unique cultural touch to casual outfits.
Women’s garments:
1. Kimono
The kimono is Japan’s most iconic traditional garment, instantly recognizable for its T-shaped, wrap-around design with wide sleeves. Alongside it, the yukata (yu-ka-ta) – a lightweight, casual summer kimono – and hakama (ha-ka-ma) – pleated, skirt-like trousers often worn over a kimono – are key parts of Japanese attire. Women wear kimonos for formal occasions, festivals, and ceremonies, often accessorized with an obi (belt) and elegant zori sandals.
2. Furisode:
A furisode is a kimono with long, flowing sleeves, traditionally worn by unmarried women at formal events like weddings and coming-of-age ceremonies. It’s often vibrantly colored and heavily decorated, symbolizing youth and elegance.
3. Tomesode:
A tomesode is a formal kimono for married women, distinguished by its shorter sleeves and family crest (kamon) on the back. It typically features intricate designs near the hem and is worn at weddings and official events.
4. Uchikake:
The uchikake is a heavily embroidered, long bridal kimono with a trailing hem. Unlike other kimonos, it’s worn open over another kimono and is richly adorned with patterns like cranes and cherry blossoms, symbolizing good fortune.
5. Shiromuku
A shiromuku is an all-white wedding kimono, worn by traditional Japanese brides. The white color symbolizes purity and new beginnings. It is paired with a tsunokakushi (bridal headdress), signifying the bride’s commitment to her new family.
Japanese Fashion Accessories, iconic footwear and jewelry:
1. Obi Belt:
The obi is a broad sash traditionally tied around the waist over a kimono or hakama. Often crafted from silk or brocade, it features intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Both functional and decorative, it secures the garment while serving as a focal point of Japanese formal attire, especially for women during ceremonies and special occasions.
2. Tabi Socks and Ninja Tabi Sneakers
Tabi socks are ankle-high, cotton or linen split-toe socks worn with traditional footwear like geta and zori. Ninja tabi sneakers mimic this split-toe design in rubber or canvas, combining traditional style with modern utility. Both styles offer improved balance and a distinctive silhouette, commonly seen in martial arts, festivals, and contemporary Japanese street fashion.
3. Zori Sandals.
Zori are flat, thong-style sandals traditionally made of straw, rice fiber, or lacquered wood. Designed to be worn with kimono, they feature a simple rectangular sole and cloth straps. Zori provide comfort, breathability, and elegance, especially in formal settings. Modern versions may use rubber or leather and appear in both ceremonial and casual styles.
4. Geta
Geta are elevated wooden clogs with two wooden teeth (called “ha”) underneath and a thong strap (hanao) across the top. Worn with yukata or casual kimono, they are typically made from paulownia wood and help keep garments clean by lifting the wearer off the ground. Today, they’re also popular in festivals and fashion cosplay.
5. Hachimaki headband
A hachimaki is a narrow cloth headband tied around the forehead, usually made from cotton. It symbolizes determination, courage, and effort. Worn historically by warriors and laborers, it now appears in martial arts, festivals, school events, and anime cosplay. Commonly decorated with kanji characters, it blends tradition with motivational flair in modern fashion culture.
6. Sensu
Sensu, or folding fans, are crafted from paper or silk on a bamboo frame. These compact, foldable accessories are used for cooling, dance performances, and traditional ceremonies. Often beautifully painted with seasonal or symbolic motifs, sensu combine practicality with aesthetic elegance and are popular souvenirs representing Japanese art, fashion, and cultural identity.
7. Inro box.
An inro is a small, multi-compartment case traditionally made of lacquered wood or ivory, suspended from the obi by a cord and fastened with a netsuke toggle. Originally used by men to carry medicines, seals, or small items, inro are now collectible antiques and decorative accessories symbolizing Edo-period craftsmanship and cultural refinement.
8. Kasa
Kasa refers to traditional Japanese hats or umbrellas, commonly woven from straw or constructed from oiled paper and bamboo. Styles vary from wide-brimmed sedge hats to the domed wagasa umbrella. Kasa provide sun and rain protection and are associated with monks, farmers, and festival performers, adding historical depth to traditional and costume fashion.
image source Fashion in Japan
9. Wagasa umbrella:
The wagasa is a traditional Japanese umbrella made from bamboo spokes and washi paper, coated with natural oils for waterproofing. Featuring a wide, circular canopy and intricate radial patterns, it’s both functional and decorative. Originally used for sun and rain protection by nobles and performers, the wagasa remains a symbol of elegance in tea ceremonies, festivals, and cultural performances.
10. Menpō
Menpō are stylized face masks originally worn by samurai to protect the lower face in battle, typically made from iron or leather. Featuring fierce expressions and sometimes mustaches, they conveyed intimidation. Today, they’re used in cosplay, streetwear, and fashion photography, lending a dramatic and edgy flair inspired by feudal Japan’s warrior aesthetics.
10. Jingasa or Samurai Helmet:
Jingasa are lightweight, dome-shaped hats made from lacquered paper, wood, or metal, originally worn by lower-ranking samurai and foot soldiers. Practical on the battlefield, they are now worn in parades, cosplay, or as cyberpunk-inspired fashion items. Their bold shape and traditional materials make them an iconic blend of historical functionality and avant-garde style.
11. Sarashi Wraps:
A long, tightly wound cotton wrap traditionally used by samurai and sumo wrestlers. Now, they’re a bold fashion statement, worn as edgy waist wraps or layered under jackets for a tough, warrior-inspired look with serious street cred.
12. Sukajan Cap
Inspired by the Sukajan jacket, this cap features intricate Japanese embroidery, often depicting dragons, tigers, cherry blossoms, or koi fish. It blends traditional Japanese motifs with Western baseball cap styles, making it a popular streetwear accessory in Harajuku and urban fashion.
Jewelry of Japan:
Japanese jewelry is no less exotic and unique. These items can be the best gifts you can buy from Japan for your loved ones.
Here’s a list of 7 uniquely Japanese jewelry items that are popular among men and women and make great gifts.
1. Magatama pendants –
Magatama are comma-shaped beads traditionally made from jade, agate, or crystal, originating in Japan’s Jomon period. Worn as pendants, they were once used as spiritual talismans or imperial regalia. Their curved, organic shape is said to represent the soul or the unborn, making them both symbolic and fashionable in modern spiritual jewelry.
Fashion in Japan
Juzu Bracelets
Juzu bracelets are traditional Buddhist prayer beads made from materials like wood, jade, or semi-precious stones. Typically featuring an odd number of beads and a tassel, they are used for chanting and meditation. Today, they’re also worn as spiritual fashion accessories, symbolizing mindfulness and serenity while adding a touch of elegant simplicity to any outfit. Fashion in Japan
3. Netsuke Pendants
Originally carved toggles used to secure inro or pouches to kimono sashes, netsuke are now prized as artistic pendants. Made from wood, ivory, or resin, they feature miniature sculptures of animals, folklore figures, or masks. With rich detailing and cultural symbolism, netsuke pendants serve as both collectible art and uniquely Japanese fashion statements.
4. Kanzashi Hairpins
Kanzashi are decorative hairpins traditionally worn with kimono, crafted from lacquered wood, metal, or tortoiseshell. Often adorned with seasonal flowers, birds, or butterflies, they are inserted into elaborate hairstyles. While rooted in geisha and bridal fashion, kanzashi remain popular as both vintage accessories and modern hair jewelry with a distinct cultural charm.
5. Kanji Eternity Necklace
The Kanji Eternity Necklace features Japanese characters such as 愛 (love), 力 (strength), or 永遠 (eternity), engraved or cast into metal pendants. Usually made from silver, stainless steel, or gold, these minimalist necklaces blend elegance with meaning. They are worn for personal symbolism or as stylish, cross-cultural fashion pieces with spiritual undertones.
6. Obidome Brooches
Obidome are decorative clasps traditionally fastened over the obi belt of a kimono. Made from enamel, silver, jade, or ceramics, they feature intricate designs like flowers, animals, or seasonal scenes. Today, they are often repurposed as brooches or pendants, adding a touch of Japanese heritage to contemporary fashion ensembles.
7. Shakudō Jewelry
Shakudō jewelry is crafted from a Japanese alloy of gold and copper, renowned for its deep blackish-blue patina. Historically used in samurai sword fittings, it’s now fashioned into rings, pendants, and bracelets. Often accented with gold or silver inlays, shakudō pieces embody strength, refinement, and the subtle beauty of Japanese metalwork tradition.
These pieces blend history, symbolism, and artistry, making them perfect gifts with a Japanese touch!
Fashion Aesthetics that define Japan:
Harajuku.
Harajuku fashion is all about self-expression—wild colors, layered outfits, and mixing styles that shouldn’t work together (but somehow do). Think oversized streetwear, punk, Lolita dresses, and tons of accessories. It’s a rebellion against boring fashion, straight from the streets of Tokyo! The name comes from the Harajuku district in Tokyo, a hub for experimental street fashion.
Shibuya Aesthetic.
Shibuya fashion is trendy, sleek, and effortlessly cool. Inspired by high-end brands and pop culture, it’s what you’d see on Tokyo’s most stylish youth. Think chic streetwear, oversized blazers, designer sneakers, and an edgy, urban vibe that screams confidence. The term comes from Shibuya, a fashionable and bustling shopping district in Tokyo.
Kawaii.
Kawaii fashion is pure cuteness overload! Pastel colors, frilly skirts, oversized bows, and adorable characters everywhere. It’s playful, childlike, and makes you look like you stepped out of an anime. Bonus points for plushie accessories! The word kawaii means “cute” or “adorable” in Japanese and reflects a whole culture of sweetness and innocence.
Gyaru.
Gyaru is bold, flashy, and all about standing out. Think big hair, dramatic makeup, tanned skin, and glamorous outfits with platform boots. It’s inspired by Western pop culture but with an extra dose of attitude and confidence! The name Gyaru comes from the English word “gal,” symbolizing a rebellious and fashionable young woman.