5 Must-Know Kawaii Sub-Styles: Which One Suits You Best?

Introduction

As we delve deeper into the world of kawaii fashion, it's important to note that this style is not monolithic. In fact, kawaii fashion is a vibrant tapestry of various sub-styles, each with its unique characteristics and charm. This diversity is what makes kawaii fashion so distinctive and recognizable. From the use of pastel colors to the incorporation of cute accessories like pom poms, laces, or cartoon jewelry, each sub-style of kawaii fashion has its unique flair.

Did you know that there are numerous sub-styles within kawaii fashion? Indeed, there are over 10 different sub-styles to explore. With such a wide array, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to the top 5 must-know kawaii fashion sub-styles. This guide will provide you with an in-depth understanding of each sub-style, from its meaning and history to its key items and elements.

This guide is perfect for everyone! Whether you're a seasoned kawaii fashion enthusiast or just someone who's curious about the different sub-styles, this guide has something for you. So, make sure to read until the end so you won't miss out on a thing. Let's dive into the captivating world of kawaii fashion sub-styles!

Kawaii fashion can be broken down into many sub-styles. Each of these sub-styles has its unique characteristics, color palette, makeup, and clothing choices. Here are the top 5 must-know kawaii fashion sub-styles that may suit you!

1. Victorian-Style

One of the most recognizable sub-styles in the kawaii fashion world is undoubtedly Victorian-Style fashion. Originating in Japan in the 1970s, Victorian-Style fashion draws inspiration from the Victorian era and has since evolved into a beloved subculture with a strong following worldwide.

Victorian-Style fashion has gained immense popularity for its iconic Victorian-inspired look. This kawaii sub-style has been embraced by people from countries outside of Japan, particularly in North America and Europe.

Characterized by full skater skirts, petticoats, blouses, and knee-high socks, all in soft, pastel colors, Victorian-Style fashion is a unique blend of cuteness and sophistication. It's also heavily influenced by anime, manga, Japanese pop culture, and of course, music.

The key elements that make Victorian-Style fashion iconic are lace, ribbons, bows, and other frilly details. The look is completed with a bonnet, a purse, or a pair of gloves as accessories. Lace, a staple in Victorian-Style fashion, is incorporated in various ways, such as lacy collars, cuffs, and hem trims, adding a touch of femininity to your overall look. It's like a little secret of loveliness that only the Victorian-Style fashionistas know.

There are several different sub-styles within Victorian-Style fashion, the most popular sub-styles include Sweet Victorian-Style, Classic Victorian-Style, and Gothic Victorian-Style.

Sweet Victorian-Style is a style that is characterized by its use of pastel colors and cute, child-like elements. On the other hand, Gothic Victorian-Style combines elements of both gothic and Victorian-Style fashion. It often features dark colors, such as black and navy, as well as elements of gothic fashion, such as crosses and skulls.

2. Fairy Kei

Fairy Kei fashion, a vibrant sub-style of the broader kawaii fashion movement, originated in Japan in the early 2000s. This style is a playful and whimsical celebration of the bright colors, bold patterns, and quirky accessories reminiscent of 80s fashion.

The defining elements of Fairy Kei fashion include tutus, leg warmers, oversized bows, and a mix of vintage and modern clothing pieces. This style is renowned for its playful and eclectic use of color, often featuring a mix of pastel hues, neons, and bold prints.

Accessories play a pivotal role in Fairy Kei fashion, with enthusiasts often layering on colorful hair clips, bracelets, necklaces, and other playful items. It's common to see oversized bows, lace, and ribbons incorporated into Fairy Kei outfits, lending them a playful and whimsical feel.

One of the unique aspects of Fairy Kei fashion is the blending of vintage and modern clothing. It's not uncommon to see a vintage dress paired with a modern graphic tee or a vintage blouse paired with modern neon leggings in a Fairy Kei ensemble.

Fairy Kei fashion is a style that encourages creativity and self-expression. It's all about having fun with fashion and expressing oneself through playful and colorful clothing. So, if you're looking to add a touch of whimsy to your wardrobe, Fairy Kei fashion might be the perfect fit for you!

3. Harajuku

If you're a fan of kawaii fashion, you've likely heard of Harajuku fashion. This vibrant and eclectic sub-style, named after Tokyo's Harajuku neighborhood, is a bold expression of individuality and creativity.

Originating in the 80s, Harajuku fashion has become a beacon for colorful and bold streetwear worldwide. It's a sub-style that encourages you to stand out from the crowd and express your unique personality through your clothing and accessories.

When it comes to mastering the Harajuku fashion look, don't shy away from bright colors and bold patterns. Accessories are key in this style, so think oversized hoodies, graphic tees, and edgy sneakers. The more unique and eye-catching, the better!

Harajuku fashion is all about mixing and matching vintage and modern pieces. It's not uncommon to see a vintage dress paired with a modern graphic tee or a vintage blouse paired with modern neon leggings. Plus, with influences from Japanese pop culture, anime, and manga, Harajuku fashion offers an eclectic mix of styles.

So, are you ready to show the world your individuality with a touch of Harajuku flair? Dive into the world of Harajuku fashion and let your creativity run wild!

4. Decora

Have you explored the Decora sub-style in the Harajuku fashion scene yet? Also known as "Deco," this style is a vibrant expression of playfulness, color, and eclecticism. Born in the late 90s and early 2000s in Japan, Decora fashion is a product of the Harajuku fashion scene and has since become a global phenomenon.

If you're an accessory enthusiast, then Decora fashion is the style for you! Decoristas, as they're often called, love to layer on as many colorful and cute accessories as possible. From hair clips to bracelets, necklaces, and even plushies, the more the merrier. They also love to mix and match different types of clothing, like t-shirts, tutus, and leggings, to create a whimsical look.

Bright, bold colors are a staple in Decora fashion. Decoristas love to mix and match different hues and shades to create a vibrant look. Quirky prints and patterns, like polka dots, stripes, and cartoon characters, add a playful touch to their outfits.

It's worth noting that Decora and fairy kei may seem similar at first glance, but they are actually distinct styles. While fairy kei places more emphasis on clothing and patterns, Decora fashion focuses on layering multiple accessories. Both styles are playful, colorful, and fun, but Decora is all about accessorizing!

5. Gyaru

Do you like bleached hair, tanned skin, and edgy style? If it's all "yes" then Gyaru might be your style! Gyaru, also known as "gal" fashion. hit the scene in the 90s and quickly gained popularity for its unique and bold take on beauty.

Gyaru fashion is all about making a statement with bleached hair, a tanned complexion, and loads of makeup. Fake lashes, bold liner, and a pop of lip color are all must-haves for the perfect gyaru look. They also love wearing oversized, vibrant clothing and chunky platform shoes that add to the drama.

As the style has evolved, different sub-styles have emerged, including the more sophisticated "gyaru-kei" and the super tanned and bleached "ganguro".

Gyaru fashion is a global sensation and you'll see people rocking the look all over the world. So go ahead, and embrace your confidence and individuality with this playful, edgy, and bold style.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, kawaii fashion is a broad niche and it has many sub-styles. Each sub-styles have their own unique characteristics to express their creativity. These sub-styles include Victorian-Style, which is heavily influenced by the Rococo and Victorian era. Fairy Kei, which is known for its playful and the use of pastel colors, vintage, and modern clothing. Harajuku, which is characterized by its bold, eclectic side of Japanese street fashion. Decora, known for its whimsical characteristic by layering different colors. Gyaru which more focused on the cute-edgy side of the kawaii fashion.

And there you have it folks, the top 5 must-know kawaii sub-styles! We hope this article provides the information you need and helps you to find your sub-style!

If you found this article helpful, don't forget to share it with your friends or anyone who's interested in kawaii fashion! They'll gain knowledge too. And don't forget to snap a pic and share it with us on Instagram! We can't wait to see your kawaii-inspired looks!