Summer Fashion in Japan

Summer trends in Japan for 2013 include vivid colours and colours such as blue, red, yellow, green, pink as well as neon colours. Printed designs and patterns are also very popular this summer. Soft pastel colours and whites that give a feeling of transparency and sophistication are also trending.

Classic Japanese patterns from the past have also made a come-back this year. The Japanese yukata (浴衣) is a popular choice for summer this year as well.

The yukata is a casual summer kimono usually made of cotton and worn by both men and women. Cotton is perfect for the hot summers as it lets air through and is very cool and comfortable. A typical yukata ensemble includes the yukata, obi (sash), geta or zori (traditional Japanese sandals), sensu (foldable fan), and kinchaku (carry bag). It is a popular look and very common during the hot summer months starting in July and the summer festivals and fireworks (hanabi) which are also part of this season.

Japanese Yukata

Geta ~ Traditional Japanese Sandals and Kinchaku ~ Carry Bag

Sensu ~ Japanese Folding Fan

Yukata are traditionally made with indigo dyed cotton but these days a wide variety of colours and designs are available. The traditional yukata had patterns of flowers or nature against a background. The general rule is that younger people wear bright vivid colours and bold patterns. The older generation prefer dark, simple patterns and matured colours. Men usually wear solid dark colours.

Japanese Men's Yukata

A lot of young people are also completing their yukata look with a pair of cool sunglasses. Men are also wearing hats and women hair accessories to make the look more modern. It is a wonderful mix of the traditional with the new and modern, which is a big part of fashion today in Japan.

This post is proudly sponsored by SmartBuyGlasses Japan, one of the world's largest online eye wear retailer.