Defining Japanese Fashion: From Meisen Kimono to Issey Miyake

Professor Hiroshi Narumi PHOTO: Revi Pillai

LONDON – Japan has fabricated a unique and distinctive fashion culture. In recent years, subcultures like Gothic Lolita (‘Goth-loli’) and avant-garde fashion designs, such as those by Comme des Garçons, have had a significant impact on global fashion. Why has Japan developed such a unique fashion culture? How is contemporary Japanese fashion connected to Japan’s past?

In this talk, Professor Hiroshi Narumi explored the evolution of fashion in Japan during its modernisation in the 20th century.      

Through key trends such as the Taisho-era Meisen kimono, the rise of the Modern Girl, the westernization of Japanese clothing, and post-war youth fashion, he discussed how Japanese fashion reflects the nation’s changing identity.      

This presentation offered a fresh perspective on the complex relationship between clothing and culture.

   The Japan Society event was co-organised with The Japan Foundation, in partnership with Circle of Japanese Art London

   The talk was held at The Swedenborg London, Monday 17 February 2025

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