Oversized Asymmetrical Yokai Pattern Shirt available at ZenPlus
Introduction
Nicki Minaj once brilliantly said, "Who wants to look simple when you can look stunning?"—a sentiment fully embraced by Japanese Harajuku style, which has successfully erased the term 'too much' from the fashion dictionary.
From Cosplay to Sweet lolita, Gothic lolita, Fairy kei, Decora, Kawaii, Ganguro, and Visual kei—these are just a few of the styles that make up the eclectic Harajuku fashion, originating from the area around Tokyo’s Harajuku Station.
While Harajuku outfits might look like there's a lot happening, pulling together your basic pieces is surprisingly easy—start your fun fashion adventure with these 6 must-haves!
Shirts
Graffiti Logo Short-sleeve T-shirt available at ZenPlus
First things first, you need a base shirt to nail that Harajuku style, but not just any shirt…
Harajuku is where all the cool, quirky styles converge, so of course, even a basic shirt here has serious swagger. It shouldn’t be something you'd stumble upon in an ordinary store to really set you apart from the everyday crowd.
Perfect examples of these standout pieces include the head-turning Oversized Asymmetrical Yokai Pattern Shirt, the chic Sleeveless Chinese Button Shirt, the eye-catching Retro Pattern T-Shirt, the gorgeous Pen-chested Monochrome Shirt, and the creative Retro Print Striped Shirt Dress.
You can find these and numerous other equally stylish options on ZenPlus, all ideal statement pieces providing the perfect base to build a remarkable outfit upon. Remember, the rule is always to be extra—really extra!
Pants/ Shorts
Ocean Waves Pattern Hakama Pants available at ZenPlus
With your base top set, you move on to the bottoms—opt for pants or shorts that are cool, casual, and eye-catching, perfect for completing your Japanese street-style vibe.
For the pants, you've got plenty of runway-ready options—like Patterned Striped Wide-leg Pants, Floral Flared Gaucho Wide-leg Pants, the trendy 9/10 Length Cropped Pants, versatile Denim Wide Pants, Tightened Hem Animal Zebra Pants, and many more.
If you prefer something more freeing, opt for cool street-style shorts like the eye-catching Leopard Shorts, Cut-off Half Denim Pants, Lolita-style Shorts, or the unique Pleated Wrap Mini Pants—a hybrid of wrap skirt and shorts—for ultimate comfort and style.
Skirts
Patterned Layered Skirt with Tassels available at ZenPlus
Skirts are a must-have for anyone rocking Harajuku style—they're easier to fit than pants, incredibly versatile, and add an instant flair to any outfit (no matter the top). And truth be told, they're downright attractive!
Whether you opt for a short skirt to channel a daring, rule-free vibe, or a longer one for those innocent, kawaii vibes, skirts are the ultimate ally for looking stylish when nothing else feels right (it's no wonder they're a favorite in Japan!)
Sneakers/ Boots/ Pumps (Or Any Footwear of Your Choice!)
Canvas Shoes with Hand-painted Graffiti available at ZenPlus
If you're someone who always notices shoes first, you understand how they can make or break a first impression. A great pair of shoes can do more than just complement your street style vibe—it can literally define it, bringing a touch of flair and casual charm to your entire look.
With Japanese Harajuku style, you get to choose from a wide array of footwear, each varying in style, color, and pattern but sharing one delightful trait: remarkable comfort!
Whether you opt for standout Lace-Up Platform Sandals, head-turning Transparent Boots, Kawaii-style Ribbon Loafers, bold Flame Pattern Thick Sole Long Boots, or super cool Crane and Kanji Pattern Print Sneakers, your focus should be on flaunting a personal, unapologetic style that unmistakably screams "this is me!"
Bags
Lace-up Bag with Cute Stuffed Animals available at ZenPlus
At first glance, Harajuku-style bags might seem wild, but that's exactly the point!
With their super unique designs, colors, and textures, these bags allow wearers to express a signature look that emphasizes individuality and authenticity—reasons why the Japanese have more fun with fashion!
Just imagine the fun of stepping out with these: a Lace-up Bag with Cute Stuffed Animals, a Retro Phone Shoulder Bag, a Bread Shoulder Bag with Fried Egg Pouch Toast, a Rock Heart Little Devil Backpack, a massive Cheeseburger Backpack, or even a unique Long Umbrella with a Matching Umbrella Bag—guaranteed to turn heads down the entire street!
Hoodies
Knitted Cardigan with Hooded Droopy Ears available at ZenPlus
When you think of effortlessly cool street style, hoodies naturally come to mind.
A bit of history about this wardrobe essential: Introduced in 1926 by Benjamin Russell Jr., a football player, the first sweatshirt was born out of necessity. Frustrated with itchy wool jerseys, he developed an all-cotton practice jersey that was both cooler and more comfortable.
More than just a way to stay warm, sweatshirts have evolved beyond just a winter staple to become icons of laid-back style worldwide. Throwing on a hoodie is the easiest thing, yet its instant impact makes it a timeless favorite that complements any ensemble you can imagine.
If exceptional and cool fashion is your thing, the RomelCheo store in Japan should be your next stop. Focusing on Harajuku styles that combine the essence of 'interesting' and 'fashionable,' they offer an extensive array of seriously unique hoodies. Definitely check them out for head-turning styles!
Ready to Turn Heads? The Fun Starts Here!
Fish Pattern Shirt Dress available at ZenPlus
If you're beginning to explore Japanese street style, a great place to start is RomelCheo, a Japanese store that perfectly captures the quirky spirit and vibrant trends of the Harajuku district.
They cater to those who enjoy (and aren't afraid of) rocking playful and expressive styles, offering everything from must-haves to unique Harajuku pieces you didn't even know you needed!
Recognizing the global appeal of Japanese street style, the store has partnered with ZenPlus to give international fashion enthusiasts easy access to their unique offerings without ever having to set foot in Japan.
Even more exciting, ZenPlus features over 5 million other Japanese items from more than 3,000 local retailers, allowing you to add a wide range of products to your cart and have a massive Japanese shopping haul delivered directly to your doorstep—all without the travel hassle and physical shopping fatigue!
