In case you are a fan of Japanese fashion subcultures, you have a new name that you should familiarize yourself with: Jirai Kei. The term is defined by Wikipedia as an upcoming trend that combines the gothic, dark, and prep style with the sweetness of the kawaii style. It used to be obscure, but currently, it is exploding on TikTok, Pinterest, and Instagram screens all over the world.
This is to think of the oversized bows, doll make-up, and schoolgirl skirts, and some moody color schemes, which are done with slightly self-destructive flair. It is cutting edge, beautiful, and creepy all at the same time, and it is revamping the fashion direction of young people, not only in Tokyo, but also in Toronto!
Willing to crack Jirai Kei? This is what it is, how to wear it, and where to find the right pieces to play with this interesting style.
What exactly is Jirai Kei?
Jirai translates to landmine, leaving a feeling of the unstable nature of the trend. Think of an adorable girl who is a sweet looker but with a lurking drama. It is the anti-eps-pure kawaii: Jirai Kei throws in the dark lace, chokers, platform shoes, and sad makeup. It is a teenage fashion popular in Harajuku that is now also picking up in the worldwide indie fashion scene.
Five Major Components of Jirai Kei Style
1. Black Preppy Skirts & Blouses
Mini skirts, pleated, it was black, burgundy, or an intense dark navy, and Peter Pan-collar blouses. Accessorize them along with a pair of thigh-high socks to offer Jirai’s aesthetic.
2. Huge hair bows and ribbons
Velvet or satin bows, large, are necessary. There is a childish, but theatrical twist; clip one in the back of your head, or tie one around a ponytail.
3. Platform Mary Janes/Loafers
Shoes matter. The outfit is completed with chunky Mary Janes, gothic lolita platforms, or vintage-style loafers, particularly with accompanying lace-edged socks.
4. Moody makeup, Soft Yet
The key features are pale skin (achievable employing skin lightening), pink foundation under the eyes (also known as aegyo-sal), messy eyeliner or slightly poisoned looks, which complete the trademark of the Jirai Kei style: sweet but sad.
5. Adorable Gothic Jewels
Add lace chokers, charm bracelets, or plushie keychains that are attached to the bag to achieve playful but a bit unsettling effect.
Final Thoughts
Jirai Kei does not merely mean a look, but a mood. Spiky, sugary, and full of teenage defiance, it is the latest Japanese fashion export to remake the rules of kawaii.
What do you think: would you go to Jirai Kei this year? How would you wear it?
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