This catwalk show appeared fresh and rejuvenating and the clothes on offer blazed like the sun that shined outside.

The attention to detail was incredible and the sheer mastery of this collection was awe-inspiring. With a general feel of Harajuku on a Sunday afternoon both the menswear and womenswear apparel showed a confidence and identity that has lacked in other shows at Japan Fashion Week. YAB-YUM delivered exactly what they set out to do – show a poetic fusion of Asian influenced Gothic Pop.

With an atmospheric soundtrack of bands such as Sigur Ros the audience was treated to Gothic pleated jackets with painted faces and black lipstick. This heavily accessorized line used Indian patterns and Turkish colours. Grey minis were followed by long black Goth jackets that looked as if they had flown directly from Takeshita Street in Harajuku. Half jackets, violet shorts and floating material gave a Goa adventurer ambience to the event.

The men’s assemblage stood out in an otherwise disappointing week for Japanese men’s fashion. Fitted black jackets, bright red pants with safety pins, white double breasted waistcoats, jumpsuits with hippie stars and striped schoolboy blazers completed this curious blend of Goth/Indian traveler. In a mellow mix of Marilyn Manson and Mick Jagger the menswear took shape and offered an innovative and revolutionary look for 2006.

YAB-YUM are flying high at the moment and are confirming their status as the superstars of the Tokyo fashion scene. If you enjoy cross cultural synthesis then YAB-YUM will make you quietly content.