I really loved what she said “Japanese don’t care how others see them. They’re not afraid of showing individuality.” This is so often an issue I find myself having. Even if they deny it, people are so afraid of being different or trying something new as far as style goes. I’ve actually heard people saying lately that some key fashion points of mori gyaru are ugly which disturbs me because I take a lot of inspiration from that style. My hopes are to simply do what I like without paying attention to other’s opinions and maybe people will get inspired to do the same.

@Kjeld: I agree on American perceptions of “style tribes”. Today I walked into a hat shop and the store keeper asked me “what I called” my style, and “who else dresses like this?” I don’t know… I just wear what I like. I am glad that the Japanese youth, despite the mostly group-based, conformist culture, has spaces where they can literally dress for themselves (as well as, some would argue, for admiration and approval from their “tribes”.)

I’ll forgive NHK for calling Grimoire’s style “mori girl”, since Dolly Kei could be called a subset of the mori girl style. And the outfit Grimoire has at the (extended!!) exhibit is great. Thank you for posting the video!!

I think Hitomi Nomura is the most creative person I have ever heard of, a great inspiration! I really enjoyed watching this show. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks Kjeld that really helps and makes sense. I’ve heard one common piece of advice repeated amongst people I know or have met who become highly influenced by Japanese fashion and it’s something I repeat to others often who say they like my style but wouldn’t have the courage to wear it: You just wear what you like. I think if the west as a whole could achieve that they would be much happier, especially in highschool when image becomes a huge deal.

@Kjeld TPO true true, true true.

Yeah…I’m not seeing much of a difference btw.mori girl and dolly kei. Anyone care to explain? Is mori less folk-costume inspired?