I'm in to both style, American and Japanese but as I get older I'm tired of keeping up with the newest trends. Therefore, my style leans towards Japanese side where I focus on my own style and do my best to make the pieces I have more timeless.
Agreed, through out middle and high school I always felt the need to follow the trends but once I graduated I realized how actual trends are just trickled down aspects of high fashion that take years to finally hit average people so I made the decision to follow my own style instead of the predictable mediocrity
Total noob on the issue here. Would you say Japanese fashion brands tend to produce better quality garments, since their philosophy is more about cultivating a style rather than following trends?
That's more inline with what I do. I like to just yoink whatever I like from literally any style, and incorporate them all as best I can. I like the Japanese oversized hoodies and techwear 3 quarter cuff pants. I like those West African super colourful shirts they wear to weddings and funeral after-parties and stuff. I like Punk sort of mid calf boots with straps (more on the subtle side though). I like flaring structured skirts. Then regular shirts and pants and buttoned shirts and whatever (and all black classy 3 piece suits lol). But nothing over the top, I like subtlety.
I feel like American style has a very heavy focus on the brand names, iconic patterns, graphics and logos where “flexing” is of utmost importance. Looking at Japanese styles, although those elements are present, I like the fact that they focus on timeless pieces, on their colours, their shapes, and how it flows with their outfits. I can spend hours people watching in Japan to admire different styles and how the dress.
I like Japanese fashion the most because of its individuality, I live in England and the majority of people around my age dress the same (roadmen or norm core) and if someone is interested in fashion or clothes they wear what they see in Instagram piece for piece. Whereas in Japan people curate more and don't copy tends. For those wonder I am 17 going on 18 next month .
Yeah also being from the uk the fashion styles are so boring so when I moved to japan I didn’t even bring a full suitcase and then now I’m just rebuilding my wardrobe
A very interesting story I read recently is about the old legend Japanese brand VAN which focused entirely on Ivy style back in 60s. The market team of the brand came to US for the first time for commercial shooting and was extremely disappointed with the clothing style of US Ivy college students. When they got back home, they concluded that the Japanese had excelled in Ivy style and no longer needed to look back at US for reference:)
pretty sure they were dissapointed not because the americans had bad style but because no american college kid/teenager in the 60s actually wanted to dress in the ivy style
I honestly think the Japanese have incredible fashion sense. I've seen some out there styles from them too, stuff that I'd never rock but they blow me away every time. I love they're application of history. There's often a retro or even dynastic inspirations, it's fantastic. Every time.
I can really feel a new type of energy from you in this video. I can tell you're really hyped about all the new things yall are doing with the brand. Keep up the great content 🙏🏼
Japanese brands are usually much better made than stateside brands. IMO. Cut differently to suit the Japanese body. Which can definitely be frustrating if you're 5'10" and 170 pounds. A lot of guess work can go into buying new brands because we can't just try it on. But, I do prefer japanese brands for the most part, because people will compliment the clothes, not knowing the brand, and that starts a whole conversation. That's what's always been one of my favorite parts of streetwear/fashion. Sharing and learning.
Man you and your videos are genuinely intelligent. Such a refreshing watch from the typical fashion UA-camr. You really nailed it on the analysis of the two cultures fashion sense. Well done man.
Fusion and taking inspiration from both sides is where it's at imo. Also doesn't have to be solely US and Japan centric either, so much more is out there
Being a hardcore consumer/seller/trader in high fashion and traveling from New York and to Japan quite frequently I would have to say Japanese fashion AND style is better. Tokyo to me from what I saw and experience has it own style and the people there don't really follow trends and understand structure silhouette better and body structure than most Americans. As for me being from Soho is probably the 2nd best place for fashion & style(2nd to Tokyo or Harajuku specifically).
You should read "Ametora: How Japan Saved American Style". I can throughouly recommend the book, it details the whole history of the crossover between American & Japanese fashion from Ivy to Modern Day!
As an American that’s been into fashion for awhile now; I’ve noted that most of it is subculture, youth, hype, and financially driven: now this isn’t all bad as it has contributed amazing styles, designers, trends etc. the downside of American fashion is that it’s somewhat empty and brash at times, and a lot of the time usually lacks detailed curation. Japanese fashion not only fills in the gaps of American influence; its also driven by curiosity and boundless exploration that kind of deletes the ceilings that American style/trends tend to run into. So personally I lean a lot more into Japanese fashion myself but American fashion is in my dna. (**BTW: original Japanese fashion and designers are amazing.)
Tacky is the perfect word for US fashion in 2020... most people just tack on the most bright, expensive pieces for the attention, with no sense of style. Not dissing anyone's style but I RARELY see anyone in person who I'd say has nice style. Though there are a few and they all have that same style, like they look at dressing as an art. For me I always wear soft, dark tones. Very little vibrant colors. I think that attention to detail is what makes someone stylish. Doesn't matter so much what they're wearing but how they put it together.
Great vid I’ve worked as a style consultant and here in America I find that some ppl haven’t defined their own sense of style. It’s more about trend. However I like that I have definitely found mine and comfortable expressing it which makes me stand out. It has in some cases made ppl I’ve grown up with feel a bit uncomfortable but I don’t care.
I knew the Japanese were more serious about fashion when I found out how much they appreciate American workwear brands, I swear workwear has the best quality for price you can buy and they have some underrated pieces of you can sift through the regular stuff. That’s why kanye pulled up with a whole dickies jumpsuit and most Americans didn’t get it, their too consumed with classism and that your clothes aren’t cool unless you spend big bucks on them, but then the kids who are influencers on social media tend to be really into thrifting which is the best thing when building and finding your style, cheap clothes, hidden one of a kind pieces, and you’re recycling, the ONLY thing you won’t find at a thrift store is a brand new trend unless the trend is a throwback ( which they tend to be cause nothing new under the sun) Long story short, Japan is still trying to create waves were as America has become about surfing the waves instead of making them.
The more I am into fashion, the more I am into Japanese fashion. Issey Miyake is my fav and I gain a lot of design inspiration from Issey. Yohji is also my fav
So true what he was saying about mixing styles and genres to make something completely new. I always felt like I do that but the opposite, taking what I like best from UK, US, and Japanese fashion/culture. My base is that california street/hipster style, but it's grown so much over the years that tracing all my influences is almost impossible.
You should do a video on brands outside of North America/Europe/Asia! Im from Chile and there are some brands here that are pretty interesting, like Prosa, De Goya or Wearpedritos
Thank you for this concise and well-reasoned comparison between American and Japanese fashion. Both are important and influential but I do appreciate how the Japanese aesthetic is somewhat less about chasing a trend-- hopefully in the service of discouraging fast fashion, mindless consumerism, and the unrelenting, soul swallowing pursuit of status.
Hey The Casual Co. I'm a fan in Singapore. Can you do a video on the history of porter bags and difference between different porter brands? Will be great if you have some coverage on Japanese accessories brands such as jam home made, goros, etc as well.
I just recently got into fashion and the points that you made about America are spot on. It’s either people are spending an absurd amount of money to flex of buy hype stuff and rich kids doing the same. You also have the trends that go on and people follow those and looking like everyone else. Not to mention the instagram “influencers” or people do the whole essentials thing. Attacking people that dress different or don’t conform. I don’t know much about Japan fashion so I can’t speak on much. But what I’ve seen it’s very different and seems unique. The only thing is when they look like their wearing westerners costumes or try to look a certain way like the videos on them getting dreads and etc. Which I think is ridiculously weird. I guess if I have to pick I probably go with American despite my criticisms. I’m new to the channel and I like the content and also Japanese fashion peaked my interest so I’ll keep watching.
In my opinion, honestly.. I rather pick Japanese style because americans don't know how to dress properly (no offense though). I live in Canada myself and I've seen different styles from 3 countries.. besides America, Japan and Korea (even though korea is not on this list between NA and JP fashion).
Defying The Oddz I’m from NYC and I agree with you. I rarely see people that dress nicely. Sometimes they have nice pieces but it’s put together sloppily. If I see someone dressed nicely I’m typically in Soho, Union Square, Madison Ave or Williamsburg. People just want designer or what others are buying.
@@queenmisanthrope ikr! I swear ever since Kanye introduced his fashionline to the whole world (that looks like its taking shots at homeless people), everyone been dressing like a bum now. Even if they have some high-end designer piece(s), people still dont know how to dress nice. This is why I hardly keep up with american fashion trend because people cant dress properly
One topic that I feel should be expanded upon is how the difference of cultures often dictate people’s attitudes toward clothing in the U.S. vs. in Japan. As Reggie hinted, celebrity culture once played (and still does in the form of social media influencing) a large role in dictating fashion trends. That often permeates into a culture of hype brands and flexing. With the advent of the internet and the resulting free flow of information, it’s created an atmosphere where our attention is being constantly competed for. However, it can also be argued that we don’t have to engage with celebrity culture if we don’t want to. The access to various subcultures has grown and people can now be more selective in what we choose to care about. This applies to fashion as well in that people can now immerse themselves in select fashion styles or brands. If people adopted the Japanese approach to fashion and pay more attention to replicating a certain look instead of the individual, this could spark more individuality out here in the West as well.
Love the content and informative takes. What I like about Japanese (and to an extent, maybe Korean) fashion is that fashion in East Asia is daring but at the same time they like considering the cultural and historical values of pieces or styles. Americana in Japan for example wasn't shy on loose fits, which was traditionally how workwear is worn. In the US (using workwear as an example), the theme of workwear/Americana is practiced but sometimes overly modernized. Such as slimmed down versions of workwear clothing. Nothing wrong with that at all, its just that I personally think it loses some traits of Americana that made it iconic to begin with.
I feel like people in the states tend to "dress to impress" whether it be by flexing brand names or just trying to fit into a commonality in society whereas in Japanese street fashion, they don't care XD they just dress for themselves and I think that's fricken rad. Trendy brands and common threads can make a nice fit but the uniqueness lies in the feeling you have when knowing that what you're wearing is unique to you/your style. Maybe it's just me, but I value uniqueness over basically everything when it comes to fashion.
I feel like this perception of the United States being the epicenter of fashion is not kinda true ( except for streetwear) obviously since is one of the most populated country in the world a lot of trends will be solidified there but I personally think the countries with most "personal/unique fashion style" would be France, Italy, or Japan. Again this doesn't apply to streetwear since it started in the US and it globalized from there. I feel like the US think like high fashion name tag= elegance. Whereas the countries listed above are more into the lines, silhouettes, patterns...
American fashion is always the lead to setting trends. America does go in and out of fashion much faster but this allows other communities like Japan for example, they take something and refine it. Japan is known for that, that's just apart of what Japan does. Take a look at the car industry, Japan just refines things and keeps it consistent and reliable. Just like streetwear, they refine something, "does it better" with a splash of japanese influence. I think overall, all fashion communities influence each other but once something catches fire, America just FLEXES SO HARD. then japan is like NAH this is how it's done then korea is in the background like Yeeaaaaa i guess that's ok. can we try? then europe is like Settle down kids, let me show you what a 20k shirt looks like.
i like both but if i couldn't live without one I would have to choose Japanese fashion because I'm a sucker for quality materials and attention to detail.
accessibility is one of the biggest issue I think... if you can't wear it and try different stuff you don't have much to say... especially many brands relatively available in U.S gains its popularity by hype.
If it wasn't for this pandemic, I would love a multi part series where Reggies visits streetwear hubs in different cities in Japan, or across the world more broadly. Like Vice or Vox. I think Reggie would kill it as a host/interviewer.
The thing is is that Japanese fashion is fashion ~distilled~. Japan did not have Western garments until the 19th century and they weren't popularized amongst the public until after the Meiji Restoration---hell, women were largely only wearing kimono up until the 1950s, when WWII made it too costly to continue to wear traditional Japanese clothing. Fashion as we understand it is entirely steeped in the Western system of garments--shirts, pants, skirts dresses---and not the traditional Japanese cut and shape of cloth. When Western vestiments came to Japan, they came to a country that had no preconceived notions of what those clothes were meant to look like in combination or the other myriad of contexts that went into the Western system of fashion. Because of this their only option was to dissect and adapt--which is clear in their deconstruction of Western fashion and the steady reimagining of Western clothes through a Japanese context. When clothes are cut in a "Japanese way" its taking the long history of Japanese clothing and superimposing it on the Western garmentry that is the lynchpin of today's clothing industry. Fashion as we understand it is entirely based in the Western conceptualization of clothing, and because Japan has a MUCH shorter history with those same forms, the nation's fashion has had to and been able to adapt to a completely new sartorial system, so there is a lot of focus on trying to truly understand a garment and its purpose before attempting to make use of it. TL;DR Japan got Western clothes like less than 100 years ago so now they're just WILIN' ' (also this is kinda what I'm writing my thesis on so if anyone read this far and still has questions I'd be more than happy to answer)
In my opinion, I feel like American fashion is not so original, because it does take inspiration from Europeans and Asians too. Japanese fashion is indeed unique, and they mostly take inspiration from their culture like the samurai etc. Anyway, I prefer Japanese fashion overall.
I don't know. I cant reference "hype" culture or Instagram because I feel its not representative over American fashion. You also have different levels and subcultures and they can have different levels. Maybe the video should be about different fashion cultures or what Americans tend to buy (largely) vs Japanese. Just my 2 cents. Also, Japanese people have a lot of cultural norms they follow that are pretty strict, and (in my opinion), they are more free to express themselves in ways outside these norms (clothes being one). While Americans are all about "mah freedum!," there is still a lot of conformity and community in the U.S. Me being a guy, fashion is still thought of being a girls' thing or for "flexing." Maybe.
If you're not American, I think you can see a generalised American style because you're looking at it objectively. A lot of Americans subcultures still tend to have a similar thread running through them and I think that's what this video is talking about.
American fashion is influential because it is accessible (including the fact that english is the most spoken language in the world) and only that is the route brands want to take. American brands do not do niche. They are deliberately more commercial, treating fashion as something more to aspire than enjoy. Also America is a melting pot of cultures in itself and Japan is a largely homogenous country. I personally love the Harajuku street style that is nothing to do with what streetwear is identifies with. When I first came across it, I was blown away. The style is unapologetic, unique and wonderfully curated. The layering is spectacualr, and like you said Japanese have a sixth sense of layering prints, colours, accessories to create something loud that will stand out. What is also interesting is the dichotomy of Japanese fashion. You can relate over the top avant garde with it but at the same time it is also known for it's casual, minimalist, breezy style.
Since from the beginning we all know America is the most influential in every category you can think of. Weather it is fashion, sports, movies, music, culture. i mean everything. That is called colonial mentality. but Japanese clothes or brands in particular are more sophisticated and well crafted and giving more importance to attention to detail. Yes some of Japanese brands like for example Visvim is heavily influence by American culture that's why the word Japanese-Americana is created. They just using it as inspiration and but taking it further that you can say it is uniquely Japanese. Plus they are good in choosing and using textiles that is why they are one or two steps ahead of everybody else in the fashion world. Actually we cannot argue on who is better. it i just a matter of reference. If you want to look like everybody else go with the American style. if you want to look different from the rest, that is Japanese fashion for you.
Japanese fashion personally. In America we’re so caught up on trends that we loose our own since in style. In Japan they focus on one style and make it their own.
I have stuck to the same style since I’ve been 21. I’ve just been perfecting my style with better fits better quality. It’s a bit restricting but it works for me.
This is a tough call. You can't deny that the US has always dictated fashion trends, but Japanese designers/brands often have a way of taking styles to the next level and to places you'd never have thought they'd go. I don't really think there's an objectively correct answer here, it just depends on what you, the individual, value in fashion. I choose Japanese fashion because I obsess over detail, and I enjoy the subtle integration of traditional Japanese elements with other styles.
these two styles are two sides of the same coin. I think they're both dependent on each other but with that said I think Japanese is better because more exploration and defining is done. It's better to master something
Does it really matter who is better? I think there is too much focus on this, instead how about appreciating the strengths of each, they both are very strong and if an individual is able to utilize elements from both or from one to create a look that allows them to feel comfortable and confident, then that question is moot. I myself love both and are heavily influenced by both in regards to style and the list of talented designers to come from America and Japan and myself here in New Zealand have looked to them for inspiration. Much respect from New Zealand! (Aspiring designer)
YO, I felt like he was watching me when he said "somebody watching this is making a streetwear brand". My paranoid self started looking around the room.
Soo many ppl in America including singers, models ,etc follow Japanese fashion, so many western designers including American designers make clothes which are highly influenced by the Japanese culture and u can see it on magazines.Japanese Street Fashion is definitely next level no freakin comparison ,just like in America black ppl took the existing fashion to the next level in the same way Asians in Japan took that fashion to another level.Its not only America that hv cultures most of the street fashion in Japan are mostly influenced by their own culture. Whether its American Fashion or Japanese fashion, Asians hv definitely contributed a lot to the fashion industry.
American Fashion is too fast and commercialized in my opinion I love how Japanese people look to be more individual than to fit in I think you see more creativity in that way
I am personally influenced by both, and at my current age (36) is progressing in the Japanese way of integrating fashion into lifestyle. Imo, Americans are heavily influenced by celebrities and hype. Japanese can be too, but they deep dive and make it a style, a life wear (like what Uniquo advocate). Out in the streets of Japan, I can definitely see wide diversity and even in similar genre, there is often uniqueness whereas. In America and possibly everywhere else, the brand, especially designer ones and price point seems to be to an indicator of how popular a fit is, and this made everyone’s outfit very similar.
Japanese too me because they are more detailed oriented on everything and they take styles to a whole new level and I feel for the most part that here in the US we copy Japanese styles and since we have celebrities influencers they just take it as they own and run with it
I like Japanese fashion more, but in the UK it's just not something a 40+ year old guy can wear, so we sit in our comfort box of American style as it's more socially acceptable, esp the skate/surf side of things. But I definitely like the uniqueness of Japanese fashion, they seem to enjoy it more.
The main difference is really tailoring. American body types are vastly different. Japanese all have the same body so when they put it on it looks how it's supposed to.
Japanese fashion is amazing, but only when it’s in a world that American fashion has already influenced. That being said, Japanese fashion will be more influential in the next century.
Okay so this is late, but I'd say Japanese stuff is ahead of America. Yes, Japan got its start from American stuff (ref. Ametora) but as America dropped it in favour of other styles while Japan kept it, can one really say the style is still American? American inspired, perhaps but distinctly American? Brooks Brothers Japan is more American than the American BB itself and J Press is owned by a Japanese company to name some Ivy hallmarks. I'd say that at some point, the honest-to-God American-ness of some styles were lost. I will say that more contemporary (dare I even say relevant) fashion will keep on being American, but whether America will drop it and become Japanese in future is a different story. I think the real question is, Is Japanese stuff a product or an attitude?
I would not say the brands in Japan that have been influenced by streetwear are better entirely than American brands. Arguably, the styles that are being absorbed by Japanese culture are not always interpreted in the best light, as you highlighted in your video/videos. Even with that, the output of what is being duplicated or influenced is executed at a higher level in Japan. In other words, America cares more about fast food, while in Japan, the product being produced is gourmet. The style remains king at the moment with immanent changes due to a global influence intake; these old rules will change.
![7 Western Fashion Brands that are SURPRISINGLY HYPED in JAPAN | [2020]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/OyZvuH-pi7s/mqdefault.jpg)
The way he spittin' Japanese names without breaking a sweat--like a boss
Tia Bowser he lives in Japan
@@batmane7591 Duh!
Yra but why can't he say Cahroleeenaaaa Herrerra (carolayna) 😂
I'm in to both style, American and Japanese but as I get older I'm tired of keeping up with the newest trends. Therefore, my style leans towards Japanese side where I focus on my own style and do my best to make the pieces I have more timeless.
Agreed, through out middle and high school I always felt the need to follow the trends but once I graduated I realized how actual trends are just trickled down aspects of high fashion that take years to finally hit average people so I made the decision to follow my own style instead of the predictable mediocrity
Total noob on the issue here. Would you say Japanese fashion brands tend to produce better quality garments, since their philosophy is more about cultivating a style rather than following trends?
@@KarlSnarks 100%
European style
That's more inline with what I do. I like to just yoink whatever I like from literally any style, and incorporate them all as best I can.
I like the Japanese oversized hoodies and techwear 3 quarter cuff pants. I like those West African super colourful shirts they wear to weddings and funeral after-parties and stuff. I like Punk sort of mid calf boots with straps (more on the subtle side though). I like flaring structured skirts. Then regular shirts and pants and buttoned shirts and whatever (and all black classy 3 piece suits lol). But nothing over the top, I like subtlety.
Japanese fashion has longevity
Agreed also I feel like Japanese brands focus on the pieces themselves instead of marketing a whole outfit to you
I feel like American style has a very heavy focus on the brand names, iconic patterns, graphics and logos where “flexing” is of utmost importance. Looking at Japanese styles, although those elements are present, I like the fact that they focus on timeless pieces, on their colours, their shapes, and how it flows with their outfits. I can spend hours people watching in Japan to admire different styles and how the dress.
I like Japanese fashion the most because of its individuality, I live in England and the majority of people around my age dress the same (roadmen or norm core) and if someone is interested in fashion or clothes they wear what they see in Instagram piece for piece. Whereas in Japan people curate more and don't copy tends.
For those wonder I am 17 going on 18 next month .
Yeah UK style is dead, just like food, fish and chips lmao
Yeah also being from the uk the fashion styles are so boring so when I moved to japan I didn’t even bring a full suitcase and then now I’m just rebuilding my wardrobe
@@JackInJapan10 what is sizing like for clothes? because I really want to visit but 6'4 and scared I wouldn't be able to get some garms.
@@norydaisy7393 chip shop chips are phenomenonal and I'll stand by that with my Caribbean taste buds lol
I just turned 18 yesterday
A very interesting story I read recently is about the old legend Japanese brand VAN which focused entirely on Ivy style back in 60s. The market team of the brand came to US for the first time for commercial shooting and was extremely disappointed with the clothing style of US Ivy college students. When they got back home, they concluded that the Japanese had excelled in Ivy style and no longer needed to look back at US for reference:)
VAN still has retail stores in Japan
pretty sure they were dissapointed not because the americans had bad style but because no american college kid/teenager in the 60s actually wanted to dress in the ivy style
I honestly think the Japanese have incredible fashion sense. I've seen some out there styles from them too, stuff that I'd never rock but they blow me away every time. I love they're application of history. There's often a retro or even dynastic inspirations, it's fantastic. Every time.
I can really feel a new type of energy from you in this video. I can tell you're really hyped about all the new things yall are doing with the brand. Keep up the great content 🙏🏼
Japanese brands are usually much better made than stateside brands. IMO. Cut differently to suit the Japanese body. Which can definitely be frustrating if you're 5'10" and 170 pounds. A lot of guess work can go into buying new brands because we can't just try it on. But, I do prefer japanese brands for the most part, because people will compliment the clothes, not knowing the brand, and that starts a whole conversation. That's what's always been one of my favorite parts of streetwear/fashion. Sharing and learning.
it would be dope if you did a video with counterparts from EU and Africa to explore their styles too
Man you and your videos are genuinely intelligent. Such a refreshing watch from the typical fashion UA-camr. You really nailed it on the analysis of the two cultures fashion sense. Well done man.
This dude knows his stuff you’re so super smart and well informed brother.
Fusion and taking inspiration from both sides is where it's at imo. Also doesn't have to be solely US and Japan centric either, so much more is out there
Being a hardcore consumer/seller/trader in high fashion and traveling from New York and to Japan quite frequently I would have to say Japanese fashion AND style is better. Tokyo to me from what I saw and experience has it own style and the people there don't really follow trends and understand structure silhouette better and body structure than most Americans. As for me being from Soho is probably the 2nd best place for fashion & style(2nd to Tokyo or Harajuku specifically).
You should read "Ametora: How Japan Saved American Style". I can throughouly recommend the book, it details the whole history of the crossover between American & Japanese fashion from Ivy to Modern Day!
As an American that’s been into fashion for awhile now; I’ve noted that most of it is subculture, youth, hype, and financially driven: now this isn’t all bad as it has contributed amazing styles, designers, trends etc. the downside of American fashion is that it’s somewhat empty and brash at times, and a lot of the time usually lacks detailed curation. Japanese fashion not only fills in the gaps of American influence; its also driven by curiosity and boundless exploration that kind of deletes the ceilings that American style/trends tend to run into. So personally I lean a lot more into Japanese fashion myself but American fashion is in my dna. (**BTW: original Japanese fashion and designers are amazing.)
Tacky is the perfect word for US fashion in 2020... most people just tack on the most bright, expensive pieces for the attention, with no sense of style. Not dissing anyone's style but I RARELY see anyone in person who I'd say has nice style. Though there are a few and they all have that same style, like they look at dressing as an art. For me I always wear soft, dark tones. Very little vibrant colors. I think that attention to detail is what makes someone stylish. Doesn't matter so much what they're wearing but how they put it together.
Loving the content!!! definitely keeping me entertained during quarantine keep it coming.
Great vid I’ve worked as a style consultant and here in America I find that some ppl haven’t defined their own sense of style. It’s more about trend. However I like that I have definitely found mine and comfortable expressing it which makes me stand out. It has in some cases made ppl I’ve grown up with feel a bit uncomfortable but I don’t care.
I knew the Japanese were more serious about fashion when I found out how much they appreciate American workwear brands, I swear workwear has the best quality for price you can buy and they have some underrated pieces of you can sift through the regular stuff. That’s why kanye pulled up with a whole dickies jumpsuit and most Americans didn’t get it, their too consumed with classism and that your clothes aren’t cool unless you spend big bucks on them, but then the kids who are influencers on social media tend to be really into thrifting which is the best thing when building and finding your style, cheap clothes, hidden one of a kind pieces, and you’re recycling, the ONLY thing you won’t find at a thrift store is a brand new trend unless the trend is a throwback ( which they tend to be cause nothing new under the sun)
Long story short, Japan is still trying to create waves were as America has become about surfing the waves instead of making them.
you are so on point with your comment, totally agree --
The more I am into fashion, the more I am into Japanese fashion. Issey Miyake is my fav and I gain a lot of design inspiration from Issey. Yohji is also my fav
I'm interested to see if you ever read the book Ametoro? The author did a good job breaking down the history between American and Japanese fashion
So true what he was saying about mixing styles and genres to make something completely new. I always felt like I do that but the opposite, taking what I like best from UK, US, and Japanese fashion/culture. My base is that california street/hipster style, but it's grown so much over the years that tracing all my influences is almost impossible.
You should do a video on brands outside of North America/Europe/Asia! Im from Chile and there are some brands here that are pretty interesting, like Prosa, De Goya or Wearpedritos
Dude you passionate about fashion bro🔥😹
Question .... which country influences your style between American and Japanese?
Fashion Lords are in Europe. Fashion GODS are in Japan. That's not even up for debate.
Yea
Thank you for this concise and well-reasoned comparison between American and Japanese fashion. Both are important and influential but I do appreciate how the Japanese aesthetic is somewhat less about chasing a trend-- hopefully in the service of discouraging fast fashion, mindless consumerism, and the unrelenting, soul swallowing pursuit of status.
Hey The Casual Co. I'm a fan in Singapore.
Can you do a video on the history of porter bags and difference between different porter brands? Will be great if you have some coverage on Japanese accessories brands such as jam home made, goros, etc as well.
Man, what about Greg Lauren?? Also I dig the F.O.G mainline stuff too, its just super versatile!
I just recently got into fashion and the points that you made about America are spot on. It’s either people are spending an absurd amount of money to flex of buy hype stuff and rich kids doing the same. You also have the trends that go on and people follow those and looking like everyone else. Not to mention the instagram “influencers” or people do the whole essentials thing. Attacking people that dress different or don’t conform. I don’t know much about Japan fashion so I can’t speak on much. But what I’ve seen it’s very different and seems unique. The only thing is when they look like their wearing westerners costumes or try to look a certain way like the videos on them getting dreads and etc. Which I think is ridiculously weird. I guess if I have to pick I probably go with American despite my criticisms. I’m new to the channel and I like the content and also Japanese fashion peaked my interest so I’ll keep watching.
Love the video like always
In my opinion, honestly.. I rather pick Japanese style because americans don't know how to dress properly (no offense though).
I live in Canada myself and I've seen different styles from 3 countries.. besides America, Japan and Korea (even though korea is not on this list between NA and JP fashion).
Defying The Oddz I’m from NYC and I agree with you. I rarely see people that dress nicely. Sometimes they have nice pieces but it’s put together sloppily. If I see someone dressed nicely I’m typically in Soho, Union Square, Madison Ave or Williamsburg. People just want designer or what others are buying.
@@queenmisanthrope ikr! I swear ever since Kanye introduced his fashionline to the whole world (that looks like its taking shots at homeless people), everyone been dressing like a bum now. Even if they have some high-end designer piece(s), people still dont know how to dress nice.
This is why I hardly keep up with american fashion trend because people cant dress properly
One topic that I feel should be expanded upon is how the difference of cultures often dictate people’s attitudes toward clothing in the U.S. vs. in Japan. As Reggie hinted, celebrity culture once played (and still does in the form of social media influencing) a large role in dictating fashion trends. That often permeates into a culture of hype brands and flexing. With the advent of the internet and the resulting free flow of information, it’s created an atmosphere where our attention is being constantly competed for.
However, it can also be argued that we don’t have to engage with celebrity culture if we don’t want to. The access to various subcultures has grown and people can now be more selective in what we choose to care about.
This applies to fashion as well in that people can now immerse themselves in select fashion styles or brands. If people adopted the Japanese approach to fashion and pay more attention to replicating a certain look instead of the individual, this could spark more individuality out here in the West as well.
Off Topic: When this debate is over, can you do one video on the cultural influences of other countries? Doesn't have to be a lot, just one video.
Love the content and informative takes. What I like about Japanese (and to an extent, maybe Korean) fashion is that fashion in East Asia is daring but at the same time they like considering the cultural and historical values of pieces or styles. Americana in Japan for example wasn't shy on loose fits, which was traditionally how workwear is worn.
In the US (using workwear as an example), the theme of workwear/Americana is practiced but sometimes overly modernized. Such as slimmed down versions of workwear clothing. Nothing wrong with that at all, its just that I personally think it loses some traits of Americana that made it iconic to begin with.
I feel like people in the states tend to "dress to impress" whether it be by flexing brand names or just trying to fit into a commonality in society whereas in Japanese street fashion, they don't care XD they just dress for themselves and I think that's fricken rad. Trendy brands and common threads can make a nice fit but the uniqueness lies in the feeling you have when knowing that what you're wearing is unique to you/your style. Maybe it's just me, but I value uniqueness over basically everything when it comes to fashion.
what's your opinion on nonnative ?
I feel like this perception of the United States being the epicenter of fashion is not kinda true ( except for streetwear) obviously since is one of the most populated country in the world a lot of trends will be solidified there but I personally think the countries with most "personal/unique fashion style" would be France, Italy, or Japan. Again this doesn't apply to streetwear since it started in the US and it globalized from there. I feel like the US think like high fashion name tag= elegance. Whereas the countries listed above are more into the lines, silhouettes, patterns...
My brother lives in Japan. How can I finesse this and flip somrhting?
know anything about Korean fashion? may you compare them too
We Japanese are not good at creating completely new culture but we’re good at making someone’s culture more interesting.
American fashion is always the lead to setting trends. America does go in and out of fashion much faster but this allows other communities like Japan for example, they take something and refine it. Japan is known for that, that's just apart of what Japan does. Take a look at the car industry, Japan just refines things and keeps it consistent and reliable. Just like streetwear, they refine something, "does it better" with a splash of japanese influence.
I think overall, all fashion communities influence each other but once something catches fire, America just FLEXES SO HARD. then japan is like NAH this is how it's done
then korea is in the background like
Yeeaaaaa i guess that's ok. can we try?
then europe is like
Settle down kids, let me show you what a 20k shirt looks like.
i like both but if i couldn't live without one I would have to choose Japanese fashion because I'm a sucker for quality materials and attention to detail.
accessibility is one of the biggest issue I think... if you can't wear it and try different stuff you don't have much to say... especially many brands relatively available in U.S gains its popularity by hype.
If it wasn't for this pandemic, I would love a multi part series where Reggies visits streetwear hubs in different cities in Japan, or across the world more broadly. Like Vice or Vox. I think Reggie would kill it as a host/interviewer.
The thing is is that Japanese fashion is fashion ~distilled~. Japan did not have Western garments until the 19th century and they weren't popularized amongst the public until after the Meiji Restoration---hell, women were largely only wearing kimono up until the 1950s, when WWII made it too costly to continue to wear traditional Japanese clothing. Fashion as we understand it is entirely steeped in the Western system of garments--shirts, pants, skirts dresses---and not the traditional Japanese cut and shape of cloth. When Western vestiments came to Japan, they came to a country that had no preconceived notions of what those clothes were meant to look like in combination or the other myriad of contexts that went into the Western system of fashion. Because of this their only option was to dissect and adapt--which is clear in their deconstruction of Western fashion and the steady reimagining of Western clothes through a Japanese context. When clothes are cut in a "Japanese way" its taking the long history of Japanese clothing and superimposing it on the Western garmentry that is the lynchpin of today's clothing industry.
Fashion as we understand it is entirely based in the Western conceptualization of clothing, and because Japan has a MUCH shorter history with those same forms, the nation's fashion has had to and been able to adapt to a completely new sartorial system, so there is a lot of focus on trying to truly understand a garment and its purpose before attempting to make use of it.
TL;DR Japan got Western clothes like less than 100 years ago so now they're just WILIN' '
(also this is kinda what I'm writing my thesis on so if anyone read this far and still has questions I'd be more than happy to answer)
Funny I wrote mine on the EXACT same thing. ~Reggie
I was quite surprised and impressed when he said all the Japanese designers' names without much accent.
Reggie demonstrating some next level, critical analysis. He actually did legit deconstruction.
I personally think Japanese craftsmanship and the attention to detail whether subtle or overt, is amazing and allows the pieces to age better.
I think both of the styles are cool
In my opinion, I feel like American fashion is not so original, because it does take inspiration from Europeans and Asians too.
Japanese fashion is indeed unique, and they mostly take inspiration from their culture like the samurai etc.
Anyway, I prefer Japanese fashion overall.
I don't know. I cant reference "hype" culture or Instagram because I feel its not representative over American fashion. You also have different levels and subcultures and they can have different levels. Maybe the video should be about different fashion cultures or what Americans tend to buy (largely) vs Japanese. Just my 2 cents.
Also, Japanese people have a lot of cultural norms they follow that are pretty strict, and (in my opinion), they are more free to express themselves in ways outside these norms (clothes being one). While Americans are all about "mah freedum!," there is still a lot of conformity and community in the U.S. Me being a guy, fashion is still thought of being a girls' thing or for "flexing." Maybe.
If you're not American, I think you can see a generalised American style because you're looking at it objectively. A lot of Americans subcultures still tend to have a similar thread running through them and I think that's what this video is talking about.
American hip hop/urban style doesn't get the recognition it deserves. Everything streetwear is inspired by it.
American fashion is influential because it is accessible (including the fact that english is the most spoken language in the world) and only that is the route brands want to take. American brands do not do niche. They are deliberately more commercial, treating fashion as something more to aspire than enjoy. Also America is a melting pot of cultures in itself and Japan is a largely homogenous country.
I personally love the Harajuku street style that is nothing to do with what streetwear is identifies with. When I first came across it, I was blown away. The style is unapologetic, unique and wonderfully curated. The layering is spectacualr, and like you said Japanese have a sixth sense of layering prints, colours, accessories to create something loud that will stand out.
What is also interesting is the dichotomy of Japanese fashion. You can relate over the top avant garde with it but at the same time it is also known for it's casual, minimalist, breezy style.
Hey I would like to know how human made fits you and if you don’t mind could you explain you’re height and what size you prefer? @Reggie
Since from the beginning we all know America is the most influential in every category you can think of. Weather it is fashion, sports, movies, music, culture. i mean everything. That is called colonial mentality. but Japanese clothes or brands in particular are more sophisticated and well crafted and giving more importance to attention to detail. Yes some of Japanese brands like for example Visvim is heavily influence by American culture that's why the word Japanese-Americana is created. They just using it as inspiration and but taking it further that you can say it is uniquely Japanese. Plus they are good in choosing and using textiles that is why they are one or two steps ahead of everybody else in the fashion world. Actually we cannot argue on who is better. it i just a matter of reference. If you want to look like everybody else go with the American style. if you want to look different from the rest, that is Japanese fashion for you.
Japanese fashion personally. In America we’re so caught up on trends that we loose our own since in style. In Japan they focus on one style and make it their own.
We’re worried to much about Kanye or Travis Scott and not worried about our own personal image. And love your channel 🤙🏽🤙🏽
That's both a pro and con. Wearing one style can get boring.
I have stuck to the same style since I’ve been 21. I’ve just been perfecting my style with better fits better quality. It’s a bit restricting but it works for me.
0:58 This is completely true, when there are trends going on in America a few months later or years the same shit is trendy here in Europe
So u mean Kogi from the United Arrows and Sons is not a good designer?
This is a tough call. You can't deny that the US has always dictated fashion trends, but Japanese designers/brands often have a way of taking styles to the next level and to places you'd never have thought they'd go. I don't really think there's an objectively correct answer here, it just depends on what you, the individual, value in fashion. I choose Japanese fashion because I obsess over detail, and I enjoy the subtle integration of traditional Japanese elements with other styles.
Oscar de la Renta was born in Dominican Republic
Considered an American designer
You forgot to Mention Just Fresh CTW
these two styles are two sides of the same coin. I think they're both dependent on each other but with that said I think Japanese is better because more exploration and defining is done. It's better to master something
Bro did you really mention philipp plein??
Curate... or copy
Does it really matter who is better? I think there is too much focus on this, instead how about appreciating the strengths of each, they both are very strong and if an individual is able to utilize elements from both or from one to create a look that allows them to feel comfortable and confident, then that question is moot. I myself love both and are heavily influenced by both in regards to style and the list of talented designers to come from America and Japan and myself here in New Zealand have looked to them for inspiration. Much respect from New Zealand! (Aspiring designer)
YO, I felt like he was watching me when he said "somebody watching this is making a streetwear brand". My paranoid self started looking around the room.
6:38 anyone link?
I will go for Japanese style and also people from Ginza are really good at style. ❤
Im gonna be honest i like american fashion more because im from america butttt i still respect japanese fashion
wow you're the first guy not shitting on American fashion
Soo many ppl in America including singers, models ,etc follow Japanese fashion, so many western designers including American designers make clothes which are highly influenced by the Japanese culture and u can see it on magazines.Japanese Street Fashion is definitely next level no freakin comparison ,just like in America black ppl took the existing fashion to the next level in the same way Asians in Japan took that fashion to another level.Its not only America that hv cultures most of the street fashion in Japan are mostly influenced by their own culture. Whether its American Fashion or Japanese fashion, Asians hv definitely contributed a lot to the fashion industry.
anyone got an id for those trousers at 4:42?
Hi Reggie
American Fashion is too fast and commercialized in my opinion I love how Japanese people look to be more individual than to fit in I think you see more creativity in that way
I am personally influenced by both, and at my current age (36) is progressing in the Japanese way of integrating fashion into lifestyle. Imo, Americans are heavily influenced by celebrities and hype. Japanese can be too, but they deep dive and make it a style, a life wear (like what Uniquo advocate). Out in the streets of Japan, I can definitely see wide diversity and even in similar genre, there is often uniqueness whereas. In America and possibly everywhere else, the brand, especially designer ones and price point seems to be to an indicator of how popular a fit is, and this made everyone’s outfit very similar.
Nice tee. ID on that. Kidding.
My vote is for American fashion, especially from Japanese designers. I'm a big fan of Japanese takes on Americana.
america is the most influential for sure but japan has most interesting brands and aesthetics; no wrong answer tbh
Japanese too me because they are more detailed oriented on everything and they take styles to a whole new level and I feel for the most part that here in the US we copy Japanese styles and since we have celebrities influencers they just take it as they own and run with it
I like Japanese fashion more, but in the UK it's just not something a 40+ year old guy can wear, so we sit in our comfort box of American style as it's more socially acceptable, esp the skate/surf side of things. But I definitely like the uniqueness of Japanese fashion, they seem to enjoy it more.
French and Japanese style ideals are very similar
Both styles are dope. 1 edge Japanese style may have is that it can be a bit edgy.
Wow Reggie is the first fashion UA-camr I've seen that doesn't use an iPhone?! 😱
Pioneer. ~Reggie
@@THECASUALco and you're actually a real person! 🤣
My dude said CADRE... 🤙
I made an art piece on that word alone. A fashion art piece 🤘
The main difference is really tailoring. American body types are vastly different. Japanese all have the same body so when they put it on it looks how it's supposed to.
Japanese fashion is amazing, but only when it’s in a world that American fashion has already influenced. That being said, Japanese fashion will be more influential in the next century.
japanese over american but like the sutle elegance of european designers like zegna is just timeless
I m in for japanese style
Hey! Shout out to JP the WAVY! That’s my guy 💥✌🏽✌🏽
I dont here fubu and karl kani they coming back
It's funny that when he shows American style he picks a picture with a bathing ape hoodie and that's an Japanese brand
I'm here because of high and low series
No comparison. The Japanese are W-A-Y ahead of America! Cooler designs, unconstructed and well made.
American Style is like their language almost whole world can understand and adapt.
I fuck with fear of god heavy despite the negitive reception, on the same page as you Reggie.
It's not bad at all tbh.
~Reggie
It’s funny because these American designers and Japanese designers buy from each other or getting gifts.. jerry and ye buys visvim
Okay so this is late, but I'd say Japanese stuff is ahead of America. Yes, Japan got its start from American stuff (ref. Ametora) but as America dropped it in favour of other styles while Japan kept it, can one really say the style is still American? American inspired, perhaps but distinctly American? Brooks Brothers Japan is more American than the American BB itself and J Press is owned by a Japanese company to name some Ivy hallmarks.
I'd say that at some point, the honest-to-God American-ness of some styles were lost. I will say that more contemporary (dare I even say relevant) fashion will keep on being American, but whether America will drop it and become Japanese in future is a different story.
I think the real question is, Is Japanese stuff a product or an attitude?
I favour a Japanese style. It's timeless and sustainable.
I would not say the brands in Japan that have been influenced by streetwear are better entirely than American brands. Arguably, the styles that are being absorbed by Japanese culture are not always interpreted in the best light, as you highlighted in your video/videos. Even with that, the output of what is being duplicated or influenced is executed at a higher level in Japan. In other words, America cares more about fast food, while in Japan, the product being produced is gourmet. The style remains king at the moment with immanent changes due to a global influence intake; these old rules will change.
Yep japan is really interested in America
“Saying cringe is so cringe” 😂😂