Pop culture takes off from Tokyo runway

Tokyo's eclectic fashion atmosphere, rooted in pop culture but unique to the rest of the world, was on show during the annual Japan Fashion Week. Forty shows were presented over the five days of the spring-summer event, which began on August 28.
Different from collections seen on the runways in Paris and Milan, these Japan-based brands are a mix of many influences.
"Casual Tokyo pop style" blends influences of anime, popular music and youth culture. At times the style is referred to as fanatical, but others claim it to be international yet reflective of a stereotypical image of Tokyo style. Other influences include the classic Gothic Lolita and gay culture. These new casual Tokyo designs promise to take the local fashion scene to a new level.
Also paraded was the posh, elegant and still popular youth look often described as "tropical resort style". The neutrality of this style allows the older generation to wear it as well.A more "ethnic" look also featured during Japan Fashion Week, with the incorporation of natural materials and tattoo-inspired motifs.
Overall, the shows boasted unique color combinations and pattern application on various mediums.
Organisers say the aim is to aid up-and-coming designers and promote the "flavour" of Japanese fashion design to Asia and the rest of the world.

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