Now is the time to rediscover the charm of Japanese style
Wafu is a word used to describe things that evoke the feeling of ancient Japanese culture. "Wa" originally meant "harmony" and "balance." It can be said that "wafu" is a culture based on the ancient Japanese spirituality of enjoying the changing seasons and valuing harmony with nature. Rather than a strict definition, it is a word used to describe things that are perceived as "Japanese" in art and culture. It is used in contrast to "Tang style," which refers to Chinese influence, and "Western style," which refers to Western influence.
Japanese culture, which blends in with nature and does not reject differences, is being reevaluated in an increasingly globalized society. Many people are rediscovering the good things about Japan when comparing it with various cultures around the world. In this age of what is known as a "Japanese boom," more and more people are actively incorporating Japanese-style items into their everyday lives and fashion. The appeal of Japanese culture is that it blends seamlessly with Westernized items while still expressing individuality. You can enjoy the Japanese atmosphere without having to completely overhaul your lifestyle or wardrobe, just by incorporating one Japanese-style item. Why not start by incorporating this world-class Japanese culture into your everyday life?
The joy of "iki" learned from the Edo period
"Iki" is a keyword that symbolizes the Japanese aesthetic. According to the Kojien dictionary, "iki is a refined and sophisticated way of thinking and dress, with a touch of sex appeal." It is a concept born during the Edo period, when Japan's unique culture flourished. The Edo period was an era for the common people. Otaku laws forbidding luxury shunned ostentatious decoration, but refined attire that was neither flashy nor plain came to be valued. Edokko fashion, such as the intricate patterns on the inside of plain haori coats and wordplay on family crests and patterns, was a testament to iki. Fading and wear with use were also considered part of the charm. It was the wisdom of the common people to develop attachment to one thing and choose high-quality items that would withstand long-term use.
The everyday clothing worn by commoners in Edo was made exclusively from natural materials, such as cotton and linen kimonos and wooden or silver hairpins. Even though the country was different, people's lives were the same. Edo clothing, which made use of the texture of materials and was deeply rooted in daily life, could be said to be of the same quality as Western casual fashion. It was only natural that T-shirts and jeans paired with Japanese patterned items looked striking. In order to avoid appearing "unsophisticated," the opposite of "iki," it was important to pay attention to the smallest details, and this is also a cardinal rule of casual style, whether in the East or the West. "iki" is said to refer not only to clothing but also to a way of life. Perhaps the popularity of Japanese-style fashion is due to the fact that it brings people back to this Japanese spirituality.
