Fashion

The Japanese affection for faeces is fairly well known, with toilet-related toys and attachments proving especially popular. And considering the nation’s similar fondness for fashion, it was perhaps inevitable that the two would one day form a formidable partnership – boldly blazing a trail for both the bowels and big brands.

Although that said, this hat may not exactly be deemed desirable by the more discerning fashionista. In fact, far from being fawned over, it may even be poo-pooed by some.

Perhaps.

(Big thanks to What Japan Thinks for finding out what Japan wears)

Now entering its third year, Japan’s environmentally conscious yet comically named Cool Biz would appear to be here to stay, with more salary men ditching their suits (or at least ties) to counter the far from comfortable conditions created by air-conditioning set to a considerably un-cool 28 degrees.

In fact, when the campaign first started, the then Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi was quick to promote the measure by wearing a traditional Okinawan shirt — the wavy-haired one never passing up the chance for more publicity. And not to be outdone, current Japanese leader Shinzo Abe has also opted for some summery wear, donning a similarly styled garment.

Yet whilst many Japanese workers still remain reluctant to relinquish their trusty tie, those perhaps more prone to perspiration have welcomed the concept — one salary man in particular following the Prime Ministerial penchant for traditional clothing; but instead of a shirt he has perhaps unexpectedly plumped for the far looser loincloth.

An outfit — or indeed a lack of one — that might be just about ok in a small women-free workplace; however going out for lunch must garner more than a few glances.

(image via the FG Forums)

With Japan’s baby boomers finally reaching the age at which they can hang up their salary man suits, it seems that as well as a rise in the divorce rate, we will also witness an increase in the number of fellas sporting some form of facial fashion. A working life of close shaven conformity perhaps prodding them to, for want of a better expression, let their hair down a little. Japanese shaving goods shop spokesman Nori Takeuchi confirming the trend by stating, “In particular, a large number of baby-boomers say they want to grow moustaches and beards. I guess they feel like doing so after becoming free from their company life-styles.”

Department stores have not surprisingly been quick to cash in on the fad, with a flood of beard and moustache-related merchandise hitting the shelves. And for the man not exactly blessed with bristles, help is at hand, as wig manufacturer Propia is selling synthetic substitutes. Cleverly swapping the toupee for the ‘tache.

A sort of mix and match approach that can easily produce a transformation like the one below.

Pretty convincing I think you’ll agree. Plus they even come in different colours.

However those on the look out for Dali or Darwin-esque adornments will, for now at least, have to try and grow their own.