If you thought my history of Gyaru blog was long, then this one is going to be actually insane. There are so many ways to be a Gyaru, and it can be difficult to find one that you feel really represents you! You're in luck, though, because this blog is going to give in-depth descriptions of each substyle!
A few things of note before we begin:
One of the most popular Gyaru styles, Kogyaru/Kogal, is not actually a substyle. It is just an age range/identifier for gals who are in high school, so non-high school-aged gals cannot technically be Kogal. I'm going to include a description of it anyway, though, since many beginner/baby gals are high school aged and will find it useful!
Kuro Gyaru and Shiro Gyaru are also not technically substyles, but rather identifiers for skin tone/tan level. I'm also including them anyway.
I also want to make it clear that anyone of any skin tone can participate in any style they please: Gyaru is for all! However, it should be generally understood that you probably should not call yourself something like Yamanba or Manba if you do not intend to tan. I'm just a stranger on the internet, though, and those are just my two cents!
There are also a few substyles that I did not include upon writing this the first time. Information about them can be found here.
Now, onto the yapathon!
~
KOGYARU (KOGAL)
Now, onto the yapathon!
~
KOGYARU (KOGAL)
This style describes a high school-aged Gyaru. It is one of the oldest Gyaru styles, as is where the term Gyaru comes from. It is characterized by the use of the school uniform: Shortened skirts to show off their legs, and cardigans (most often oversized) in colors like beige, pink, or navy. They can be worn in place of a blazer or tied around the waist. By far the most iconic aspect of the style is the socks, which are worn loose and oversized to create a slouchy appearance. Many Kogals use sock glue to keep their socks in place. Just like any Gyaru style, accessories are a huge part of Kogyaru. Keychains on school bags and cell phones (decoden cell phones are also very popular) are very important, and can help show a gal's personality in the strict Japanese school system. Speaking of school bags, many Kogals choose to carry shopping bags (shoppers) from Gyaru brands, usually used as a form of status symbol, as a secondary bag, or even their main school bag. Many Kogals tan, but it is not required. Decorated nails and piercings are also popular accessories, similar to most Gyaru styles. The make can be a spectrum, some choosing to keep it more toned down and others choosing to be extreme. Basically, the extremeness of the look is all based on the style the gal prefers.
GANGURO
This style is most often called "old school," as with Kogyaru, it is one of the oldest styles. It is the origin point of other styles. A big part of this style is the tan, which ranges anywhere from medium to extra dark, as well as bleached blonde hair. Clothing-wise, Ganguro gals favor tropical floral prints and neon colors. Hibiscus and plumeria prints are a staple, as well as wearing leis and other floral accessories. Other popular accessories include beaded jewelry or anything else that would be bright, expressive, and eye-catching. Platform sandals with wooden soles or cut-outs, wedge heels, or just any kind of sandal are popular footwear amongst Ganguro gals, and they should be equally as colorful as the rest of the outfit. For the make, it must be bright white for a lot of contrast against the tanned skin. A lot of the focus is placed around the eyes (coupled with huge lashes), nose, and lips. Ganguro gals also tend to have decorated nails. The goal of the style is to be very vivid, loud, and to ignore all conventional Japanese beauty standards. Popular brands are ALBA ROSA, ROXY, and ESPERANZA, among others.
YAMANBA
This style is most often called "old school," as with Kogyaru, it is one of the oldest styles. It is the origin point of other styles. A big part of this style is the tan, which ranges anywhere from medium to extra dark, as well as bleached blonde hair. Clothing-wise, Ganguro gals favor tropical floral prints and neon colors. Hibiscus and plumeria prints are a staple, as well as wearing leis and other floral accessories. Other popular accessories include beaded jewelry or anything else that would be bright, expressive, and eye-catching. Platform sandals with wooden soles or cut-outs, wedge heels, or just any kind of sandal are popular footwear amongst Ganguro gals, and they should be equally as colorful as the rest of the outfit. For the make, it must be bright white for a lot of contrast against the tanned skin. A lot of the focus is placed around the eyes (coupled with huge lashes), nose, and lips. Ganguro gals also tend to have decorated nails. The goal of the style is to be very vivid, loud, and to ignore all conventional Japanese beauty standards. Popular brands are ALBA ROSA, ROXY, and ESPERANZA, among others.
The name Yamanba comes from Japanese folklore. The Yamauba/Yamanba/Yamamba (山姥, 山うば, 山女郎) meaning "mountain witch," is a type of yokai that takes the shape of a hag with dark skin and white hair. The moniker likely began as an insult, but gals who felt drawn to the style took it in stride as a tongue-in-cheek badge of honor. It shares a few similarities with Ganguro, but it is remarkably more extreme. Their tans tend to be even heavier than Ganguro tans, making the white make and hair, also known as "high bleached," stand out even more.
MANBA
Manba is more extreme than Yamanba. The style came about after Yamanba had gained popularity, and was a way for gals to push the limits even further and reach nearly impossible extremes. The style shares most of the same characteristics as Yamanba. It is common to see Manba gals with hair dyed bright colors or with colorful streaks in their blonde hair, and with lots of volume. Nails are also insanely long and decorated, as are other accessories. Colorful and neon stickers worn on the face would also be implemented in their make, with a similar look being achieved with face paint.
AGEJO
GOSHIKKU
This style is similar to Rokku, but incorporates more Gothic elements. While Rokku implements all dark colors, Goshikku tends to stick to black and grey, with minimal pops of white or color. The style is also more toned down when compared to Rokku, especially in terms of accessories and clothing. Stockings/tights and garters are popular accessories. Dresses and skirts are popular, as well as oversized t-shirts and blouses. The style is surprisingly cute and dolly, with lace and ruffles being popular elements, whilst still being edgy with rips and cut-outs. Pendants, chokers, cross necklaces, chains, and bracelets are popular jewelry options. Footwear can range from boots, platforms/flatforms, high heels, or dolly shoes. Like Rokku, hair can be worn in any style, but the colors are commonly black, blonde, white, or grey. The make is less dramatic than Rokku, but it is still dark and bold. Nude or dark lips are commonly seen in Goshikku make. Tanning is not very popular or essential for the style.
KURO GYARU
The name of this style translates to "black-skinned gal," as evidenced by the heavy tans that Kuro gals are known for. Like I mentioned above, Kuro is not technically a substyle and more of a skin-tone-related identifier. There is some controversy about the tanning habits of Kuro gals, as they can be incredibly dark, verging on offensive, and the tanning habits of some gals can be downright dangerous. However, there is a way to do it in a way that is both safe and non-offensive. Kuro shares many similarities with Yamanba (many Yamanba gals consider themselves Kuro gals as well), with white make, circle lenses, big sujimori (either bleached or colorful), and heavy deco and accessories. Piercings are also seen amongst Kuro gals. Nails are incredibly long with huge deco. Clothing ranges from primarily black to colorful, but animal prints (specifically cheetah and leopard) and fur are staples. Denim shorts in a variety of colors and washes are also staple pieces, as well as furry leg warmers. The iconic D.I.A belt was extremely popular amongst Kuro gals, with big belt buckles and gold chains. Gold is very key to the Kuro gal style. Shoes can range from knee-high boots, heels, platforms, and even Crocs with characters on them. Popular Kuro brands are D.I.A and GALEO.
BANBA
Banba, a portmanteau of "Barbie Manba," was created in 2005 by the 5th generation members of the gyarusa Angeleek. The style was meant to be a kind of resistance movement against the prevailing popularity of the Delicer/Derika style, and to pay homage to the Manba style that had been considered "dead" at the time. Due to its inception by Angeleek members, Banba is characterized by dark tans and colored hair; hair colors ranging from bleached blonde to multi-colored were commonplace. Continuing the multi-colored theme, the coords are bright and colorful. Boots, sandals, and heels are often seen in Banba coords, as are neon thigh-high stockings, particularly of the fishnet variety. Make ranges from more traditional Manba aesthetics, especially with bright white highlights and stickers, to comparatively toned down looks.
TSUYOME
Tsyuome is oftentimes considered to be the more modern counterpart to Banba, but there are some very key differences. The name comes from the word tsuyo, meaning "strong." The goal of the style is to be bold and flashy. As Banba was created by Angeleek, there is undoubtedly some remaining Angeleek influence when it comes to Tsuyome: Emphasis on strength, dark tans, and bold make. However, with more modern influences, Tsuyome has definitely strayed from the emphasis on colorful coords when it comes to flashiness. Visually, there is some overlap with what can be considered the "default" Kuro Gyaru style: D.I.A. belts and clothing, legwarmers, animal prints, and a preference for grey, black, and/or white color palettes. Tsuyome has also deviated from overtly Manba elements, as Tsuyome make leans more into sexiness and coolness; compared to a style like Manba, the make is very toned down. The same can be said for the accessories as well. Gold and/or silver bangles, necklaces, and faux fur tails are common accessories. Hair is mainly bleached blonde or light brown, but it is very common to see streaks of color, which may be a slight tribute to Tsuyome's Banba roots.
ONEE-GYARU
Translating to "older sister gal," this style is more mature and sophisticated. Unlike Agejo, which is considered more mature as well, its focus is not quite on sex appeal. Onee-Gyaru can be described as sexier, yes, but it lacks things like lingerie elements that Agejo has. As its key audience is older gals, one of the most important aspects is brand names and labels. Basically, the main draw is that older gals have more disposable income for high-end and designer brands. The entire style is very put together and elegant: Perfectly styled hair, classic Gyaru make, well-thought-out coords, and always keeping up with trends. The hair is often worn in natural colors (blonde, brown, red, or black), long, and crimped or curled. The make can vary from a more natural look to a bold look; it depends on personal preference, but it is still a very developed, elevated Gyaru make. Nails can be decorated, but they tend to be more subtle. Animal prints are popular (as are prints in general) and leather. Popular pieces in a Onee-Gyaru coord are blouses, miniskirts, mini-dresses, overcoats/blazers, cardigans, furs, and tweed-style outfits. The pieces should be tight to emphasize the body and be slightly revealing. Stilettos, pumps, and thigh-high high-heeled boots are common footwear choices. Popular accessories are sunglasses, belts, high-end jewelry, and designer handbags. Designer labels like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci are popular amongst Onee-gals, and CECIL McBEE, LIP SERVICE, RESEXXY, DURAS, DaTuRa, and Delyle NOIR are popular Gyaru brands.
ORA ORA
Also known as Ora Ora kei, this style focuses on a tough, delinquent-type style. It creates a mix of Gyaru and Yankii style, and it was a very popular style in the magazine Soul Sister. The style can vary between sexier and more relaxed or tomboy-ish, depending on the gal, but the style's core focus is on being rebellious. Tracksuits, t-shirts, wife beaters, sweatshirts, sweatsuits, bandeau tops, and tokkofuku (embroidered jumpsuits/trench coats worn by gang members) are popular clothing options. Clothes will often be black/dark colors, and things like tracksuits and sweatshirts will have slogans and symbols on them. Shoes can range from sneakers, boots, and stilettos. Key accessories are baseball/snapback caps, bandanas, gold chains, hoop earrings, and other piercings. Hairstyles are more relaxed, and can be worn long, or some gals will opt for buzzcuts, in a variety of colors. Yakuza-style tattoos are common. The make places a lot of focus on the eyes, and Ora Ora gals like to keep them dark, smoky, and dramatic. Lips are often nude, and Ora Ora gals prefer orange/brown blush to pink.
SHIRO GYARU
This is the exact opposite of Kuro gyaru, translating to "white-skinned gal," and is also known as Ganjiro. Like Kuro Gyaru, Shiro Gyaru is not technically a substyle. Most substyles, except for ones that explicitly prioritize tanning, are compatible with being a Shiro gal.
ROMA
Roma, short for romantic, shares some similarities with Himekaji but is even more casual and relaxed. It is a style that is very wearable for the day-to-day and very approachable for people who like the general cutesy, girly aesthetic. There is special emphasis on comfort and cuteness for the clothing. Prints like gingham, polka dots, plaid, florals, and knit fabrics are staples. Pieces like dresses, sweaters, blouses, skirts, and anything off the shoulder are common. Ruffles and lace are popular elements, but on a more understated level when compared to Himekaji. Beanies, berets, headbands, bows, and lockets/pendants are popular accessories. Footwear ranges from any sort of boot, knee-highs, heels, to boots with fringe, to heels, flats, and any casual yet cute style of shoe. Hair is kept to natural colors, and can be worn down or in a casual up-do like a messy bun. The make is very simple and sweet, and the nails are kept plain or have a French manicure. LIZLISA and Ank Rouge have many options for Roma gals.
HAADY
Also spelled as Haaady, the name of this style is derived from the Japanese word hade, meaning flashy. It was created by egg model Kaoru Watanabe, and is largely associated with her brand JSG (mentioned in the Amekaji section). It was a relatively short-lived style back in the day, but there are many gals today who participate in the style. It takes inspiration from American/British styles, the 80's, and shares some similarities with Amekaji. The hair is often bleached blonde with colorful extensions or highlights, or can be dyed colorfully all over, and is worn straight or crimped. The clothing is very similar to Amekaji in terms of bright, neon, or rainbow colors and prints (leopard, skulls, stripes, etc.), but it is not as baggy. The clothing is pretty tight, and the 80's inspiration can be seen in the popularity of pieces like tights and leggings, sweatshirts, and more. Hoodies, zip-ups, dresses, tank tops, t-shirts, shorts, and ruffled blouses are also seen. Footwear ranges from heels to sneakers. Common accessories are fun bracelets, necklaces, glasses, scarves, and caps. The make is classically Gyaru, with a focus on neon colors. The tan is on the light-medium side.
~
Okay, I told you the length of this blog would be ridiculous. If you've made it to the end, I salute you! The next few blogs will be considerably shorter and less overwhelming, I promise. I'm sure your brain is as numb as mine after reading this, but if you have any brain power left, feel free to leave a comment with any questions or additional information! Apologies for any misinformation or mistakes. I tried to research each substyle as in-depth as I possibly could, but alas, I am but a mere human... Also, I noticed I used a lot of Gyaru-specific language, so I think my next blog will be all about Gyaru terms and vocab! Anyway, my brain has been sufficiently turned to mush, so this is where I will leave you!
Remember, Antama loves you~!
Kiss kiss~ ☆⌒ヽ(*'､^*)chu
The name of the style is short for "Ageha lady," inspired by the Gyaru publication Koakuma Ageha (小悪魔ageha) magazine and the styles shown in it. The style is very mature and glamorous, and is popular amongst hostesses. The clothing focuses on being sexy, with lingerie elements being very popular: Corsets, lace, bras, garters, and stockings are key elements. The goal is to be revealing while still being classy. The skirts and dresses are worn very short and tight. Big, intricate hairstyles are another key element, most of the time being long or curly. The hair is normally kept darker, unlike other Gyaru styles. Tanning is not a requirement, but Agejo gals who do tan tend to keep it on the light-medium side. The make is very dolly, with dolly circle contact lenses being a popular choice. The lashes are very thick and Gyaru-like, but the make tends to be less extreme than other styles and leans more towards sexy. Rest assured, it is still very Gyaru. Long, deco'd nails are a popular accessory, but natural nails or a French manicure are acceptable as well. Bows, brand-name bags, and jewelry also make for good Agejo accessories, as they are more mature. Stilettos and pumps are preferred to platforms, as are high-heeled knee-high boots. A popular agejo brand is MA*RS, known for its iconic prints.
HIME GYARU
Hime means "princess," so Hime Gyaru is quite literally "princess gal." Hair is arguably the biggest part of the look, with hairstyles (sujimori) being huge, beehive styles with curls. Hime Gals hair colors can vary, with light brown being popular. Blonde is seen, but it is more natural compared to a Ganguro blonde. Some Hime Gals choose to have dark brown or black hair. Hair accessories are a must, with large bows, flowers, and strings of pearls being popular choices. Accessorizing is crucial for Hime Gals. Nails are heavily decorated, as are shoes, bags, cell phones, and themselves with jewelry. Lace, ruffles, and bows are key elements. Clothes are often pink or white, or in cutesy prints. The clothes are very soft, while still remaining over the top and eccentric. The make is very doll-like, similar to Agejo, featuring circle lenses to make the eyes appear larger. White accents are seen for this effect as well, as well as pink blush, light pink lips, and thick yet cutesy eyelashes. Tanning is not essential. Popular Hime brands are LIZ LISA and JESUS DIAMANTE.
HIMEKAJI
This style is the step below Hime, as denoted by kaji, meaning "casual." In general, it requires less upkeep than the Hime style whilst holding onto the cutesy flair. Think of it as a "princess off-duty" type of style! The hair is less intricate, being either long or short in lighter colors, curled, and mostly worn down. Accessories are fewer, including those for nails and clothing. Himekaji prioritizes comfort whilst still being cute and princess-like. Pink is an important element for Himekaji clothing, but it also features more natural, earth tones like browns. Hearts, florals, pom-poms, and fur lining are very popular, as are lace, ruffles, and bows, but on a smaller scale. The make is mostly similar to Hime, just toned down. Tanning is also not essential. LIZ LISA is also extremely popular for Himekaji gals, as well as Ank Rouge.
AMEKAJI
The name of this style translates to "American casual," and is characterized by a stereotypically 90's American/Western aesthetic. The style is very bold, comfortable, and casual. Baggy clothing is the key element, with baggy jeans, sweatpants/joggers, and dungarees/overalls. Shorts and skirts are also popular options, but dresses are a rare sight for Amekaji. The tops can be either loose or tight, but it's important that they have some sort of cute or busy print/pattern or slogan, and are brightly colored. Baseball caps, beanies, chunky belts, and fun jewelry are key accessories. It's common to see Amekaji gals wearing sneakers (high tops or basketball style), ballet flats, and sometimes boots. Hair is kept light, either blonde or light brown, and is often worn in simple styles like ponytails, half up-half down styles, or down. It can be either long or short. The tans range from light to medium. The make is very simple but still Gyaru, with bold lashes and eyeliner, and pops of color from the lips. The brand JSG is popular among Amekaji gals.
ROKKU
This style incorporates elements of rock (as you can tell by the name) and Visual kei, or Vkei. Unlike other Gyaru styles, Rokku prioritizes dark colors over bright colors and prints. Crosses, studs, leather, and ripped clothing are key elements, as well as tattoos and piercings. The hair can be dyed any color (unnatural colors are common), and having a take on the classic Vkei silhouette is a popular styling choice. Hair can be worn in many styles: Many Rokku gals like big, intricate sujimori with long curls, and others prefer short hair. No matter the style, though, bangs or fringe are very common. Rokku accessories favor chokers, fishnet tights or stockings in general, cuff bracelets or bracelet stacks, cross necklaces, fingerless gloves, buckles and chains, and belts. Footwear can range from boots, platforms, heels, or sneakers. Most Rokku gals choose not to tan, and if they do, it is very light. The make is very dramatic, focusing on dark smoky eyes and dark lips.
HIME GYARU
Hime means "princess," so Hime Gyaru is quite literally "princess gal." Hair is arguably the biggest part of the look, with hairstyles (sujimori) being huge, beehive styles with curls. Hime Gals hair colors can vary, with light brown being popular. Blonde is seen, but it is more natural compared to a Ganguro blonde. Some Hime Gals choose to have dark brown or black hair. Hair accessories are a must, with large bows, flowers, and strings of pearls being popular choices. Accessorizing is crucial for Hime Gals. Nails are heavily decorated, as are shoes, bags, cell phones, and themselves with jewelry. Lace, ruffles, and bows are key elements. Clothes are often pink or white, or in cutesy prints. The clothes are very soft, while still remaining over the top and eccentric. The make is very doll-like, similar to Agejo, featuring circle lenses to make the eyes appear larger. White accents are seen for this effect as well, as well as pink blush, light pink lips, and thick yet cutesy eyelashes. Tanning is not essential. Popular Hime brands are LIZ LISA and JESUS DIAMANTE.
HIMEKAJI
This style is the step below Hime, as denoted by kaji, meaning "casual." In general, it requires less upkeep than the Hime style whilst holding onto the cutesy flair. Think of it as a "princess off-duty" type of style! The hair is less intricate, being either long or short in lighter colors, curled, and mostly worn down. Accessories are fewer, including those for nails and clothing. Himekaji prioritizes comfort whilst still being cute and princess-like. Pink is an important element for Himekaji clothing, but it also features more natural, earth tones like browns. Hearts, florals, pom-poms, and fur lining are very popular, as are lace, ruffles, and bows, but on a smaller scale. The make is mostly similar to Hime, just toned down. Tanning is also not essential. LIZ LISA is also extremely popular for Himekaji gals, as well as Ank Rouge.
The name of this style translates to "American casual," and is characterized by a stereotypically 90's American/Western aesthetic. The style is very bold, comfortable, and casual. Baggy clothing is the key element, with baggy jeans, sweatpants/joggers, and dungarees/overalls. Shorts and skirts are also popular options, but dresses are a rare sight for Amekaji. The tops can be either loose or tight, but it's important that they have some sort of cute or busy print/pattern or slogan, and are brightly colored. Baseball caps, beanies, chunky belts, and fun jewelry are key accessories. It's common to see Amekaji gals wearing sneakers (high tops or basketball style), ballet flats, and sometimes boots. Hair is kept light, either blonde or light brown, and is often worn in simple styles like ponytails, half up-half down styles, or down. It can be either long or short. The tans range from light to medium. The make is very simple but still Gyaru, with bold lashes and eyeliner, and pops of color from the lips. The brand JSG is popular among Amekaji gals.
ROKKU
This style incorporates elements of rock (as you can tell by the name) and Visual kei, or Vkei. Unlike other Gyaru styles, Rokku prioritizes dark colors over bright colors and prints. Crosses, studs, leather, and ripped clothing are key elements, as well as tattoos and piercings. The hair can be dyed any color (unnatural colors are common), and having a take on the classic Vkei silhouette is a popular styling choice. Hair can be worn in many styles: Many Rokku gals like big, intricate sujimori with long curls, and others prefer short hair. No matter the style, though, bangs or fringe are very common. Rokku accessories favor chokers, fishnet tights or stockings in general, cuff bracelets or bracelet stacks, cross necklaces, fingerless gloves, buckles and chains, and belts. Footwear can range from boots, platforms, heels, or sneakers. Most Rokku gals choose not to tan, and if they do, it is very light. The make is very dramatic, focusing on dark smoky eyes and dark lips.
GOSHIKKU
This style is similar to Rokku, but incorporates more Gothic elements. While Rokku implements all dark colors, Goshikku tends to stick to black and grey, with minimal pops of white or color. The style is also more toned down when compared to Rokku, especially in terms of accessories and clothing. Stockings/tights and garters are popular accessories. Dresses and skirts are popular, as well as oversized t-shirts and blouses. The style is surprisingly cute and dolly, with lace and ruffles being popular elements, whilst still being edgy with rips and cut-outs. Pendants, chokers, cross necklaces, chains, and bracelets are popular jewelry options. Footwear can range from boots, platforms/flatforms, high heels, or dolly shoes. Like Rokku, hair can be worn in any style, but the colors are commonly black, blonde, white, or grey. The make is less dramatic than Rokku, but it is still dark and bold. Nude or dark lips are commonly seen in Goshikku make. Tanning is not very popular or essential for the style.
KURO GYARU
The name of this style translates to "black-skinned gal," as evidenced by the heavy tans that Kuro gals are known for. Like I mentioned above, Kuro is not technically a substyle and more of a skin-tone-related identifier. There is some controversy about the tanning habits of Kuro gals, as they can be incredibly dark, verging on offensive, and the tanning habits of some gals can be downright dangerous. However, there is a way to do it in a way that is both safe and non-offensive. Kuro shares many similarities with Yamanba (many Yamanba gals consider themselves Kuro gals as well), with white make, circle lenses, big sujimori (either bleached or colorful), and heavy deco and accessories. Piercings are also seen amongst Kuro gals. Nails are incredibly long with huge deco. Clothing ranges from primarily black to colorful, but animal prints (specifically cheetah and leopard) and fur are staples. Denim shorts in a variety of colors and washes are also staple pieces, as well as furry leg warmers. The iconic D.I.A belt was extremely popular amongst Kuro gals, with big belt buckles and gold chains. Gold is very key to the Kuro gal style. Shoes can range from knee-high boots, heels, platforms, and even Crocs with characters on them. Popular Kuro brands are D.I.A and GALEO.
BANBA
Banba, a portmanteau of "Barbie Manba," was created in 2005 by the 5th generation members of the gyarusa Angeleek. The style was meant to be a kind of resistance movement against the prevailing popularity of the Delicer/Derika style, and to pay homage to the Manba style that had been considered "dead" at the time. Due to its inception by Angeleek members, Banba is characterized by dark tans and colored hair; hair colors ranging from bleached blonde to multi-colored were commonplace. Continuing the multi-colored theme, the coords are bright and colorful. Boots, sandals, and heels are often seen in Banba coords, as are neon thigh-high stockings, particularly of the fishnet variety. Make ranges from more traditional Manba aesthetics, especially with bright white highlights and stickers, to comparatively toned down looks.
TSUYOME
Tsyuome is oftentimes considered to be the more modern counterpart to Banba, but there are some very key differences. The name comes from the word tsuyo, meaning "strong." The goal of the style is to be bold and flashy. As Banba was created by Angeleek, there is undoubtedly some remaining Angeleek influence when it comes to Tsuyome: Emphasis on strength, dark tans, and bold make. However, with more modern influences, Tsuyome has definitely strayed from the emphasis on colorful coords when it comes to flashiness. Visually, there is some overlap with what can be considered the "default" Kuro Gyaru style: D.I.A. belts and clothing, legwarmers, animal prints, and a preference for grey, black, and/or white color palettes. Tsuyome has also deviated from overtly Manba elements, as Tsuyome make leans more into sexiness and coolness; compared to a style like Manba, the make is very toned down. The same can be said for the accessories as well. Gold and/or silver bangles, necklaces, and faux fur tails are common accessories. Hair is mainly bleached blonde or light brown, but it is very common to see streaks of color, which may be a slight tribute to Tsuyome's Banba roots.
ONEE-GYARU
Translating to "older sister gal," this style is more mature and sophisticated. Unlike Agejo, which is considered more mature as well, its focus is not quite on sex appeal. Onee-Gyaru can be described as sexier, yes, but it lacks things like lingerie elements that Agejo has. As its key audience is older gals, one of the most important aspects is brand names and labels. Basically, the main draw is that older gals have more disposable income for high-end and designer brands. The entire style is very put together and elegant: Perfectly styled hair, classic Gyaru make, well-thought-out coords, and always keeping up with trends. The hair is often worn in natural colors (blonde, brown, red, or black), long, and crimped or curled. The make can vary from a more natural look to a bold look; it depends on personal preference, but it is still a very developed, elevated Gyaru make. Nails can be decorated, but they tend to be more subtle. Animal prints are popular (as are prints in general) and leather. Popular pieces in a Onee-Gyaru coord are blouses, miniskirts, mini-dresses, overcoats/blazers, cardigans, furs, and tweed-style outfits. The pieces should be tight to emphasize the body and be slightly revealing. Stilettos, pumps, and thigh-high high-heeled boots are common footwear choices. Popular accessories are sunglasses, belts, high-end jewelry, and designer handbags. Designer labels like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci are popular amongst Onee-gals, and CECIL McBEE, LIP SERVICE, RESEXXY, DURAS, DaTuRa, and Delyle NOIR are popular Gyaru brands.
ORA ORA
Also known as Ora Ora kei, this style focuses on a tough, delinquent-type style. It creates a mix of Gyaru and Yankii style, and it was a very popular style in the magazine Soul Sister. The style can vary between sexier and more relaxed or tomboy-ish, depending on the gal, but the style's core focus is on being rebellious. Tracksuits, t-shirts, wife beaters, sweatshirts, sweatsuits, bandeau tops, and tokkofuku (embroidered jumpsuits/trench coats worn by gang members) are popular clothing options. Clothes will often be black/dark colors, and things like tracksuits and sweatshirts will have slogans and symbols on them. Shoes can range from sneakers, boots, and stilettos. Key accessories are baseball/snapback caps, bandanas, gold chains, hoop earrings, and other piercings. Hairstyles are more relaxed, and can be worn long, or some gals will opt for buzzcuts, in a variety of colors. Yakuza-style tattoos are common. The make places a lot of focus on the eyes, and Ora Ora gals like to keep them dark, smoky, and dramatic. Lips are often nude, and Ora Ora gals prefer orange/brown blush to pink.
SHIRO GYARU
This is the exact opposite of Kuro gyaru, translating to "white-skinned gal," and is also known as Ganjiro. Like Kuro Gyaru, Shiro Gyaru is not technically a substyle. Most substyles, except for ones that explicitly prioritize tanning, are compatible with being a Shiro gal.
Roma, short for romantic, shares some similarities with Himekaji but is even more casual and relaxed. It is a style that is very wearable for the day-to-day and very approachable for people who like the general cutesy, girly aesthetic. There is special emphasis on comfort and cuteness for the clothing. Prints like gingham, polka dots, plaid, florals, and knit fabrics are staples. Pieces like dresses, sweaters, blouses, skirts, and anything off the shoulder are common. Ruffles and lace are popular elements, but on a more understated level when compared to Himekaji. Beanies, berets, headbands, bows, and lockets/pendants are popular accessories. Footwear ranges from any sort of boot, knee-highs, heels, to boots with fringe, to heels, flats, and any casual yet cute style of shoe. Hair is kept to natural colors, and can be worn down or in a casual up-do like a messy bun. The make is very simple and sweet, and the nails are kept plain or have a French manicure. LIZLISA and Ank Rouge have many options for Roma gals.
HAADY
Also spelled as Haaady, the name of this style is derived from the Japanese word hade, meaning flashy. It was created by egg model Kaoru Watanabe, and is largely associated with her brand JSG (mentioned in the Amekaji section). It was a relatively short-lived style back in the day, but there are many gals today who participate in the style. It takes inspiration from American/British styles, the 80's, and shares some similarities with Amekaji. The hair is often bleached blonde with colorful extensions or highlights, or can be dyed colorfully all over, and is worn straight or crimped. The clothing is very similar to Amekaji in terms of bright, neon, or rainbow colors and prints (leopard, skulls, stripes, etc.), but it is not as baggy. The clothing is pretty tight, and the 80's inspiration can be seen in the popularity of pieces like tights and leggings, sweatshirts, and more. Hoodies, zip-ups, dresses, tank tops, t-shirts, shorts, and ruffled blouses are also seen. Footwear ranges from heels to sneakers. Common accessories are fun bracelets, necklaces, glasses, scarves, and caps. The make is classically Gyaru, with a focus on neon colors. The tan is on the light-medium side.
~
Okay, I told you the length of this blog would be ridiculous. If you've made it to the end, I salute you! The next few blogs will be considerably shorter and less overwhelming, I promise. I'm sure your brain is as numb as mine after reading this, but if you have any brain power left, feel free to leave a comment with any questions or additional information! Apologies for any misinformation or mistakes. I tried to research each substyle as in-depth as I possibly could, but alas, I am but a mere human... Also, I noticed I used a lot of Gyaru-specific language, so I think my next blog will be all about Gyaru terms and vocab! Anyway, my brain has been sufficiently turned to mush, so this is where I will leave you!
Remember, Antama loves you~!
Kiss kiss~ ☆⌒ヽ(*'､^*)chu
0 comments:
Post a Comment