Hoosier Dos and Don’ts: Tokyo style individualism

This spring break, I was lucky enough to go to Tokyo with my IU International Public Relations class.  Part of the reason why I applied for a position in the class was so that I could witness the world famous street style of the Japanese, and let me tell you, I was not disappointed.

Tokyo is a whirlwind of electric color and a hobknob of eccentricities, and the Japanese youth perfectly mirror their home.  Their fearless fashion was a huge distraction to me as I bumbled around clumsily attempting to navigate the bustling streets and subway stations like a typical American.

But the clothes, ah the clothes.  There were no rules for Tokyo style except to be loud, proud, whimsical and utterly outrageous.  I vied to copy their fabulous uniform down to the last detail.  On my last day in Japan, I bought a hooded blazer, a teeny white tutu, thigh high argyle socks, a cutesy giant strawberry ring and sky high lemon lime polka dot platform shoes in order to bring back to Bloomington the fantastical style I saw everywhere in Tokyo.

On the way back to the hotel, shopping bags in tow, I realized that copying the Tokyo look would be an impossible task.  Tokyo fashion isn’t about trying to fit a mold – it’s about individualism.

As IU students, we have an uncanny way of adopting a college uniform.  North Face fleeces, Ugg boots, black leggings and sweatshirts are easy and comfortable to wear, but the outfit lacks creativity.  Why not take a risk and add something shocking to your usual repertoire?  I promise you’ll turn heads and steal the spotlight with your Tokyo style individualism.