Jelly・ゼリーMay 2012

The magazine ‘Jelly・ゼリー’ is a fashion magazine that describes itself targeting ‘new generation’ gyaru. Others will call this style ‘glam’- think Ayumi Hamasaki, who also appeared on the cover of this month’s magazine :O It is published by Bunkasha, which also publishes another magazine called Ranzuki.

Here’s Ayu-chan showcasing her ‘new generation’ gyaru – a combination of cute glam.

Mori Girl・森ガール

Since we haven’t posted much on Japanese fashion yet [not really much = not at all] I would like to officially start our fashion section! Perhaps the more popular or well known Japanese fashion styles are the bright, neon Harajuku street styles complete with wacky hairstyles gelled up ten feet, the kawaii lolita/hime gyaru, schoolgirl/ganguro, dramatic visual kei – just off the top of my head.

However to start off, I would like to introduce a style that is more subculture but has gained popularity very quickly since 2006, the official launching of the mori girl community by a girl calling herself choco on Mixi, Japan’s most popular social networking site.

‘森・mori’ means forest in Japanese and the term ‘mori girl’ is a style concept that refers to those ‘that like to look they they live in a forest’, wandering in their loose dresses, vintage prints and quaint accessories. It is a rather natural and earthy look and Mori girls are often described as being down-to-earth [literally and metaphorically] as well as being joyful of life’s simple pleasures.

A mori girl! :O I like the vibe of purity and innocence that this style normally gives off.