As if there isn’t enough in the way of retail temptation in Tokyo, the city is a magnet for vintage clothing enthusiasts - and the craze is growing, according to a recent article in the International Herald Tribune.
This is all well and good; vintage clothing rocks. But there could be a problem with the sizes; we Aussies tend to be somewhat larger than our Japanese counterparts. Don’t ask me why. It isn’t fair. So maybe avoid the shops selling “remakes”, unless you’re a size 8.
Photo by oliveheartkimchi
Anyway, if you’re going to Tokyo and like the idea of vintage, here are a few hints. Sorry I can’t be more specific, but the city is just too huge, too constantly changing, and my knowledge of it is not encyclopaedic! Try Shimokitazawa ('Shimokita') as an all-round interesting shopping area – not mainstream and not all vintage, but full of places to browse through. Then there’s the oddly named Look Street at Koenji, where vintage rules. And, although it’s an ultra-modern area, Shibuya (pictured above) is a vintage/recycled buyer’s dream. While you’re in this neck of the woods, have your camera handy for a shot of the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing at the Hachiko entrance to Shibuya Station: best observed from the upstairs windows at Starbucks. You’ll recognise the scene if you’ve seen Lost in Translation.
Anyway, all vintaged-out and want a taste of what works today for Japan's young fashionistas? Get yourself to Harajuku on a weekend, and force your way into crowded, pedestrian-only Takeshita-dori. You’ll see Tokyo's truly bizarre youth sub-cultures on parade in this district too – among them the LoliGoths (don’t ask).
Finally, if it’s genuine Japanese vintage you’re after, try Hayashi Kimono (nearest station Yurakucho), the Harajuku branch of Chicago and/or the Sunday antique/flea markets. These tend to be twice-monthly or somewhat irrregular, you'll find more details on Tokyo weekender. Happy hunting!
Photo by syasya_akemi