From Tokyo to Kaohsiung: Japanese Fashionables

Written and translated by David Chou

From cold noodles to bizarre wardrobe choices, Japanese style has been popular in Taiwan for many years. Taiwanese teenagers and young adults have especially taken to stylish Japanese clothes, which usually reflect a combination of creativity, trend, and confidence. One can easily create his or her own style through umpteen cool T-shirts and well-designed accessories. After all, a dazzling hat, skull ring and edgy, bright orange suspenders are sure to bring a lot more eyes your way.

Another reason Taiwanese teens are crazy about Japanese clothing is the design, which tends to have a peculiar sense of vogue and the world. Whether commenting on Hollywood's stick-thin models or making pacifist statements through "antiwar" t-shirts, Japanese clothes are ever-gaining popularity. Sometimes youngsters even go insane collecting all of the shoes from famous brands' limited editions. If you want to try incorporating some fun Japanese style into your own wardrobe, the following list is a nice resource with which to get started.

Vin Rouge

124, WenHeng 2rd Rd, SinSing District
(07) 282-7785
1 pm-10 pm
Credit cards accepted.

It may look inconspicuous. However Vin Rouge is really full of treasures. It is basically a shop designed for women between 20 and 35. With stylish, professional clothing, you can look like a mature editor or a shining office lady here. Girl Power!

Guten Tag! Der Herr

273, SinTian Rd, CianJin District
(07) 281-1618
1-10 pm
Credit cards accepted.

Der Herr has clothes and accessories for men from all kinds of styles, including leisure, military, and tight-fit. For a new look, get yourself a double-collar polo shirt with pearl white shorts. Summer rocks!

Gemma

315, SinTian Rd, CianJin District; (07) 241-4345
Mon-Fri 1-10 pm; Sat-Sun 12-10 pm
Credit cards accepted.

Some girls are born to shop at Gemma. Every kind of Japanese style is found here. With reasonable prices and fascinating accessories, you can become the queen of vogue.

Sense Organ

16, Lane 235, ZiQiang 3rd Rd, 1F, CianJin District
(07) 241-3725
1-10 pm
Credit cards accepted.

With comfortable interior space, Sense Organ is like the closet in your room. Its major merchandise is individualized T-shirts, diverse caps, and offerings from its own brand called "SOL". After walking out, you'll already be a trend maker.