A small stylistic twist has fashion enthusiasts buzzing. This Japanese garment, ideal for office wear, features a simple detail that elevates an entire outfit. It’s now making its way into stores everywhere.
### Japanese Influence Shadows Western Trends
For quite some time, the land of the rising sun has been overshadowing us in terms of fashion trends. While Paris is historically considered the capital of fashion, especially by purists, Japan frequently offers stunning fashion insights. Key fashion hubs in Japan include Harajuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo at large.
Beyond its national fashion scene, Japanese influence also permeates “Western” fashion. Countless designers draw inspiration from Japanese culture, styles, and garments to add an elusive “je ne sais quoi” to their creations. One can’t help but think of Margiela’s famous Tabis – those unique shoes that fashionistas adore, though many are unaware of their origins or history.
In recent months, another traditional Japanese garment has been flooding the racks of trendy ready-to-wear labels. Bershka, Muji, Nike, and Zara have all embraced it. Perfect for enhancing office looks, complementing chic outfits without being overbearing, and blurring the lines between different wardrobe pieces; it reimagines a classic garment by giving it a more unique silhouette than usual. This garment, dating back to the Middle Ages, is none other than the Hakama pants.
### The Distinctive Pleats of Hakama Pants
It seems that the Japanese have a penchant for pleats, not just in origami: they also feature prominently in their clothing. The Hakama pants are distinguished from regular pants by their multiple pleats, which redefine their shape. Straddling the line between a skirt and trousers, their ambiguous shape adds fluidity and blurs the movement of the wearer.
In traditional Japanese culture, the Hakama features three pleats on the left front, two on the right front, and two at the back. However, the Western-inspired iterations often simplify this design, keeping just one pleat on each front side. The versions created by these accessible brands often feature a wide-leg or barrel-shaped leg. The favorite among fashionistas? The one from Zara.
Unfortunately, it’s already sold out at the Spanish retailer… But not to worry, various versions abound across different brands: from pants close to the original Hakama design at Muji, to pleated trousers at Bershka, to comfortable joggers at Nike… The stylistic possibilities are endless.
### Hakama Pants Embody Timeless Japanese Philosophy
Both the traditional and revamped Hakama pants perfectly embody the philosophy the Japanese have cherished since ancient times: wabi-sabi. This concept involves finding beauty in imperfection, irregularity, effortlessness, and the passage of time that wears, ages, and enhances. This style is already taking over the wardrobes of Gen Z with the Japandi inspiration. So, are you enticed?
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Olivia Martinez is the Fashion Editor at Lady and The Track, bringing over seven years of experience in the fashion industry. With a background in fashion design and styling, Olivia has worked with top fashion brands and magazines. Her keen eye for trends and styling tips helps readers stay ahead of the fashion curve. Whether she’s covering runway shows or street style, Olivia ensures that Lady and The Track readers are always in the know when it comes to the latest in fashion.