Winter has arrived, and the unusually hot summer of 2010 is just a distant memory. Japan experiences extreme differences in temperature over the course of the four seasons, and winter brings its own distinctive styles. Particularly popular in winter 2010–2011 are styles incorporating colorful accessories and multiple layers to create an individualized look. Must-have items include warm and cozy boas, fake fur outerwear and wraps, and relaxed and retro Nordic-pattern knits. Warm, roomy items are popping up everywhere.

Features of Japanese Winter FashionsWinter fashions are often based on dark colors and basic designs: black down jackets, navy duffle coats, and earth-tone mod coats. But in Japan young people’s fashion is not limited by these conventions. People are incorporating light, colorful accessories into their look, creating unique layered combinations to beat the winter blues.

A young woman accenting her outfit with a fur stole.

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"Mods coats," available in several different colors, have become a standard part of the daily wardrobe for many men.

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The imitation fur stole and beret add a touch of style to this pea coat outfit.

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Even plain brown and black coats can be effectively accented with scarves, hats and bags in vivid reds, yellows, oranges and pinks. Leg wear can be nicely set off with colorful leggings and tights, and eye-catching sneakers and boots. Adding a layer of knitted jumpers or “cut and sewn” knitwear does more than just provide protection against the cold. It also creates a unique style that can only be enjoyed during the colder months.

This Nordic pattern dress brings out a feminine style. (c)DISANI

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Toasty Warm Fashions Popular This WinterFluffy furs and boas are a big hit this winter as stylish ways to keep warm in the cold weather. “Mouton” boots and vests and sleek leather jackets are popular items, along with fur vests, hats and shawls. All of these outerwear items are made from artificial fibers, and many Japanese brands have switched to fake sheepskin and fur out of respect for animal rights.

Besides ethical considerations, the artificial fibers have advantages of their own, being cheaper, lighter, and easier to work with than real fur. Another intriguing development is a growing trend for some young Japanese people to use fluffy teddy bears, such as the well-known mascot characters Rilakkuma and Duffy, as accessories. Some have even taken to donning fluffy, furry leg warmers to turn themselves into “human teddy bears.”

The cozy fake fur hat and the Nordic pattern outerwear make a cute combination. (c)DISANI

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Nordic Patterns Keep the Retro Style PopularAnother popular fashion trend winter 2010–2011 is Nordic patterns. Designs featuring wintery motifs such as snowflakes and reindeers conjure up a fuzzy, nostalgic feeling for winters past. Nordic patterns have long been common on sweaters and cardigan, but this year they are also being used on dresses, ponchos, socks, and leggings.

Normally these kinds of Nordic patterns are woven into knitted items. This year, though, printed Nordic patterns are being used to decorate dresses and other items of clothing. These unique textiles, offering the look of a knitwear design on a printed fabric, are surging in popularity. (January 2011)