The Ganguro Look

Moving on from kiddie fashion, I thought it would be timely to talk about “Gunguro”, one of the trendy looks of Japan’s teens sullenly roaming the streets of Tokyo. Definitely not a look conservative parents would give their blessings to, the Gunguro involves a deep “maui” tan, mile-long false eyelashes and lots, and lots of make-up. Think layers of very pale lipstick - white or lavender, bright blue eyeshadow accented with stick-on lame beads, and as much mascara as a tube will supply. Top it off with long silvery grey strands of hair, extensions mandatory.

Despite the surf-chick skin-tone and perhaps even lip tone (reminiscent of sunblock), this look is as far away from the sunny laid-back island girl, and more of a tough, “don’t mess with me dude” urban message, whose origins are believed to have stemmed from the street-smart, tough-talking female rapper of the late 80’s-90’s, coupled with 70’s California surfer chick.

Interested in recreating the unique look? Try these tips I found online if you dare:

• Pale lipstick is an absolute must.
• Lots of orange, also bright green, bright yellow, bright pink… bright anything!
• Light brown or beige, leather or suede knee-high platform boots.
• Tans are very popular, especially really dark tans. Tanning saloons are blossoming all over Tokyo thanks to Gunguro chickies.
• Pale blue or white eye shadow to emphasize their ultra tans are also absolutely essential.
• Hair has to be bleached blonde (alternatively bleached pale blue or bleached orange) and has to be worn in big wavy curls.
• Hawaiian-theme jewelry as well Hawaiian-theme shirts or backpacks are a bonus.
• Mascara is BIG. Lots of it. Lots. And more. More! More. Fake eyelashes. More mascara!
• Fake hair extensions. Silver, electric blue, electric pink.
• Stripper shoes with knee high socks.
• Plucked eyebrows
• Stick-on glittery eyeliner-stickers are huge too so are stick-on stars and sparkly flowers.
• Fake flowers in hair. Bright fake flowers in bright yellow hair.

Most importantly though: If you want to be a true Gunguro girl you have to have Gunguro girlfriends. Gunguro girls travel in packs. Recently, Gunguro males have been spotted as well and these have to be accompanied by Gunguro girls.