Gothic Lolita, Kawai, Cosplay and Harajuku Street inspired outfits and accessories

Born in the Harajuku district of Japan, this alternative style is about individual creativity and expression. Harajuku street fashion is often outfits created by you yourself, by adding handmade additions and using scissors and imagination. The are many different styles within the Harajuku born culture; Cosplay - a creative take on costumes, Little Bo Peep as a classic example; Gothic Lolita - a darker look with knee length frilly dresses or a lighter kawai (cute) baby look.

As with all alternative styles and cultures it's difficult to put this in one box with a label. Too right!! Express yourself, look for inspiration for your individual look and create your own style. That in itself is the essence of alternative fashion and indeed Harajuku Street fashion.

Here at Soho's we have put together a selection of outfits, dresses and accessories which are inspired by Harajuku street fashion, or which would look great in an outfit of that style. Don't forget to check out our other styles though, you might find some gems in the steampunk or gothic clothing section, our jewellery section or some cool add ons in our punk clothing section, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few tips - but it's definitely not a manual.

The secret is wearing what you want - clashing is good but so is matching!  Get yourself a funky bag to start with and put onto it as many badges,  pins and little dolls as you can.  Stripy socks and gloves/mitts that do not match, net tutus over hotpants or shorts, TUK Platform shoes or sneakers/high tops.  Model yourself on an anime cartoon.

For a darker look, choose fascinators, gothic lace-up Lolita jackets , fingerless gloves, parasols and long lacy skirts

Violently colour your hair, or wear a shocking wig, extreme eyeshadow and lipstick - and your own Harajuku style is emerging!