Harajuku Lovers Unite!

What to do on a rainy day in the Pearl?

Shop at FEZ Studio!

We have the unique Harajuku Lovers bags and accessories designed by GWEN STEFANI on sale for 40% OFF just in time for the Holidays. Many designs are available which represent the various subsyles of Harajuku. Since these are limited production, once they are gone, we will not be able to order any more, so please take advantage of this great opportunity while you can.

What is 'Harajuku'? It is a location in Japan where the young dress in their own fashions they invent themselves. Most of the focus has been on the unique style of this subculture which has acquired unsurpassed global iconic status.

During my time in Japan, I was fortunate enough to be involved in the the style and beauty experience of the subculture first hand. Although Harajuku style is really not definable, there tends to be 3 major sub styles:

1. Gothic Lolita - in which the style is overtly, cute and feminine. This emphasizes chastity and cuteness.

2. Cosplay - short for costume play, this is the act of dressing up as fictional characters, but translated into fashion.

3. The Harajuku Style - which is basically the combination of several trends which draws influences from punk and goth. It's basically a way for people to participate and identify with the subculture without ascribing to a certain style or standard.

In the end, I believe the idea and fascination with Harajuku is definitely not just isolated to the Japanese. The place and styles have grabbed the attention of style icons because it represents beauty and style standards that are really undefined. If you look at Hollywood these days, there is a lot of sameness of people following trends. After a while, it becomes boring. This is why I won't carry mass-marketed products bought out by large corporations. We are not created from a mold and should have a place where people value our individuality.

Harajuku is a representation of creative expression and freedom. It's especially ironic that it originated from a place that has traditionally valued conformity. Now, it is about reinventing standards and making it your own.

FEZ Studio

1125 NW 9th Ave

Suite 108

Portland, OR 97209

Phone: (503) 227-2226

E-mail: fezbeauty@gmail.com