InspireINK: Tokyo Street Style

I have never encountered a more well-dressed city than Tokyo (from which I just returned on Wednesday). I was inspired and in awe of the way Japanese people look effortlessly put together even when bundled up against the chilly winds of winter in gorgeous coats, scarves, and footwear. The style is both elegant and playful.


The women's look tends to be ultra feminine, conjuring "Alice in Wonderland" whimsy with floaty shapes, floral prints, girly pastels, fanciful accessories, and bows galore. A friend I met there put it best: the country "revolves around kawaii"--cute--with a love of Michael Jackson, animals, and any character from Disney (even Duffy), Sanrio, or Peanuts.

During my week there, I was lucky enough to explore different and diverse areas like Takeshita Street in Harajuku, Omotesando (the "Champs-Elysses" of Tokyo) in the French District, and the 10-story Shibuya 109, among other shopping spots throughout the metropolis. A few trends in the stores were universal: delicate jewelry, stripes, slouchy cuts, flowers, puffer coats, scarves, and hooded military anoraks in army green, khaki, and brown.

Some items at Thriving Ink & Co. seem to fit the bill...

Clockwise from top left: Lush top, Twisted Silver romance bracelet ($40.00), Rainbow Swirlz scarf ($24.00), Midnight Snack tee ($21.95), Lush airplane rose skirt ($24.95), Eurotrash Girl earrings ($30.00), Lush racerback zipper striped tank ($21.95), Rainbow Swirlz field bag ($30.00)

*Post icon photo credit to Tricia Gosingtian at http://lookbook.nu/look/185306-7-8-9. Her dress and cardigan are from my favorite shop in Tokyo!