Gyaru

( ja, ギャル) , is a Japanese fashion subculture. The term ''gyaru'' is a Japanese transliteration of the English slang word .

The term for was introduced in Japan by the American jeans company ''Lee'', who introduced a new line of jeans to their brand ''Wrangler''. When the women's jeans line 'GALS' was released in the 1970s; the term had been quickly used outside of its original branding and was adopted to describe the fashion by 1972. subculture was at its peak during the Heisei era. It had a large influence on Japanese fashion and its economy, its international economy, and its global soft power across the world through Cool Japan such as in Southeast Asia and internationally. Multiple brands branched out before eventually declining due to financial instability and changes in its target demographic. The terms usage peaked in the early 2000s and has gradually declined since.

This decline has been attributed to shifts in magazine industry, the exaggeration of the style in terms of its style use and progression, western media, and government policies. The meaning of the term gradually drifted to apply to a slightly older demographic whose apparent lack of interest in work or marriage resulted in these women being regarded as childish or as a hussy. Due to its past and its present connotation, it is now used almost interchangeably with '; as the name of and its history is intertwined with the fashion subculture. Even though Japanese citizens have seen the style of from birth, impact, and decline, citizens have stated to have never had the intention of imitating the American style of daily apparel or of wanting to resemble it. Yet, it can be stated that this very same sentiment is argued against by other Japanese citizens.

The department store Shibuya 109, across the intersection from the Shibuya station in Tokyo, was a popular location for purchasing style clothing and was where this fashion subculture was most often seen. In the early 2000s, Shibuya 109 was considered the source of the newest and trendiest items or brands for , from popular and largely recognized brands to more independent local designers within that department store. Although 109 began as the primary source of style clothing, the style's growth in popularity saw brands branching out, having different brands of clothing being available at pop up stores, in conventions or through web shops that offered international shipping. Second hand and vending of apparel and accessories also increased their availability.

Description

is a description of any gender, but is considered for women when referring to . Some groups and people follow a type of Japanese street fashion with many subcategories and substyles of which many types originated in the late 1970s. It is a fashion subculture that is considered to be nonconformist or rebelling against the Japanese standards of its society and beauty at the time when women were expected to be housewives and fit the Asian beauty standards of pale skin and dark hair. For Japanese women who saw those who participated in this fashion during its rise, they considered it a fashion style too racy and freewheeling; with some feeling it caused a ruckus, juvenile delinquency and frivolousness among teenage women. Its popularity peaked in the 1990s and early 2000s. They are also known for partying or clubbing, being rather provocative, being flirtatious, and unwinding and having fun.

Popular recurring models, icons and idols who may have been easily recognized during its peak were , , , , , , , , , , , , , and twins and . Other notable recently in this medium are , known for her magazine and online alias as and model , being known as . In Japan they are also both known for being models for Gravure from the books they have appeared in.

Appearance

By the early 2010s fashion was typically characterized by tanned skin as it is considered a must in some substyles, they were also most often seen with highly elongated and decorated artificial nails. As for the appearance of a , dramatic makeup is considered to be essential as well in this fashion subculture or depending on which substyle one partakes in. The makeup typically consists of black eye liner, fake eyelashes, and sometimes a white eye shadow or a touch of that color is applied to either the inner eye corners or to the outer corners near the lower lash line of the eyes. This is to make them appear larger or to contour them to elongate the eye of the sclera. In the later years of this style, with the popularity of South Korea during that time the style would see the use of the South Korean makeup technique of increasing or creating a larger appearance of the under eye by applying makeup, such as highlighting the under eye and contouring the eye crease to make the eye bag appear prominent; this is known as . This should not be confused with periorbital puffiness, even though both look similar; one is a health condition while the other is done with makeup or by the use of plastic surgery such as botox. Also contouring different parts of the face to change facial features and highlighting the nose for a slimming effect is often done. Colored contacts are often seen especially circle lenses to change eye color from a distance and also to make their eyes appear larger with the extreme diameter of these lenses.

Hairstyling can differ from substyle within fashion subculture such as the hair texture, color or styling could differ from what one would participate in. Heavily bleached or dyed hair is most often seen; shades would greatly differ from dark brown to lighter shades of brown or multiple different shades of blonde. Hair is mostly styled either by curling it with a curling iron or having straight hair done by the use of a hair straightener. But some hairstyling may differ depending on which styles or substyle one would participate in; hair may be curled to create extra volume and heavily crimped up. The hair is crimped differently than in the West, this hair styling was called (); in English it means assorted streaks. This styling is named so, not only because of its enormous volume of hair, the usage of hair extension to achieve this look or even its use of an assortment of wigs to create this hairstyle. But this name comes from these streaks of hair that are made apparent by being held by gel. Since after the curling and crimping; the gel would be used to keep a type of hair streaks, that they were visible and these streaks would stay throughout the day.

Apparel for fashion differs depending on which substyle the individual has chosen to include themselves in and from where they would buy their items; this choice of brands can denote which substyle one is from or is participating in. Japanese street fashion brands or western fast fashion brands with general aesthetics would determine ones style in the fashion substyle depending on their appearance in an outfit. Some would have the luxury to buy from western luxury brands or even haute couture brands, but for most and even those who lived in Japan; they usually gravitated toward Japanese brands, depending on their style. Most of the apparel originated from Shibuya 109. A full outfit of only designer brands is not considered completely unless one is trying for a specific substyle. Yet, even those who participate in the substyle of wearing designer items do have different brands that do not all originate from the same designer, regardless of whether the brands are Western or Japanese. They would generally mix their whole outfit of different brands to create a look.

Common styles

is a spectrum style. There are various subcategories of fashion depending on the choice of apparel and gender. The style as a whole is referred as a ( ja, ギャル系); in Japanese or in romaji (). It consists of the most common way to name someone who is in style. As is not a singular style, it is an umbrella term for its many subcategories, sub styles or themes of since it is a spectrum style. The Japanese word for ( ) () translates to the English word type; meaning its usage refers to the fact that this fashion has so many subcategories and sub styles that it is indeed akin to a type or system of styles, in terms of fashion.

The most common styles of are:

* (): a style that was highly active, was mostly inspired by, and its aesthetic referenced in, the magazine . It is a very foxy, ladylike, and mature style. It is generally worn by, but not always exclusive to, a hostess. The intention is to be flawlessly glamorous and desirable. The style has an emphasis on the eyes, often enlarging and enhancing them with circle lenses and several sets of false eyelashes in an alluring way. The hair is always styled in an updo, resembling , with curls or hair that is crimped in the hair style, and sometimes includes extensions and wigs. It is common for those participating in the style to wear multiple wigs at the same time. The style is similar to , except for being more skimpy and with the intention to be classy. Japanese fashion brands most recognized in this substyle are ''DaTuRa'', ''Jesus Diamante'', ''La Parfait'', ''MA*RS'' and ''Princess Melody''.
* (): A style that is heavily inspired by American culture; its name can be directly translated to American casual. It is usually a very bright, fun, flamboyant and generally multi colored style. Inspired by fictionalized images of America the clothes are generally looser than most of the other styles. They usually have many layers that overlap each other. It mostly involves sweaters, bomber jackets from the early 2000 and coats such as Letterman jackets. In the summer they would wear t-shirts, shorts, jeans, overalls and cargo pants. Also, they would sometimes wear their boyfriends clothing as there was a male counterpart to the brand COCO*LULU; which is one of the staple brands for this style. Shoes were mostly tennis shoes, sneakers, uggs or engineer boots. Japanese fashion brands most recognized in this substyle are ''ANAP'', ''COCO*LULU'' and ''Wakatsuki Chinatsu''.
* B- (): A style, consisting of not only being but also rejecting the Japanese standards of beauty to instead become black. As the letter B in this substyle directly refers to the word black. This style is synonymous with the store Baby Shoop. But even as a substyle it is now considered inappropriate and even appropriation of Black culture just as and even . Some or most of the ''western'' participants of this fashion do not see the appropriation of substyles such as or its other extreme substyle, that are derived from it but do have a distaste for this substyle in particular and express their distaste and anger on social networking services. This substyle has also been stated to be a joke in egg magazine and was expressing that this was not a serious style of to even participants despising other doing this style.
* (): A with an artificial deep tanned skin and bleached hair, and makeup which tended to use white around the eyes and on the lips, and darker shades of color are sometimes seen on the eyes of . But white is most often used eyeshadow for this substyle. Also, decorations such as glitter or flowers, such as hibiscus flower stickers added under the eyes. This style was popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The name is the mix of both the Japanese words () and (), these Kanji translate to the words face and black but the term that use for this substyle is written in Katakana.
* (): This style of is referred to in English as celebrity or rather used as the shortened for that very same word; in Japanese being written as (). It specifically targets the concept of either being an actual celebrity in the style or to achieve that aesthetic to the point of becoming someone with the celebrity status by achieving this through this substyle. For most participants of this particular substyle, they could only first dream of living this substyle but have successfully achieved this feat through dedication, persistence and effort. Since it is probably one of the most expensive substyles to maintain if one would try to replicate it. This style at first might resemble but when looking at not only at which apparel pieces that are being used; from which these brands that are far above the average price of brands from 109. Also the general look that they would not be regarded as from passersby on the street in Japan unless the fake eyelashes were visible; due to price of apparel and confidence in their appearance by wearing these luxury items. These apparel pieces from clothes, accessories, shoes to even flip phones in order to be based on that time period are needed to achieve the celebrity appearance. Those who participated and contributed in this substyle have been others who started mostly without a celebrity status or any sort of exponential media recognition in Japan. What these tried to achieve is to replicate the whole look of a celebrity during the Heisei era or 1990s and 2000s; these celebrities were generally chosen for their luxury clothing choices which was always of a 'McBling' aesthetic at the time. Luxury and haute couture brands are a must; fast fashion, poorly made apparel, inauthentic luxury branded apparel to accessories or second hand pieces do not suffice. Unless these items are from an actual luxury or haute couture brand that were authenticated but then only by that standard; otherwise new and on trend haute couture fashion is a must. These brands do not have to be Japanese owned or Japanese based brands; most of these brands are actually western brands such as: '' Juicy Couture'', ''Baby Phat'', '' Betsey Johnson'', '' Von Dutch'', '' Ed Hardy'', ''Chanel'', ''Moschino'', ''Michael Kors'', ''Versace'', '' Fendi'', ''Louboutin'', ''Balenciaga'', ''Coach'', ''Burberry'', ''Gucci'' and even '' Givenchy'' when Alexander McQueen was the head designer and the same can be said for ''Dior'' especially when John Galliano was head designer of said haute couture brand. These brands were not a staple of fashion but were seen in other substyles such as or but sparsely and not of this quantity in just one outfit. Most of its inspirations came from either Japanese celebrities such as Ayumi Hamasaki, Koda Kumi, Namie Amuro, egg magazine model Hiromi Endo and more recently Emiri Aizawa or Tsubasa Masuwaka aesthetically when she is going to Gucci's fashion events. Even western celebrities had a much larger influence such as: Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani, Christina Aguilera, Pamela Anderson, Lindsay Lohan, Victoria Beckham, Fergie, Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé, Aaliyah, Lil' Kim and Foxy Brown.
* (): Teenage or women who continued with this style even after having children. BBC News states: 'Gal mama are young mothers who refuse to shed their gal-ness'. They also would clothe their children in the same style, meaning a boy would look like a while girls would look like a , but the style would depend on the mother's personal choice of style or which subculture she belonged to. For example, Aki, a leader of her own named 'Brillant Lab' reveals how these mothers dressed and how they chose their children's outfits, hair and hair color to correspond to their mother's outfit. In other words, the child became a 's accessory. It is also telling when the leader of this is a single mother which is generally how most of these mothers end up or are after being pregnant. These mothers might have different ways of being a parent than most in Japan; their parenting style can be quite contemporary for the Japanese societal norms, perceptions and it has been said that it is less stressful for their children.
* (): A male . Typically, have a similar style to , including high-volume styled hair, similar fashion, and tanned skin. Also wrote in Japanese as (); as the Kanji in front of is the Japanese word for man, ().
* (): also known as (), is one of the more over the top and one of the most expensive styles of dress of all of the categories since it is considered to be essential to buy the brand names such as: MA*RS, Jesus Diamante, La Parfait or Princess Melody. The substyle is largely based on the Rococo era, as the Japanese word () which in English is the word for . who wear this style are often seen wearing dresses or skirts in pink or other pastel colors with many laces and bows. Rose patterns, rosettes, pearls, and crown motifs are also very common. Headpieces range from large bow clips with pearls to headbands with a rose accent, while the hair is either bleached in a specific color, crimped in a bouffant at the top and curled or wigs/extension are worn to create that or () styled hair. This make-up style has even more exaggerated eyes than the typical . does not only include clothes, but many girls see it as a way of life and make or buy custom made decor for their homes. The style blossomed in the early 2000 but has since declined or turned more casual; this version is referred to as , but this style mostly uses the Japanese fashion brand ''Liz Lisa'' which have more of a casual looking appearance and clothes than . participants rather use the obsolete brands such as: Princess Melody, La Parfait or Jesus Diamante. Though this substyle can still be present today in some of these fashion groups or in their circles. Not to be confused with Japanese street fashion of Lolita fashion.
* (): The toned down version of the style. As stated above, it is referred as due to being not only a toned down version of this already pre-existing style that existed at that time but the Japanese term () is a shortened version of the word casual in Japanese Katakana. There is an obvious focus on comfort, cuteness and being effortless. This is why this style and are most often lumped and mistaken together. Even today with being confused with the fashion of Cottagecore. The hair styles often resembling ; in the sense of them having curled hair which would often be either long or short in length. The hair would be often worn down and the color would mostly be from completely bleached blonde to lighter shades of brown. Clothing wise, this style would be on the more comfortable spectrum of but still remaining as flattering as could be. Common motifs are roses and hearts and patterns that are the most often seen are ginghams, florals and plaid. Colors most often used would be pink and most outfits who were or are using this style would always feature something in a pink shade. As for the relation with there are less accessories present than that style and nails are still somewhat long but not as ostentatiously decorated as . But if they were they would not be as excessive as . The style now is most ubiquitous with the use of the fashion brand ''Liz Lisa''; rather than any other brand which had the similar feel such as ''Ank Rouge'', ''TraLaLa'' or ''Titty&Co''.
* (): , also known as high school , are best known as the previous iteration of . They are the ones that started living on their fathers backs and using the mobile phones of the time during the early 1990s and 2000 to talk to older men for paid sex.
* (): Is a term that generally defines present that dress in this manner; they wear Japanese high-school student uniforms as a form or way to represent the past who wore them. These uniforms would be either similar in appearance to them but with slight alterations such as color or presentation of the garment. Or they would be an exact replica of an actual highschool uniform which could be purchased at a burusera. But the term itself did not first start as a pass time to pretend or dress as a high school student but from actual female Japanese high schoolers in the late 1980s and early 1990s, around the Heisei era; they wore this style during or after school sessions. They would shorten their skirts from their high school uniform protocol length to give them a miniskirt appearance and length and wear loose socks. These socks are from an American brand called ''E.G. Smith'', they are the sock brand of actual origin to these socks. That made them longer and appear larger by loosening them to the point of almost arriving at the level of their shoes. They also had dyed hair, accessorized their high school bags with danglers or mixed educational material with cosmetic products and a portable mirror. Although some of these were prohibited in Japanese high schools, some would wear it mostly after school but some would still do it even in school and be warned for doing so. Namie Amuro is said to be not only the one who popularized the tanned appearance, but also as having started the trend during the Heisei era. The term is derived from the mixing of the Japanese word () which means child in English and the word A thing to note about is that due to the Japanese education system on uniform and their regulations, the uniforms depending on which school being either of higher standards in terms of grades or wealth is also a fashion standpoint in fashion. The term of is closely related to () or in English would be directly translated to a female high schooler. It uses the word () which is girl and () highschooler in English. The importance of these two words is that often seen on social network services, were these Kanji would be abbreviated to JK; due to the fact that the first letters used in these Kanji are the letters J and K. In this case, these letters combined are not used to convey or be internet speech to refer to joking but is a direct abbreviation for the word . This subculture of fashion is closely related to JK business and compensated dating or .
* (): is the over exaggeration of the fashion that has gone over the top. It is too expensive to maintain and is too dangerous too participate as it is a working with the Black Diamond or that is run by a pimp. The words are made together by the numbers just as being 46 as these ones make as in 96. In Japanese being .
* (): is even darker than '' ''yamanba'''', but also wilder than . would wear sexy outfits from very short to very long dresses, or shorts to long skirts. Accessories (such as bangles, beads, etc.) would also include the motif of flowers such as leis or hibiscus, of which these patterns would appear on their clothes. Colorful clothing was considered to be essential. They would sometimes wear sweatshirts, pants, and leg warmers. Disney characters made an appearance as a choice of fashion apparel such as characters from '' Lilo & Stitch'' and also characters from the ''Mickey Mouse'' franchise. The white lips remained and white eye shadows were applied. A eye shadow can also be placed on a different place around the eyes. The amount of eye shadow could vary greatly. Some also used a different eye shadow color on their eyelids. The use of glitter was acceptable as well. Stickers were not used under the eyes anymore, instead, they were replaced with rhinestones (however they did not necessarily put them on). Common hairstyles featured big hair, bouffant, high ponytails with hair partly down, synthetic dreads, ribbons braided in, teased, side swept, fringe, braids, curled, simply straight, or very colorful. Popular hair accessories included leis and other types of flowers/bows, straw cowboy hats, or straw hats. Flip flops, sandals, platform sandals, slippers, crocs, boots or leg warmers could also be worn.

* (): The name of this substyle refers to the older sister of as a substyle derives from Japanese word that is used to describe an older sister. (); translating only its beginning will give an exact translation of these two words for in English. The substyle is named after its participants, who are usually older or have matured from their style but still want to remain a . Instead of refusing or changing their current style they adapt it to their age, from their more alluring appearance to the apparel they day to day wear; they are referred are the mature version of in the substyles of this fashion.
* (): The style of is one that is most often compared or confused with due to the fact that both styles were brought to the Japanese public's eye attention through the bōsōzoku, yankī and Japanese biker gang culture with makeup and style. The magazine of choice is Soul Sister. This style can be understood by its style choice of apparel, such as track suits, a larger use of denim and a generally more masculine look. The style is also known as () and (). These girls were often seen driving as a couple, were or are mechanics and sometimes ride bikes. They tend to have tattoos and piercings. This not only done to look rebellious but the style caters to girls who live on the edge.
* (): come from two words: romantic and . The aesthetic is commonly mistaken for Cottagecore due to its use of colors, patterns and motifs. It has many similarities today in the style but instead is considered a style of its own. The colors are more subtle and muted, patterns range from floral to gingham and sometimes polka dots. The style is considered one of the more relaxed and accessible styles of . It is also one of the more 'casual' substyles of this fashion. The style consisted of having hair color ranging from darker browns to strawberry blonde tones. The hair was often curled, wispy or had fly away hairs but retained the constrained hairstyles or was simply worn down but slightly curled at the ends. The makeup is considered too simple for the most experienced ; in terms of style and it is less use of overtly longer nails or false lashes. As mentioned earlier, the nails are just a plain color that matches the clothing worn or are French manicured. Motifs would include fruits; mostly strawberries, cherries or when going towards a different primary color such as blue; blueberries. Textile prints are mostly ginghams, polka dots, florals and sometimes plaids. Other fabrics found are lace on some apparel pieces but not as prevalent as the style. In terms of accessories boots with heels and are mostly knee-high length, are most often seen and worn in this style.
* (): This substyle of is not what it appears to those unfamiliar with . Only thinking that is depicted by the substyle and its subcategories with the thought that only the most participants having tanned skin is even if it is not necessary for all of its substyles. is an example of this: one who would participate would not tan their skin and would most likely try to achieve a clear complexion to return to the Japanese tradition and standard look of bihaku. Using the Japanese Kanji written in romaji as () and is the English word for . This substyle is generally a way to denote participants of the substyle who do not sport a tan. They still usually wear a number of different substyles. But this substyle was most often seen in the early 2010s. Mostly sweeter styles and punkish styles of appareal and fashion substyles would be seen having this type of skintone. The multiple problems that arose from the issue of skintone, is with that previous participants of substyles such as who already have or had artificially tanned skin, with the use of tanning lotions or through excessive amounts of sun light; will resort to bleaching their skin to achieve this look. This can be also said the same to those that wanted to achieve the appearance of pearly white skin texture but being already pale by nature, yet they would still use these dangerous products. In both cases, tanning and bleaching the skin is dangerous. The word for is also abbreviated to the numbers 46, as in four for as in and six for roku making the sound .
* (): or is a form of derived another form of such as and . The term of comes from the word strength in Japanese, and one of the reason that this style is based on this term is the masculine empowering look and less feminine appeal towards men this style has.
* (),: An exaggerated style characterized by an extremely dark artificial tan, messy bleached-white hair, and white makeup. is said to be inspired by the Japanese yōkai Yama-uba () , an unkempt old woman with dark skin, white hair, and a dirty, unkempt appearance, who would disguise herself as a beautiful young woman to lure male victims. Like , the style was often considered to be a joke and deliberately unattractive, with some saying they liked the trend "because it looked stupid." fashion attracted a reputation as being "unclean" or delinquent.

Micro styles of

Micro styles of which are either less common styles, have declined or they are either obsolete.

* (): is a tougher version of , and is for more mature and virile, yet effeminate for the subculture. This style is often confused with due to their similarities but are vastly different and are two separate styles.
* (): is a lighter form of . They wear less white makeup than , use more feminine and glittery makeup and have less colorful hair but neon colored hair can be seen at times. ''s'' wear more extreme types of false eyelashes and the use of more dolly colored contact lenses is seen. s'' also often wear darker colors than ''s'' and dress in club wear or feminine outfits. They are toned down in term of its predecessors , and but are still connected to those styles.
* (): this look usually includes much gold and jewelry. It is similar to ''B-gyaru''. As stated above, egg magazine did not consider this a serious style or even a style at all, but more of a joke. This might be the case since the name of this substyle might refer to the Italian word ' bimbo' which is derogatorily applied to females in English.
* (Bohemian ): A substyle which is rarely worn and is considered less of an actual style and more of a seasonal outfit for those who participate in broader fashion. Mostly due to it being less of a substyle restrained by rules and it being mostly worn in the spring and summer seasons or for those that live in warmer climates. Since the clothing pieces are of a lighter textile, only a jacket is used for layering, more often are woven leather accessories such as a belt and shoes are seen then in other substyles. Also sandals are not an accessory to be missed as an item in this micro style of . Instead most of the other substyles that use more apparel that would hold warmth easily, such as apparel with thicker textile or wollen materials and the use of multiple different layers of clothes for one outfit. This style is also denoted by its use of very airy, denim, flower patterned, tie-dyed and nomadic textile motifs in most of its outfits within it. Most apparel piece are mostly dresses that are either maxi dresses or only being at knee length. The style seems to be heavily inspired to even emulate the late 1960s Hippie fashion and takes its name from the Bohemian style of fashion.
* (): Just as the styles of ''B-'', , ''bibinba'' and even are or can be somewhat frowned upon by most people who have the actual respective origin of these styles or those who suffered through what these style can represent to the actual person of that ethnicity; such as being so heavily influenced by the appearance of Rastafari; the question always remains, is it appropriation or appreciation of another countries culture? For the same can be said for its substyle, as this comes from the Chicano culture that even in its own history has connotations of its own; the book Comentarios Reales de los Incas has a quote that describes, evokes, shows how the actual word came to be and how it was utilized then in 1609: 'The child of a Black male and an Indian female, or of an Indian male and Black female, they call mullato and mullata. The children of these they call cholos. Cholo is a word from the Windward Islands. It means dog, not of the purebred variety, but of very disreputable origin; and the Spaniards use it for insult and vituperation.' The style itself takes enormous influence from Chicano as many wear apparel clothes that are more often than not the same as Chicano apparel or street wear. A combination of tartans, flannels, oversized t-shirts and tank tops. Accessorized with bandanas, a baseball cap, dark sunglasses, gold chains and even tattoos; which still in present-day Japan is still considered a taboo due to its past connotations. Also baggy jeans are a must. There is also a Japanese music artist that both exemplifies both but most of all Chicana cultural in terms of style that she is influenced by; being MoNa. She has also been interviewed and documented in the series from Refinery29: Style out there and also by The New York Times YouTube channel.
* (): a style of consisting of reviving through technology. It takes aspects of the fashion substyle and then makes use of technology as a way to revamp the style. The creators of this style have created all of their items themselves, which can be LED lights or synthesizers which are used on accessories such as necklaces, loose socks which are those mostly seen on '' kogyarus''. They would create new and different apparel pieces from the regular clothing pieces since that they are mixed with technological enhancements. The creators of this fashion substyle are both, Kyoko from Japan and Mao from Thailand who she immigrated, went to Japan and has a degree in engineering.
* (): This substyle in is one that is most often misinterpreted with the another substyle being ; as they share a similar look to each other and use the same apparel style or motifs at first glance but are completely different, due to being in direct correlation with the fashion of Gothic, as it is its main inspiration. This substyle does not require the participant to tan themselves unlike most of the other substyles. The makeup does remain the same over exaggerated and dramatic false eyelash appearance but the makeup colors are more in line with Gothic fashion as the colors are darker or even black and white are more predominant then in the other substyles, The fashion motifs and pieces are generally studded, leather, ripped denim, mesh or fishnet apparel pieces with the most prominent apparel colors being black, white, red, purple and any color used in the actual Gothic fashion. But these color choices would generally remain with traditional gothic fashion.
* (): To understand the substyle , one must first understand its origin in its name. The Japanese word or written in romaji as () which in English can translate to either the word flashy or vulgar. This substyle is the epitome of this; simply by its name alone this can be already understood; the difference of spelling is simply for youth factor, by accentuating the vowels and adding the letter 'Y' to also not be too obvious about it. Examples of this fashion substyle resemble the work of artist Lisa Frank due to their use of motifs and color, with bright neon colors from across the entire spectrum. Leopard, cheetah, zebra or anything in printed patterns to early 1990s to 2000s Hip hop inspired fashion such has 'McBling'. Clothing shape vary from very loose fitting to tight but the colors are never toned down. In terms of makeup is this substyle and the substyles that range from ''ganguro'' to further are the only ones with the use of more pop in terms of color while most substyles use either muted to seemingly girly colors, most of these would be in the pastel range of color such as pastel pink. The creator of this substyle has been credited to the egg model Kaoru Watanabe as she not only created this substyle but also her own brand to supply for this fashion JSG, the acronym for Japanese Super Girl.
* (): Is a style that consists of taking to an even higher level than or . Instead of making ones skin color twice as dark then its actual skin color, instead the use of face paint or to seem as if the participant were to have physically dipped themselves in a colorful paint, to resemble something of an extraterrestrial, but with the same essential of makeup. This micro style can be seemingly placed as a form of body art. The translation of this substyle is unique skin in English. The creator of this style, Akane states in an Arte interview: 'I decided to create this style since that this style was created due to the fact that westerns have different hair and skin colors compared to the stereotypical Japanese features of pale clear skin and black hair, so when we want to do this we have to do something drastic. So, by changing our skin color or painting it we get to liberate ourselves; it is like a therapy from makeup, we are allowed to choose our hair color and skin color'. She also states that 'There are many mixed marriage children that are subject to a number of prejudices because of their skin color or their hair color; that is why I want to help by saying loud and strong that everyone is allowed to be whom they want to be.' She also stated in an online interview that: 'I decided to create this style based upon by many things apart from , but also Harajuku fashion and of course the idea of extraterrestrials; of course it is ().' In a Kotaku interview she stated that she has 'longed for the interesting skin tones see in video-games, anime, and movies'. This fashion substyle in has been promoted in egg magazine with positive regard.
* (): ''Kigurumin'' is a micro style of or rather it is derived from the ''manba'' substyle. These wear the kigurumi outfits as apparel or the mascot apparel of Japan but still apply and wear the same makeup and have tanned skin as the participants of ''manba''. The name could also be seen as ().
* (): is the use of that tries to look seductve with less expansive materials.
* (): is separate from ''B-'' and ''bibinba'' but it is still considered under the same style umbrella or spectrum in terms of style; due to its heavy influence of African culture as a style resource. Especially would most often take influence of Rastafari culture; even though it would be mostly used to resemble the appearance of a Rastafari which would effectively seem more as cultural appropriation then actual culture appreciation. is most often characterized by its use of Jamaican flag as an accessory, leisure wear to sport clothing sporting a Cannabis plant symbol or Rastafari colors, handbags made of straw or anything that would resemble with the idea of what Rastafari would wear. Colors would be predominantly green, yellow and red just as the Jamaican Rastafari flag. The hair once again very similar to ''B-'s''; meaning going from extensions to cornrows, micro-braids except dreadlocks, an afro and dreads would rarely appear in the ''B-'s'' hair choices. Even though both styles have to try to replicate these hairstyle but effectively cannot. Also ''B-''s'' do not appear often wearing a Cannabis symbol in their accessories. The reoccurring colors of the Jamaican Rastafari flag would also be often seen in their hair of as well. A somewhat obsession with Bob Marley, as to say that to the participants of this style would immediately recognize this singer but they do listen to other Reggae music too.
* (): is the punk version of but without the counter culture and against fascism as punk it is a materialistic fashion that is about consume clothing and money to boost the Japanese economy but with prostitution.
* (): The name of derives from the same as ; being both based around romantic overtones and aesthetics. But instead keeps the makeup, the deepen tan, style and aesthetic to a great affect. It does not tone it down just adds a romantic aspects to their apparel. Their choice of apparel piece would vary between them and , as they would replace the colors worn with dolly pastels, pink lace and sundresses that are frilled. ''s'' instead of accessorizing with '' Lilo & Stitch'', they instead accessorise mostly with characters from Disney's '' The Aristocats'' with the character Marie often used as a motif. fashion brands primarily are: Pinky Girls and Liz Lisa. Tanning achieved mainly through make-up and deep colored tanning lotions, bronzer; sunbeds are not a thing in this substyle as they try to keep their complexion deepen but not darker than intended. But they do instead appreciate more tone down things in life than just clubbing.
* (): or psychedelic ; it is a fashion substyle of that is meant to emulate Bohemian style fashion and 60's hippie fashion but with no impliminetation of peace of the peace movement of the hippies during the 1960s in United States of America during the Vietnam war.

Styles with origin and influence

* (): The style is similar to as it has been inspired since the publication of , which enticed and engrossed women to work in Kabukichō as a hostess or a , which the Japanese society is still trying to disregard even though this magazine influenced young women to make that choice. They dress in a particular style that makes them mostly wear dresses that are revealing but said to be not as much, from the Japanese brand MA*RS or from the Jesus Diamante. As stated before, this style is similar to as the participants have the same attire and also have unbelievably long fake decorative nails. The most exceptional about this style is a known both from the magazine and as a hostess who worked in multiple hostess clubs in Kabukicho and is now known from her title as () or Former No.1 Miss ; (). She should be noted as she is a hostess who has amassed a total sum of 200 million yen or approximately 1,8 million dollars annually as a hostess. In her lifetime as a and as producer of her own brand Emira Wiz; she has made 44 billion yen or 400 million dollars. Due to certain health circumstances she cannot drink alcohol. She has since retired from both being a hostess and a model for . But in return for her astounding efforts she had been gifted by her hostess club a champagne tower of 100 million yen or 910 thousand dollars. Before her retirement, she had written a semi-autobiographical novel about her teenage life and her path to becoming the leading titled () or Miss Kyaba: Boss of Kabukicho No.1 miss Emiri Aizawa's way of life. A market researcher named () , did research on the women or young ladies who participated in , he wrote a book about the whole situation that Japan had to go through with these women, called in Japanese in romaji would be () translated to English: 'Why do women want to become ?'
* (): ''Mago gyaru'' is used to define middle schoolers who follow ''gyaru'' or ''kogyaru'' fashion. The phrase literally translates to ''grandchild gyaru''. It is sometimes referred to as (, ).
* (): This is the name that was coined for that wanted to revitalize the style during the 2010s during its decline. By the time the style reached popularity and people had noticed its existence, the community of reacted to it differently than expected; what came was an antiquated, radical and older or more fanatical accustomed to seeing in a different ideal and some have even shunned the style. This reaction can also be connected with the creator of the style and magazine for this substyle being the known as '#N'. This substyle and magazine has gotten backlash due to appropriation of black, Latino and Hindu culture and culturally exclusive accessories such as the Bindi. Yet Alisa Ueno herself, has stated in an interview, on her own blog that herself, her own brand FIG&VIPER and the style she is representing within that brand has nothing to do with the subculture or fashion as a whole and the style was a probable misconception from magazines and Japanese television programs implying that it was. Even though she participated in the subculture when she was young, as a model; she has stated in her own blog, 'The fashion has nothing to do with her brand.' But those who were wearing said fashion were not using the same fashion style as before or in its traditional form as a substyle; from its apparel to their makeup. To previous, older and newcomers to the fashion substyle perceived it as not following the traditional look or values of the subculture. To them it looked more western or even resembling grunge wear. Even though the style may resemble SeaPunk more than the actual grunge fashion it is said to resemble. The makeup was also considerably darker in terms of lipstick and the eyeshadow using more metallic or holographic textures and colors compared to earlier styles of and their use of makeup which did not use these textures.
* (): This substyle was coined during the decline of subculture and new looks during the 2010s. The naming of this substyle derives from the Japanese word () which in English can be translated as 'neat', 'polished' and 'clean'. This style is also interchangeable with as they are both formed through the resurgence of the Japanese bihaku within the subculture.

''Western'' or

Often referred to as ''foreign'' or ''western'' and online as (). Women and even men who have found fashion outside Japan and have decided to participate in said fashion subculture; ''western'' includes countries also outside of the West, such as the Middle East. With the women who have gravitated towards this fashion by going or doing and its multiple substyles. While men gravitate to . ''Western'' or created their own communities or groups and forums which they communicate amongst one another. They also had lists of tutorials or YouTube playlists to help beginners to with their application of makeup and how to create the appropriate hairstyles. got its popularity outside of Japan due to the help of bookstores selling magazines in western countries and social media networks also helped the spread this Japanese fashion style further than its origin to other parts of the world.

That is not to say that during its popularity online in the past and even now that there is only positivity within its community.

Outside of Japan, most western participants have been subjected to websites dedicated to criticism of participants. Some of these website are currently active. These websites ridicule people's looks or appearance by giving them advice on how to better wear the style. A documentary has been made on YouTube, about three different Japanese street fashion styles and the journeys of these three participatants and how they navigated their way with these styles and the negative influences each of members of differing styles can come across online in their own style of choice. Even so, in 2011, these western or held their first event the ' Awards' which was created by an English with the online username Lhouraii Li. It was done to spread awareness of this style and to bring positivity back into the ''western'' community. These events lasted until 2014 with Lhouraii Li and these events were mostly done online. They were stopped in 2014 by the creator of the event, Lhouraii Li, due to online backlash against her online award show. Since 2014 there would not be another contest until 2016 where they were made into an event in the Netherlands and was broadcast through a livestream. Three years would past until this community award ceremony would be brought back in 2019 in the United Kingdom, just as in 2016 this was an in-person event and was only made into a live broadcast online for those not able to join the event. These contests were made so that one could vote for contestants within categories or subcategories of this fashion and gain Internet attention from peers by winning within a category.

During the early 2000s, most anime conventions saw a glorification of and presence as they held gatherings, meetings or events usually organized by their and fellow peers in these conventions in their country of residence or where the actual gathering would be held in. International and national meetings among members of the community were held on an almost annual basis.

As of late 2018, early 2019 there was a big boom in activity for the community caused by the comeback of egg magazine as well as a resurgence of in Japan. This has affected the community as well, as a new magazine had gotten published named ''Papillon'' in October 2019. The foreign magazine also made a comeback.

In 2021, the magazine 'GAL VIP' had gotten an article written about their magazines from Japanese website; it is the oldest magazines addressed and not the latest. Also in August 2021 a six-minute documentary on western or has been made discussing the substyle of and had been made viewable to the public through YouTube.

''Gaijin gyaru'' magazines

As stated before, the magazine ''Papillon'' was published in 2019, but there were two predecessors of magazines for before being ''Gyaru-go'' who only published on April 12, 2016, and ''Gal-VIP'' on September 1, 2012. They are both online magazines while ''Papillon'' has online and purchasable issues.

Gal VIP

Gyaru-go

Papillon

Related media

Clothing brands

* Alba Rosa
* ANAP
* Ank Rouge
* Baby Doll
* Baby Shoop
* Barak
* Black Queen
* Blue Moon Blue
* Cecil McBee
* COCO*LULU
* DaTuRa
* Delyle Noir
* D.I.A.
* DURAS
* Egoist
* Emoda
* EmiriaWiz
* ENVYM
* FIG&VIPER
* Galaxxxy
* GALEO
* GALSTAR
* GALSVILLE
* Garula
* Ghost of Harlem
* GILFY
* Glad News
* Glavil TutuHA
* GOLDS Infinity
* GYDA
* Ingni
* Jesus Diamante
* JSG
* La Carte
* Laguna Moon
* La Parfait
* LB-03
* LDS
* Lip Service
* Love Boat
* MADSTAR
* MAJORENA
* MA*RS
* MarpleQ
* Me Jane
* Miauler Mew
* Michell Macaron
* Moussy
* MURAUA
* One spo
* Parfereine
* Penderie
* Pinky Girls
* Pink Latte
* Princess Melody
* Rady
* RESEXXY
* Rienda
* Rodeo Crowns
* Rose fan fan
* Roxy
* Ruby rose
* SBY
* Shake Shake
* SLANGY
* SLY
* Sneep Dip
* Snidel
* SpiralGirl
* Sex Pot ReVeNGe
* Titty&Co
* THIRTEEN XIII
* TraLaLa
* ValenTine's High
* Vanquish
* Vence
* Wakatsuki Chinatsu

Magazines

* AneAgeha
* Betty
* Blenda
* Blenda Black
* Cawaii!
* Decolog Paper
* DoCoMo Girls Style
* Edge Style
* egg
* egg's beauty
* Ego system
* ES POSHH!
* GLiA
* Happie Nuts
* Hair Make Nuts
* Hime!
* I LOVE MAMA