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'Round the World #1: Mori Girl

I've been meaning to do a series of posts which focus on alternative fashion and so this will be the first post. I'm also aware that most alternative fashion are also lifestyles but I won't be going into that. This is my interpretation of the styles, so I'm deeply sorry if I get something wrong (some of them have strict rules). Partly why alternative fashion interests me is because fashion is used for making a statement. Just like mainstream fashion, they also have trends too but mainstream fashion relies on the runways to create trends.


Mori girl, 森ガール, (lit. forest girl) is a Japanese subculture (so it's more like a lifestyle). It focuses on being "natural" and I'd describe it as whimsical, woodland fairy-like and perhaps grandma-chic. It's basically  vintage clothing, knits and crocheted lace, loose-fitting dresses that reach below the knee (at least nothing way above the knee). Mori girl tends to be quite neutral in colour, so earthen tones like your ivory, camel, browns. Basically any colour that isn't blindingly bright will do but neutral colours are worn to get that "natural" look.



Because it is not very "flashy" (if you know what I mean...) like some Japanese styles, it's pretty easy to achieve the look seeing as vintage has become fashionable (ie. Alexa Chung). The pictures above show outfits suitable for walking down the street, shopping, etc. 

Of course, it can get a little more over the top. 


Although there isn't much difference, there's a thin line about what is commonly accepted on the streets of Sydney (or elsewhere) and what is accepted in Tokyo. (Of course, this doesn't mean you can't wear OTT. What I mean by commonly accepted is what an average person would wear on a day out) 


Basically for a Mori girl outfit:
Flowy, oversized dresses in neutral or pastel(in this case a skirt). Ruffles and lace are a plus and make it really feminine. Be modest in the way you dress (so nothing way above the knee, ie. mini skirts). Asymmetrical is good too (gives that fairy-like look) 

 As for socks and stockings, be a little childish and go for lacy ones, or striped ones. Remember to keep it neutral so no neon tights. As for shoes, go for brown shoes and if they're vintage, that's better. Clogs would probably work too. 




As for winter, any sort of earthen tone jacket should do. If it's really cold, then fur (faux or real). Earmuffs are definitely really cute for those who have really cold winters (doesn't matter if you don't want to dress like a Mori girl).  



Photo credits: Mostly from mag scans of SPOON and Mori Girl. Also here and here.

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