FASHION

Visual Kei, a unique and captivating genre, is a fusion of diverse influences from earlier movements. Drawing inspiration from glam rock's flamboyance epitomized by icons like David Bowie, Visual Kei embraces exaggerated makeup and elaborate costumes. It also inherits the rebellious spirit and distinctive fashion of punk, along with the dark elegance of gothic fashion. Traditional Japanese elements, from kimono patterns to geisha-inspired hairstyles, add another layer of richness. What sets Visual Kei apart is its ability to seamlessly blend these influences, with each artist offering a unique interpretation. Whether accentuating punk, embracing traditional motifs, or innovating in daring ways, Visual Kei remains a mesmerizing visual spectacle, evolving while staying rooted in its diverse origins. Here are some of the different subgenres in Visual Kei.

Oshare Kei

Oshare Kei fashion, a vibrant and colorful subgenre within Visual Kei, embraces a playful and flamboyant aesthetic that sets it apart. Characterized by bright colors, whimsical patterns, and eclectic accessories, Oshare Kei fashion exudes a sense of fun and individuality. Bands like An Cafe and Ayabie are prime examples of this style, with their energetic performances and eye-catching outfits reflecting the essence of Oshare Kei. From rainbow-hued hair to eccentric costumes reminiscent of Harajuku street fashion, Oshare Kei bands captivate audiences with their unique blend of pop-rock sounds and exuberant fashion sensibilities.

Eroguro Kei

Eroguro Kei fashion, short for "erotic grotesque," is a subgenre within Visual Kei that embraces provocative and surrealistic aesthetics. It juxtaposes elements of eroticism with grotesque imagery, creating a visually striking and often unsettling style. Eroguro Kei fashion encompasses a wide range of themes, from decadent Victorian-era attire to macabre horror-inspired ensembles, all infused with a sense of dark allure. Bands like MUCC and cali≠gari exemplify this fashion subgenre with their daring stage personas and avant-garde costumes, pushing the boundaries of conventional beauty and exploring the depths of the human psyche through their visual expression.

Angura Kei

Angura Kei fashion is a subgenre within the Visual Kei movement that takes inspiration from Japan's underground counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s. It embraces a darker and more avant-garde aesthetic, often incorporating elements of traditional Japanese clothing like kimono and hakama, alongside punk and gothic influences. Angura Kei fashion tends to be more subdued and theatrical, with a focus on intricate details and a sense of mystery. Bands like MUCC, cali≠gari, and Kuroyume exemplify this style, with their theatrical performances and eclectic fashion choices that challenge conventional norms and push artistic boundaries within the Visual Kei landscape.

Kote Kei

Kote Kei fashion emerged as a nostalgic homage to the early days of Visual Kei, drawing inspiration from the aesthetic pioneered by bands like LUNA SEA, X JAPAN, Kuroyume. This subgenre pays tribute to the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the movement's formative years, often characterized by edgy hairstyles, leather and denim attire, and bold makeup. Bands embracing Kote Kei fashion typically fuse elements of punk, rock, and metal, channeling the gritty authenticity of the underground scene. Examples of Kote Kei bands include Deadman and NIGHTMARE, each infusing their music and style with a nostalgic nod to Visual Kei's roots.

Tanbi Kei

Tanbi Kei fashion, a subgenre within Visual Kei, is characterized by its romantic and elegant aesthetic, drawing inspiration from Victorian and Rococo styles. Delicate lace, frills, and ruffles adorn elaborate outfits, often in muted or pastel tones, creating a sense of ethereal beauty. Bands associated with Tanbi Kei fashion often incorporate theatrical elements into their stage performances, enhancing the whimsical atmosphere. One notable example is Versailles, whose members often don elaborate costumes reminiscent of aristocratic attire from bygone eras, embodying the opulence and refinement of Tanbi Kei fashion.

Casual Visual Kei

Casual Visual Kei fashion offers a more accessible entry point into the subculture, blending elements of streetwear with the distinctive aesthetics of Visual Kei. Embracing a more relaxed approach while still maintaining a sense of individuality and flair, casual Visual Kei attire often includes graphic tees, distressed denim, and statement accessories. Bands like SuG and LM.C exemplify this style, infusing their music and fashion with a playful energy that resonates with fans seeking a more everyday interpretation of the Visual Kei aesthetic. With its blend of edgy street fashion and Visual Kei's trademark boldness, casual Visual Kei fashion embodies the spirit of self-expression and creativity that defines the subculture.

Kurofuku Kei

Kurofuku Kei fashion, translating to "black clothes style," is a subgenre within Visual Kei that emphasizes dark and edgy aesthetics. Characterized by black clothing adorned with chains, studs, and leather accents, this style exudes a sense of rebellion and mystery. Bands adhering to Kurofuku Kei fashion often incorporate elements of gothic and punk fashion into their attire, creating a striking visual presence onstage. Examples of bands embracing this style include the likes of The GazettE, whose members are often seen donning sleek black ensembles embellished with metal accessories, reflecting their music's intense and brooding nature. Another notable example is Nightmare, whose signature look features a combination of sleek black outfits with intricate details, perfectly complementing their dynamic and theatrical performances.