What is mode fashion? [How to wear it and recommended outfits]

We all aspire to the sophisticated, fashionable style that exudes the elegance of sophisticated fashionistas, but it is difficult and often out of reach.
It's a unique fashion, so just wearing it will definitely make you stand out from the crowd.

To begin with, I think there are many people who don't really know what kind of style fashion is.

This time, we will introduce the characteristics of fashionable fashion and recommended outfits that even beginners can try.
We also touch on how to wear the clothes, so be sure to use this as a reference when incorporating fashion into your everyday life.

What is mode fashion? [It's too late to ask now!]

Mode fashion is a style that incorporates sophisticated and latest fashion items.

The word "mode" comes from the French word "mode," which means "trend" or "fashion."
The word "à la mode," which is familiar from the dessert "pudding à la mode," also comes from the French word meaning "modern" or "trendy."
It is used to refer to the latest in fashion, hairstyles, etc.

The opposite of fashionable styles are traditional, conservative, and basic styles that are faithful to the basics and do not go with the times.

However, simply incorporating trendy items does not make it fashionable.
It can also refer to fashion that is put together using high-end brand items featured in that year's collection (fashion show).

Additionally, in Japan, "inorganic, monotone fashion with a black base" tends to be referred to as "modern fashion," regardless of whether it includes trendy or high-end brand items.

The reality of mode fashion is that it is vague and there is no clear definition, and as mentioned above, the term "mode" is sometimes used with various meanings.
However, one thing that can be consistently said about fashion in the high fashion category is that it is a style that pursues and enjoys extraordinary individuality and style, rather than being about making a good impression on others or being popular.

Japan's "mode style" began with the "impact of black"

The origins of the "mode" style that many Japanese people imagine date back to the Paris Collection in 1981.
Later, Yohji Yamamoto of the brand Yohji Yamamoto and Rei Kawakubo of the brand COMME des GARÇONS, who are said to be two of the most representative Japanese designers of the 1980s, made their debuts at this Paris Fashion Week.

At the time, fashion trends were dominated by designs that followed the lines of the body to make the body look beautiful.
However, the works presented by the brands Yohji Yamamoto and COMME des GARÇONS were the complete opposite, featuring all-black clothing that covered the body so much that it was impossible to see any body lines.

At the time, the color black represented rebellion and treason, and was considered an ominous and indecent color, an unspoken taboo in the fashion industry.

The "black-fronted fashion" introduced by these two brands was so shocking to the French and global fashion industry at the time.
As a result, this all-black fashion became a global trend.

This event completely shattered the concepts of fashion that had been taken for granted until then, and it came to be called the "Black Shock" or the "Shock from the East."

After that, in Japan, all-black fashion became a huge trend among young people who were influenced by the "shock of black."
Young people who dressed in this way were called "Crows."

It is said that this was the trigger for the connection between the black-based monochrome image of the "Crow Tribe" and the original meaning of the word "mode," such as "cutting edge" or "trend."
Thus, among modern Japanese people, the image of "mode" has become firmly established as "monotone fashion with a black base."

By the way, in Europe and the United States (English-speaking countries), the word "mode" means "trend," but it does not seem to be used as a fashion term.
Fashion that incorporates sophisticated and latest trendy items is called "runway fashion" (fashion that appears in fashion shows, etc.) or "high fashion" (the latest fashion).
Be aware that in Europe and the United States, fashion that is simply coordinated in monochrome from head to toe is not considered "fashionable."

Representative magazine

■ VOGUE JAPAN

VOGUE JAPAN is a women's fashion magazine published by Condé Nast Japan, targeting women in their 20s to 40s.

We introduce a variety of news, trends, and new releases, including the latest fashion and collections from around the world, as well as fashion models, beauty, jewelry, and more.
Snap photos of international celebrities and models are also posted. Check out the favorite items of celebrities you're interested in.

Vogue Japan official website

■ ELLE JAPON

ELLE JAPON is a women's fashion magazine published by Hearst Fujingaho Publishing, targeting women in their 20s to 40s.

Bringing you the world's fashion trends! The Japanese version of the French fashion magazine "ELLE".

ELLE JAPON official website

■ GINZA

GINZA is a women's fashion magazine published by Magazine House and targeted at women in their 20s and 30s.

A fashion lifestyle magazine for stylish, urban women with a good sense of lifestyle.

GINZA Official Website

Characteristics and appeal of fashion

Mode fashion has many unique features that are not found in other fashion styles.

We have put together this summary for those who want to understand the characteristics of fashionable styles and want to know what their appeal is.

■ Characteristics and appeal of mode fashion

1. Incorporating the latest trendy items
2. Incorporating high-brand items
3. Unique designs and silhouettes
4. The design is monochrome with a black base.

Incorporating the latest trendy items

Incorporating high-brand items

In order to look fashionable, it is also important to incorporate fashion items from high-end brands.

Mixing in high-end items will elevate your look and give you a more fashionable look.
It's a good idea to start with easy-to-understand main items such as tops and bottoms.

However, be careful because just because an outfit is made up of high-end brand items does not necessarily mean that it will be a fashionable look.

You can achieve a fashionable look without buying expensive high-end brand items by creatively combining items you already have.
Just remember that high-end brand elements are present in fashionable styles.

Unique designs and silhouettes

In contrast to so-called "safe" fashion, fashionable style requires the use of unique items.
You can express your individuality by using original items that not everyone can wear.

The asymmetrical, irregular design and unique, distinctive silhouette create an eye-catching impression that enhances the sense of fashion.

However, it is important to note that even if the design is unique, it cannot be called fashionable unless it is sophisticated and stylish.

The design is monochrome with a black base.

The color that symbolizes modern fashion is monotone.

In Japan, fashion that is dressed entirely in black or that is unified in a monotone color scheme with a black base, creating a chic atmosphere, is generally referred to as fashion-forward.
In some cases, it can refer to outfits that incorporate patterns or other colors, or simple, impersonal outfits, but this is not very common.

If you want to try out a more modern style, start by wearing all black or by creating a monochromatic outfit in black and white.

Teens value uniqueness! A fashionable look that makes a statement

For teenage girls, we recommend fashionable outfits that incorporate unique designs that are not found in ordinary items.
In addition to monochrome, you can also add a touch of uniqueness by using patterns or colors!
By not dressing too chic from head to toe and adding some accents, you can bring out the mischievousness and youthfulness that is typical of teenagers.

From here, we will introduce some fashionable outfits that we recommend for teenage girls by season.

■ Recommended fashionable outfits for teenagers [by season]

1. [Spring Edition] Create a cool look with a short jacket and sheer skirt [Teens]
2. [Summer Edition] Keep it simple with a "modded T-shirt and shorts" ♡ [Teens]
3. [Autumn Edition] Monochrome look with a long-sleeved designer shirt and a flared long skirt [Teens]
4. [Winter Edition] "Drawstring Coat x High Neckline Knit x Pleated Skirt" for a Modern and Girly Look [Teens]

[Spring Edition] Create a cool look with a short jacket and sheer skirt [Teens]

Simply throw a jacket over a camisole to create a stylish and fashionable look for your upper body.

For teenage girls, a sheer skirt with a stylish design will help you show off your youthfulness.
Overall, black colors are a must.

For your feet, we recommend thick-soled boots or sandals.
Try using unique designs that are different from others to create a fashionable look starting from your feet.

[Summer Edition] Keep it simple with a "modded T-shirt and shorts" ♡ [Teens]

For summer fashion when you don't want to wear too many layers, the key is to wear a modified T-shirt to create a shot dress look.

Simply add a black base color to your top to complete the look.

For bottoms, wear shorts or a miniskirt to show off your legs, just like a teenager.
In recent years, fashion that incorporates boots even in summer has gradually gained popularity, so it is recommended to add a masculine touch with short boots.

[Autumn Edition] Monochrome look with a long-sleeved designer shirt and a flared long skirt [Teens]

A loose, oversized long-sleeved shirt with an unusual design can give a fashionable look.

Pair it with a crisp shirt to make it look stylish.

Keep the top white and the skirt black to create a monochrome look.
Adding boots or oxfords to your feet will make your outfit look even cooler, giving it an autumn feel.

[Winter Edition] "Drawstring Coat x High Neckline Knit x Pleated Skirt" for a Modern and Girly Look [Teens]

Fashionable fashion actually goes well with girly fashion.

Designs with ribbons and lace also give a sophisticated impression when combined with black colors.

A drawstring coat with a trendy big collar and bow tie ribbon will instantly make your mid-winter outfit look stylish!
However, if you add too many cute, fluffy decorations, it will shift to a Gothic Lolita style.

Be mindful of trendy fashion that has a modern feel without losing your cuteness.

In your 20s, embrace the latest trends! The latest fashion coordination

Women in their 20s should incorporate trends and enjoy cutting-edge fashion.
It's best to coordinate your outfit with less exposed skin than when you were a teenager.

From here, let's take a look at some recommended fashionable outfits for women in their 20s by season.

■ Recommended fashion coordination for people in their 20s [by season]

1. [Spring Edition] The latest adult look with a "big collar shirt x tight skirt" [20s]
2. [Summer Edition] Stylish "Tailored Collar Vest x Shirt Dress" [20s]
3. [Autumn Edition] An all-black outfit with a tailored jacket, knitwear, and sheer skirt [20s]
4. [Winter Edition] Emphasize your coolness with a stand-up collar coat and a contrasting dress [20s]

[Spring Edition] The latest adult look with a "big collar shirt and tight skirt" [for women in their 20s]

Speaking of trendy items of the season, the cute big collar shirt is definitely the one.
For women in their 20s, the key is to pair it with a cool leather-like tight skirt for a sweet and spicy mix.

The key to adult fashion is to stick to monochrome and not use too much color.
If you also keep your bag and shoes in black, the trendy big collar shirt will stand out, creating a cohesive look.

[Summer Edition] Stylish "Tailored Collar Vest x Shirt Dress" [20s]

In the summer, when you want to put together a fashionable look with light items, items with striking silhouettes and asymmetrical designs are a must for fashionable outfits.
By combining a tailored collar vest and shirt dress in a monochrome look, you can look stylish without having to layer up.

If both of them have a loose silhouette, you can add definition by marking the waist with a vest or belt.

For your feet, sandals are fine for a summery look, but adding a touch of modernity with details such as thick soles and shiny materials will make your outfit even more stylish.

[Autumn Edition] An all-black outfit with a tailored jacket, knitwear, and sheer skirt [20s]

Why not try an all-black outfit that will give you a mature and chic look?
If you're wearing an all-black outfit, simply throw on a jacket over a high-gauge knit to create a stylish and fashionable look.

For jackets, we recommend a tailored jacket with contrasting materials in similar colors.
For the bottoms, pair a highly designed sheer skirt and mix in different textures to keep the outfit from looking heavy even when unified in black colors.

Also, for your feet, go for chunky, men's-style boots or oxfords.
Since sheer skirts are ladylike, balance them out by choosing other items that are more masculine.

Using plenty of black accessories, such as berets and glasses, will take your look to the next level of fashion.

[Winter Edition] Emphasize your coolness with a stand-up collar coat and a contrasting dress [20s]

An all-black outfit is cool and cohesive, but it's also great to mix in some gray tones in your outerwear!

Especially in winter, when we tend to wear layers and outerwear, you can create a more fashionable look by adding contrast rather than covering your entire outfit in black.

Combine a long stand-collar coat with a stylish contrasting dress for a unique look.

The key to wearing it is to open the buttons on the coat to reveal the skirt and accentuate the contrasting design.

For those in their 30s, add high-end brand items! High-end fashion coordination

Fashionable fashion that you still want to wear even in your 30s.
As you reach the age where you are approaching the stage of becoming a mature, mature woman, it is better to go for high-end brand items and use materials that look expensive.

So, let's take a look at what kind of fashionable outfits suit women in their 30s, by season.

■ Recommended fashion coordination for people in their 30s [by season]

1. [Spring Edition] "Tie-dye blouse x sheer skirt" for a tight look [30s]
2. [Summer Edition] Casual T-shirt dresses for women in their 30s
3. Autumn: High-neck knit and contrast skirt for a sophisticated look [30s]
4. [Winter Edition] Look ladylike with a Chesterfield coat and a tight dress [30s]

[Spring Edition] "Tie-dye blouse x sheer skirt" for a tight look [30s]

If you are a woman in your 30s, simply wearing a tight blouse can give off the elegance of a mature woman.
Try pairing it with a sheer skirt or pleated skirt to create a simple, fashionable look.

The key to fashionable style is to keep it simple, but still incorporate high-end brand accessories.
Because the outfit is simple, combining it with high-end brand shoes and bags will give it a luxurious feel and make it look more expensive.

Since it's spring, try making it less sweet and stand out from the crowd.

[Summer Edition] Casual T-shirt dresses for women in their 30s

In the summer, when layering isn't possible, the best thing to do is to actively incorporate a dress that stands out as the centerpiece.
We recommend geometric patterns and asymmetrical silhouettes that give off a modern vibe just by wearing them.

Knee-length skirts don't reveal too much skin and create a relaxed look, making them perfect for summer fashion when you want to look cool and stylish.
For your feet, it's a good idea to wear sandals to add some extra coolness!

Autumn: High-neck knit and contrast skirt for a sophisticated look [30s]

Women in their 30s can enhance their elegance and create a sophisticated look by combining a skirt or dress that is about midi-length.

A high-neck knit in black gives you a fashionable look just by wearing it.

A skirt with a contrasting design adds a playful adult touch.

In addition, high fashion items that are feminine and on-trend are essential for adult fashion coordination.
It is a good idea to choose high-end brands for small bags and accessories.

[Winter Edition] Look ladylike with a Chesterfield coat and a tight dress [30s]

A simple Chester coat is an essential outerwear piece that anyone in their 30s should have in their winter wardrobe.
Of course, it also goes well with fashionable styles, and when combined with black or monochrome, it creates a stylish impression.

If you want to look ladylike even in a fashionable outfit, the key is to let a tight dress peek out from the opening of your coat.
Pairing it with oxfords or boots will give it a more fashionable and sophisticated look.

Keep it simple as possible after 40! Sophisticated fashion coordination

When it comes to fashion for people in their 40s and older, it's important to keep it simple and not overly dressed up.
This will give you a sophisticated look.

We've picked out some recommended outfits for women in their 40s and older, so let's take a look at them by season.

■ Recommended fashion coordination for those in their 40s and older [by season]

1. [Spring Edition] A chic look with a long-sleeved shirt and flared skirt [For ages 40+]
2. [Summer Edition] A casual look with a T-shirt and tapered pants [For ages 40+]
3. [Autumn Edition] A casual look with a multi-layered dress [For ages 40+]
4. [Winter Edition] A quilted coat and flared dress for a sophisticated look [40s and up]

[Spring Edition] A chic look with a long-sleeved shirt and flared skirt [For ages 40+]

For spring, we recommend a sophisticated and chic look that is not overly dressed up.
Choosing black colors for tight long-sleeved shirts and voluminous flared skirts will prevent them from looking too sweet.

Minimizing skin exposure to the bare minimum highlights the mature, fashionable look that only women in their 40s and older can pull off.

Adding a pair of masculine boots will add a stylish touch to your outfit.

[Summer Edition] A casual look with a T-shirt and tapered pants [For ages 40+]

The classic T-shirt and pants combo can be elevated to a more fashionable look simply by keeping it monochrome.

You can create a casual yet fashionable look by pairing it with a cool black T-shirt and monochrome checked tapered pants.

If you want to create a casual look, we recommend adding some flair with accessories and a bag.

The natural balance of the monochrome makes black colors look gorgeous even in the summer.

[Autumn Edition] A casual look with a multi-layered dress [For ages 40+]

Women in their 40s and older can get through autumn in a loose-fitting, contrasting dress that doesn't show off your figure.
A monochrome dress with contrasting colors will give you a modern look while also covering up your figure.

The key to this trend is to add a hat to your accessories to create a relaxed look.

For women in their 40s and older, adding compact flat pumps or short boots will give your outfit a sophisticated look and elevate it.

[Winter Edition] A quilted coat and flared dress for a sophisticated look [40s and up]

A simple quilted coat is something that many women over 40 own.
The straight, vertical silhouette makes it easy to combine with modern fashion and allows for a stylish look.

Layering a long quilted coat with a long flared dress will instantly create a sophisticated and fashionable look.
Don't forget to wear black hats and shoes too.

However, large silver-colored accessories look great with an all-black outfit, so it's nice to incorporate them as a focal point.

Perfect for modern fashion! Introducing recommended makeup and accessories

Did you know that there are makeup and accessories that can elevate fashion in a modern style?

Be careful, if you don't know what makeup, hairstyles, and accessories go well together, your outfit could end up being ruined.
We will introduce makeup and accessories that go well with fashionable fashion.

■ Makeup and accessories that go well with fashionable fashion

1. For makeup, go for a modest look that isn't too flattering.
2. Keep your hairstyle compact, whether short or long.
3. The bag is made of leather for a luxurious feel.
4. Wear sunglasses around your eyes to create a cool look around your face
5. For your feet, almost any black shoes are OK.

For makeup, go for a modest look without being overly flirtatious.

When it comes to fashion in a modern style, it's important to incorporate plenty of trendy makeup.

Just like fashion, fashionable makeup is a type of makeup that creates a cool, cutting-edge look like that of models and international celebrities.
Rather than cute makeup aimed at appealing to men, it can be said that this makeup is designed to create a cool, unobtrusive look.

In particular, using bold colors for eye makeup and lips can create a trendy and sophisticated look.

For eyeshadow, use eye makeup to create a cool look around your eyes.
It also pairs really well with girly cat eyes and dark eyeshadow, so on days when you're wearing trendy fashion, it's a must to put effort into your eye makeup.

For your overall base makeup, go for a matte finish in muted tones.
It matches well with nose shadow that makes your nose look higher and blush that makes your face look sharper.

For lips, dark burgundy, brown, crimson, and other colors look good on you, as they will give a slightly thicker look.

Keep your hairstyle compact, whether short or long.

A tight, neat and compact hairstyle goes better with modern fashion than a loose, fluffy, feminine style.
Any length, from short to long, looks good on you.

Fashion itself tends to have volume and impact, so keeping it as tight as possible will help tighten up the overall outfit.
If you have bob or short hair, it is recommended that you use wax or oil to tuck your hair behind your ears to create a compact hairstyle.

Another key point is to have dark hair that is shiny and cut to match your outfit.
Unique haircuts that are not often seen on others, such as bangs, straight bangs, and handsome short hair, will elevate your fashion sense.

The bag has a leather look that adds a touch of luxury

Leather-like items are useful when you feel like you're missing a bit of a fashionable look.
Fashionable fashion, which is originally inspired by trends introduced by high-end brands, is a perfect match for items made of leather-like or satin materials, which enhance the sense of luxury.

Simply adding a leather-like square bag or shoulder bag will give your outfit a more fashionable look.
It makes the whole look sophisticated, making it an essential piece for fashionable outfits for adult women.

Wear sunglasses around your eyes to create a cool look around your face

Once you're used to fashionable styles, try taking your look to the next level with sunglasses.

By incorporating trendy designs such as sunglasses with light-colored lenses or glasses with clear frames, you can instantly create a more sophisticated look.
It looks great in photos, so it's perfect for when you want to capture a stylish shot.

However, be careful not to wear sunglasses with frames that are too large, as they can make you look too celebrity-like and elegant.

Also, although not sunglasses, wire glasses, which are an accessory that is attached to the eyes and takes the shape of a pair of glasses, also go well with fashionable outfits.
Recommended when you want to add a unique accent.

For your feet, almost any black shoes are OK.

To create a unified, fashionable look, you should not skimp on the shoes you wear.

That said, almost any shoes in black will look good with a fashionable outfit.
If I had to choose, dad sneakers or high-tech sneakers would be a good match in terms of silhouette.

We also recommend chunky, men's style boots.
Side-gore boots or platform boots will instantly give your outfit a more fashionable look and make you look even cooler.

If you're new to fashion, this might be the first accessory you want to get.

In addition, pumps and loafers are also black in color, and items with a stylish design will be easy to match.

The cutting edge of fashion! Stand out with fashionable fashion

Fashion in the modern era is often thought to be difficult to wear, but if you pay attention to the colors and designs you choose, it's actually a surprisingly easy style to adopt.
By using plenty of monochrome and black colors, you can easily create a cool and sophisticated outfit.

Also, if you pay attention to the important points when it comes to makeup and accessories, you can more effectively express your fashionable personality.
If you feel like your fashion has become monotonous and boring, or if you want to completely change the way you look, it's definitely worth giving it a try.