In the colorful world of Gyaru, where vibrant fashion reigns supreme, a harmonious symphony has been playing in the background for decades. Music, often overlooked in the shadow of eye-catching attire and flamboyant makeup, is a vital and enduring component of this subculture. Welcome to "Soundtracks," where we embark on an odyssey to unravel the electrifying connection between music and fashion in the Gyaru lifestyle.
As a seasoned concert photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing international bands of various genres ranging from Visual Kei to Pop, and I've witnessed firsthand how music breathes life into the world of Gyaru. It's more than just a soundtrack to their daily lives; it's an essential thread in the tapestry of their identity.
The birth of Gyaru culture in the early '90s was not just a sartorial revolution; it was also a musical awakening. In the sprawling urban landscape of Japan, young women seeking to break free from societal norms embraced this audacious style. They adorned themselves with vibrant colors, sported tanned skin from sun salons, flaunted extravagant nails, and crafted eye makeup so bold it could be seen from outer space. But their rebellion wasn't limited to fashion; it extended into music.
The '90s, known for seismic shifts in the global music scene, witnessed a Japanese pop sensation that would change the course of Gyaru history forever. Amuro Namie, with her infectious tunes and daring style, emerged like a comet, captivating the hearts of a generation. Her music wasn't just an auditory treat; it was the soundtrack to Gyaru life. Tracks like "Can You Celebrate?" and "Baby Don't Cry" became anthems that resonated with these fashion rebels.
© Tokyo Fashion
© Tokyo Fashion
© Tokyo Fashion
The Gyaru ethos was firmly rooted in individualism, and this spirit echoed in their choice of music. While Namie Amuro was undoubtedly a guiding star, Gyaru embraced a wide range of musical genres, from J-pop and hip-hop to techno and trance. But what truly set Gyaru music apart was its vivacity and the way it mirrored the boldness of their fashion choices. One of the milestones in the convergence of Gyaru fashion and music was the legendary CAMPUS SUMMIT. This annual event was more than just a music festival; it was a fashion extravaganza where Gyaru showcased their unique style while dancing to their favorite beats. CAMPUS SUMMIT, with its heady mix of music and fashion, left an indelible mark on Gyaru culture, solidifying the connection between the two.
In the dazzling realm of Gyaru, the rhythm of music knows no age. As we continue our exploration of the intertwined relationship between Gyaru and music in "Soundtracks," we enter the vibrant world of multigenerational Paripi culture.
Paripi - a term born from the fusion of "party" and "people" - embodies the spirit of Gyaru music enthusiasts who, regardless of their age, continue to embrace music in their lives. While the Gyaru culture itself has evolved over time, its core essence remains unwavering, and this includes a shared passion for music.
Picture this: seasoned Gyaru fashionistas who once owned the streets with their bold style, now gracefully transitioning into their golden years but never losing their fiery love for music. They are the embodiment of timeless rebellion, keeping the spirit of Gyaru alive through the decades.
©出会いの秋ナイト 2016
For these seasoned Gyaru, their journey began during the cultural explosion of the Showa discotheque era. The glamorous dance floors and electrifying beats of the time set the stage for what would later become the Gyaru music and fashion movement. These pioneers of Paripi culture reveled in the discotheques, where they danced the night away in their stylish ensembles.
As the years rolled on and the calendar flipped to the '90s, the Gyaru culture underwent a transformation. Ganguro and Kogyaru subcultures emerged, and with them, a new wave of music and nightlife. Young Gyaru flocked to clubs to engage in the iconic Parapara dance, a synchronized group dance that became emblematic of the era. The dance moves were as flashy and daring as their fashion choices, and the music was the heartbeat of the night.
Fast forward to the present day, and the Paripi culture remains as vibrant as ever. Yearly events like Agefarre and ULTRA JAPAN draw Gyaru from all corners of Japan and beyond. These gatherings are more than just music festivals; they are celebrations of a lifestyle, a reunion of like-minded individuals who share a deep-rooted love for Gyaru fashion and music.
©ULTRA JAPAN 2018
Through multigenerational Paripi gatherings, they pass down the Gyaru legacy to the younger generation, ensuring that the spirit of individualism, fearless self-expression, and, of course, the love for music endures. These Paripi gatherings are a testament to the timelessness of Gyaru culture and the enduring power of music to unite generations.