In this series, we will be exploring all the fashion subcultures that have made Japan the fashion powerhouse it is today. Born out of the cyberpunk subculture, Japan’s take on cyber fashion is gaining newfound popularity as we start to question the future and move into a world dominated by new algorithms, AI and the metaverse. Futuristic, technological advancements and artificial intelligence are just some of the things we think of when we hear the words ‘cyber’ and ‘cyberpunk.
’ Although the digital age still feels relatively new, these terms aren’t new and have been used since the latter half of the 20th century. Cyberpunk is best described as a subgenre of science fiction that takes place in a dystopian futuristic setting. It centers around themes that essayist terms as “lowlife and high tech.
” The cyber fashion subgenre started to gain more traction in the 1980s, capturing the imagination of young people across the world. In Japan, iconic cyberpunk films and technological developments in society all shaped the retro-futuristic aesthetic known as cyber. The style is defined by its use of artificial-looking materials such as vinyl and velour, as well as fluorescent accessories and those made out of mechanical parts.
Utilitarian-style items such as cargo jackets and tactical vests are also commonly used to achieve that high-tech look. It goes without saying that cyber fashion also takes many references from video games and other world media such as . Much like.
