Beginning the late 1990's and expanding into the 2000's Ganguro Yamanba gained a reasonable sense of popularity amongst rebellious young women in Japan. The trend is usually characterized by large, exaggerated hair styles, bold colors, heavy eye make up, and deeply bronzed/tanned skin. Hair is usually dyed a orange or yellow blonde shade, sometimes vibrant colors (pink, blue, green), or a shiny grey tone known as "high bleached). Eyes are typically outlined with a thick line of black ink, and white concealer is used in combination as lipstick and eyeshadow. The style encompasses anti-trends that lash out against traditional beauty norms (i.e. pale skin, dark hair, and neutral makeup tones). There is a connection between the ganguro trend and Japanese folklore as ghosts and demons (Yokai) as depicted as having a similar appearance, as shown by kabuki and no costumes. Whereas yamanba is specifically named after a mountain witch in Japanese folklore. In some instances this fashion trend has been criticized for its use of black face or 'dark-tanning' as it hints towards the glorification of racism. I personally think it is a unique look that also shares an interesting background as a platform for rebellion against traditional beauty standards and expectations.
No comments:
Post a Comment