Outfit Du Jour: Yukata be kidding me!

In honor of the upcoming Cherry Blossom Festival that Long Beach, CA is holding for the first time, I thought I would create a bonus post in order to talk about some of the unique fashion that Japanese and Japanese-Americans partake in wearing for festival time. I will also be giving a short presentation on Japanese festival attire at the event so if you're unable to attend, here's the scoop! (Info on the festival is located at the bottom of this post.)

So here's the first of many Japanese vocabulary words I will be using: yukata.

What is a yukata you may ask? 

A yukata is sometimes confused with its formal, heavy, and very expensive relative, the kimono. They are worn during the summer when Japan experiences weather that is described as mushi atsui or comparative to a monsoon weather with bugs, humidity, and heat. A yukata is not only more accessible to people that love the Japanese culture (a yukata runs from $60+) , it is also more manageable in hot weather since it is made of a lightweight cotton. 

They were first worn in the Heian era in Japan by nobleman to protect themselves from the heat and sweat and because it was not customary to be unclothed outside of the bath. Though the word yukata translates to "bathing clothes" in Japanese, this ensemble is not restricted for the home. Sumo wrestlers and Kabuki performers also wear yukata everyday. Other places you can find people dressed in this robe are at festivals and outdoor, summer events. 

What's the difference between a yukata and a nemaki yukata?

A yukata is not lined and a nemaki is. It is also used for wearing at home rather than outside. The sleeves are usually straight-shaped and they are not colored as brilliantly as a yukata. They are usually secured in place using a simple sash rather than an obi. (Keep reading to find out what an obi is!)

What's age got to do with it?

What I found to be interesting is that in Japan, certain colors of yukata can signify an individual's age. As you age, you are expected to wear more conservative colors and patterns. Men's yukata are usually just darker regardless of the age of the wearer. 

What is another alternative to a yukata?

Another popular form of yukata is the happi-coat. In the past, they were used as a uniform for labor jobs or professionals such as firefighters, chefs, and servants.

Happi coats are usually made of cotton and are available in a variety of styles and colors today featuring designs such as family crests, business logos, or scenery. It is distinguished from a yukata due to its length: knee-high size. Today, they are almost exclusively worn as an alternative to a yukata during festivals accompanied with a hachimaki. They can be worn open or with a koshi-imo sash.

How is a yukata worn and with what accessories?

A man's yukata usually has shorter sleeves (10 cm) than a woman's (20 cm). In order to wear a yukata, you need a juban (or something that can be worn under your robe), a yukata, 2 koshi-imo sashes, an obi, and a pair of geta.

A juban is a cotton undergarment worn under the yukata.

The yukata is the outer robe. 

A koshi-imo sash is worn to keep the yukata in place.

The geta are the special shoes worn with the yukata.

An obi is the the band worn around the waist that serves as the cherry on top to your beautiful Japanese ensemble!

Step 1: Put on your juban or some sort of undergarments. (Keep in mind that if your yukata is a light color, you will probably want to wear something underneath that isn't too dark so it will not be seen.)

Step 2: Put your yukata on. Don't be worried if it is too long as you will be using sashes to keep them in the perfect place for your body. Also when putting on your yukata, make sure to wrap the left side of the robe over the right side. (Wrapping the right side over the left is how Japanese prepare bodies for funerals!)

Step 3: Tie one of the koshi-imo sashes once you have adjusted the length of your yukata in place. Then, take a moment to smooth out any wrinkles and tie the second sash when you have found the desired waist width. (Try to tie the sash firmly and as tight as you can wear it comfortably. If the sashes are in place, that will ensure no outfit malfunctions and will allow your obi to easily be tied on top.)

Step 4: You have two options with an obi: a pre-made one or one that is DIY (do it yourself). I prefer the pre-made obi as it is already beautifully shaped and very simple and quick to put on.

Step 5: Put on your geta and accessorize! Here's some ways you can add some flair to your ensemble...

A kinchaku is a carrying bag for your cell-phone, wallet, etc. 

A sankakkei fan can be multi-functional for cooling yourself down and for ondo dancing.

Kanzashi is an ornate hair piece that can be easily clipped or pinned.

And there you have it! You're all dressed and ready to go to the obon, japanese festival! ^_^

For those of you in Long Beach, CA that are looking to learn more about the Japanese culture and have an opportunity to wear your yukata, here's the website for the first annual Cherry Blossom and Anime Festival as well as the event on Facebook. After all of the hard work and planning, it will be rewarding to see it all come to life. I will be attending decked out in my yukata as the "Cherry Blossom Queen" with the beautiful, "Anime Queen" Noriko at the event! 

 Stay tuned for pictures of myself, Noriko, as well as other attendees of the festival in my next blog! (:

Also, here's some other links if you're interested in more information...

For more information on yukata, here's an adorable site you can check out!

Happi coats galore!

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Zombie Dressing: An Outfit That You Thought Was "Dead", But Now it LIVES!

Okay, so I took a bit of a break. I was worried that I had lost all of my inspiration to share thoughts and ideas on fashion via blogging. However, I have returned and am ready to write and work it. (Snap, snap.)

Part of the reason I decided to pick blogging back up was reading another person's blog on fashion. Though theirs centered on recycled fashion (thrift shopping, then sewing and tearing the outfit apart until it resembles something they find to be trendy), I liked the idea that they had taken one thing and turned it into something else that suited them more. Therefore, I am going to dedicate this blog post to the power of an open mind as well as incorporating accessories into an outfit.

When you meet someone for the first time, you can usually size them up in a matter of minutes- maybe even seconds. However, if you take the time and have an open mind, you could find that you are compatible and have many common interests. On the other hand, if you attempt to meet someone with a closed mind, you may not be giving the person a chance which could prevent you from forming a friendship. The same can be applied to fashion: you can glance through a rack in seconds and determine whether you could commit to buying an item. However, judging an item so quickly can make you miss out on some great pieces.

What are some reasons that could make you say "no way" to an item?

1. Color-me-mine: I'm the biggest believer in the fact that my skin tone clashes with orange and yellow. Therefore, I tend to pass up anything that comes in either color. However, I try to look at the item and see if there's anything I like about it. If I decide that there is, I peruse the racks to see if it comes in another color.

2. Cut to the chase: Another complaint is in the cut of the piece. The cut of an outfit can bring out the best or worst in you. By knowing what your body type is and what plays it up, you can taper your search more towards things that are more flattering. However, some cuts can be deceiving. (Keep reading!)

3. Breaking out from the pattern: Finally, pattern can be another deal-breaker. Some pieces feature patterns that use a pallet of colors that are in harmony whereas some have no rhyme or reason. Others have patterns that are wild or dated. What's a girl/boy to do?


Well, what's the answer to the majority of problems when it comes to cut or patterns in an item or an outfit that you think may be beyond repair? Accessories.

Of the accessories, I'd like to highlight the power of belts. So, why do we like them?

Ladies....
1. They're fabulous. (Duh.)
2. They can serve as a pop of color to an outfit that may be gasping for some creative air.
3. They can change the shape/cut of almost any outfit.
4. They're cost efficient since you can use them again and again- especially if you stick to belts in solid and/or neutral colors.

Gentleman...
1. They're fabulous. (Did you really expect anything else for the first point?)
2. They can transform your outfit from casual to formal.
3. They're necessary for every outfit. (Please, boys. Just because your shirt isn't tucked in doesn't mean I don't know the truth.)
4. As crazy as it may sound, there isn't just one kind of belt buckle or style of belts so be creative! (You can also find belts that are reversible or feature some sort of stitching to add a unique and modern twist.)
5. They're cost efficient since you can use them again and again- especially if you stick to belts in solid and/or neutral colors.

(Belts by Marc Anthony, Kohls. Notice the belt buckle on the left and the stitching on the right?)



So ladies, here's a few examples of the power of belts.

1. Original belt. (Cute, but no distinct color selected in ensemble.)

2. One of the belts in my collection. (Conveys a more edgy, but casual look. Emphasizes the grey in the dress. This belt also clearly defines a waist in the outfit and emphasizes the narrowest part of the body.)

3. One of the belts in my collection. (Berry color is emphasized over the other colors. I tucked in one end so it would stay in place. This belt is very subtle and allows the user to dress it up or down through the use of heels or other accessories. Once again, the belt allows the user to clearly define a waist and emphasize the narrowest part of the body.)

4. One of the belts in my collection. (The color black is emphasized in the dress. I used a belt that had a distressed finish rather than patent leather for a more unique and everyday look. If a more dressy look is desired, a patent leather or plain leather belt would do the trick. Once again, the belt allows the user to clearly define a waist and emphasize the narrowest part of the body.)












My verdict? A skinny belt or a wide belt can be interchanged to convey a different mood or feel to the outfit. Though a dress, top, pants, skirt, etc. may come with a belt, you do not have to be beholden to their selection. Instead, have a multitude of belts that allow you to be creative and tailor the outfit to your occasion.

Here's another example of the power of belts with this dress that appears to look like a floral printed potato sack.

This dress does NOTHING for my figure nor anyone's figure. For those individuals that believe they can hide their weight behind a tunic or square-shaped dress, you are mistaken- this makes you appear larger than you are! Instead, try incorporating a belt.

Why in the world did I still buy this? By using a a skinny, aqua-colored, glitter belt, I was able to bring out the blue in the ensemble as well as define a waistline. Though the pictures on here suck (Anyone want to be my photographer?), you can see that the belt is able to make something that you thought was horrific, into something wonderful. 

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Scarves: can't live with them, can't live without them. Putting together an outfit can be hard work and it usually seems like putting on jewelry, tights, and scarves don't seem to be worth the effort and work to incorporate in. However, I believe that going the extra mile with your ensemble is what sets you apart from the sea of people surrounding you. They can start conversations with the right people whether that be a future employer or a cute stranger, or spark the imagination of a friend or onlooker in their own ensemble. Either way, the holidays are a perfect time to launch a sneak attack in the form of a scarf to add that pizazz and class to your image.

Three materials that I adore for scarves in winter are wool, satin, and and silk.

WOOL

Wool scarves can be made from the hair or fur of alpaca, goats, and sheep. 

Alpaca is the warmest of the three due to the fact that Alpaca were bred specifically for their hair and can live in altitudes of 11,500- 16,000 feet in Chile... BRR! Another plus to using their wool is that it is not only luxurious in its texture and its glossy appearance, it is also flame resistant! (Yay?!)

Wool from goats or cashmere have been used in Nepal and Kashmir for thousands of years and were first used in manufacturing shawls. However, they have expanded to scarves and other products due to their weight (very light so you won't get weighed down) and the fact that the material will actually become more soft in texture with wear. 

The fleece of sheep is what is used to produce wool for weaving. Currently, 90% of the world's sheep partake in production of wool. White wool can be dyed any color so it is the most valuable color to be used for producing products.  Wool is great for everyday use due to its functionality (it's warm AND durable) and the fact that it is long-lasting. 

SATIN VS. SILK

Though both materials are very similar due to their smoothness and softness, there are very distinct differences between the two. First of all, though satin can have materials such as silk woven with other materials, silk is a natural fiber and threads are made exclusively from the cocoons of silk worms. Silk threads are hard to produce which is why they are so darn expensive! In addition to its expense, they are also high maintenance due to how delicate the material is. However, because of the long fibers used in its production, it is more durable than satin. Satin is relatively low in cost to produce and has more of a glossy appearance which makes it more accessible to purchase. 

Keep in mind though that both materials require dry cleaning!

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Outfit Du Jour: Set Fire to the Rain... WITH STYLE!

Recently, I had a reader by the name of "Kat" suggest to me to have a blog concerning the following: How to look cute but be practical when it's raining; specifically when you have to be business or business casual.

First of all, when it's raining, you need an umbrella, scarf, boots, and/or gloves. 

An umbrella will allow you to wear a jacket without a hood. It also will allow you to remain nice and dry and eliminate soaking items of clothing.

A scarf can be placed on your head (ladies) in order to keep your hairstyle intact. For the boys, you can use the scarf around your neck to cover what your peacoat, or other style of jacket does not. You can remove the scarf upon arrival or you can tie the scarf in a bow around your neck depending on the material and size of your top under your jacket (ladies).

Boots allow you to conquer pesky puddles and are a good option for the business or business casual look. Referring to my last post, there are do's and don't for boots depending on the occasion. Picking a boot that has a wedge or has a good amount of treading in addition of a leather that isn't distressed can create a perfect look for going into the office as well as battling the rain. Please, no furry boots! 

Gloves are a nice touch to an outfit. However, for those of you with smartphones, remember that touch screens won't respond to a finger encased in a glove. They can be easily worn for any occasion. 

Once you have the above accessories, ensure you have a jacket. A trench or a peacoat is great due to its length and because its material will keep the cold out and the warmth in. They also are timeless pieces that exude style. 

Just because it's raining does not mean that you need to sacrifice style for comfort and warmth. Picking the pieces strategically based on color and the amount of use is what is important. 

Instead of picking a dreary black scarf, pick a checkered scarf or a bright red one for a pop of color. Instead of picking a boot that is distressed, pick one with a rich black or brown color so you can be prepared for any situation. 

Instead of picking a hoodie, pick a peacoat that can be worn during the fall or winter. Pair it with a dark jean to meet up with friends or with a pair of slacks to be office ready. 

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Outfit Du Jour: Give 'em the boot!

In an earlier blog, I briefly went over some of my favorite items for fall to keep you toasty and tantalizing. Now, I want to go more into depth in the area of footwear when it we transition to the cold seasons.

Boots that are marked with an asterisk are the ones that I consider to be the most bang for your buck; enjoy!


WOMEN'S BOOTS

1. Gangam Style: The Riding Boot
This boot is one of my favorites due to the fact that it is a timeless piece. From police officers, to Vogue, this boot has adorned many feet with few variations. What I love about these boots is their length. Paired with a skinny jean or leggings, they fit high on the calf and help keep the cold out. They also offer a "preppy" or "classic" look that look awesome with a peacoat or an argyle sweater.

Here are my Ralph Lauren leather riding boots in black:

2. Rise Above the Rest: The Heel Boot
The heel boot can be any boot listed with the variation being in the height of the heel. By having a heel boot, you can up the style factor and the formal factor as well. These, like the riding boot, can look awesome with a mini skirt, tights, and a turtleneck.

Here are my BCBG heel boots in black:

3. *Miss New Booty?: The Bootie*
These boots are easily dressed up or down and come to about the ankle. You can find them in all kinds of materials, patterns, and heel sizes. This is probably the best cold weather shoe to invest in for a woman in my opinion. I myself am the proud owner of several pairs of booties. I personally would invest in a bootie in a neutral color rather than in a pattern or intensely vibrant color to ensure maximum use. However, I can never object to a pop of color in say, red! (:

Here are my Bamboo ankle boots in red:

4. Get Low: The Ankle Boot
Unlike the riding boot, these boots give you more freedom to move easily. Riding boots can be confining due to their length. As the boots suggest, these boots reach to the ankle or a little beyond and can come in many variations such as having belts or zippers on them. These are casual boots if they have lacing in the front. If not, they are semi-casual.

Here are my Vera Wang, lace-up ankle boots in black:

MEN'S BOOTS

1. Fried Without the Clogged Arteries: The Frye Boot
They come a little above the ankle and can lace up or zip-up. I prefer the boots to be in some form of leather minus the lacing due to the fact that they can be dressed up or down.  They are also available in other materials such as canvas. Another factor is the "wash" of the leather or faux leather. What I suggest is to get more bang for your buck by getting a dark leather boot that is not distressed at all so it is possible to transform it.

It's a great look to get a slim fit or boot cut jean to pair with this boot. Put the pants on first and the boots second. Then, tuck the pants into your boots and zip them up. You can always leave them on the outside of the boot, but by tucking them in you can achieve a militaristic style look.

2. Lacey Days: The Lacer Boot
The name doesn't leave much mystery: they lace up. These boots, though similar to the Frye boot, come to about mid-calf and are a more casual alternative to the Frye boot. They too come in different washes but I suggest a dark wash since, with age, the boots will age naturally and more uniformly.

3. Workin' It: The Work Boot
Similar to the Lacer boot, these boots are heavy-duty. They also come in variations that include "fur". These are more recreational than the first two boots I listed for men so although they aren't formal, they will keep you warm and ensure you don't slip and slide in the rain.

4. *Low Profile: The Ankle Boot*
This is a boot that, like the Frye boot, can be dressed up or down. This is probably the best cold weather shoe to invest in for a man. Once again, like all of the other boots mentioned, a dark wash (one without distress to it) should be purchased to ensure maximum use. These shoes should also be paired with a DRESS sock.

NOTE FOR BOTH MY LADY AND GENTLEMAN, BOOT-WEARING READERS: Make sure you treat your shoes with respect! Seriously, keep them treated by shining them and wiping them down every so often. Also, as stated in an earlier blog, you can maintain the shape of the boot by stuffing them with newspaper or tissue paper.

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Outfit Du Jour: Layers aren't just for cakes.

I'll keep this post nice and simple. For those of you experiencing the phenomenon of Fall or Winter AKA a time when you can't just run out the door in a t-shirt and shorts, this post is for you. Layering is a simple, fun, and fashionable way to not only tell the world that you know what you're doing when the cold weather hits, but that no matter what curveball Mother Nature sends in the form of weather that you will be ready.

Let's start from the outside in, boys and girls. 

1. Jackets should be functional as well as show a flair for fashion. Trench coats are great when rain is on the menu by helping to protect almost the entirety of your body, not just your torso. Since rain is what they're mainly made to protect you from, you can find them in an array of materials. I personally keep a slick, neutral beige one instead of one made from wool for example based on my geographical location. For those on the east coast, it would be a better investment to integrate wool or a synthetic wool into your wardrobe. Peacoats are also a favorite of mine as I have four in my collection in blue, red, gray, and black. What's great about these coats are that they can be integrated into your formal or casual wardrobe since they look great with jeans and slacks.

Although hoodies are a great way to stay warm in a casual way, they can easily be interpreted as "lazy" or "ratty". Try to keep them looking nice by putting them in the dryer for a short amount of time and letting them air-dry a bit. Otherwise, the material can easily get those annoying little balls and the outside can fade in a very unflattering way. They are also not something that can be integrated into the workplace (one that requires a suit and tie, dress, slacks, etc.).

2. A sweater, thin or otherwise, can be worn under a jacket so if your jacket gets soaked by the time you clock in to work or if you're having lunch at a restaurant that keeps cranking up the heat, you can easily have the option to take your outfit down a notch and make yourself more comfortable. 

3. The layering continues under the sweater with a thin tee-shirt, tank top, camisole, or a button-up shirt if you're feeling like adding a little formal touch. You should always wear something under your sweater. Why? Because wearing a shirt or a tank under your sweater and even a dress shirt will:
1. Absorb any sweat as well as act as a barrier between the sweat your body produces and the material from the sweater or shirt.
2. Cover any icky smells your body may emit.
3. Keep armpit stains away. Yuck!
4. Add yet another layer to keep you extra toasty.

Basically, this layer is crucial because it ensures that your sweater or dress shirt will have a happier and longer life serving you. Who wouldn't want that? (:
  

4. For the ladies, a skirt with tights or leggings, dark wash jeans, or slacks can be worn as bottoms. For the men, slacks, dark wash jeans, or cords (corduroy pants) can be worn. If you're feeling extra chilly, ladies, you can wear tights under your pants. 

5. Have you ever seen someone's leg showing above their socks when they cross their leg? This is something that is avoidable! Always make sure you don't wear ankle socks during winter. Instead, try to wear socks that are crew, boot, or dress length. This will also ensure that you keep in all of the warmth rather than letting in the cold. 

Socks don't seem to be a major part of an outfit, but you have to remember that to be considered "put together", attention to detail is key and that even the small parts complement the whole.

Here's my outfit and outfit breakdown for the fall: 

Black peacoat by Michael Kors; black, long sleeve shirt from American Apparel; black camisole; dark wash jeans by Michael Kors; leopard print heels by Michael Kors; purse by L.A.M.B; chain necklace by Vera Wang.

Although my outfit has a small pop of color in my shoes and my handbag, feel free to have fun with color in the winter! Try having a color theme for your outfit i.e. blue and select items all from the same color family. That way, you don't have to stress on finding an exact match to the color of the item and can instead play with the colors that you do have.

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Outfit Du Jour: Keep Warm and Carry On

It's October and finally starting to get chilly over here in beautiful Southern California. Who's ready to start breaking out the scarves, hats, and boots with the fur... anyone? I know I am. I'm also ready to share some ways to not end up looking like the Michelin (wo)man in size and shape but to, instead, look put together and fashionable. Here's some tips, enjoy!

Tip #1: Layering is not just for cakes.
In order to avoid overheating as well as looking too bulky, try layering! It's a fun way to play with your clothes. You can start with a tank or camisole, then put on a v-neck t-shirt or long sleeved shirt, and then a cardigan. That way, as the day presses on and that sun starts to peek out, you won't have to suffer the consequences of bundling up as if you're in the middle of a snowstorm.

Tip #2: Comfort is key.
Boots are a hot item for winter, no matter what style. Keep in mind what you plan on doing throughout the day though. If you're going to be walking around at school, knee-high boots with stilettos might not be the best idea. Instead, try and wear some knee-highs with a conservative heel. Sometimes it's fine to sacrifice some comfort for style, but if you need to be on your feet all day, it's probably not worth it.

Tip #3: Don't kill Bambi and Co.
Boots, jackets, gloves, etc. that have fur, fluff, or anything of the sort are NOT formal nor are they the only way to keep your feet-sies warm. With the technology available today, there are plenty of alternatives that look and feel like the right thing that don't have the price tag of animal products. However, remember that by wearing something similar to the real thing, you are endorsing that it is not only okay to wear it, but it is fashionable.
If you can't "live a lie" by wearing something that isn't the real thing, try shopping at vintage stores instead. That way you aren't encouraging companies to meet the demands of consumers by producing new products, but are reusing a product that is in good condition and high quality and giving it another chance at a new life. Don't worry, Bambi and friends will thank you.

Tip #4: Tights, leggings, and pantyhose, oh my!
These three items are great for you ladies looking to wear a dress, but not looking to freeze in the name of fashion. They come in a wide array of colors and materials, so there's something for everyone and every occasion. It's also a great way to play with color by picking a neutral color, such as black, for a dress, and a bold color, such as red, for your leggings.

Keep reading, and I'll keep writing. Please feel free to leave a comment and to leave me any ideas for a future blog. Also, look for my Facebook page dedicated to the blog by typing in "Outfit Du Jour" into the search engine on the site. Stay classy, guys.