Originating in the 1970s, gyaru has undergone various changes over the years, leading to many different substyles within gyaru. Gyaru style has been inspired by actresses and j-pop artists Namie Amuro and Ayumi Hamasaki. The style originated in Japan as a reaction to the expectations placed on women. It emphasizes glamour and a rebellious appearance. The basic elements of gyaru include voluminous dyed hair and tanned skin, the intensity of which varies depending on the substyle. Makeup is usually bold and striking. Nails are often very long, colorful, and glittery.
“I became familiar with gyaru through Namie Amuro. As a middle school student, when I got into her music, I admired her style immensely. Through her, Japanese fashion became familiar to me and became a part of my life. I experimented with gyaru, but in a more subdued way and on my own outside of school.”
