When you hear the word, “Gyaru” the images that most likely pop are, Japanese girls, tan skin– almost looking like blackface, crazy clothes, crazy hairstyles, and bright colors. But when I hear the word “Gyaru” and after I am reminded of all the flamboyant looks, I think about the subcategory, the Himegyaru.

When I’m reminded of the existence of Himegyaru, I think of tan princesses, beautiful dresses, blonde and brown hair, and not-so-crazy hairstyles. They’re cute, and they have a good fashion sense as they tend to sport the bigger brands. It’s too bad that they’re overlooked and not as appreciated as the other forms of Gyaru. I wonder if it’s because the style is not edgy enough for the once overly traditional Japan.

Here’s one of Ayumi Hamasaki’s most expensive music videos, “My Name’s Woman.” I don’t see what exactly would it make it the most expensive. But whatever, she’s still rocks and looks hot in it.

That’s right, www.Edward-Merrin.com has finally gone up! Check it out, and let me know what you think. Some of you might be surprised, since it’s not too “Japanese Street.” But there is a section dedicated to that stuff.

I started writing this site about two months ago. It was something I’ve been meaning to write about– a valentine to the art of fashion. I figure, since I was constantly reading up on fashion and the people in it, I might as well contribute by spreading it. Check it out.

I know what some of you might be thinking. Just who in the hell does this guy think he is to give women tips on how to look hot?! Well, for starters I’m a guy. And I know what I like and I know what I find attractive and sexy. So all you Ganguro girls, take not. Here is my list on how to look like a hot Ganguro.

1. First dye your hair with a color that is not so bright. Perhaps, blonde, silver, or gray… Something bright like pink or orange just gets too corny. It reminds me of cheap candy. And no highlights! Keep it uniform.

2. Tan! Tan dark and longer. And also use a dark powder, foundation or a bronzing lotion to make the face look even darker. Dark skin is a plus!

3. DO NOT apply anything glittery or sparkly. It’s just plain silly!

4. Use lots of white eye shadow. Apply on the top lids or around your entire eyes. White eyeliner and white concealer should work as well.

5. DO NOT use large fake lashes. The tan skin and the tan hair color is already distracting enough.

6. Change your eye color. Dabble with different colored contact lens. Have us guessing what your eye color is for the day.

7. TAKE IT EASY on the jewels, gems, hearts and all that jazz. All those extra things just look silly as well.

8. Use white or very light pink lipstick. There’s no better way in flaunting those soft lips.

9. Make your nails canvases. Decorate them.

10. Don’t hesitate to rock lots of jewelry. Individualize yourself with unique necklaces, bracelets and rings.

11. Don’t forget about hibiscus flowers. These things are a must for a true Ganguro.

12. Vary your color. You don’t always have to wear bright colors like pink. Maintain some individuality.

13. Always wear miniskirts! Miniskirts with incredibly tall platform boots just make us melt.

So a while back, I attended Fanime and took a bunch of cool pics. And to this day, I still curse myself for not bumping into one of my readers. So a special shout out goes to Amanda and her awesome sweet lolli dress.

I recently discovered this movie, Shimotsuma Monogatari a.k.a. Kamikaze Girls. I like to think that it’s a Japanese coming of age comedy, but who knows what genre it really falls. Anyways, I’m recommending this movie because: a) its main character is a gothic/ sweet lolita, b) it features the store Baby, The Stars Shine Bright, and c) it features music by the great Yoko Kanno. Plus the movie serves as commentary and documentary on modern Japanese fashion and youth. You can watch the entire movie here, for free (in Japanese with English subtitles). Props to MoonEyes144 for uploading this film.

-Edward Merrin

Poster

Trailer

Here’s something I haven’t visited for a while– Gyaru Gals. I recently found this on youtube, and I found it quite interesting… It explores gyaru subculture and Japanese fashion over all. Check it out, and let me know what you think.

Japan TV – Fashion in Japan – Part 2/2 – 5:55

-Edward Merrin

So not too long ago, Jacco Fashion was ripping off some of my material, and posting it on the blog section of their site. I sent them a message requesting that they atleast credit me, and this is what I got in response…

So Edward Merrin TV is now up. I figure since I’m starting to have a gallery of pictures, I might as well start a gallery of videos I recorded. Here’s my first video from FanimeCon 2008. It’s a video of a cosplayer doing the melancholy of haruhi suzumiya dance. I shot her with my cell phone, so forgive the “3 star” quality.

So you’ve all seen part 1, now here’s part 2. I don’t exactly know some of the names of the characters these cosplayers are dressing as, so let me know if you have an idea. On another note, I had the pleasure to meet Yukie Dong.

Yukie Dong is an award-winning cosplayer and one true otaku. Might I also add, a true hottie! You can find more about her here. Hope to see you in July…

All photos are by me, Edward Merrin. I only add my name because I know some of these photos will probably be posted somewhere else. I’ve had some issues with some people taking my material. I.E. Jacco Fashion… Hope you enjoy…

Unknown Pink Cutie I Can’t Identify

More Cute Cosplayers I Don’t Know About

Gundam Seed Destiny Cosplay

And last but not least, the lovely Yukie Dong…