Japanese street fashion refers to a number of styles of contemporary modern clothing in Japan . Created from a mix of both local and foreign fashion brands, Japanese street fashions tend to have their own distinctive style, with some considered to be extreme and imaginative , with similarities to the haute couture styles seen on European catwalks .
195-461: Gyaru ( ギャル ) pronounced [ɡʲa̠ꜜɾɯ̟ᵝ] , is a Japanese fashion subculture for women but a male equivalent also exists. This male equivalent is called a gyaruo . The term gyaru is a Japanese transliteration of the English slang word gal . The fashion subculture was considered to be nonconformist and a rebelling against Japanese social and aesthetic standards during
390-575: A gyaru , but the style would depend on the mother's personal choice of style or which subculture she belonged to. For example, Aki, a gyaru leader of her own gyarusa named 'Brillant Lab' reveals how these mothers dressed and how they chose their children's outfits, hair and hair color to correspond to their mother's outfit. In other words, the child became a gyaru mama 's accessory. These mothers might parent differently than most in Japan; their parenting style can be quite contemporary for
585-584: A dance-pop sound with Western influences. Her first four releases, including Sweet 19 Blues (1996) and Concentration 20 (1997), each received multi-million certifications. Her 1997 single " Can You Celebrate? " remains as the best selling single by a solo female artist in Japanese music history. In the early 2000s, " Never End " became Amuro's last successful single before a decline in sales, and her music began evolving from pop to R&B as she reined in creative control of her career. This transition
780-419: A Japan-only release, Amuro's version was criticized due to the announcement of her involvement without the knowledge of Lopes' family, though Lopes' sister later stated she had no objections to Amuro's inclusion. However, TLC defended Amuro's involvement as neither member had access to Lopes' master recording rights and they "were forced to use creative ways to honor Lisa's memory and celebrate this milestone with
975-431: A baseball cap, dark sunglasses, gold chains and even tattoos; which still in present-day Japan is still considered a taboo due to its past connotations. Baggy jeans are a must. There is also a Japanese music artist who exemplifies both gyaru and Chicana culture, MoNa. She has been interviewed and documented in the series from Refinery29: Style out there and also by The New York Times YouTube channel. Gyaru den
1170-564: A belt and shoes are more often seen than in other styles. Sandals are often used in this style. Unlike most of the other substyles which use more apparel that easily hold warmth, such as apparel with thicker textile or woollen materials and multiple layers of clothes for one outfit, this style is also denoted by its use of airy, denim, flower-patterned, tie-dyed and nomadic textile motifs in most of its outfits. Most apparel pieces are either maxi-dresses or knee-length dresses. The style seems inspired by late 1960s hippie fashion and takes its name from
1365-437: A brief period in 1996, her second studio album Sweet 19 Blues was the best-selling album in Japanese music history . Additionally, she held the record for the highest-opening sales for a female or solo artist until it was challenged by Hikaru Utada's 1999 studio album First Love , which to this day stands as the best-selling album in Japan. With her sudden rise to stardom, Amuro was noted by journalists and commentators as
1560-498: A common belief that Sayuri Tabuchi [Tavuchi], the owner of Tokyo fashion store Spank! , was the accidental creator of the style). Girly Kei is a hyperfeminine Japanese fashion style that emphasizes cute and girlish appearance. As opposed to the definition in English, Girly Kei does not generally only consider everything feminine and mature looks; Girly Kei tends to focus on lace, ribbons, ruffles, and patterns such as flowers and hearts, with soft and pastel colors such as pink being
1755-520: A dirty, unkempt appearance, who would disguise herself as a beautiful young woman to lure male victims. Like ganguro , the style was often considered to be a joke and deliberately unattractive, with some yamanba saying they liked the trend "because it looked stupid." Yamanba fashion attracted a reputation as being "unclean" or delinquent. Micro styles of gyaru are styles which are less common or just were trends, have declined in popularity or have become obsolete. Bohemian gyaru
1950-431: A distance and also to make their eyes appear larger with the extreme diameter of these lenses. In addition to enhancing eye diameter; gyaru s will use eyelid tape to create the appearance of double eyelids instead of monolids . Due to this use of temporary cosmetic enhancement, some also decide to undergo eyelid surgery . In the later years of this style, with the popularity of South Korea through its soft power ;
2145-423: A fan poll on the singer's website, and a few selection were re-recorded with new vocals and arrangements by Amuro. Additionally, a bonus DVD package included new music videos for her 1990's singles " Sweet 19 Blues " and " Can You Celebrate? ", and two newly established videos for "Himawari" and "Four Seasons". It was placed on the first position by Oricon , and shifted under 500,000 units in Japan. In support of
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#17327903994972340-458: A fully adapted hip hop record with elements of J-pop. She carried this sound on with Style (2003), another record produced by Austin, and eventually onto Queen of Hip-Pop (2005). Amuro's transition from J-pop to "more mature, transatlantic" R&B was noted by critics, and the aforementioned title "Queen of Hip-Pop" was used by the Japanese media to identify her (the term "Hip-Pop"
2535-419: A great effect, adding a romantic aspect to their apparel. Their choice of apparel pieces vary and manba , as they would replace the colors worn with dolly pastels, pink lace and sundresses that are frilled. Romanba gyaru s instead of accessorizing with Lilo & Stitch , they instead accessorise mostly with characters from Disney 's The Aristocats with the character Marie often used as
2730-400: A greater degree of Japanese youth living at home with their parents for much longer than in other countries, reducing living expenses and thus making larger spending on clothing possible. Japan is also known for its significant consumption of foreign luxury brands. According to data from 2006, Japan consumed 41 percent of the entire world's luxury goods . The blue line of Burberry is among
2925-551: A higher demand and further promotional activities with singles and the unreleased track "Christmas Wish", Amuro added 13 dates. The Live DVD and Blu-ray of the tour were released on May 3, 2017, and certified gold by RIAJ . On May 31, 2017, Amuro released her single " Just You and I ", which sold over 100,000 digital units according to RIAJ . The following month, Amuro announced her 25th anniversary concert in her hometown Okinawa , which redeemed her cancelled 20th anniversary concert on September 16, 2012, due to typhoon warnings in
3120-448: A hit. At the height of the bubble economy of Japan in the late 1980s, women began to appear wearing bodycon dresses and women's suits that were extremely tight and emphasized their body lines. Although this style originated from Europe in the early 1980s, it began to gain popularity as Japan was at a time where the economy was at its best. During this time period, this style was mostly worn by female college students and office ladies, and
3315-586: A huge success in Japan, eventually selling 2,750,000 units there, making it the best-selling single by a solo female artist in Japan. After releasing her sixth consecutive number one single " How to Be a Girl " on May 21, 1997, Amuro released her second album Concentration 20 in July of that year. It became her third number one album in Japan, and sold over 1.9 million units there. For additional promotion, she embarked her Concentration 20 Dome Tour in Japan, which achieved commercial success. By early August 1997,
3510-873: A huge success in Japan, peaking at number three on the Oricon Singles Chart and sold over 882,000 units in Japan. Amuro's second single with Komuro, " Chase the Chance ", became her first number-one single on the Oricon Singles Chart and her first single to sell over 1 million units in Japan. For Amuro's success with those singles, she won the Golden Arrow Award in 1995. After a brief hiatus, Amuro released two more singles in 1996: " Don't Wanna Cry " and " You're My Sunshine ". Both singles were successful in Japan, bringing her second and third consecutive number one singles, and both sold over one million units there. Amuro achieved huge success after
3705-503: A large amount of success with their single " Try Me (Watashi o Shinjite) ", produced by Italian eurobeat producer Dave Rodgers , and Japanese businessman Max Matsuura . Released on January 25, 1995, the song reached number eight on the Oricon Singles Chart , and stayed in the top 200 chart for 25 weeks. Despite the beginning success as a group, the other four members of the Super Monkey's formed their own sub-group, MAX , under
3900-496: A large slip in Amuro's sales, only shifting 95,000 units by the end of the year. In December 2002, Amuro was part of the musical project Suite Chic , involving several Japanese artists like Verbal , Zeebra , Dabo and DJ Muro . The project released two singles, one studio album and one remix album before dissolution in 2003. Amuro returned to solo activities in mid-2003, releasing the singles " Shine More ", " Put 'Em Up ", and
4095-526: A lot of Japanese girls started to follow her example. The terms "Yamanba" and "Manba" refer to the extreme ends of the Ganguro style. However, enthusiasts of both the Yamanba and Manba styles consider ganguro as an "easy version" of their style. Nowadays, the name 'Yamanba' has shortened to 'Manba' . The Kogal ( Kogyaru )look is based on a high school uniform, but with
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#17327903994974290-409: A motif. The primary Romanba fashion brands are Pinky Girls and Liz Lisa. Tanning is achieved mainly through make-up and deep-colored tanning lotions or bronzer; sunbeds are not used in as they try to keep their complexion deep but not darker than intended. They appreciate more toned down things in life than just clubbing . Kyabajō is similar to agejo as it has been inspired since
4485-669: A nature theme. The color scheme tends to be light and neutral, but patterns such as gingham and florals may also be used. In terms of hairstyles, bangs (often curled) and braids are very popular. The style is similar to Dolly Kei in that the aim is to create a doll-like appearance but in a more casual, earthy manner. Dark Girly is the edgier counterpart to the aforementioned Girly Kei fashion style. This style often consists of high-waisted dark-colored or pink skirts paired with frilly blouses often in pink, white, or black. Bijou ribbons, set-ups, thick-soled loafers, and dresses are also commonly seen. It highlights femininity, cuteness, and fosters
4680-416: A new single. The single, though marketed as an extended play , was titled 60s 70s 80s , and consisted of three songs: "New Look", "Rock Steady", and "What A Feeling". The songs feature samples from The Supremes 's " Baby Love " (1964), Aretha Franklin 's " Rock Steady " (1971) and Irene Cara 's " What A Feeling " (1983), respectively. 60s 70s 80s became a huge success in Japan, reaching number one on
4875-492: A new track entitled "Dr." through a Vidal Sassoon commercial. She then released the album's lead double A-side singles, " Wild/Dr. ," on March 18, 2009. The song was a success, peaking at number one on the Oricon Singles Chart , and sold over 119,000 units in that region. As a result, she also broke her own record of having all of her singles debut in the top 10 (on the Oricon Daily Singles Chart) for
5070-436: A rose accent, while the hair is either bleached in a specific color, crimped in a bouffant at the top and curled or wigs/extension are worn to create that スジ盛り or ( sujimori )-styled hair. This make-up style has even more exaggerated eyes than the typical gyaru . Hime gyaru includes not only clothes, but many girls see it as a way of life and make or buy custom-made decor for their homes. The style blossomed in
5265-429: A sense of loveliness with the perfect balance of cool. This style is often confused with the "Jirai Joshi" (地雷女子)" or commonly referred to as "Jirai Kei" stereotype and derogatory term, meaning cute, hyper-feminine young women who dress in darker fashion styles have personalities that do not match their appearance. Rather than being sweet and kind, they are said to be violent and obsessive. Dark Girly fashion simply embraces
5460-482: A shorter skirt, loose socks , and often dyed hair and scarf as well. Members of the Kogal style sometimes refer to themselves as Gyaru (gals). This style was prominent in the 1990s, and it started gaining popularity again at the end of 2020, however it is an age category specifically for gals in high school. While bōsōzoku fashion has not been widely popular since the 1990s, the stereotypical Bōsōzoku look
5655-404: A singer, she was discovered at age 12, while visiting a friend. One year later, Amuro was scouted by Masayuki Makino, the owner of Okinawa Actors School , and eventually she was enrolled there. In 1991, Makino placed her in an idol group named Super Monkey's , with four other girls: Anna Makino , Hisako Arakaki , Minako Ameku and Nanako Takushi . The sixth member, Rino Nakasone, joined
5850-587: A song called "Do What U Gotta Do". In May, she released the double A-side single " Can't Sleep, Can't Eat, I'm Sick/Ningyo ", which peaked at number two on the Oricon Singles Chart and shifted over 80,000 units in Japan. In August 2006, Amuro conducted her first annual tour Best Tour Live Style 2006, spanning between August and November 2006. Released in February 2007, the Live DVD of the tour
6045-463: A song originally recorded by American girl-group TLC . Amuro—who knew the group during the singer's sessions with producer Dallas Austin , and whose fellow Okinawa Actors School alumni Speed had been huge fans of TLC—accepted the role, and re-recorded the rap segment as a homage to previous member Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopes , who had died in a car accident in La Ceiba, Honduras in 2002. Despite being
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6240-426: A subcategory of gyaru ), is a type of Japanese street fashion that originated in the 1970s. Gyaru focuses on girly-glam style, dwelling on man-made beauty, such as wigs, fake lashes, and fake nails. Gyaru is also heavily inspired by Western fashion. The Ganguro style of Japanese street fashion became popular among Japanese girls in the early 1990s and peaked in the early 2000s. Ganguro falls into
6435-703: A tearful rendition of her single "Can You Celebrate?". Working on the album Genius 2000 with Komuro and American producer Dallas Austin , after releasing its first single "I Have Never Seen" in 1998, Amuro released its second single " Respect the Power of Love " on March 17, 1999. On the same day, news publications in Amuro's hometown, Okinawa, reported that her mother, Emiko Taira, had been murdered. According to staff editors at The Japan Times , Emiko and her second husband, Tatsunobu Taira, were hit by an axe, owned by Kenji Taira, Emiko's ex-husband's brother. While her second husband survived with moderate injuries, Emiko
6630-550: A time when women were expected to be housewives and fit Asian beauty standards of pale skin and dark hair. For Japanese women who saw those who participated in this fashion during its rise, they considered it a fashion style too racy and freewheeling; with some feeling that it caused a ruckus, juvenile delinquency and frivolousness among teenage girls. Its popularity peaked in the 1990s and early 2000s. They are also known for partying and clubbing , being rather provocative, being flirtatious, and unwinding and having fun. The word gyaru
6825-424: A trendsetter to the Japan and across Asia. She eventually became the most prominent figure in fashion magazines and the general press for changing the typical Japanese idol image and styles of women in Japan, in favour of "dyeing their hair brown, plucking their eyebrows... thick-soled/long boots, a miniskirt, tanned-skin and tattoos". This made her a fashion icon, and created a phenomenon fan base known as Amuraa in
7020-614: A unique style without any connection to that idea, as it is only a fashion style that has been pinned to this term because of a specific Dark Girly outfit coordination that has been commonly associated with the Jirai stereotype, consisting of a pink top and high-waisted black skirt pictured in the image. Girly fashion has a wide range of different clothing types, like Girly Kei, Dark Girly is not just about being what western society thinks of as feminine. It highlights lace, ribbons, ruffles, and playful patterns like hearts, with soft pastel pinks as
7215-542: A wide range of musical styles and genres. Her music through the 1990s were influenced by eurobeat and the rise of J-pop music. Additionally, she identifies Madonna and Janet Jackson as her inspirations, despite constant comparisons with sound and imagery by critics and publications alike. Sweet 19 Blues stuck with J-pop elements, but she began to experiment with Western genres such as R&B , jungle , acid house , house and jazz . From Genius 2000 , she worked with American producer Dallas Austin , resulting in
7410-401: A wide spectrum of styles that vary in their overall design. Fashion and clothes associated with the subculture are also referred to as Gyaru kei ( ギャル系 ); in Japanese or in romaji ( gyaru kei ), meaning they are " gyaru -type" or "classified as gyaru ". Amekaji is a style inspired by American culture ; its name can be directly translated to "American casual". It
7605-431: Is Soul Sister . This style can be understood by its style choice of apparel, such as track suits, greater use of denim and a generally more masculine look. The style is also known as オラオラギャル ( ora ora gyaru ) and 悪羅系 ( ora kei ). These girls were often seen driving as a couple, were or are mechanics, and sometimes ride bikes. They tend to have tattoos and piercings. This is not only done to look rebellious but
7800-685: Is Amuro's combination of hip-hop and pop ). In 2007, Amuro released Play , which was highlighted as one of her key re-inventions of her entire career. Sonically, the record relied on R&B and hip hop elements, but started to involve contemporary dance-pop music. To an extent, Tills from AllMusic compared the effort to the works of Jennifer Lopez and En Vogue . Uncontrolled (2012) saw yet another transition with her sound, leaving R&B and focusing on electronic dance music . Additionally, this saw her first experimentation with full-length English language tracks. Unlike her previous records, Uncontrolled ventured into Western practitioners to helm
7995-441: Is a gyaru now known by her title 元No.1キャバ嬢 ( Moto nanbā 1 kyabajō ) or Former No.1 Miss kyabajō ; Emiri Aizawa ( 愛沢えみり ). Mago gyaru is used to define middle schoolers who follow gyaru or kogyaru fashion. The phrase literally translates to "grandchild gyaru". It is sometimes referred to as 中学校 ギャル ( chūgakkō gyaru , lit. ' junior high school gyaru ' ). Neo gyaru
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8190-444: Is a gyaru substyle which is rarely worn and is considered less of an actual style and more of a seasonal outfit for those who participate in broader gyaru fashion. It is less of a substyle restrained by rules, being mostly worn in the spring and summer seasons or for those that live in warmer climates. Since the clothing pieces are of a lighter textile, only a jacket is used for layering, and woven leather accessories such as
8385-430: Is a Japanese loanword which comes from the English slang word "gal". When it first started to be used in Japan in the 1970s, it referred to energetic women brimming with youthful energy. Although it has not been fully confirmed, some people say that the term gal also became popular when Wrangler released women's jeans called "Gals" in 1972. In 1978, a Japanese fashion information magazine for girls called "GAL'S LIFE''
8580-502: Is a direct abbreviation for the word joshi kōkōsei . This subculture of kogyaru fashion is closely related to JK business and compensated dating or enjo kōsai . Ora ora gyaru is one that is most often compared to or confused with ane gyaru due to the fact that both styles were brought to the Japanese public's eye attention through the bōsōzoku , yankī and Japanese biker gang culture with gyaru makeup and style. The gyaru magazine of choice
8775-634: Is a retired Japanese singer. She rose to prominence as a teen idol , and transitioned into a leading pop artist due to her versatility across music styles and visual presentation. Due to her career reinventions and longevity, she is known as an icon across Japan and Asia. She has been referred to as the " Queen of Japanese Pop ", and her influence domestically has drawn equivalent comparisons to artists such as Janet Jackson and Madonna in Western pop culture. Born in Naha , Okinawa , Amuro debuted as
8970-470: Is a style based on American casual, often narrowly defined as Western/Native American/Biker-based. Amekaji was introduced to the public in the early 1990s by a group of delinquents in Shibuya known as "Teamer". Later, it was popularized by Takuya Kimura who wore it in his TV dramas. The Decora Kei style originated in the late 1990s/early 2000s and rose to great popularity both in and outside Japan. It
9165-453: Is a style created in the mid-1980s by Japanese musicians consisting of striking makeup, unusual hair styles, and flamboyant costumes, similar to Western glam rock and glam metal . Androgyny is also a popular aspect of the style. Some of the more well-known and influential artists of the style include X Japan , Luna Sea , Versailles , The Gazette , Mejibray , Royz , L'Arc-en-Ciel , An Cafe , Malice Mizer , and Diaura . Oshare Kei
9360-478: Is a style of gyaru consisting of reviving gyaru through technology. It takes aspects of the gyaru fashion substyle and then makes use of technology as a way to revamp the style. The creators of this style have created all of their items themselves, which can be LED lights or synthesizers which are used on accessories such as necklaces, loose socks which are those mostly seen on kogyarus . They would create new and different apparel pieces from
9555-401: Is a substyle in gyaru that often draws from Gothic fashion as its main inspiration. This substyle does not require the participant to tan themselves, unlike most of the other gyaru substyles. The makeup retains the same over exaggerated and dramatic false eyelash appearance but the makeup colors are more in line with Gothic fashion, as the colors are darker or even black, and white
9750-565: Is a word from the Windward Islands. It means dog, not of the purebred variety, but of very disreputable origin; and the Spaniards use it for insult and vituperation.' The style itself takes enormous influence from Chicano as many chola-gyaru wear apparel clothes that are more often than not the same as Chicano apparel or street wear. A combination of tartans, flannels, oversized t-shirts and tank tops. Accessorized with bandanas,
9945-506: Is also common in Amekaji ; COCO*LULU had a menswear line. The menswear brand Buzz Spunky is also a staple in Amekaji . B-Gyaru is a sub-style of Gyaru that draws inspiration from the baggy street style popularized by hip-hop artists. The letter B in the name is derived from the terms B-Girl and B-Boy, which are commonly used for members of the hip-hop community. B-Gyaru never gained widespread popularity in Japan and
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#173279039949710140-462: Is also used as a form of fetish category. By the early 2010s, gyaru fashion was typically characterized by a face with matte foundation, silver or golden eye shadow , dark lash line with false eyelashes on both top and bottom lash line, pale or cool colored lips, colored contacts and tanned skin as it is considered a must in some substyles. They were also most often seen with highly elongated and decorated artificial nails . To elaborate
10335-526: Is closely related to 女子高校生 ( joshi kōkōsei ) or in English would be directly translated to "female high school student". It uses the word 女子 ( joshi ) which is girl and 高校生 ( kōkōsei ) highschooler in English. The importance of these two words is that often on social network services Kanji would be abbreviated to "JK" because the first letters used in these Kanji are the letters J and K. In this case, these letters combined are not used to convey or be internet speech to refer to joking but
10530-420: Is common, although natural hair is also popular, and hairstyles are usually kept simple and decorated with anything cute or pastel; bows are a common theme. Some common items used in a Fairy Kei coordinate include vintage sweaters, cardigans, varsity jackets, tutus, mini skirts, tights, over-the-knee socks, sneakers, and tea party shoes. The term "Fairy Kei " originated from the magazine called Zipper (despite
10725-488: Is exemplified by singer Kyary Pamyu Pamyu , who rose to prominence in the Harajuku fashion scene before her musical debut. The wearers usually stick to a color scheme for their decora, such as Pink Decora, Red Decora, Dark Decora, and Rainbow Decora. A plain shirt and hoodie were often worn with short tutu -like skirts. The hair (often worn in low ponytails with long bangs) and make-up itself tend to be quite plain. However,
10920-422: Is frowned upon when this method of makeup application is done within its style. These gyaru s state that applying this white coloring on the lower lash line creates a cosplay -like appearance. Also, contouring different parts of the face to change facial features and highlighting the nose for a slimming effect is often done. Colored contacts are often seen especially circle lenses to change eye color from
11115-517: Is like a therapy from makeup, we are allowed to choose our hair color and skin color'. She also states that 'There are many mixed marriage children that are subject to a number of prejudices because of their skin color or their hair color; that is why I want to help by saying loud and strong that everyone is allowed to be whom they want to be.' She also stated in an online interview that: 'I decided to create this style based upon by many things apart from gyaru , but also Harajuku fashion and of course
11310-605: Is more predominant than in the other substyles. The fashion motifs and pieces are generally studded, leather, ripped denim, mesh or fishnet apparel pieces with the most prominent apparel colors being black, white, red, purple and any color used in actual Gothic fashion. This substyle and rokku gyaru are often confused and labeled incorrectly between one another. To understand the substyle haady gyaru , one must first understand its name's origin. The Japanese word 派手 or written in romaji as ( hade ) which in English can translate to either "flashy" or "vulgar". This substyle
11505-403: Is no single sought-after brand that can consistently appeal to all fashion groups, the huge demand created by the fashion-conscious population is fed and supported by Japan's vibrant fashion industry. Issey Miyake , Yohji Yamamoto and Comme des Garçons are often said to be the three cornerstone brands of Japanese fashion. Together they were particularly recognized as a Japanese fashion force in
11700-466: Is often portrayed, and even caricatured, in many forms of Japanese media such as anime, manga, and films. The typical bōsōzoku member is often depicted in a uniform consisting of a jumpsuit like those worn by manual laborers or a tokko-fuku ( 特攻服 ) , a type of military issued over-coat with kanji slogans. These are usually worn open, with no shirt underneath, showing off bandaged torsos and matching baggy pants tucked inside tall boots. Amekaji
11895-699: Is one of the more over the top and one of the most expensive styles of dress of any category since it is considered essential to buy brand names such as: MA*RS , Jesus Diamante , La Parfait or Princess Melody . The substyle hime gyaru is largely based on the Rococo era, as the Japanese word 姫 ( hime ) which in English is the word for lit. ' princess ' . Gyaru who wear this style often wear dresses or skirts in pink or other pastel colors with many laces and bows. Rose patterns, rosettes, pearls, and crown motifs are also common. Headpieces range from large bow clips with pearls to headbands with
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#173279039949712090-496: Is one of the only female solo artists to achieve the most accumulations of million-certified physical singles, with a total of five (" Chase the Chance ", " Don't Wanna Cry ", " You're My Sunshine ", " A Walk in the Park " and " Can You Celebrate? " – see her discography for more ). "Can You Celebrate?" still remains the best-selling physical release by a female singer—with estimate sales of 2.750 million copies sold in Japan alone. For
12285-589: Is still absent from streaming services. Amuro has a mezzo-soprano vocal range. By 2000, the English language started to heavily mix in with her music, starting with Genius 2000 . In several tracks, Amuro would record her vocals in Japanese (and additionally in English), whereas back-up vocalists would provide English translations and marry the two together. By Play , the singer would start to record tracks with less electronic synths and beats, particularly with
12480-579: Is the epitome of this: by its name alone this can be understood. The difference of spelling is simply for youth factor, by accentuating the vowels and adding the letter 'Y' to also not be too obvious about it. Examples of this gyaru fashion substyle resemble the work of artist Lisa Frank due to their use of motifs and color, with bright neon colors from across the entire spectrum. Leopard, cheetah, zebra or anything in printed patterns to early 1990s to 2000s hip hop -inspired fashion such has 'McBling'. Clothing shape varies from very loose fitting to tight but
12675-449: Is the opposite side of Visual Kei , with bright colors and many pop impressions. This said, bands under this style live up to the meaning by dressing up in colorful costumes, or in Decora or Pop Kei style; many are seen sporting large amounts of jewelry and bags of anime characters and animals slung on, many colorful hairclips, and lighter make-up. The music is more happy sounding,
12870-466: Is theorized to because of the rise of Namie Amuro. By 1993, the office lady/female college student boom that had been going on since the 1980s had completely ended due to the collapse of the bubble economy, and the "high school girl boom'' was in full swing. From around 1995, this symbolized that even the entertainment of young people was changing to a culture centered around younger high school and junior high school girls. There are various theories about
13065-576: Is usually bright, fun, flamboyant and multi-colored. Inspired by fictionalized images of America, the clothes are generally looser than most of the other styles. They usually have many overlapping layers. Pieces found in Amekaji fashion include sweaters, bomber and Letterman jackets, t-shirts, shorts, jeans, overalls, cargo pants, tennis shoes, engineer boots, and Uggs . The fashion brands most associated with this substyle are ANAP , COCO*LULU , BLUE MOON BLUE and Wakatsuki Chinatsu . Wearing men's clothing
13260-462: Is usually used for young women who act like old men. Although this term has little to do with gyaru fashion itself, it can be said that it was one of the first indicators that gyaru were "cutting-edge in appearance, but somehow lacked order and manners in their speech and behavior". Later on, modern gyaru was compared with Oyaji gal. Around this time, Shibuya's shop tenants such as 109 and PARCO gradually shifted to catering to teenagers, establishing
13455-531: The Best Asian Artist award at World Music Awards in Monte Carlo , Monaco . There, she performed her track " Hide & Seek " from her album Play . Two months later, she released her double A-side single " Break It/Get Myself Back ", which performed well on several record charts in Japan. On December 15, 2010, together with the premiere of Live DVD and Blu-ray of Past<Future Tour 2010,
13650-485: The Bohemian style of fashion. Just as the styles of B- gyaru , rasuta gyaru , bibinba and even ganguro can be seen as disrespectful or even harmful by those belonging to the groups being emulated in these particular sub-styles; one style such as rasuta gyaru is heavily influenced by Rastafari culture; the question remains, is it appropriation or appreciation of another culture—particularly
13845-523: The Korean wave brought during that time a evolution in the makeup of gyaru . The makeup would see the use of the technique of increasing or creating a larger appearance of the under eye by applying makeup, such as highlighting the under eye and contouring the eye crease to make the eye bag appear prominent; this is known as Korean : 애교살 ; RR : aegyosal . Hairstyling, such as hair texture, color or styling, often differs within
14040-648: The Oricon Singles Chart , whereas the titular track sold over 250,000 digital copies in Japan. That same month, Amuro collaborated with Taiwanese singer Jolin Tsai on a song titled "I'm Not Yours", which was released as a track on Tsai's album Play (2014). The music video of the song was published on YouTube on February 2, 2015. On June 10, 2015, Amuro released her 12th studio and third bilingual album Genic . It marked her first record with her own management company Stella88, which she founded after leaving Vision Factory . Despite there being five music videos from
14235-439: The Oricon Singles Chart , and sold over 293,000 units in that region, becoming Amuro's first number-one single since "I Have Never Seen" and her highest selling single since "Baby Don't Cry". On March 25, 2008, Amuro was awarded "Best Female Video" for " Hide & Seek " (from the album Play ) at Space Shower Music Video Awards . "Hide & Seek" also won the award for " Best R&B Video " at MTV Video Music Awards , which
14430-516: The Showa era (1926–1989) but with a Goth spin to it. The make-up usually consists of shironuri and is dark and heavy. While kimono is the most commonly used by visual kei artists, the style also often features modified Japanese school uniforms. Motifs and accessories are themed around post-war Japan and the occult. Cult Party Kei , named after the Harajuku shop Cult Party (now known as
14625-597: The United States combined. As of 2017, this makes her the fifth highest-selling female act, and fourth best-selling female solo act overall, just behind Yumi Matsutoya, Ayumi Hamasaki , Hikaru Utada , and Japanese all-girl idol group AKB48 ( see total list here ). Additionally, Amuro was ranked the 12th best-selling digital artist according to Japanese digital site Recochoku. The singer has achieved nine number-one studio albums with an additional five compilation/collaborative inclusions, and 10 number-one singles. She
14820-471: The Virgin Mary ), is a style that was popular around the early 2010s and is based on Western religious artifacts like crosses or bibles. Common aspects include crosses wired in yarn, layers of fabric in soft colors, lots of cream lace and satin bows. The make-up and hairstyle is not as over the top as other styles. Cult Party Kei is often worn with natural-looking make-up without any larger emphasis on
15015-562: The World Music Awards . Namie Amuro was born on September 20, 1977, at Okinawa Red Cross Hospital in Naha , Okinawa . She is one of four children of Emiko Taira. Through her mother, Amuro is a quarter Italian. Having divorced when Amuro was only 4 years old, Taira raised her children solely in Okinawa – she worked as a nursery school employee and a bar hostess to support her family. Although Amuro had no ambition to become
15210-419: The acronym for Japanese Super Girl. Ishoku hada gyaru is a gyaru style that takes ganguro to an even higher level than manba or yamanba . Instead of someone making their skin twice as dark as their actual skin color, it involves the use of face paint to seem as if the participant had physically dipped themselves in a colorful paint, to resemble an extraterrestrial , but with
15405-399: The iTunes Store to promote her then-upcoming album: "Hands on Me" and "Heaven". On July 10, 2013, Amuro released her 11th studio and second bilingual album Feel . This was her first studio release through her own record label Dimension Point, which was operated under Avex Trax. Despite offering the track "Beautiful" as a single, it did not appeal on the final track list of the album. It
15600-447: The kimono in daily life, though most people wear it only for weddings, graduations, and other formal occasions. Despite the heavily reduced numbers of people wearing kimono as everyday clothing, the younger generation in Japan can still be seen to mix kimono and modern style in fashion, wearing modern footwear and accessories instead of the typical geta and kanzashi usually worn. There are even modern designers who have used
15795-479: The lead singer of the idol group Super Monkey's in 1992 when she was 14 years old. Despite early sales disappointments, Amuro's rising popularity helped to score a major hit with the 1995 Eurobeat single " Try Me (Watashi o Shinjite) ". Signing to Avex Trax for her solo career, Amuro catapulted to fame with a string of number one singles including " Chase the Chance " and " Don't Wanna Cry ". A close partnership with renowned producer Tetsuya Komuro resulted in
15990-541: The "We ♥ Namie Hanabi Show: I ♥ Okinawa / I ♥ Music" at the Okinawa Convention Center , a commemoration of Amuro's career and other cultural and musical aspects in Okinawa. She officially retired from the entertainment industry on September 16, 2018. On September 30, 2018, her official website, official fanclub, official Facebook page, and official online store officially terminated service. On June 16, 2019, Amuro released her entire music collection onto
16185-405: The 1990s and early 2000s, many trends experienced a levelling off in the later 2000s and onwards; the rise and fall of many of these trends had been chronicled by Shoichi Aoki since 1997 in the fashion magazine Fruits , which was a notable magazine for the promotion of street fashion in Japan. Although Japanese street fashion is known for its mix-match of different styles and genres, and there
16380-422: The 1990s, with many young girls and women looked up to her fashion, hairstyle and makeup. Additionally, her style has been noted for paving the way for kogal fashion trends in Japan, as well as for the gyaru subculture. Anthropologist Hiroshi Aoyagi said in 2003 that Amuro changed the stereotypical idol culture. Writer Marwan Kraidy described Amuro in 2005 as part of "Japan's rising cultural power" towards
16575-445: The 1990s. These factors result in the swift turnover and variability in styles popular at any one time. In 2003, Japanese hip-hop , which had long been present among underground Tokyo's club scene, influenced the mainstream fashion industry. The popularity of the music was so influential that Tokyo's youth imitated their favorite hip hop stars from the way they dress with oversized clothes to tanned skin. Though extremely popular in
16770-492: The Blu-rays of Space of Hip-Pop, BEST Tour Live Style 2006 and PLAY Tour 2007 were also released. On April 27, 2011, Amuro published her fifth compilation and second collaboration album Checkmate! , her first musical release of the year. The album featured nine collaborative tracks Amuro had participated in throughout her career and four new recordings: " Wonder Woman ", "Make It Happen", "Unusual" and "#1". Checkmate!
16965-521: The Dolly- kei fashion scene". Fairy Kei is a youthful style based on 1980s fashion that evokes a dreamy, nostalgic feeling. Outfits are made up of pastel colors, angels, toys and generally cute motifs and elements and accessories from Western toy lines of the 1980s and early 1990s, such as Polly Pocket , My Little Pony , Strawberry Shortcake , Rainbow Brite , Popples , Lady Lovely Locks , Barbie , Wuzzles , and Care Bears . Pastel-colored hair
17160-432: The Japanese record label Avex Trax . As a result, Amuro released two more solo singles under Toshiba-EMI before moving to Avex Trax herself. After signing with Avex Trax in 1995, the corresponding record company Avex Group enlisted Japanese musician Tetsuya Komuro to work with Amuro on her then-upcoming album. Amuro made her solo debut with Avex, releasing the single " Body Feels Exit " on October 25, 1995. It became
17355-615: The Japanese societal norms, perceptions and it has been said that it is less stressful for their children. Gyaru-o is a male gyaru . typically has a similar style to gyaru , including high-volume styled hair, similar fashion, and tanned skin. Can be written in Japanese as ギャルオ ( gyaruo ) and can also be written with the Kanji of man in front of gyaru ; the Japanese Kanji being 男 ( otoko ). Hime gyaru also known as 姫系 ( hime kei ),
17550-516: The Japanese word 清楚 ( seiso ) which in English can be translated as 'neat', 'polished' and 'clean'. This style is also interchangeable with shiro gyaru as they were both formed through the resurgence of the Japanese bihaku within the gyaru subculture. Often referred to as foreign gyaru or western gyaru and online as 外人ギャル ( gaijin gyaru ). Women and even men outside Japan who participate in gyaru ; "western" gyaru also includes countries outside of
17745-560: The Oricon Albums Chart, and shifted over 800,000 units there. That same month, Amuro confirmed her separation from husband Masaharu. For the first half of 2000, Amuro embarked on her Genius 2000 Tour throughout Japan. She then released the single " Never End ", in July, confirming work on her fifth studio album with Komuro and Austin. The single was used as part of the G8 Summit taking place in Okinawa, Japan that year. It
17940-457: The Oricon Albums Chart, peaking at number four. It is also her lowest selling studio album, shifting only 222,000 units in that region. To promote the studio album, Amuro conducted her So Crazy Tour Featuring Best Singles on November 29. The tour concluded in Japan on April 11, 2004. She extended the concert tour, marked as a promotional appearance, in Taiwan , and South Korea . Shortly after
18135-585: The Oricon Singles Chart, and sold over 72,000 units there. The movie's director, Robert Rodriguez , was impressed by the song and asked to be a part of it; he can be heard saying "Welcome to Sin City" towards the end of the song. Shortly after the single, she released Filmography 2001–2005 ' (2006) , a compilation of twelve of her music videos between the years 2001 to 2005. Amuro collaborated with Japanese recording artists Zeebra , Ai , and Mummy-D on Zeebra's album, The New Beginning , released in February 2006, in
18330-607: The Park ". It gave Amuro her fourth number one single on the Oricon Singles Chart, and her fourth single to sell over one million units there. At the end of 1996, she was awarded the Grand Prix Award for her song " Don't Wanna Cry ", the highest honor at the Japan Record Awards , making her the youngest artist to have won the award. On February 19, 1997, she released her single " Can You Celebrate? ", which became her fifth number one single. The single became
18525-582: The West, such as in the Middle East . This includes women who have gravitated towards this fashion by going or doing gyaru and its substyles and men who gravitate to gyaru-o . Western gyaru or gaijin gyaru created their own communities or groups and forums. Japanese street fashion As early as the 1950s, there were a few brands specially catered to street fashion, such as Onitsuka Tiger (now known as ASICS ). In addition,
18720-425: The West. In Japanese, this hair styling was called スジ盛り ( sujimori ); in English, it means assorted streaks. This styling is named so, not only because of its enormous volume of hair, the usage of hair extension to achieve this look or even its use of an assortment of wigs to create this hairstyle. However, this name comes from these streaks of hair that are made apparent by being held by gel . Since after
18915-423: The Western music from which it took many cues." Additionally, Amuro's career has been constantly compared to the likes of Matsuda's, both whom grew up in the idol routine and having achieved commercial resilience ever since; music author Motti Regev regarded the musicians as part of the "golden age of J-Pop", before records declined due to the rise of the digital market in the mid-2000s. Because of her longevity and
19110-531: The Word". Based on ringtone sales, it became her first single to shift over one million units since "How to Be a Girl". Alongside this, she achieved the distinction in having a top ten single each year for 13 consecutive years, breaking the solo female artist's record in Japan by Kyōko Koizumi and Shizuka Kudō . At the end of 2007, it ranked at number seven on the RIAJ yearly ringtone sales charts. She then released
19305-459: The Year award at the 50th Japan Record Awards . To promote the album, Amuro conducted her Best Fiction Tour , spanning between October 25, 2008, and July 12, 2009. The Live DVD and Blu-ray of the tour were released on September 9, 2009. Amuro was invited again to the 59th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen , but she declined. On January 20, 2009, Amuro begun working on her ninth studio album, and featured
19500-448: The actual grunge fashion it is said to resemble. The makeup was also considerably darker in terms of lipstick and the eyeshadow using more metallic or holographic textures and colors compared to earlier styles of gyaru and their use of makeup which did not use these textures. Seiso gyaru was coined during the decline of gyaru subculture and new gyaru looks during the 2010s. The naming of this substyle derives from
19695-429: The album track " Baby Don't Cry ". According to Mills, he felt that the song focused more on her vocals than the production. Her final three studio albums, Uncontrolled , Feel and Genic , had multiple full-length English tracks and, although it received positive remarks for experimentation, she was frequently lambasted for her incomprehensible deliveries in most songs. Throughout her career, Amuro has covered
19890-451: The album were around 2 million units in Japan. Four months later, on May 19, Amuro gave birth to her son, Haruto Maruyama at Maruyama Memorial General Hospital. She returned to the music industry by releasing the single " I Have Never Seen " on December 23, 1998. It became her eighth number one single on Oricon , and sold over 650,000 units in Japan. She made her first televised appearance on 49th Kōhaku Uta Gassen days later, performing
20085-571: The album, Amuro conducted her concert tour in Japan, titled Play Tour 2007 , spanning between August 18, 2007, and February 27, 2008. Originally consisting of 53 performances, it increased by 12 performances to 65 performances, making this Amuro's longest spanning tour. On the day when Play Tour 2007 concluded, Amuro released the Live DVD of the tour. It was placed on the second position by Oricon . In early 2008, Amuro confirmed that she would promote Japanese hair company Vidal Sassoon through their new marketing campaign Fashion x Music x VS , with
20280-418: The album, Amuro conducted her second nationwide tour Live Style 2014, spanning between August 22 and December 23, 2014. The Live DVD and Blu-ray of the tour were released on February 11, 2015, through her label Dimension Point. In November 2014, Amuro released her first stand-alone single titled " Brighter Day ", which featured a total of three different tracks and instrumentals. It was moderately successful on
20475-414: The annual Japanese television music show 48th Kōhaku Uta Gassen before beginning her one-year hiatus from the music industry. She legally changed her name to Namie Maruyama , but continued to use her maiden name as her professional name. Amuro's first compilation album , 181920 , was released on January 28, 1998, and covers twelve singles which were released prior to her hiatus. The total sales of
20670-414: The apparel originated from Shibuya 109 . A full outfit of only designer brands is not considered completely gyaru unless one tries for a specific substyle. Yet, even those who participate in the substyle of wearing designer items have different brands, regardless of whether the brands are Western or Japanese. They would generally mix different brands to create a gyaru look. Gyaru wear
20865-487: The area as a cutting-edge district for teen fashion. Meanwhile, since around 1993 in Harajuku, street fashion has flourished, as tenant rents were relatively low. From around 1998, Gothic Lolita fashion began to emerge, which later became connected to Gyaru, forming an even more diverse youth culture. From 1992 to 1993, just after the Japanese bubble burst, high school girls with short skirts and loose socks, and wearing uniforms, appeared, which began to attract attention from
21060-459: The closure of the Heisei era (1989–2019), she became labelled as the representative "Heisei diva" with many calling it the "end of an era", in both senses. Having sold more than 40 million records, Amuro is recognized as one of the best-selling artists in Japan by Oricon . She has received accolades from the Japan Record Awards , Japan Gold Disc Awards , MTV Video Music Awards Japan and
21255-644: The collection, including the likes of The Nervo Twins , Henrik Nordenback, Christian Fast and Peter Mansson . This trend also moved onto her follow-up album Feel , where she worked with artists such as Hook n Sling , Dsign Music and Zedd . Her final studio album, Genic (2015), was her first record not handled by Japanese producers, and her second record to include almost all tracks entirely in English (after her 2013 album Feel ). Ever since her debut, Amuro has been classified as one of Japan's most prominent and successful singers. In an opined article published by The Japan Times , writer Ian Martin encompassed
21450-501: The colors are never toned down. In terms of makeup, this gyaru substyle and the substyles that range from ganguro to further are the only ones with the use of more pop in terms of color while most gyaru substyles use either muted to seemingly girly colors. Most of these would be pastel colors, such as pastel pink. Creation of this gyaru substyle has been credited to the egg model Kaoru Watanabe as she not only created it but also has her own brand of this fashion, JSG,
21645-571: The commencement of the tour, she announced that she would contribute to the Japanese theatrical release of the film Sin City (2005). After viewing the movie, Amuro made an offer to the Japanese distribution company to sing its theme song; the company, feeling that her image fit the movie, accepted her offer. The theme song, "Violet Sauce", was later released as part of a double A-side single, " White Light/Violet Sauce ", in November 2005. It achieved moderate success in Japan, reaching number seven on
21840-530: The commercials for the make-up brand Kosé , its commercial experience resulted in being the singer's worst-performing single to date, barely shifting 30,000 units in Japan. Amuro returned to sole-digital releases with her single "Contrail", which was used as the theme song for the Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) series Flying Public Relations Office , and sold over 250,000 digital copies in Japan. Additionally, two more songs were released on
22035-601: The course of her December concert dates, Amuro released her second independent maxi-single " Red Carpet " on December 2, 2015. The B-side track of the single, "Black Make Up", was used as the ending soundtrack of the anime series One Piece . Despite reaching number two on Oricon Singles Chart , the sales of "Red Carpet" slumped and only shifted 36,000 units in Japan, making it one of Amuro's lowest-selling singles to date. The Live DVD and Blu-ray of LIVEGENIC 2015–2016 were released on March 2, 2016. On May 18, 2016, Amuro released her third independent maxi-single " Mint ", which
22230-506: The culture of marginalized groups. For chola-gyaru , the sub-culture it is emulating is already contentious within the larger Chicano culture and the term comes with its own complicated history; the book Comentarios Reales de los Incas has a quote that portrays how the actual word came to be and how it was utilized then in 1609: 'The child of a Black male and an Indian female, or of an Indian male and Black female, they call mullato and mullata. The children of these they call cholos. Cholo
22425-579: The curling and crimping; the gel would be used to keep hair streaks visible and present throughout the day. Apparel for gyaru fashion also varies by substyle and retail store; this choice of brands can denote which substyle one participates in. Japanese street fashion brands or western fast fashion brands with general gyaru aesthetics indicated one's substyle depending on their appearance in an outfit. Although some bought western luxury brands or even haute couture brands, most gravitated toward Japanese brands, depending on their style. Most of
22620-402: The definition of the appearance of a gyaru ; it consists of dramatic makeup which is considered essential in this fashion subculture but the makeup can change depending on which substyle one partakes in. The makeup typically consists of black eye shadow on the lower lash line, black eye liner , fake eyelashes , and sometimes a white eye shadow or a touch of that color is applied to either
22815-528: The double A-side singles: " So Crazy " and " Come ". The single's saw an exploration of westernised musical styles with American producers, including R&B producers Full Force and the work of Austin. "Come" was used for the Japanese anime InuYasha , and is a re-arranged song that was originally recorded by Australian recording artist and TV personality Sophie Monk . At the end of the year, she released her sixth studio album and first album in three years, Style . The album became her lowest chart album on
23010-399: The early 1980s for their intensive use of monochrome color and cutting-edge design. The social motives driving interaction with and involvement in personal fashion choices and wider fashion movements within Japan are complex. Firstly, the comparatively large quantity of disposable income available to Japanese youth is significant; many argue this has been, historically, made possible through
23205-476: The early 1980s, and even in the late 1980s when Takenokozoku was on the decline, various youth cultures such as street live performances and performers were emerging mainly in Harajuku. Even into the 1990s, the word gal continued to be used. In particular, the "Oyaji Gal" that appears in the manga "Sweet Spot", drawn by Yutsuko Chusonji gained so much recognition that it won the Buzzword Award. This term
23400-588: The early 2000s but has since declined or turned more casual; this version is referred to as hime kaji , but this style mostly uses the Japanese fashion brand Liz Lisa whose appearance and clothes are more casual than hime gyaru . Hime gyaru participants rather use the obsolete brands such as Princess Melody , La Parfait or Jesus Diamante . Though this substyle currently persists in some fashion groups or in their circles. Not to be confused with Lolita fashion . Kogyaru defines those who wear Japanese high-school student uniforms to represent
23595-481: The emergence of strong youth culture in the 1960s and 1970s that continues today (especially in Harajuku, a district in Shibuya, Tokyo) drives much of the development of new styles, looks, and fashion subcultures. The rise of consumerism , which played an important part in Japan's "national character" during its economic boom in the 1980s, continues to influence fashion purchases, even after this economic bubble burst in
23790-653: The end of July 2011, Amuro conducted her first arena tour Live Style 2011 to promote Checkmate! and some new materials taken from her then-upcoming studio record. " Sit! Stay! Wait! Down!/Love Story " was the next double A-side single from Amuro's upcoming studio album, released on December 7, 2011. While the physical release of the single exceeded 100,000 units in Japan, "Love Story" shifted over 3 million digital copies throughout Japan, becoming one of Amuro's highest-selling singles to date. The single also featured two unreleased tracks: "Higher" and "Arigatou". "Higher" made an appearance on her Live Style 2011, whereas "Arigatou"
23985-424: The event. She had previously attended the event nine years in a row. In April 2005, Amuro released the single " Want Me, Want Me ". The song was a success in Japan, reaching number two on Oricon Singles Chart , and sold over 103,000 units in that region. In May, following a three-year split from Maruyama, Japanese publications reported that she would take back full custody of their child, Haruto. In August, she
24180-459: The eyes and on the lips, and darker shades of color are sometimes seen on the eyes of ganguro . But white is the most often used eyeshadow for this substyle. Also, decorations such as glitter or flowers, such as hibiscus flower stickers, are added under the eyes. This style was popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The name ganguro is the mix of both the Japanese words 顔 ( Kao ) and 黒 ( Kuro ), these Kanji translate to
24375-568: The eyes and simple hair-dos with roses. Cult Party Kei is considered by some to be a subset of Dolly Kei . Dolly Kei is a style based on Japan's view of the Middle Ages and European fairy tales , especially the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen . It includes a lot of vintage-style clothing and sometimes has religious symbols. Grimoire is a store in Japan that has been described as "the pioneering store behind
24570-451: The fans". In 2014, Amuro released her single " Tsuki ", including the title track and two previous digital compositions – "Ballerina" and "Neonlight Lipstick". The physical single was successful in sales, while the title song achieved a platinum award by the RIAJ. On June 4, 2014, Amuro released Ballada , her first conceptual greatest hits compilation. 15 tracks were all selected via
24765-474: The fashion field of Google Search of the Year in 2019. Though the styles have changed over the years, street fashion is still prominent in Tokyo today. Young adults can often be found wearing subculture attire in large urban fashion districts such as Harajuku ( Ura-Harajuku ), Aoyama , Ginza , Odaiba , Shinjuku and Shibuya . Containing many different themes within its boundaries, Lolita has become one of
24960-549: The fourth and final single, " Funky Town ", on April 4, 2007. It achieved moderate success on the Oricon Singles Chart , peaking at number seven, and shifted over 54,000 units. She was also featured on Japanese group, M-Flo 's album, Cosmicolor , in a song titled "Luvotomy". Her eighth studio album, Play , was released on June 27, 2007. The album charted atop of the Oricon Albums Chart , becoming Amuro's first number-one album in more than 7 years. To promote
25155-644: The group one year later. On September 16, 1992, Super Monkey's released their debut single, " Koi no Cute Beat/Mr USA ". However, Anna Makino left the group at the end of that year. In 1993, the remaining members of Super Monkey's moved to Tokyo . Super Monkey's did not gain much success and the group went through constant lineup changes. In 1994, the group changed their name to Namie Amuro with Super Monkey's to reflect Amuro's rising popularity as an upcoming actress and fashion model. Aside from group's musical activities, Amuro had bit parts in Japanese television series and small films. Super Monkey's experienced
25350-524: The iTunes store (most of which was previously restricted to Japan), through her label Dimension Point. Her records published by her own label were also released through Apple Music, Apple's streaming service, on the same day. In November 2023, 5 years after her continued silence after her retirement, Amuro's creative content including her full discography on streaming services, music videos, online stores, and her official YouTube channel were removed from official internet sites. As of 2024, her official content
25545-414: The idea of extraterrestrials; of course it is かわいいギャル ( kawaii gyaru ).' In a Kotaku interview she stated that she has 'longed for the interesting skin tones seen in video-games, anime, and movies'. This gyaru substyle has been promoted in egg magazine. Romanba is based around romantic overtones and aesthetics. It keeps the manba makeup, the deep tan, style and aesthetic to
25740-407: The inner eye corners or to the outer corners near the lower lash line of the eyes and on the interior lash line. This is to make them appear larger or to contour them to elongate the eye of the sclera . Though it is both seen and said that in the online communities of gyaru s that when white eyeshadow is applied in the extremities of the lower lash line that most participants despise or that it
25935-490: The kimono as inspiration, such as the "TANZEN" collection from designer Issey Miyake. In the mid-2010s, genderless fashion became widespread and focused on people wearing clothing that did not conform to their assigned gender. The subculture is mostly dominated by men, who are known as "genderless men." Namie Amuro Namie Amuro ( / ˌ n ɑː m i ˈ eɪ / NAH -mee- AY ; Japanese : 安室 奈美恵 , romanized : Amuro Namie ; born September 20, 1977)
26130-465: The larger subculture of gyaru fashion. Ganguro typically includes brightly colored outfits, mini-skirts, and tie-dyed sarongs . The ganguro style consists of bleached hair, a deep tan, fake eyelashes, black and white eyeliner, bracelets, earrings, rings, necklaces, and platform shoes. Many people consider Namie Amuro to have been the leading figure of ganguro style. Exactly after her public appearances with tanned skin and dyed hair,
26325-694: The larger, more recognizable styles in Japanese street fashion and has gained a following worldwide. Skirts or dresses are usually worn at or below knee length with petticoats beneath for volume. Blouses or tops are lace-trimmed or ruffled in the Victorian or Rococo style. The length of the socks or stockings can go from ankle to thigh level and may be topped with lace. Wearers of this fashion style often put on Mary Janes , tea party shoes, or boots. The more well-known sub-styles within Lolita fashion are as follows: Gyaru (sometimes known as Ganguro , actually
26520-501: The last 15 years. Amuro collaborated with Japanese music group Ravex on a song for their album Trax (2008), entitled "Rock U". On October 1, Vidal Sassoon released new commercials featuring Amuro, and two tracks from her ninth studio album, " My Love " and "Copy That". On December 16, 2009, Amuro released her ninth studio album, Past<Future . The album was a success on the Oricon Albums Chart , reaching number one, and sold over 600,000 units in that region, slightly higher than
26715-460: The late 1980s and early 1990s, around the Heisei era; they wore this style during or after school sessions. They would shorten their skirts from their high school uniform protocol length to give them a miniskirt appearance and length and wear loose socks . These socks are from an American brand, E.G. Smith , the originators of these socks. That made them longer and appear larger by loosening them to
26910-443: The lyrics lighter and happier. Bands include An Cafe , Panic Channel , Ichigo69, Lolita23q, Sug , Delacroix, LM.C , and Aicle. Angura Kei is a dark Japanese fashion that is often associated with a subgenre of Visual Kei . The term derives from the Japanese pronunciation of "underground", which refers to its origins in underground theater. The clothes tend to be heavily influenced by traditional Japanese elements as well as
27105-451: The main focus, perfectly balanced by striking blacks. Peeps is a 90s-inspired sporty goth style that has been popularized in Harajuku's underground scene by the online magazine PEEPS. It was voted one of the major trends for 2020 in the yearly trend forecast by the Japanese women's magazine Mery. Despite the widespread nature of Western clothing in Japan, Japanese fashion is still influenced by traditional clothing, with people still wearing
27300-513: The main focus. There are many substyles and the popular image can vary depending on the current trends has pushed Girly Kei's evolution into a more hyper-feminine and innocent direction during the early 2020s because mainstream fashion trends took heavily from this style. Mori Kei ( mori meaning "forest") uses soft, loosely fitting layers of garments such as floaty dresses and cardigans. It places an emphasis on natural fabrics ( cotton , linen , wool ) and hand-made or vintage accessories with
27495-404: The mass media. During the same time period, Namie Amuro of Super Monkey's , had influenced many young girls with her style. Those who imitated the way she dressed called the style "Amuraa". Along with amuraa, other styles, such as 1970s style surfer fashion and LA fashion had become popular among teenage girls. One particularly significant change in fashion was the rise of brown dyed hair, which
27690-452: The million-certified single " Love Story ". She later founded her own management company, Stella88, and record label, Dimension Point. Amuro finished her career with the 2017 greatest hits album Finally , which became the best selling album of the decade and made her the only artist to achieve a million-seller in each of their teens, 20s, 30s and 40s. She officially retired from the music industry on September 16, 2018. As it coincided with
27885-420: The most significant part of Decora Kei is to pile on many layers of cute accessories until the bangs and front hair is barely visible. Stockings, legwarmers, arm warmers, and knee socks are also worn over each other in different layers. Common details also include leopard prints and patterned dental masks . The style has since decreased in popularity but still has a large following worldwide. Visual Kei
28080-520: The most successful in this arena. Japanese street fashion influences the West Coast of the United States . High-end fashion brands like Comme des Garçons have played a big role in the global industry since the 1980s, especially through frequent cross-over guest design with other brands. In 2008, Rei Kawakubo designed for Louis Vuitton and H&M . Harajuku Fashion was ranked 5th in
28275-1123: The music industry on September 16, 2018. Her final compilation album , Finally , was released on November 8, 2017. The album includes new recordings and re-recordings of her selected singles from 1992 to 2017. Finally became a huge success in Japan – it was placed on the first position by Oricon and sold in 2,250,000 units by the end of 2017. In support of the album, Amuro conducted Final Tour 2018 ~Finally~ as her farewell tour, spanning between February 17 and June 3, 2018. The tour took place in Nagoya Dome , Fukuoka Dome , Sapporo Dome , Osaka Dome and Tokyo Dome . During this tour, Amuro conducted another tour, named Final Tour 2018 ~Finally~ In Asia, to perform in China , Hong Kong and Taiwan . Taking place in Shenzhen Bay Sports Center , Hong Kong Coliseum and Taipei Arena , Final Tour 2018 ~Finally~ In Asia began on March 17 and concluded on May 20, 2018. On May 23, 2018, Amuro
28470-529: The number-one position, becoming the first album to do so in more than 14 years since the Dreams Come True 's 1993 album Magic . By the end of 2008, Best Fiction became the second best-selling album behind Exile 's Exile Love . In addition, it became the second best selling digital-format album by a Japanese artist behind Hikaru Utada 's Heart Station . Best Fiction was awarded the Album of
28665-480: The numerous musical and imagery re-inventions, numerous publications have referred her as the " Queen of Japanese Pop " and the Japanese equivalent to American singers Janet Jackson and Madonna . Throughout her years active as a singer, Amuro has sold more than 36 million records in Japan according to Oricon . According to a report by Entertainment Weekly announcing her retirement, she has sold more albums in Japan than Lady Gaga , Katy Perry or Kesha have in
28860-505: The one who popularized the tanned appearance, but also as having started the kogyaru trend during the Heisei era. The term kogyaru is derived from the mixing of the Japanese word 子 ( ko ) which means child in English and the word gyaru It is noteworthy that due to the Japanese educational system's regulations on uniforms, the uniforms varied by school, indicating higher standards in terms of grades or wealth. This mattered in kogyaru fashion. The term of kogyaru
29055-406: The origin of the word Kogal, but the most popular theory is that the term was originally used as a slang term to distinguish high school girls who were not allowed to enter night clubs from adult women. There is also a theory that the word "Kogyaru'' was derived as an abbreviation of "High school girl" in Japanese. Another derivative word that was created through the initiative of the mass media
29250-419: The past kogyaru who wore them. These uniforms would resemble them but with slight alterations such as color or presentation of the garment. Or they would be an exact replica of an actual high school uniform which could be purchased at a burusera . But the term itself did not first start as a pass time to pretend or dress as a high school student but from actual female Japanese high school students in
29445-413: The point of almost arriving at the level of their shoes. They also had dyed hair, accessorized their high school bags with danglers or mixed educational material with cosmetic products and a portable mirror. Although some of these were prohibited in Japanese high schools, some would wear it only after school but others would do it even in school and be warned for doing so. Namie Amuro is said to be not only
29640-573: The publication of koakuma ageha , which enticed and engrossed women to work in Kabukichō as a hostess or a kyabajō . They dress in a particular style that makes them mostly wear dresses that are revealing but said to be less, from the Japanese brand MA*RS or from the Jesus Diamante . As stated before, this style resembles agejo as the participants have the same attire and also have long fake decorative nails. An exponent
29835-490: The record, the entire collection of tracks were newly recorded and featured no singles. However, it was a commercial success, peaking atop of Oricon Albums Chart and sold 250,000 copies in Japan alone. In collaboration with Google , the music video of "Anything", one of the songs from Genic , was produced as an extension of Google Chrome . To promote the album, Amuro conducted her Livegenic 2015–2016 tour, spanning between September 5, 2015, and February 10, 2016. During
30030-411: The region. She opened the show on September 16 and 17, with 52,000 attenders totally (26,000 attenders each day), resulting in being one of the largest for a Japanese concert. Additionally, Amuro announced her third-time collaboration with One Piece . The anime's theme song, "Hope", premiered on October 1, 2017. On September 20, 2017, Amuro's 40th birthday, she announced her plan to retire from
30225-454: The regular gyaru clothing pieces since they are mixed with technological enhancements. The creators of this fashion substyle are both Kyoko from Japan and Mao from Thailand, who immigrated to Japan, and has a degree in engineering. Rokku gyaru or Rock gyaru is a substyle in gyaru that often draws from Rock fashion from Rock music as its main inspiration. It is often confused with Goshikku gyaru . Goshikku gyaru
30420-510: The release of her first solo studio album, Sweet 19 Blues (1996). Released on July 22, it reached number one on the Oricon Albums Chart in Japan, and has sold over 3.6 million units. She released the album's final single, the title track , on August 21, 1996; it achieved success by peaking at number two on the Oricon Singles Chart, and shifted over 400,000 units in Japan. On November 27, 1996, she started work on her second solo studio album with Komuro, and released its lead single " A Walk in
30615-635: The sales of Play . To promote Past<Future , Amuro travelled throughout 26 cities in Japan to conduct her Past<Future Tour 2010, which began on April 3, 2010, in Ichihara , Chiba and concluded on December 15, 2010, in Nagoya , Aichi . On the day when Past<Future Tour 2010 ended, Amuro released the Live DVD and Blu-ray of the tour, which reached the top spot on the Oricon DVD charts and shifted over 100,000 copies. On May 18, 2010, Amuro won
30810-584: The same essential style of gyaru makeup. This micro-style can be seemingly placed as a form of body art . The translation of this substyle is unique skin gyaru in English. The creator of this style, Miyako Akane states in an Arte interview: 'I decided to create this style since the fact that westerns have different hair and skin colors compared to the stereotypical Japanese features of pale clear skin and black hair, so when we want to do this we have to do something drastic. So, by changing our skin color or painting it we get to liberate ourselves; it
31005-400: The same fashion style as before or in its traditional form as a substyle; from its apparel to their makeup. Previous, older and newcomers to the gyaru fashion substyle perceived it as not following the traditional gyaru look or values of the gyaru subculture. To them it seemed more western or even resembling grunge wear even though the style may resemble SeaPunk more than
31200-456: The singer alongside superlatives Yumi Matsutoya , Hikaru Utada , Seiko Matsuda and Hibari Misora as the leading female figures in Japanese music history. Although Martin identified Utada as one of the "only contemporaries" to break the Western society, he felt Amuro was her "most immediate predecessor," based solely on the fact that "[Amuro] represented a period when Japanese pop was learning to see itself as something that could stand alongside
31395-404: The style caters to girls who live on the edge. Yamanba also often shortened to マンバ (Manba): is an exaggerated style characterized by an extremely dark artificial tan, messy bleached-white hair, and white makeup. Yamanba is said to be inspired by the Japanese yōkai Yama-uba ( 山姥 ) lit. ' mountain witch woman ' , an unkempt old woman with dark skin, white hair, and
31590-461: The style she is representing within that brand have nothing to do with the gyaru subculture or fashion as a whole and the style was a probable misconception from magazines and Japanese television programs implying that it was. Even though she participated in the gyaru subculture when she was young, as a model, she has stated in her own blog, 'The fashion has nothing to do with her brand.' But those who were wearing said fashion were not using
31785-479: The style. This reaction can also be connected with the creator of the style and magazine for this substyle neo gyaru being the known as #N . This substyle and magazine have received backlash due to use of black , Latino and Hindu culture and culturally exclusive accessories such as the Bindi . Yet Alisa Ueno herself has stated in an interview on her own blog that herself, her own brand FIG&VIPER and
31980-414: The substyles. Heavily bleached or dyed hair is most often seen; shades ranged from dark brown to lighter shades of brown to multiple shades of red or multiple shades of blonde. Hair is mostly styled either by curling it with a curling iron or having straight hair done by the use of a hair straightener. Hair may be curled to create extra volume and heavily crimped up. The hair is crimped differently than in
32175-408: The top spot on the Oricon Albums Chart and shifted 500,000 units throughout Japan. Uncontrolled also gave her the highest first-week sales of the year, and her 10th overall number one in the region. On September 16, Amuro was scheduled to host a special concert tour in her hometown Okinawa , commemorating her 20th anniversary in the music business. However, due to typhoon warnings in the region,
32370-577: The top spot, peaking at number two on the Oricon Albums Chart. Amuro's sales started to decline from this release, as the album only shifted 335,000 units in Japan. To promote the studio album, Amuro toured Japan in March 2001, and finished in May that same year. In August, she released the single " Say the Word "; it was her first single that she contributed to songwriting. This was her first single to be released after departing with Komuro, until years later, and
32565-535: The total sales of Amuro's records reached 20 million units in Japan. During a press conference on October 22 of that year, Amuro confirmed her marriage to Japanese musician and TRF band member Masaharu "Sam" Maruyama. During the conference, she announced that she was three months pregnant with their first child. At the end of the year, she won the Grand Prix Award at the Japan Record Awards again for "Can You Celebrate?" and made her final appearance on
32760-567: The tour was cancelled and never rescheduled. After debuting her first digital single "Damage" on October 31, Amuro finished the year by conducting her 5 Major Domes Tour 2012 in Japan, spanning between November 24 and December 21, 2012, attended by around 340,000 people. Released on February 27, 2013, the Live DVD and Blu-ray of the tour were placed on the first position by Oricon . Their total sales exceeded 300,000 units in Japan. On March 6, 2013, Amuro released her double A-side single " Big Boys Cry/Beautiful ". Although both tracks appeared in
32955-486: The tour, she released the single " All for You " on July 22, 2004, confirming work on her seventh studio album. This was followed by the double A-side single " Girl Talk " and " Girl Talk/The Speed Star ", released on October 14, 2004. It was successful in Japan, peaking at number two, and sold over 107,000 units in that region; it became her first top three single in two years. Amuro decided not to appear on 55th Kōhaku Uta Gassen , although she had been invited to perform at
33150-419: The word "gal" was used to referred to women of the younger generation. The words "pichi pichi gyaru'' (lively attractive gal) and "ike ike gyaru" (cool gal) also appeared in the early 1980s. In Shibuya, there were constructions for several fashion and department stores, and the city became more youth-friendly. On the other hand, in Harajuku, there was a huge boom in street dance culture called Takenokozoku in
33345-487: The words face and black but the term that gyaru use for this substyle is written in Katakana . Gyaru mama are teenage gyaru or women who continued with this style even after having children. BBC News states: "Gal mama are young mothers who refuse to shed their gal-ness". They also would clothe their children in the same style, meaning a boy would look like a gyaru-o while girls would look like
33540-603: Was "Magogyaru", which refers to a junior high school girl. During this period, Kogal was popular to the degree there was also a "Kogyaru boom" in the media, including shows and weekly magazines, featuring specials about kogals on a regular basis. However, in the shadow of this, various issues such as the lack of a concept of chastity and moral values among young people were also brought up at the same time. In particular, with regard to " Enjo kōsai '' (compensated dating), there were concerns that laws prohibiting child prostitution and child pornography had not yet been established, and this
33735-457: Was a commercial success, reaching the top spot on Oricon and distributed over 500,000 units in Japan. On July 27, Amuro released her first triple A-side single, " Naked/Fight Together/Tempest ". Although it reached number two on Oricon Singles Chart , "Fight Together" was used as the theme song of the anime series One Piece . "Naked/Fight Together/Tempest" achieved better sales through digital store and certified double platinum by RIAJ . At
33930-432: Was a success, reaching number two on the Oricon Albums Chart , and sold over 455,000 units in Japan. In collaboration with MGM Studios , Amuro was granted permission to use Pink Panther in the album. A female panther counterpart was created for the album as well. Both panther characters appeared in the music video of "WoWa". In September 2005, Amuro embarked on her Space of Hip-Hop concert tour in Japan. Shortly after
34125-554: Was awarded "Okinawa's National Honor Award" at Okinawa Prefecture Government Office in Naha . By August 21, the total number of pre-ordered Live DVD and Blu-ray of Final Tour 2018 (the concerts in Japan only) exceeded 1 million units in Japan. On August 25, One Piece featured the anime version of Amuro at the end of one of its episodes to bid a farewell to her. The Live DVD and Blu-ray of Final Tour 2018 (the concerts in Japan only) were released on August 29, 2018. On September 15, Amuro made her final appearance as an entertainer at
34320-409: Was coined for gyaru who wanted to revitalize the style during the 2010s during its decline. By the time the style reached popularity and people had noticed its existence, the community of gyaru reacted to it differently than expected; what came was an antiquated, radical and older or more fanatical gyaru accustomed to seeing gyaru in a different ideal and some have even shunned
34515-414: Was commercially successful on the Oricon Albums Chart , debuting at the top spot and was certified platinum by RIAJ. In support of the album, Amuro conducted her FEEL Tour 2013, spanning between August 16 and December 23, 2013. The Live DVD and Blu-ray of the tour were released on February 26, 2014. During the course of Amuro's digital releases, she was offered to feature in the remake of " Waterfalls ",
34710-477: Was commissioned by late Prime Minister Keizō Obuchi , who asked Tetsuya Komuro to write a song conveying "a vision of harmony and interaction in the world in the 21st century". Obuchi later asked Amuro to perform the single at the summit. Amuro's fifth studio album Break the Rules was released on December 20, 2000, and is her final full-length produced album with Komuro. It became her first studio album to miss
34905-404: Was due to her personal issues with Maruyama's family. Retrospectively, The Times attributed her loss in popularity during this era to the attention surrounding her personal struggles, while The Japan Times cited the rise of newer artists Hikaru Utada and Ayumi Hamasaki , who achieved great success in the wake of her hiatus. In a 2005 interview, Amuro said: "Even my closest friend said I
35100-489: Was finished, but I think I may be a little different from the others. My popularity plunged three years ago and I didn’t try to court publicity. It was a real challenge forcing myself to be consistent in not playing up to my fans." Amuro started work on her sixth studio and third collaboration album with Dallas Austin , releasing Diane Warren -written single " Wishing on the Same Star " on September 11, 2002. The single saw
35295-515: Was first published. This magazine introduced the culture of women in the West Coast of the United States, and included punk rock music, along with other genres like new wave and indie. However, the magazine had nothing to do with Japan's gyaru culture. Later, this magazine gained controversy due to its extreme expression of sexuality. ( see Harmful books Progress in the regulation of harmful books ). In 1979, Kenji Sawada 's song " OH! Gal '' became
35490-715: Was granted full custody of Haruto with visitation rights by Maruyama. On May 29, Amuro performed at MTV Video Music Awards Japan for the fourth consecutive year in a row. She won two awards, " Best R&B Video " and " Most Impressive Performing Asian Artist ", making her the first artist to win MTV VMAJ awards four years in a row (she won " Inspiration Award " in 2002, " Best Collaboration " in 2003 and " Best R&B Video " in 2004). Amuro released her seventh studio album Queen of Hip-Pop in July 2005. The album includes four singles: " Alarm ", " All For You ", " Girl Talk/The Speed Star " and " Want Me, Want Me ". Queen of Hip-Pop
35685-483: Was held at the Saitama Super Arena on May 31. In the same month, Amuro recorded a collaboration with Japanese musician Double in a song called "Black Diamond". Despite lacklustre success on the Oricon Singles Chart , it sold over 500,000 ringtone units. On July 26, Amuro participated at the 2008 A-nation music concert; an estimated 25,000 people attended her performance. This was the first time she
35880-484: Was invited to perform in seven years. On July 30, she released her third greatest hits album, Best Fiction . Featuring tracks between 2003 and 2008, Best Fiction sold 681,000 copies in the first week and debuted at number one on the Oricon Albums Chart . Within its third week, Best Fiction sold over one million units, making her the first artist to have one million certified album in three consecutive decades. Best Fiction eventually spent six consecutive weeks at
36075-472: Was made available as a free download on Amuro's official Facebook page. The Live DVD and Blu-ray of the tour were released on December 21, 2011. The final single, " Go Round/Yeah-Oh! ", was released on March 21, 2012, and continued the 100,000 sales streak in Japan. In April, the singer confirmed the release of her 10th studio and first bilingual album Uncontrolled , which premiered on June 27, 2012. The album proved to be commercially successful, reaching
36270-404: Was mainly associated with the store Baby Shoop . Outside of Japan, reception of B-Gyaru is mixed; the debate over cultural appropriation of black American culture is a point of contention among many Western Gyaru . Ganguro also known as 黒ギャル (Kuro Gyaru): is a gyaru style with artificially deep tanned skin and bleached hair, and makeup which tended to use white around
36465-601: Was marked by the Suite Chic project in 2002 and her sixth studio album Style (2003). Amuro's eighth studio album, Play (2007), with the hit single " Baby Don't Cry ", began a period of commercial resurgence. Her comeback was solidified with the 2008 single " 60s 70s 80s " and its parent release Best Fiction . She continued to experiment musically in the 2010s, dabbling in EDM and recording in English, beginning with her tenth studio album Uncontrolled (2012). It featured
36660-462: Was placed on the second position by Oricon . Its total sales exceeded 90,000 units in Japan. Amuro released the third single from her upcoming eight studio album, " Baby Don't Cry " on January 24, 2007; it was used as the theme song for the Japanese television series Himitsu no Hanazono . It was successful in Japan, reaching number three on the Oricon Singles Chart , and sold over 144,000 units in that region, her highest selling single since "Say
36855-432: Was released a month before the album and became Amuro's first single below 100,000 units in sales. Although the album was moderately successful, peaking at number three and shifting over 300,000 units, it only sold a fraction of its predecessor 181920 (1998). In July 2002, Amuro divorced Maruyama, and legally changed her name back to Namie Amuro , having cited irreconcilable differences. According to reports, her divorce
37050-649: Was released in part of her upcoming greatest hits album. Since then, she started to produce her own activities. However, in December she worked with Komuro for the last time on "Lovin' It", a single released as part of Avex's Song+Nation charity project. The single featured Japanese rapper Verbal from the music group M-Flo . Amuro released her second compilation album , Love Enhanced Single Collection , on March 13, 2002. The album reworked nearly every single released after her return from hiatus in 1998, with new vocals, mixes or rearrangements. The single " I Will "
37245-517: Was strongly viewed as a problem. It has also been noted that for many gals, it was only through these sources of funds that they could dress up in the extremely expensive fashions of the Gyaru culture. While Kogal was popular in the 1990s, it was rarely seen in the mass media anymore in the 2000s. However, in foreign countries such as the United States, Kogal is also often used as a general term to describe Japanese high school girls. In some places, Kogal
37440-421: Was taken to hospital, and pronounced dead after noon on March 17. Kenji was then found dead in his car, after consuming insecticide. Upon hearing the news, Amuro postponed all promotional activities and flew back to Okinawa in order to identify her mother's body. A week later, the single debuted at the number two on the Oricon Singles Chart, beaten by the single " Dango 3 Kyodai ". A third single, " Toi et Moi ",
37635-638: Was titled " Hero " and saw a rise in its physical sales, achieving a gold certification by RIAJ . On October 26, 2016, Amuro released two songs " Dear Diary " and " Fighter " as a double A-side single "Dear Diary/Fighter". Both songs were used in Death Note: Light Up the New World , a 2016 movie adaption of the manga of the same name . Amuro conducted her fourth annual tour Live Style 2016–2017, spanning between August 19, 2016, and May 3, 2017. The tour initially scheduled 88 dates, but due to
37830-531: Was used as the theme song of Fuji TV series Bokuno Yabai Tsuma (2016). Despite reaching number four on the region's single chart, the digital sales skyrocketed with the music video of the song, and achieved platinum status months later. The same year in June, Amuro accepted an offer by NHK to record the theme song for the Japanese broadcast of 2016 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro . The single
38025-551: Was used for the Japanese animation movie Pokémon: The Movie 2000 . Both singles proved successful, selling over 400,000 and 200,000 units in that region, respectively. Amuro made her first single debut with Austin on " Something 'Bout the Kiss ", released on September 1, 1999. It became a success in Japan, reaching number three on the Oricon Singles Chart and sold over 390,000 units there. In January 2000, Amuro released her fourth studio album Genius 2000 ; it reached number one on
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