One thing I miss about being a kid was getting my first few issues of mainstream fashion magazines. I would hide in my room, pouring over their pages like they were an endless source of inspiration.
I was that cliche future fashion design student who started out obsessing over embellishments, silhouettes, and sultry model gazes before I even had my first job.
There was something so romantic about that window to the world, from my innocent point of view. Fashion magazines were the most exciting thing ever.
I was less interested in the idea of trends or the “cool factor” associated with fashion and more in love with how special it felt. Dressing up in massive gowns, dripping with jewels, covered in intricate embroidery… That was my kind of style.
I actually found that, once I got to fashion school, my faerie tale view of fashion was almost laughable compared to the more realistic, elevated vision of my peers.
I wish I’d been more self-assured and explored the fantastical element of fashion that I loved so much. Instead, I shrank down and tried to figure out how to make that work for me.
Anyway, I’ve been able to explore my passions more thoroughly with my side projects since then, so no harm done. 😉
I was recently walking through Bryant Park and decided to duck into Kinokuniya, where I’ve been shopping for Japanese magazines and stationary forever.
You’ll find no shortage of cool magazines, books, and gifts for virtually any kind of person there. It’s truly a fascinating place to duck into when you’re holiday shopping or running to/from the office.
Japanese fashion magazines have long since been a favorite source of inspiration for me, largely because of the eccentric and creative editorial content.
There’s always a fresh, feminine, cute take on styling high fashion pieces, where North American and European magazines are more focused on being as sleek and elevated as possible.
I like the way Japanese magazines have fun with fashion and treat it more like a celebration.
These were just a few of the pages that stood out to me this week from the November issue of VOGUE Japan. Lots of cozy textures, primary pop colors, metallics, and luxe details.
I thought I would share them here because, once upon a time, I would post magazine tear sheets here on the blog that inspired me.
These pages really encompass the joy of the holidays and the crisp excitement of impending winter. I love the sporty-meets-sophisticated styling. It makes me want to book a chalet vacation and dress to the nines!
What’s your favorite source of style inspiration right now?
