Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere

Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere

      If you've recently perused travel destination guides, you’ve likely noticed Tokyo consistently ranks high—leaving no wonder as to why. The Japanese capital offers a harmonious mix of traditional customs and futuristic advancements. Beyond attractions like temples, Shibuya Crossing, and towering buildings, what specifically attracts travelers, particularly those attuned to style, is the fashion scene. It’s not solely about the excellent vintage shops or designer stores, but also the street style that captivates. This explains why someone on your Instagram feed likely posts pictures from Tokyo about once a month, possibly persuading you to plan a getaway. If that is the case and your trip is approaching with thoughts of outfit photos, you’re in the right place. Since Tokyo remains high on my travel list, I sought advice on what to wear and what to avoid in the city. I reached out to two fashion veterans who possess deep knowledge of Tokyo and its style standards: Ana Escalante, an associate features editor at Who What Wear, and Diana Tsui, a consultant, stylist, and writer, both of whom offered valuable insights on how to pack effectively. Their main emphasis is on dressing deliberately, prioritizing comfort and practicality.

      "I have visited Japan eight times in the past decade—one stay lasted over a year as I embraced my Kawaii girl fantasy in Tokyo—so I have a decent understanding of what to wear there (and notably, what not to wear)," Escalante reveals. She emphasizes that Tokyo's style revolves around practicality: “I always adjust my style when I’m there to avoid standing out too much,” she explains. “Neutral tones, simple basics, and oversized silhouettes are essential, whether you’re exploring Kichijoji or enjoying late-night sushi in Shibuya.”

      For footwear, both Escalante and Tsui concur that comfort is crucial. You’ll be walking extensively—“easily 20,000 steps,” says Tsui—and you don’t want to regret your shoe choice after a long day of exploration. “I lived in my Cecilie Bahnsen x Adidas and my Nike Muse sneakers during my time there,” Tsui mentions. In addition to sneakers, Tsui and Escalante suggest ballet flats like Maison Margiela Tabis, loafers, or sneakerinas for a blend of comfort and style. “You really don’t need much else—not even pajamas, since most hotels provide them,” Tsui adds.

      Continue reading to find out the five specific trends to skip in Tokyo and what to wear instead.

      Wear: Relaxed Jeans

      Skip: Skinny Jeans

      (Image credit: @balencianas) Comfort reigns supreme in Tokyo, so despite rumors of skinny jeans making a comeback, the fashion-forward crowd still opts for relaxed denim. This translates to loose straight-leg or completely baggy styles. Besides being fashionable, anti-skinny jeans offer comfort for long days spent exploring new areas.

      Shop the trend:

      - Levi Low Loose Women's Jeans

      - Urban Outfitters Bdg Kayla Low-Rise Jean

      - Citizens of Humanity Annina Straight Leg Jeans

      Wear: Flat Shoes

      Skip: Heels

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics) “Even though I love heels, I won’t wear anything but flat, comfortable shoes in Tokyo,” Escalante admits. “You might get by with kitten heels for short distances, but you could end up regretting that choice.” Therefore, it's essential to pack ballet flats, mules, stylish slippers, or loafers—pairs you know are comfortable and won’t cause blisters. Discover the chicest styles available now.

      Shop the trend:

      - Nordstrom Maddox Ballet Flat

      - Tony Bianco Libby Choc Vintage

      - Reformation Zealand Flat Mule

      Wear: Long Coats

      Skip: Cropped Jackets

      If you plan to visit Tokyo during the cooler months and need outerwear, skip cropped jackets in favor of longer ones. Ideal choices include a car coat, trench coat, long shearling jacket, or a quilted option. While printed patterns like leopard, stripes, or plaid can be appealing, a solid-colored, streamlined coat is more versatile and easier to style. If you’re traveling from late April onward, when Tsui notes it gets hot and humid, consider leaving the jacket at home.

      Shop the trend:

      - & Other Stories Belted Car Coat

      - The Tiny Big Sister Striped Trench Coat

      - Chan Luu Techno Taffeta Jacket

      Wear: Technical Sneakers

      Skip: Platform Sneakers

      (Image credit: Getty Images) Sneakers are a safe choice if you’ll be on your feet all day. However, don’t just pack any sneakers. The currently trending styles in Tokyo and many places worldwide are technical sneakers, featuring performance-focused designs and details like toggle fastenings, lug soles, and a mix of mesh and leather. Many of these are hiking and trail shoes, such as Salomon's XT-6 and Alo's new Trail models, but they also adapt well

Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere

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Trust Me—I'm a Fashion Editor: 5 Trends to Avoid in Tokyo and What to Wear Elsewhere

Explore the five trends that you should embrace.