13 Best Japanese Streetwear Brands Redefining Fashion in 2023

In this article, we’re diving deep into the dynamic world of Japanese streetwear brands that have been causing seismic waves in the fashion industry.

From the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the global runways, these brands are rewriting the rules and giving us a whole new perspective on what it means to create effortless style.

A Bathing Ape (BAPE): Where Creativity Knows No Bounds

It’s only right to kick things off with the powerhouse that is A Bathing Ape, or BAPE for short. This iconic brand has been a mainstay in streetwear culture for years, and for good reason. Known for its signature camo patterns (referred to as “BAPE Camo”) and iconic collaborations, BAPE continues to push the envelope with its cutting-edge designs.

The camouflage design has become synonymous with the brand and is instantly recognisable in the world of streetwear fashion. The BAPE Camo features a mix of Ape head silhouettes and various patterns, giving it a unique and eye-catching appearance on the clothing wrack.

Aside from its camouflage designs, BAPE is also renowned for its collaborations with popular brands, artists, and franchises. These collaborations often result in limited-edition clothing and accessories that become highly sought after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts. Their collaborations extend far beyond clothing, extending to include footwear, accessories, and even lifestyle products.

The brand’s success lies in its ability to seamlessly blend streetwear aesthetics with luxury fashion, creating a unique niche that appeals to a wide audience. BAPE’s bold graphics, vibrant colour choices, and innovative designs have helped it maintain its status as a trendsetter in the fashion industry, influencing streetwear trends worldwide. 

Comme des Garçons: Avant-Garde Meets Streetwise

Comme des Garçons might be more recognised for its high fashion endeavours, but this avant-garde label isn’t afraid to dip its toes into the streetwear pool. Comme des Garçons, often abbreviated as CdG, is renowned for its avant-garde and boundary-pushing approach to fashion.

Founded by the visionary designer Rei Kawakubo in Tokyo in 1969, the brand has become synonymous with creativity, innovation, and unconventional designs that challenge traditional notions of clothing.

One of the most distinctive aspects that Comme des Garçons is known for is its ability to deconstruct and reconstruct garments in ways that defy conventional norms.

This approach results in unexpected fabric combinations, and playful silhouettes that push the boundaries to blur the lines between fashion and art. CdG’s designs provoke thought and conversation, making a statement about the relationship between clothing, identity, and society.

Past the fashion house’s avant-garde designs, Comme des Garçons is recognised for its influential collaborations. The brand has partnered with a diverse range of artists, designers, and brands, resulting in innovative and sought-after collections. These collaborations have not only expanded the brand’s creative reach but also demonstrated its willingness to explore new ideas and concepts.

Comme des Garçons also has its diffusion lines, such as “Comme des Garçons Play,” which features the iconic heart logo designed by artist Filip Pagowski. This sub-line focuses on more accessible and wearable designs while still incorporating CdG’s distinctive aesthetic.

A staple in the industry, Comme des Garçons is celebrated for its fearless experimentation, artistic approach to fashion, and ability to challenge the status quo. The brand’s contributions to the industry have left an indelible mark, influencing designers, artists, and fashion enthusiasts around the world.

Neighborhood: Where Subculture and Style Converge

Since its inception in 1994, Neighborhood has become synonymous with authenticity, rebellion, and a raw edge that sets it apart in the world of fashion. Inspired by motorcycle and counterculture aesthetics (think distressed denim, graphic-heavy pieces, and a devil-may-care attitude) it captures the essence of the urban jungle.

At the core of Neighborhood’s identity is its homage to motorcycle culture, incorporating rugged elements such as leather, denim, and biker-inspired motifs into its designs, to create a unique and edgy aesthetic. This fusion of street style and motorcycle subculture gives Neighborhood its unmistakable look, appealing to those who seek a fashion-forward expression of individuality.

One of the key characteristics that Neighborhood is recognised for is its attention to detail. The brand often features intricate embroidery, patchwork, and distressed finishes, showcasing a commitment to craftsmanship that resonates with its audience. This attention to quality and craftsmanship adds depth and character to Neighborhood’s designs, elevating them beyond mere clothing.

In addition to its motorcycle influences, Neighborhood also draws inspiration from various counterculture movements, music scenes, and Americana. This diverse range of influences results in collections that are both eclectic and cohesive, offering a range of pieces from graphic-heavy tees to intricately designed outerwear.

Neighborhood’s commitment to authenticity and subcultural aesthetics has cemented its status as a leader in the streetwear scene. The brand’s ability to capture the spirit of rebellion and urban cool has earned it a dedicated following of fashion enthusiasts who appreciate its fusion of style, culture, and craftsmanship.

Wacko Maria: From Music to Runway Streetwear

What happens when two former DJs come together to create a streetwear brand? You get Wacko Maria, an eclectic label that draws inspiration from music, art, and film. Known for its intricate embroidery, bold prints, and retro references, Wacko Maria injects a dose of nostalgia into contemporary street fashion.

One of the standout features that Wacko Maria is known for is its intricate embroidery and bold graphics. The brand often incorporates eye-catching motifs, patterns, and imagery that range from Latin American culture, classic tattoo art to vintage album covers. This artistic approach gives Wacko Maria’s clothing a unique and compelling visual identity, making each piece a wearable work of art.

Wacko Maria’s roots in music are another defining aspect of the brand. Co-founded by former DJs, the brand frequently collaborates with musicians, bands, and music-related brands to create limited-edition collections. This musical connection infuses the brand’s clothing with a sense of rhythm and soul, attracting fashion enthusiasts who appreciate the harmony of style and sound.

Wacko Maria’s ability to merge music, art, and retro influences into its streetwear collections has garnered it a dedicated following. The brand’s pieces appeal to those who seek more than just clothing – they seek a reflection of their individuality, a connection to cultural currents, and a touch of rebellious creativity.

Wacko Maria’s reputation for embracing multiple dimensions of expression makes it a standout in the ever-evolving landscape of street fashion.

UNDERCOVER: Where Fashion and Philosophy Collide

Jun Takahashi’s brainchild, UNDERCOVER, seamlessly marries the philosophical concepts of the punk spirit with cutting-edge street style. Expect to see thought-provoking messages on tees, juxtaposed with futuristic graphics. This brand isn’t just about clothing; it’s a platform for expressing ideas and challenging the norm.

UNDERCOVER’s runway shows are a significant part of what the brand is known for. These shows are not just displays of clothing; they are immersive experiences that tell stories, explore themes, and transport the audience into Takahashi’s conceptual world. Each collection is meticulously crafted to evoke emotions, challenge preconceptions, and stimulate critical thinking.

Takahashi’s ability to blend seemingly disparate elements into cohesive designs is a hallmark of its style. Effortlessly combining punk aesthetics with high fashion, streetwear with elegance, and darkness with beauty. This juxtaposition of contrasts creates a unique visual language that resonates with those who appreciate complexity and depth in fashion.

Collaborations are another aspect that UNDERCOVER is recognised for. They’ve teamed up with various artists, brands, and franchises, resulting in collections that fuse different creative visions into wearable art. These collaborations add yet another layer of diversity to UNDERCOVER’s already rich portfolio.

In essence, UNDERCOVER’s capacity to challenge the conventional and provoke thought through its designs encapsulates the idea that fashion is not just about clothing; it’s a medium for conveying emotions, ideas, and perspectives. This blend of intellectualism and artistic expression has earned UNDERCOVER a devoted following and a lasting influence on the fashion landscape.

Visvim: The Intersection of Tradition and Street Style

Visvim stands as a testament to Hiroki Nakamura’s dedication to craftsmanship and tradition. Melding Japanese heritage with contemporary aesthetics, Visvim’s designs are a marriage of intricate textiles, handcrafted details, and a laid-back urban sensibility. This brand’s focus on quality and timeless style is a breath of fresh air.

One of the key features that Visvim is known for is its emphasis on craftsmanship and material selection, often utilising premium materials sourced from around the world, including rare textiles, vintage fabrics, and handcrafted components. Each piece is carefully constructed with an attention to detail that highlights the expertise of artisans and honours the value of time-honoured techniques.

Visvim’s commitment to blending heritage and modernity is another defining aspect of the brand. Nakamura draws inspiration from various global cultures, from Native American and Japanese craftsmanship to Americana and workwear aesthetics. This eclectic mix results in clothing and accessories that tell stories of cultural exchange and celebrate the beauty of diversity.

Footwear is also a significant focus for Visvim, and the brand is particularly known for its iconic FBT moccasin sneakers. These shoes combine traditional moccasin construction with contemporary street style, showcasing Visvim’s ability to create products that are simultaneously rooted in history and relevant to today’s fashion scene.

Nakamura’s passion for exploration and adventure is evident in Visvim’s designs, as the brand often incorporates functional elements such as durable materials and practical features into its clothing and accessories. This reflects the brand’s philosophy that fashion should not only look good, but also serve a purpose in everyday life.

Visvim is celebrated for its fusion of heritage and modernity, its commitment to craftsmanship, and its ability to create pieces that transcend trends and become timeless classics. The brand’s influence on the fashion landscape lies in its ability to honour the past while looking toward the future, a philosophy that resonates with those who appreciate authenticity and quality.

Sacai: Deconstructing Norms with Style

Sacai, led by the brilliant Chitose Abe, is all about unexpected fabric combinations, unconventional silhouettes, and a playful sense of asymmetry. Sacai’s creations are a must for those who want to make a statement while embracing fashion’s ever-evolving nature.

Renowned for its mastery of deconstructed design, the brand often takes familiar garments and reimagines them by combining unexpected elements, textures, and fabrics. This results in pieces that are visually captivating and thought-provoking, blurring the lines between fashion and art.

Sacai utilises intricate fabric manipulations and layering techniques, frequently incorporating pleats, draping, and unexpected fabric combinations to create multidimensional and textured clothing. Their approach adds depth and movement to the garments, resulting in a dynamic and engaging visual experience.

Collaborations are another notable aspect of Sacai’s identity, having partnered with a range of designers, brands, and even sports franchises to create collections that fuse different creative visions. These collaborations often result in hybrid designs that reflect the distinct aesthetics of both parties involved.

Sacai’s ability to juxtapose contrasting elements while maintaining a sense of harmony is a hallmark of its design philosophy. Seamlessly blending sportswear with high fashion, masculine with feminine, and tradition with modernity, balancing contrasts to give their designs a unique and captivating edge.

Abe’s background in pattern-making and her willingness to experiment with structure have elevated Sacai to a position of influence within the fashion industry. The brand’s ability to challenge norms and transform clothing into wearable art has garnered it a dedicated following of fashion enthusiasts who appreciate innovation and creativity.

Issey Miyake: A Lesson in Wearable Art

Issey Miyake, the legendary Japanese fashion designer, is celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to the world of fashion. His innovative approach to design and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of clothing have solidified his position as an icon in the industry.

One of the most iconic aspects of Issey Miyake’s legacy is the introduction of “Pleats Please.” in the late 1980s. Miyake pioneered a revolutionary pleating technique that made garments both wrinkle-resistant and aesthetically captivating. These pleats quickly became a signature feature in his collections, giving his clothing a distinct texture and versatility that redefined contemporary fashion.

Miyake’s ability to seamlessly merge the natural world with technology is another hallmark of his work. His designs often draw inspiration from nature, incorporating elements like flowing water or geometric patterns found in plant structures. These natural inspirations are translated into clothing through cutting-edge materials and innovative construction techniques, resulting in pieces that are not only visually striking but also conceptually rich.

The designer’s experimentation with fabric and textile development has also been pivotal to his career. He has explored unique materials, including A-POC (A Piece of Cloth), a revolutionary concept that involves creating entire garments from a single, continuous piece of fabric without cutting or sewing (see, Issey Miyake S/S runway 1999). This unconventional approach challenges traditional garment construction methods and showcases his commitment to innovation.

Central to Miyake’s ethos was the concept of “three-dimensional design.” He explored how clothing interacts with the human body, often creating garments that are designed to move and adapt to the wearer’s movements, providing not only style but also comfort and flexibility.

Moreover, Issey Miyake’s cross-disciplinary collaborations with artists, architects, and designers from various fields have yielded fashion collections that draw inspiration from diverse sources of creativity. These collaborations reflect his openness to new ideas and his desire to push the boundaries of conventional fashion. His pioneering work continues to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts worldwide, emphasizing that clothing can be a medium for creativity, innovation, and self-expression.

Snow Peak: When Fashion gets Functional

Appreciated for its dedication to crafting high-quality outdoor gear that combines minimalist design with functionality, is Snow Peak. The brand’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and its ability to seamlessly blend outdoor adventure with everyday life have made it a respected and sought-after name in the world of outdoor lifestyle products and japanese streetwear.

Snow Peak’s minimalist and functional design aesthetic is characterised by their clean lines, simplicity, and user-friendly features. Whether it’s a compact camping stove or a sleek insulated jacket, Snow Peak’s designs prioritise both form and function, allowing users to enjoy the outdoors with ease and style.

The brand places a strong emphasis on using premium materials such as titanium, stainless steel, and durable fabrics to create outdoor equipment and clothing that withstand the rigors of nature.

Their camping and outdoor equipment have become particularly iconic, be that the innovative campfire cookware, minimalist tents, or lightweight yet sturdy camping furniture. These products are designed to enhance the outdoor experience, making camping and adventure more enjoyable and convenient.

Snow Peak has expanded its offerings to include a range of lifestyle products and apparel, too. This extension into everyday life reflects the brand’s belief that the outdoor experience can seamlessly integrate with urban living. Their clothing and accessories retain the same commitment to quality and design aesthetics seen in their outdoor gear.

So, if you’re looking for a streetwear brand that places a strong emphasis on utility, sustainability and environmental responsibility, consider investing in Snow Peak. The brand’s commitment to minimising its environmental footprint is evident in its choice of materials, production methods, and initiatives aimed at reducing waste and promoting responsible outdoor practices.

ASICS: SportStyle Staple Throughout the Decades

ASICS is a Japanese athletic footwear and apparel brand committed to creating high-performance sports shoes and gear, especially in the realm of running and other athletic activities. Founded in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka, ASICS has built a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and a dedication to improving athletic performance.

ASICS consistently produces a wide range of running footwear designed to cater to the specific needs of various types of runners, from casual joggers to elite athletes. Using advanced cushioning and support technologies, which help reduce impact and enhance comfort during runs, their trainers are a go-to choice for many runners around the world.

The brand invests heavily in sports science and biomechanics to create cutting-edge footwear. Features like the GEL cushioning system and Impact Guidance System (IGS) are some of the innovations that have become synonymous with ASICS, delivering enhanced comfort, stability, and performance with every step.

Although, thanks to the common blend of exercise gear and streetwear, you’re as likely to see a pair of ASICS under the hem of Japanese selveged denim jeans, as you are at the bottom of a pair of running tights.

WTAPS: Affordability Meets Premium Craftmanship

WTAPS, a Japanese streetwear brand founded by designer Tetsu Nishiyama, is renowned for its military-inspired aesthetics, attention to detail, and its ability to blend street fashion with military heritage. Since its inception in 1996, WTAPS has gained a dedicated following in the fashion world – here’s why you should believe the hype.

One of the key aspects of WTAPS is its strong military influence, often drawing inspiration from military uniforms, utilitarian clothing, and combat gear. This influence can be seen reflected in the choice of materials, functional designs, and the incorporation of military-inspired graphics and motifs into its collections.

We wouldn’t do WTAPS any justice if we didn’t talk about the brand’s attention to detail. Meticulous in its craftsmanship ensures that every piece is well-constructed and of the highest quality. This commitment to quality extends to the selection of materials, the stitching, and even the finishing touches, resulting in clothing and accessories that are not only stylish but also built to last.

WTAPS is also celebrated for its minimalistic and understated aesthetic. The designs often feature a subdued colour palette, simple silhouettes, and a focus on functionality, allowing wearers to incorporate WTAPS pieces into their everyday wardrobe effortlessly.

Collaborations are another notable aspect of WTAPS’ identity, teaming up with various other streetwear labels and artists, creating limited-edition collections that fuse different creative visions. These collaborations have added depth and variety to WTAPS’ offerings, making each release highly anticipated among streetwear enthusiasts.

Uniqlo: A High Street Staple for Daily Basics

Uniqlo has mastered the art of providing high-quality clothing at prices that won’t break the bank. Walk into any Uniqlo store, and you’ll find a wide range of wardrobe essentials that are not only stylish but also designed to last. From cozy knit sweaters to perfectly tailored jeans, Uniqlo offers fashion for everyone, from the fashion-forward trendsetters to the everyday urbanites.

One of Uniqlo’s standout characteristics is its commitment to minimalism. The brand embraces clean lines, neutral color palettes, and timeless silhouettes. This minimalistic approach to design means that Uniqlo pieces can effortlessly fit into any wardrobe, and they’re versatile enough to be dressed up or down for any occasion.

As a brand, they believe that clothing should not only look good, but also perform well in our daily lives. That’s why they’ve developed innovative fabrics and technologies to enhance comfort and functionality. Heattech, for instance, is a fabric that retains heat while remaining lightweight, perfect for battling the winter chill without the bulk. AIRism is designed to wick moisture and keep you cool in the summer heat. These are just a couple of examples of Uniqlo’s commitment to making everyday life better through clothing.

Uniqlo is no stranger to exciting collaborations with designers and artists. These partnerships have resulted in limited-edition collections that bring fresh creativity to their stores. From collaborations with the likes of Jil Sander to unique partnerships with renowned museums like the Louvre, Uniqlo’s ability to merge art and fashion has led to some truly exceptional pieces.

In an era where sustainable fashion is a growing concern, Uniqlo is taking steps to minimise its environmental footprint. The brand is dedicated to ethical and sustainable practices, including the use of responsibly sourced materials and environmentally friendly production processes. Uniqlo’s commitment to sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a responsibility they’re actively pursuing.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to some of 2023’s top Japanese streetwear brands that are causing waves on the global fashion scene. From the edgy designs of A Bathing Ape to the philosophical musings of UNDERCOVER, each brand brings a unique flavour to the table of fashion.

Whether you’re a die-hard streetwear enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates boundary-pushing style, these Japanese brands deserve a prime spot in your fashion radar.

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