When we think of fashion cities, Paris, Milan or New York usually come to mind. However, some of the best designers and streetwear looks have come from Tokyo in recent decades. A quick stroll down Harajuku, Shibuya, Ginza or Shinjuku will leave you inspired, awed and completely rethinking your wardrobe.
There are so many different and interesting fashion subcultures in Japan but their general style is robust, pragmatic, slightly oversized, comfy and leans heavily on natural fabrics and impeccable workmanship. Perfect for fall fashion, whether you want to get cozy on the couch or explore downtown Kuwait.
Whatever the season, our destination for that put-together but still very comfortable look is always MUJI. But more so during the cooler autumn months.
FIND YOUR NEUTRAL
We’re not sure who made the rules about what colors are neutrals, but we think that all the colors at MUJI can be considered neutral. Black, navy, gray, olive green and beige are all perfect jumping points for an outfit. It is always a good idea to pick one, then start adding items that complement or contrast with it for a full outfit, depending on your style preference.
LEAN ON LINEN
Linen is a magical plant-based fabric that keeps you cool in the summer but is a great fall and winter layer. MUJI has a fabulous collection of dresses and shirts that look great when matched with tights and boots or under a chunky knit cardi. Linen also tends to age very well, the more you wear and wash it the softer it gets.
WARM UP WITH WOOLENS
We usually shy away from heavy wool clothing in Kuwait because of the warm climate even during the coldest months, but MUJI designs and makes fabulous shirts and dresses that are made from very fine merino wool that is much lighter than what you are normally used to. The thin layer will keep you warm but not overheat.
BALANCE THE SILHOUETTE
We love pairing the wide legged pants with more fitted tees or shirts for a more streamlined look. Balancing your outfit will largely depend on your body. There’s no right or wrong way to do it and you might want to experiment. For example, if you are broader in the shoulders you might want to try the long linen dress shirts for a leaner and longer look.
OVERSIZED NOT NOT-YOUR-SIZE
Many of the items at MUJI are on the boxy or oversized side, which is perfect for easy wearing. But that doesn’t mean that they should swallow you up. If you are new to this aesthetic, it might be tricky at first. But the rule of thumb is if a shirt, top or dress fits properly at the shoulders then it is your size. For bottoms make sure that the waist is comfortable. The clothing should look drapey and not overwhelming.
LAYERS
We love the haori style jackets at MUJI, they are a must-have layering piece in any wardrobe. They work well with jeans, skirts and even over dresses. You can easily mix and match colors for visual interest. Adding long necklaces too can add subtle layers without being too much. Or try wearing a shirt over the beautiful linen dresses.
ACCESSORIZE
Most of the time the addition of the right accessory elevates an outfit from clothes to a “look”. MUJI has a beautiful collection of scarves and light shawls. There are so many different ways of wrapping a scarf that are creative and exciting. Spend an evening practicing so you can get ready in a minute.
DENIM
MUJI stocks an amazing collection of organic 4-way stretch denim that is very competitively priced. Their jeans are the kind that you know will last you for decades because of how well they are constructed and the high quality materials they are made from.
YOUR AESTHETIC
Because most of the items are in solid and neutral colors, MUJI’s clothes are like an artist’s blank canvas. You can play with them to create whatever aesthetic you are into. They’re made from the best natural fabrics so they will last for a long time even if your personal style shifts and changes.
For MUJI fashion visit the MUJI store in Grand Avenue – The Avenues. For more information, follow MUJI on Instagram @mujimiddleeast.
