What Is Women's Mode Fashion?
The term “mode” comes from the French word mode, meaning “fashion” or “trend.” In the context of mode fashion, it refers to styles inspired by the cutting-edge looks presented each season by high-end brands in fashion capitals such as Paris, Milan, and London. While fashion trends constantly change, the term “Japanese mode fashion” often evokes the bold, avant-garde aesthetics pioneered by iconic Japanese designers like COMME des GARÇONS and Yohji Yamamoto, who made a global impact in the 1970s and 1980s. Think of dramatic monochromes such as black and gray, unconventional silhouettes, and distinctive, individualistic styles — the legacy of Japan’s revolutionary approach to fashion.
Key Features of Women’s Mode Fashion
When it comes to women’s mode fashion, three characteristics often come to mind.
・Black-based monochrome
・Oversized or unconventional silhouettes that deviate from the natural shape of the body
・Unique textures and fabric treatments
Mode fashion is sometimes perceived as avant-garde or difficult to wear in everyday life. However, there are simple ways to incorporate mode elements into your daily outfits, which we will explore in the following sections.
Does women’s mode fashion seem difficult? How to try mode styling with pieces you already own – Tips to master the look even for beginners.
・Base your outfit on monochrome colors like black, white, and gray
・Pay attention to distinctive design elements and patterns
・Include luxury brand items in your outfit
・Include seasonal items like T-shirts and jackets in your outfit
Layering with Accent Colors
Jacket: MM6 / Shirt: me ISSEY MIYAKE / Skirt: ISSEY MIYAKE / Pants: THE ROW / Shoes: JIL SANDER / Bag: MARNI
This styling features a vibrant purple palette, combining a design-forward skirt by ISSEY MIYAKE with tailored pants. A jacket adds a polished touch, while the skirt paired with mesh sandals brings a stylish, contemporary flair.
All-Black Outfit with a Feminine Twist
Coat: REGULATION Yohji Yamamoto / KNIT: PRADA / SKIRT: COMME des GARÇONS / Shoes: VIRON / Bag: COMME des GARÇONS
This look centers on a COMME des GARÇONS check skirt styled in an all-black outfit. While black can often lean toward a masculine vibe, incorporating bold accent pieces adds feminine touches, allowing you to master mode fashion with both edge and elegance.
COMME des GARÇONS, founded by Rei Kawakubo, is one of Japan’s most iconic fashion brands. When the brand debuted at Paris Fashion Week in the 1980s, it challenged the prevailing trends of vibrant colors by embracing black and presenting avant-garde designs such as garments with intentional holes. This daring approach, often referred to as the “Shock of Black” or the “Boro Look,” sparked both acclaim and controversy.
Driven by freedom and a rebellious spirit, COMME des GARÇONS constantly overturns conventional fashion ideas, exploring new possibilities and creating unprecedented designs from scratch. Its evolving philosophy is reflected in many distinctive pieces that remain timeless, transcending trends and serving as classic wardrobe staples for years to come.
