The London Lookbook: Japanese Dreams

June 25, 2014

The London Lookbook: Japanese dreams

Many of my sartorial choices air on the side of eccentric. When I was a little girl my parents indulged my quirky tendencies by letting me wear whatever I wanted. One of my favourite looks was a tutu, a croupier’s visor and an 80’s slogan T-shirt with a pair of red wellies. I was three years old and this was the outfit I chose to wear to a birthday party. Another look I rocked was a Victorian style petticoat paired with a fireman’s helmet. My creative grandparents were responsible for making my brother and I an array of costumes. Clothes created for play-time became everyday staples. I was lucky to grow up in a family where self-expression was encouraged.

This look verges on the fancy dress, but that’s why I love it. I’ve been into kimonos for a while, I’m craving the comfort of soft fabrics ebbing and flowing around my shoulders. There are lots of high street and designer kimonos around at the moment. In terms of how to style this look, an obvious route is to go down the Coachella path and pair a kimono with denim cut-offs and a peasant blouse. I would personally steer clear of this look because I think it’s a little contrived.

This is a vintage beauty from Japan that I found on Ebay. The beautiful colours and floral print make me very happy. Worn with this pleated maxi dress and coral heels (both from ASOS), this is my take on the bright bohemian trend.

Rosa is an actress and writer living and working in London. She is also the writer behind Haute Hoskins (www.hautehoskins.com), where she talks trends, new designers and vintage fashion with a dash of social commentary.