Uchuu Kei (宇宙系, literally "Space Style") is a Japanese street fashion subculture that emerged as an evolution of Fairy Kei. It maintains the playful, childlike spirit and layering techniques of its predecessor but shifts the thematic focus entirely to outer space (uchuu) and alien (uchuujin) motifs.[1] Unlike the 1980s nostalgia inherent in Fairy Kei, Uchuu Kei draws inspiration from the futuristic aesthetics of the 1990s and is defined by its fusion of soft colors with bold, futuristic, and synthetic elements.
History[]
Uchuu Kei emerged in the vibrant street fashion scene of Harajuku, Tokyo, specifically branching off from the Fairy Kei subculture.
Fairy Kei itself was largely cultivated by designers who ran second-hand and designer stores in Harajuku, with the 2004 opening of the influential boutique SPANK! being a significant event in the consolidation of the wider aesthetic. While Fairy Kei focused primarily on 1980s Western nostalgia, Uchuu Kei evolved by adopting the maximalist, cute, and pastel approach but grounding its fantasy in space-age futurism and 1990s pop culture. It consciously moved away from vintage authenticity, embracing the artificial and the loud, neon visuals that were distinct from the softer, purely pastel look of its predecessor.
Fashion[]
Uchuu Kei is distinguished by a highly curated blend of its core color palette and choice of materials, which are designed to evoke a playful, science-fiction aesthetic.
Colors and Materials[]
The foundation of the style rests on the classic pastel shades inherited from Fairy Kei, which are then aggressively mixed with fluorescent or neon colors and cool tones like deep blues and purples to create a celestial, electric vibrancy. These colors are frequently accented by metallic silver and black to emphasize the futuristic, space-inspired look.[1]
The choice of materials is central to achieving the futuristic feel:
- Artificial/Synthetic Materials: Unlike the fuzzy, natural textiles of some other kawaii styles, Uchuu Kei utilizes PVC, vinyl, and glossy fabrics to give clothing a smooth, plastic, and otherworldly sheen.
- Glitter and Holographic Fabrics: Garments often incorporate glitter or holographic materials to mimic stars, distant galaxies, or technological surfaces.
Garments and Layering[]
Outfits are characterized by layered complexity and playful silhouettes:
- Base pieces include neon or metallic tutu skirts, cropped shirts featuring cute space-themed patterns (e.g., aliens, planets), and oversized, layered sweaters or jackets.
- Leggings or patterned knee-high socks are popular, often combined with bright, wacky sneakers or high heels. Vinyl legwarmers or fluffy accessories (fluffies) may also be incorporated.
- Hair is often styled big, messy, and brightly colored to match the outfit's vibrant, pop aesthetic.
Accessories and Motifs[]
Accessories in Uchuu Kei are literal and direct translations of its theme, moving away from the vintage toy motifs of Fairy Kei:
- Accessories prominently feature space motifs, such as images of rockets, alien heads, stars, planets, and moons.
- Outfits sometimes feature structural elements like rings or circular details positioned on shoulders or the ends of skirts/dresses.
- Headwear includes decorative headbands, futuristic-looking headphones, and even playful, miniature space helmets as theatrical pieces.[2]
Makeup[]
Makeup can vary from simple to extremely vibrant. It frequently features unusual and unconventional lipstick colors (such as bright blues, greens, or purples) to complement the alien-pop aesthetic.
Resources[]
Vendors[]
Gallery[]
References[]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "What is Uchuu Kei? The Japanese space-themed fashion trend" on m16nebula.com
- ↑ "Glitter Puffs: Uchuu✰Kei~" on glitter-puffs.blogspot.com