I Just Got Back From Japan, and These Are the 16 Popular Tokyo Street Styles I Spotted — Starting at $5 (2024)

Before I traveled there, I knew that Japanese fashion at its core was known for balancing classic minimalism and contemporary street style. But the moment I got on the JR line from Haneda airport, I began to notice just how effortlessly cool people in Tokyo dressed. It’s no wonder, since Japan’s vibrant fashion designers, including the likes of Onitsuka Tiger, Issey Miyake, and Comme des Garçons, inspire with their blending of basic monochrome and yet experimental pieces.

I couldn’t help but think the looks I saw on my trip would make for the perfect capsule wardrobe (you know, a minimalist wardrobe parsed down to a few select, basic pieces you can wear with anything, usually neutral and of high quality, so they last a long time). As a traveler, I’ve found that this kind of wardrobe is essential, because having pieces you can mix and match means you pack fewer items of clothing —and I’ve always found it more strategic to travel with a carry-on only.

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I observed the trend time and again in Japan: an oversized shirt paired with a blazer, trench coat, or even simply by itself depending on weather conditions. And of course, a lightweight oversized button-up shirt is arguably one of the most versatile base pieces you can have in your capsule wardrobe. Whether you add layers to this piece or wear it with a pair of shorts, you’ll find that this item will add a level of comfort yet sophistication to your look. I love that this Madewell poplin shirt is crisp and strong, yet also delicate, which really embodies the fluidity that is present in Japanese style. When going for a more relaxed timeless vibe, I love adding a pop of color in my bag or sneakers to tie everything together.

To buy: madewell.com, $68 (originally $85)

Can you really build a capsule wardrobe without having a trench coat? I’d argue that the answer is no. I was absolutely blown away to see that what felt like every third person in Tokyo was wearing a trench coat, and the styles and colors really did run the gamut. While I am biased to a classic khaki trench coat, I did notice a wide variety of colors in Japan. Having visited in March, I loved that I could wear my trench coat from day to night, but it’s so genius because it’s great for any season. A classic nude, or even black, trench coat is perfect to dress up or dress down any look depending on weather (major key that it’s waterproof!) and what’s on your itinerary. This classic, versatile Cole Haan style is a particularly good choice, since it’s now 57 percent off at Nordstrom.

To buy: nordstrom.com, from $135 (originally $375)

If you have this bag, then you totally get the hype. As someone who has this bag in three colors, I can’t emphasize enough how perfect this shoulder bag is for traveling. I found it was very common in Japan to see a variety of shoulder bags/fanny packs, and this one is especially popular given how prevalent Uniqlo is throughout Japan — it is its birthplace, after all! The bag has convenient inner pockets with plenty of storage, and its water-repellent finish will ensure that all of your items inside stay safe during those one-off rainstorms. Given the affordability of this product, I highly recommend getting creative with a few colors that you can mix and match to your outfits while traveling.

To buy: uniqlo.com, $20

Can we all agree that a solid oversized blazer has to be the M.V.P. of a capsule wardrobe? Whether you’re wearing it in the office, or strolling through Shibuya City, this boxy yet structured blazer is perfect for dressing up any casual jeans and sneakers outfit combo. Once you get a blazer you love, you’ll be sure to have this piece included weekly in your outfit rotation! Plus, it nails that slightly businessy look that is so prevalent in Tokyo street style.

To buy: nordstrom.com, from $78 (originally $129)

If you want to build a chic and versatile capsule wardrobe, with hints of inspiration from Japanese street style, a classic bomber jacket will enable you to embody that edgy Tokyo Drift vibe. I love how lightweight this &Other Stories version is, so it won’t feel overwhelmingly bulky when you’re packing it in your suitcase. The combo of a classic khaki green with the satin finish makes for a perfect pop of color and texture for a more sporty streetwear look. For an even more affordable yet still classic look, this best-selling Amazon version achieves a similar style for just $36. (If you’re partial to prints, get inspired by the cherry blossoms while maintaining a neutral palette that’ll go with everything in your closet.)

To buy: nordstrom.com, $149; amazon.com, $36

I’ve tried to adopt the ethos of balancing simplicity with practicality, which is a common theme I picked up from Japanese style. One piece in a capsule wardrobe in particular that I believe should follow this same spirit is a really solid pair of sunglasses. One that balances a unique vibe, with good UV protection. I love Ganni, the Danish contemporary ready-to-wear fashion brand, but you can get this solid lookalike for a more affordable price at Amazon. Overall, I love the boldness of this shape, and given its strong rectangular base, these sunglasses are the only pair you’ll need.

To buy: amazon.com, $12 (originally $20)

A basic T-shirt is the foundational building block of every travel wardrobe, and this coveted street-ready style is from Japanese brand Comme des Garçons. The black and white stripes ensure you can layer this your other capsule wardrobe classics, and the red heart gives a hint of personality. Plus, I’d argue that stripes are a neutral —they can be paired with almost anything. If you like the brand, you’ll definitely want to check out their Comme des Garçons Converse, too.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $166

I purchased my first JW PEI bag last summer and I was pleasantly surprised at how great the quality is, especially for the price point. While the goal of building a capsule wardrobe is to ensure you’re buying less products that last a really long time, my experience with JW PEI is that it’s totally worth the price point and the bag serves as a durable piece to add to your rotation. I love a classic vegan leather black crossbody, and the fact that you can wear this during the day and night is perfect when traveling and ensuring that one product gets as much use as possible.

To buy: amazon.com, $68 (originally $80)

When traveling to Japan, I convinced myself that there was a need for only one pair of jeans, and this style from Everlane was that perfect pair. These jeans have a relaxed fit and are mid-rise, which is perfect for my gals who want something to sit right in the middle waist. I also love the darker color, because it can be dressed up for nighttime occasions with a black blazer and chic blouse. I noticed a common theme in Japan is to embrace darker colors and baggier silhouettes, and I’m a huge fan of the quality, cut, and color of these Everlane jeans.

To buy: everlane.com, $118