Street Observations: Unconscious Elegance

After dropping off my daughter at nursery school

Just a little detour.

After a quick look around the Heian Flea Market

Waiting at a traffic light on the way to the store.

Suddenly, a foreign woman appeared at the edge of my field of vision.

For some reason, I was strongly attracted to that sight.

Although it's not particularly noticeable

There was an overwhelming sense of completion there.

A slightly dull olive color

Riding a mamachari

He casually wears a military-style jacket.

Sleeves rolled up slightly

On his back is a nylon backpack from an outdoor brand.

So far, this is the kind of casual attire you'd see quite often in town.

But the crucial difference was in the feet.

Mixed color green socks

Tonal green leather loafers.

And the loafers are by no means new.

They're slightly worn and have a matte sheen.

And yet, or rather, because of that

It had an unusual presence in this outfit.

When it comes to color matching, "match similar colors"

That's a common technique.

But in this person's case, it wasn't intentional.

It felt like a natural harmony that arose as an extension of everyday life.

In other words, it's not "fashionable"

The feeling of "wearing everyday clothes."

This is something that Japanese people have a hard time reaching.

There is an aesthetic of "relaxed fashion."

We Japanese are similar

Let's say you choose a jacket and pants combination.

I'll probably bring sneakers.

Because it's a standard and gives a sense of security.

But she was different.

Ease of walking and practicality

Rather, it is the "atmosphere that I have"

It seemed like they were matching their feet.

I think this "discomfort" is the magic of fashion.

The sense of balance makes you wonder, "Is this a bit off?"

The result is a unique style.

There are also big cultural differences.

In European and North American cities

Clothes are a form of self-expression

At the same time, there is a deep-rooted awareness that it is a part of everyday life.

It's not "trying hard" at all

"What is being yourself?"

It will appear naturally as a result of continuing to ask questions.

I looked at her feet and thought again.

"Style" is not a trend or a technique.

A silent dialogue with myself

I realized that it's something that is created through repeated efforts.

That's why those green loafers

Not just shoes

Even her "way of life"

Maybe it looked like it was being projected.

The traffic light turns green.

She quickly stepped on the pedal

It ran away, blending into the city.

"Waiting at a traffic light on an ordinary morning.

But there is also a casual and stylish

It was packed full of hints.