Shopping for Japanese alternative fashion can be hard, especially if you’ve never done it before. If you’re looking for gifts for a j-fashion fan this Christmas, I’ve compiled a list of shops that making shopping a breeze. All of these website are in English, have a simple cart system, and have English speaking staff, so if you run into trouble you’ll be able to ask questions. All you need to do is find the style your j-fashion fan wears!
And of course, if you wear j-fashion, feel free to send this guide to your friends, email it to your dad, or print out a copy and give it to grandma. I’m sure they’ll get the hint.
For the Sweet Lolita fan on your list…
Harajuku Hearts
Located in San Francisco, Harajuku Heart carries a variety of Japanese brands, making them a great place to shop for your sweet lolita fan.
Why we like them:
They carry authentic Japanese brands, so you can shop with confidence knowing you won’t get scammed.
Need a budget option?
Try their stationery section, like this sticker from Imai Kira.
For the Classic Lolita fan on your list…
42lolita
While 42lolita doesn’t make the clothes themselves, they curate a selection of lolita fashion on their website and act as a proxy buyer for brands who sell on Taobao. They’ve been a trusted service in the Lolita fashion community for more than 10 years, so they know their stuff!
Why we like them:
They carry Chinese lolita fashion brands who create original designs perfect for classic lolitas. (Plus they sponsor me, so use code LOVELYLACEANDLIES for 5% off your order). They’re a great budget friendly option. Look for brands like Miss Point, Forest Wardrobe, or Tiny Garden for something your classic lolita will love.
Don’t know their size?
You can’t go wrong with a hat, like this one from Xiaogui.
For the Gothic Lolita fan on your list…
Lolita Collective
What started as a collective of Midwestern lolita fashion brands banding together to sell their items at conventions is now a brick and mortar and online shop that has been around for over 10 years. They represent more than 90 independent brands and artists creating and selling j-fashion.
Why we like them:
They sell lots of indie brands, including brands from all over the world. Shopping with the Lolita Collective is supporting small artists!
Need a something to arrive before Christmas?
Keep an eye out for their “instant shipping” items, like this ring from Dandy Puppeteer. These items ship from their store in Missouri.
For the Ouji fan on your list…
42lolita
While we’ve already talked about them, their vast selection means that you can shop for many styles at one store!
Need a budget option?
While getting a whole set is a great gift, ouji fans will appreciate accessories like this hat from Princess Chronicles for under $20
For the Decora fan on your list…
Kei Collective
Located in Phoenix, Arizonza, Kei Collective stocks and sells apparel, stickers, and more from indie artists from all over. They also recently listing secondhand goods online.
Why we like them:
You truly never know what you’re going to find from the artists in their store, which range from the kawaii to the kowai.
Looking for plus size options?
Egglien’s colorful knits are perfect for Decora, and their sizes go up to 6X!
For the Jirai kei fan on your list…
Honey Pepper IX
California based Honey Pepper is inspired by current trends in Harajukju fashion, including jirai-kei and tenshi kaiwai.
Why we like them:
Their sizes go up to 4X, making them a great option if you’re looking for gifts for a plus size j-fashion fan.
Need something before Christmas?
They ship from California, so your items should arrive with time to spare. Just confirm you’re not purchasing something that’s a pre-order.
For the Mori kei fan on your list…
Forest Girl Clothing
Based in Washington, Forest Girl Clothing is a mix of upcycled pieces, curated vintage pieces, and clothing designed by their brand. If your fashionista is into mori kei or cottage core, this is the brand for them!
Why we like them:
Their original designs including an expansive size range.
Looking for a budget option?
Their hair accessories are the perfect stocking stuffers.
For the Fairy Kei fan on your list…
Kei Collective
While we’ve already mentioned them on this list, their collection of secondhand pastel knits are great for fans of fairy kei!
Not sure what size you need?
Check out the Fairy Kei Short Wallet from Kira Kira Karakasa.
For the Visual kei fan on your list…
Chaotic Harmony
US based Chaotic Harmony imports visual-kei merch and Japanese street fashion brands, making it the perfect place to shop.
Why we like them:
They carry authentic merch from a variety of visual kei bands.
Not sure what band to get?
While hopefully you know about your visual kei fan’s favorite band because you always listen to them wax poetic about them, you can always get them a cool accessory from Hellcatpunks that they can wear to their next show.
For the Himekaji fan on your list…
Lilia and Lace
Tired of “one size” options from Japanese brands, Lilia and Lace creates adorable original designs in a range of sizes.
Why we like them:
Their pieces are cute and comfy, making them a great addition to any j-fashion wardrobe!
Looking for plus size options?
Their original designs go up to 4X!
For the Gyrau fan on your list…
Hello Angel Girl
Channeling the wild and sexy designs of 2000s gal style, Hello Angel Girl is a one stop shop for gifts for a fan of gyaru fashion.
Why we like them:
Their releases offer bundles that include a full co*de, so you can rest easy knowing your gal will have something that matches!
Not sure what size to get?
Check out their Rave Kitty Hooded Scarf With Mittens, which is one size fits all!