[Cover photo: 瀬戸 ももあ (Seto Momoa; @momoa.seto on IG)]
🌸 Discover gyaru fashion — Japan’s bold, glamorous style. Learn every gyaru substyle from Hime to Rokku and find expressive looks at Super Tiny Forest!
{gyaru fashion, Japanese street fashion, gyaru substyles, Hime gyaru, Onee gyaru, Agejo, Manba, Rokku gyaru, Amekaji, kawaii fashion, Tokyo street style, Shibuya style, gyaru makeup}
🌺 The World of Gyaru: Japan’s Daring, Glamorous Fashion Revolution
If you love bold beauty, glitter, and fearless fashion, then gyaru (ギャル) might just steal your heart. Originating in Japan during the 1990s, gyaru became one of the most iconic and rebellious fashion movements ever — celebrating confidence, individuality, and ultra-glam self-expression.
What started as a reaction against traditional beauty ideals turned into a global style phenomenon that continues to inspire creators, brands, and trendsetters today. Let’s explore what makes gyaru so magical — and the colorful substyles that have shaped its world.
💖 What Is Gyaru?
The word gyaru comes from the English word “gal,” and it represents a girl who’s unapologetically herself. Gyaru fashion first exploded in Shibuya, Tokyo, where girls rocked tanned skin, bleached hair, big lashes, circle lenses, and platform heels.
It was loud, proud, and fun — a total break from the modest beauty standards of the time. But more than just clothes or makeup, gyaru became a lifestyle filled with friendship, parties, and confidence.
🌸 The Many Gyaru Substyles
One of the reasons gyaru stayed so popular is its diversity. From ultra-cute princess vibes to punky rock looks, there’s a gyaru style for everyone.
💅 Kogyaru (コギャル)
The original schoolgirl gyaru! Kogyaru girls took their uniforms to the next level with short skirts, loose socks, dyed hair, and designer bags. Think rebellious energy and carefree spirit straight out of 1990s Shibuya.
Signature Look: plaid skirts, long socks, loose ties, caramel hair, tanned skin.
🖤 Onee Gyaru (お姉ギャル)
For the elegant and mature gyaru, Onee Gyaru offers a refined, feminine take. Picture neutral colors, sleek hair, and fitted dresses that exude confidence and luxury.
Signature Look: neutral tones, bodycon silhouettes, heels, glossy lips, designer accessories.
🌞 Manba & Yamanba
The most dramatic gyaru styles ever! With deep tans, white makeup accents, neon hair, and bold accessories, these looks were pure, colorful chaos in the best way possible.
Signature Look: bright makeup, white highlights around the eyes, colorful extensions, platform boots.
👑 Hime Gyaru (姫ギャル)
Meaning “princess gyaru,” this substyle is pure fantasy. Think big curls, lace, pearls, and pastel pink everything. Inspired by Rococo fashion and fairytales, Hime Gyaru girls turned every day into a royal occasion.
Signature Look: tiaras, frilly dresses, pastel tones, voluminous hair, sparkly rhinestones.
💃 Agejo
The queen of nightlife gyaru! Agejo style mixes sexiness with sophistication — often seen in glamorous clubwear and magazine looks from egg and Koakuma Ageha.
Signature Look: leopard prints, fur coats, smoky makeup, mini dresses, bold heels.
🔥 Tsuyome Gyaru (強めギャル)
Literally meaning “strong gal,” Tsuyome Gyaru is all about being confident and bold. It’s the mix of power and glamour — think strong eyeliner, bronzed skin, voluminous hair, and edgy fashion.
Signature Look: dark lashes, gold jewelry, bold prints, and high heels.
🎸 Rokku Gyaru (ロックギャル)
For those who love a little edge, Rokku Gyaru fuses rock and gyaru aesthetics. Think punk-meets-glam with black lace, skull prints, leather, and smoky eyes — all while keeping that signature gyaru flair.
Signature Look: fishnets, studded accessories, red plaid, smoky makeup, platform boots.
🌈 Amekaji (アメカジ)
Short for “American casual,” Amekaji gyaru takes inspiration from 2000s U.S. streetwear and vintage Americana. It’s fun, sporty, and full of color — think denim jackets, baseball caps, and retro logos.
Signature Look: denim skirts, sneakers, varsity jackets, layered tees, big smiles.
💎 Bibinba Gyaru (ビビンバギャル)
One of the most vibrant substyles, Bibinba gyaru embraces shine, glitter, and gold. Inspired by luxury and playfulness, it’s full of sparkle and over-the-top glam energy.
Signature Look: gold accents, rhinestones, flashy accessories, long nails, bright colors.
🪞 Haaady Gyaru (ハーディギャル)
This style is loud, confident, and full of energy — influenced by Western celebrities and early 2000s pop culture. Think colorful prints, flashy accessories, and bold makeup paired with major confidence.
Signature Look: colorful animal prints, big curls, platform shoes, fun poses.
🦋 Casual & Modern Gyaru
In today’s fashion world, gyaru has evolved into more wearable, everyday versions. Many gyaru-inspired looks now blend streetwear, neutral tones, and subtle glam while keeping that signature confident energy.
Signature Look: crop tops, jeans, tan tones, winged eyeliner, shiny lips.
💎 Why Gyaru Still Inspires Us
Gyaru fashion might have started decades ago, but its influence still sparkles in today’s culture. From makeup trends and hairstyles to influencer aesthetics, gyaru’s fearless creativity continues to shine.
At Super Tiny Forest, we love how gyaru reminds us to express ourselves freely — to be bold, colorful, and authentic in everything we wear. Whether you’re channeling your inner princess or showing off a little glam edge, gyaru’s message is timeless:
✨ Be confident. Be playful. Be you. ✨
🌸 Explore Your Gyaru Side
Feeling inspired? Explore the collections at Super Tiny Forest
— where every piece is curated to help you express your inner sparkle. From soft, dreamy pieces to edgy statement looks, there’s something for every gyaru heart. 💖