Combinaisons

Floral jumpsuits (popularly known by the French term “combinasions”) are everywhere this summer in Tokyo. In fact, any kind of jumpsuit, but especially the long, loose elastic waisted kind, with a floral sprig print, usually accessorised with platform shoes and a whimsical straw boater. Why? The work-wear  trend: overalls, boiler suits and military jumpsuits have been popular for a while, but this spring saw an explosion of more feminine styles in silk, georgette and light cotton. Stella McCartney tried to push the late 70’s disco look in 2008, but aside from a few brave souls like Rihanna, it didn’t hit the mainstream. This summer though, the look has hit Japan like a heat rash. Wearers say they’re cute, comfortable and easy to accessorise. Comfort aside, it’s a continuation of the floral trend we saw last summer and into winter, but for the first time in many years, the mini is finally out. The idea of a trendy Shibuya girl in anything longer than thigh length was unthinkable 6 months ago, but they’ve embraced the long, loose look, from jumpsuits to maxi dresses, wholeheartedly.  Ironically, it’s a look that Australian girls and brands like Zimmermann championed last summer, but it’s just exploded in Tokyo, where local brands like Alba Rossa, Ciu Ciu and Duras offer almost identical styles.
 

Kirsty Munro