Pyschedelia, Japanese-style, at organic farmers market

Food trucks accompany the Tokyo farmers markets. I *love* these neon green boots, adding an 80s twist to a classic psychedelic look.

Two types of police at the entry gate to the Imperial Palace

The trench coat guys are super creepy. I love how the white gloved, white megaphone po-po are wearing combat boots. Just in case the crowd turns ugly?

The crowd’s excitement on entering normally forbidden territory is contagious.

Waiting at JR Nakano Station

Last week I was waiting for a friend at the Nakano JR station. He was late, but it didn’t matter. That station is one of my favorite people watching spots. At any time of day or night, there are always people waiting at the North Exit for friends to show up. Nakano has none of the desperate fashion extremes of Shibuya or Harajuku (fueled largely by suburban visitors, no doubt), but always a fun mix of mod, retro, regular and unique styles. I like this young guy’s studied indifference to being watched and photographed. Not sure about the 70s shark skin jacket, but I love the over-sized man-bag and boots. Plus the photo includes a bonus salaryman’s back side.

Japanese construction workers are best dressed!

There should be a global competition for construction worker fashion, and Japanese would definitely score gold. From the Yoji Yamamoto wide pants to the ever present small towels to the super plucked eyebrows, Japanese construction workers are always riveting. Plus, what’s with workers wearing white rubber boots?! I find that *very* hot.

All images from a website where you can order these fashions, called Tobi.jp.

White pointy boots

My eyes are always riveted in the wrong direction. We were at Jindaiji Temple for Girl’s Day, and there was a beautiful temple with monk musicians and chanting, thousands of daruma good luck dolls for sale (plus a return bin for those whose wishes had come true), a variety of snacks served by yakuza, and on-and-on.

I simply could not get enough of these boots. It combines two impractical elements: pointy form and white color– into one splendor of male vanity. Could I squeeze my fat feet into such gorgeous vessels? Would I need to buy a larger man bag to pull of the look?

Boots in

A new male youth fashion is called “boots in.” It involves super skinny pants, often jeans but not always, tucked inside mid-calf boots. This guy’s shoes are not as impressive as his overall pose. But it gives you the idea.

Shouldn’t it be called “pants in” instead of “boots in”? Oh well, Japanese English is always unpredictable.

Dress code for US aircraft carrier

A friend has been invited for a private tour of a US aircraft carrier, and asked me what would be appropriate dress code. Other than anti-war protests, my only direct experience with the Navy is Cher’s “If I could turn back time.” For Cher, a super-sized wig, thong, minimal V-shaped fabric covering the front, metallic belt, fish nets, garters and high heeled boots seemed to make the sailors smile and dance in her video.

What would you recommend? Are double butt tattoos mandatory for aircraft visits?