I was first introduced to the world of Phenomenon fashion at an FIT exhibit a couple years ago. I accompanied the other half to a lecture on how Japanese fashion influences America, as well as the rest of the fashion world. Photography was not allowed, otherwise that lecture, and the fashion that was on display, would be its own FASHION FOCUS piece.

(Here’s a link to a write-up about an exhibition that was at the museum shortly after the lecture we attended: http://www.prweb.com/releases/MFIT/Japan-Fashion-Now/prweb3940234.htm )

Anyhoo, I remember being drawn to the Phenomenon pieces and seeing these boots….

*not to mention the rest of the look, right?* and although there was work from multiple designers, the Phenomenon pieces were the most striking. Lots of metallic energy, pieces that resembled armor, exaggerated shoulders, knees and elbows. It was futuristic male fashion warrior. It was VERY MUCH for my senses.

This 2012 S/S collection is quite toned down from the pieces I originally saw, but i enjoyed it nonetheless. “The theme of the Phenomenon 2012 S/S collection shown at Japan Fashion Week was “Nippon – Kodomo – Mirai” (“Japan – Child – Future”). The collection evoked schooldays memories with college/preppy/Ivy League elements, as well as some naval and biker influences. At the midpoint of the show, one of the models appeared in a shirt decorated front and back with colorful traditional Japanese artwork, possibly as a reminder that – despite the Western influences – this is a uniquely Japanese collection, and brand.” In my opinion, Phenomenon fashion always gives bold details that are simple yet striking to the eye. The exaggerated pockets, the mix of patterns, bold vertical and horizontal stripes, the distinct sleeves, the hint of ankle, crunchy candy sleeves, the pops of color and carefully dressed darks, the half skirt/cuffed pants……. I could go on and on… It’s simple fashion that give you a complex feel when you dive in.

So….. let’s dive in dammit!

Photos: Will Rob (www.willrobphotography.com)

Can you see the Western meets Eastern influence mentioned in that quote? Levels and layers of traditional Japanese fashion with the ease and preppy of the Western aesthetic.

GET INTO THAT GREEN BAG!!!!! Simple, yet so incredibly striking. Wouldn’t you agree?

L A C E S!!!! LOVE THESE S L E E V E S !! I like this one ….

and, last but not least, the half skirt/cuffed pants I mentioned….

_______________________________________________________

Thanks to http://tokyofashion.com/phenomenon-2012-ss/ for their generosity, –> and visit for more 2012 S/S designs. For more on PHENOMENON, Visit the PHENOMENON website! Collections dating back to Fall 2007!!
http://www.phenomenon.tv/

until next time, Keep it FOCUSED and always, LOOK HOW YOU WANT TO FEEL!