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Ganguro (ガングロ) is a broad substyle of gyaru. This particular style sprung up around the mid to late 90s and peaked in popularity around 2000. Shibuya and Ikebukuro were considered the centre of ganguro fashion. Ganguro is essentially the true origins of the Gyaru fashion style and one of the first 'true' substyles of Gyaru.
Although the term Ganguro is not often used today, the style inspired several sub-style offshoots, such as Yamanba, Manba and Banba, of which Yamanba and Manba are styles still seen frequently today.
It is believed that the surfacing of Ganguro style was a form of rebellion against traditional Japanese society and its many constraints. Ganguro was a very vivid attempt at individuality, self-expression and freedom. Ganguro girls were often percieved as being unhygienic and promiscuous, although this was more of a stereotype and often not applicable to most ganguro.
Style Characteristics[]
- Medium to very dark tans
- White makeup on lips, nose and around the eyes
- Bright colours
- Hair colour is bleached blonde
- Stickers on face
- Brightly coloured nails or deco nails
- Accessories are loud, tacky and often childish, such as bead bracelets and childrens bags
- Shoes are often as brightly coloured as the rest of the outfit
- Lack of coordination in outfits, more about making a statement
Modern Ganguro[]
Ganguro as a style died out amongst Japanese gyaru, and instead remains as the origin of styles such as Yamanba and Manba, which are styles that are still worn today by a small amount of gyaru. The term ganguro is more often considered a broader term for the styles of gyaru which feature white makeup and dark tans. Many gaijin gyaru have picked up this style in recent years, ensuring it is not completely dead as a style.
