Yu Masui, a London-based, Japanese journalist, is slaying the fashion world. Some describe his style as eccentric and falsely nonchalant, while others might call it chaotic. Nonetheless, he has become an icon in the industry. An LVMH scout, and street style icon, Masui’s fashion sense is a kaleidoscope of kitschy charm, chaotic creativity, indie spirit, and unapologetic originality. Yu is known as one of the most outré (exaggerated or eccentric) dressers of Fashion Week, dressing up each day in anticipation of the shows.
Let’s break down some key elements of his fashion sense and give you some hot tips to add the same flair to your wardrobe.
Kitschy: A Whimsical Wonderland
Yu’s style is a delightful embrace of the kitschy. From shoes shaped like fish or animal paws to multicoloured garments, his wardrobe is a whimsical wonderland. His fearless approach to fashion encourages us to experiment and find joy in expressing ourselves through clothing. Check out these Instagram posts from Yu’s profile:
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Styling Tips: Add a touch of kitsch to your wardrobe with playful accessories, vibrant patterns, and unconventional shapes. Remember, fashion should be fun! If you’re feeling adventurous, look for statement shoes that reflect your personality. Keep the rest of the outfit simple to let the shoes shine. Embrace your natural beauty and authenticity, and strive to represent yourself honestly.
Chaotic: A Color Mélange
Chaos in fashion? Absolutely! Yu’s chaotic blend of colors, textures, and brands creates a radical and eye-catching look. Yu is known for wearing vibrant, multicolored clothing, embracing short-shorts, and showcasing a bold and confident style. Below are some handpicked style inspirations for you to try out this style:
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Styling Tips: Don’t shy away from mixing and matching. Combine different patterns, textures, and colors to create a visually stimulating ensemble. Balance is key, so start with one bold piece and build around it. Or you can start with one multicolored piece and pair it with neutral tones to balance the look. Experiment with patterns and textures to add depth. Opt for high-quality fabrics and tailored fits to elevate the look.
Original: Authenticity and Exploration
Most of all, Yu’s style is original. He values authenticity, and physical exploration of fashion, and has candid views on the industry. His outfits are a true reflection of his personality and beliefs. He creatively uses dressing gowns as jackets, adding a unique twist to his outfits. Yu is not afraid to wear transparent clothing, adding an edgy and daring touch to his ensembles. Check out these posts and tell us if it doesn’t ooze with authenticity.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Styling Tips: Be yourself! Experiment with different styles. Maybe choose a dressing gown with luxurious fabric and wear it over a simple outfit for an elegant, laid-back look. Cinch it at the waist with a belt for added shape. Or experiment with transparent layers over solid pieces for a more subtle approach. Choose transparent accessories like bags or scarves if you want to start small.
Yu Masui: A Forward Thinker
Yu is a strong advocate for young designers and is against the idea of bigger brands stealing ideas from emerging talents. He also emphasizes the importance of sustainability and real diversity in fashion, challenging the industry to go beyond token gestures. Living between Tokyo and London and touring fashion weeks worldwide, Yu has a global perspective on fashion, incorporating elements from various cultures and global trends into his style.
Yu’s fashion is more than just clothing; it’s a statement, a philosophy, and a celebration of individuality. His charm inspires us to see fashion as an art form, a way to connect with the world, and most importantly, a way to connect with ourselves. Yu values authenticity, avoiding digital modifications to images and preferring real-life experiences. His perspective encourages us to think beyond mere appearance and consider the broader impact and meaning of our style choices.
By taking inspiration from his eclectic style, you can add a touch of whimsy and boldness to your wardrobe, even if you start with just one statement piece. Embrace the chaos, revel in the kitsch, support the indie, and above all, be original. After all, in the words of Yu himself, fashion is about exploration, joy, and authenticity. Why not make it your own?
all images – ©instagram/yumasui
