Japanese subculture beauty and fashion seems to come from a different planet! Here are images from Ageha, the gyaru (gal) and hostess style magazine.

Big eye makeup, false eyelashes, a twisted or curled hair set, and sparkly everything.

Ageha Magazine has step-by-step tutorials for how to make your eyes look as big as possible. The gist: fake top and bottom lashes, eye-shadowing techniques (white on the inside corners), circle contact lenses with giant irises… and of course, Photoshop.

One easy way to get the look: purikura (sticker picture machines). The new “Lady by Tokyo” has classier options and a matte finish.

After choosing the photos, Cotton Bale and I decorated them with bows, stars and cat-noses.
My Pirate striped top is gifted by CamdenLock Clothing, who also sent me this knit punk set.

All the purikura machines emphasize eye-enlargement.

And very white skin.

Bling-bling nail art is another gyaru must. (In fact, I’m getting my nails done today for a magazine photoshoot!)

Here are more big-eye Japanese girl photos.

What do you think of the gyaru look? Thoughts on Asian standards of beauty, and the techniques for big eyes and white skin? Let’s have a discussion in the comments.

PS: Thanks to the Seoul Times for featuring me.

Song of the Day: Perfume – Chocolate Disco