But what IS Gyaru?
Gyaru (ギャル) is a Japanese translation of the English word, “girl” and is one of many branches of Japanese fashion. Gyaru originated in the Shibuya district of Tokyo, Japan in the mid-90s. Popularized by bleach blonde hair, tanned skin, and contrasting frosted makeup.
Do I need to choose a substyle right away?You don't! You actually don't even have to settle on one substyle ever, however knowing the elements of each substyle makes it easier to make up outfits and achieving what you want.
There's many substyles out there some more popular than others, and while some may overlap the distinction is important.While technically kuro and shiro gal are not substyles they're widely used terms.
Kuro gal refers to black gals, dark skinned gals and gals who tan.
Shiro gal refers to fair skinned gals who don't tan.Gyaru substyles
Agejo
Amekaji
Amuro
Ane
B-Gyaru
Banba
Saike
Cyber
Ganguro
Goshikku
Haaady
Hime
Himekaji
Manba
Mode
Onee
Rokku
Roma
Romanba
Tsuyome
Yamanba
"Can I be gal if..."
YES!!
The short answer is yes."I want to be gyaru, but I don't want to do (x)"
Then the answer is depends"I don't wanna do makeup" I'd say this is not the style for you then."What if I don't wanna wear lashes?" There's styles and makeup you can do without lashes"What if I can't wear contacts?" You can do gal without contacts"What if I don't have the clothing?" Acquiring a gal closet takes time, chances are you already have things you can use in your closet and if you don't, again, it takes time"I want to, but don't want to disobey the rules/attract attention/be made fun of" While being safe is first and foremost... the point is in fact breaking rules, going against stereotypes and just having a good time. Confidence doesn't sprout from night to morning, but it helps if you feel good about how you look."I want to be gyaru, but not do (x)" Gal can accommodate any lifestyle, what matters in my opinion is being intentional about it."But isn't gal mind?" Yes and no. While the mindset and attitude is important and will carry you in a lot of situations, it's not everything there is. Since its a style based on fashion and makeup, I'd say that's the most important about it.That being said "gyaru is mind" is from a single line in a song and should not be used to portray an entire fashion subculture.I'd recommend reading blogs, watching videos and tutorials and looking at a plethora of gyarus (both on magazines and social media) to get a good grasp at the style and the substyle of your preference. Never close yourself off to learning and finding new things
Can I be a gyaru/gyaruo even if I'm (insert gender identity)? Absolutely! No matter your gender identity you can be a gyaru/gyaruo.
I have seen an uptick of transgender and gender nonconforming people coming into the substyle and I can't explain how happy it makes me.
throughout the years we have seen butch gyarus and effeminate gyaruos in all shapes sizes and presentations so there's a space for everyone to present as they wish for one reason or another.
Resource materials for your consideration
Terms to use if you're looking for Gyaru content (specially Non-English)
#gal
#gyaru
#ギャル
#姫ギャル
#平成(Heisei)
#澀谷辣妹 (Shibuya hot gal)
#Y2K (lots of gals use this tag)
#姬系 (agejo + himegyaru)
Gals to follow (if you do not want to be included please let me know)
Frequently used terms and what they mean
sujimori: a classic gyaru hair technique that creates structured volume through small square sections
purikura: a type of Japanese photo booth that takes enhanced, decorated photos.
Gyarusa: or gal circle is a group that gathers for social activities, events, photos and shared gal identity. Depending on the time, place, and circle, it could be casual and friend-based, or more organized with a name, events, members, and group culture.
Music & Playlists & Parapara
I have built my wardrobe from a plethora of places (thrifting, taobao, mercari, ebay, DIY, etc.) and I encourage others to look and research where to get different thingsWhile owning 'gal brand' is not a requirement, there's people that enjoy buying and collecting it.
As always please exercise caution and prudence, a lot of these brand's pieces can go for a high price due to scarcity and scalpers.
Technically 'gal brand' refers to any brand that is heavily associated with gyaru but doesn't necessarily to produce specifically gyaru piecesNon-exhaustive list of 'gal brand':
ALBA ROSA
Ank Rouge
MA*RS
LIZ LISA
LIP SERVICE
JESUS DIAMANTE
ROXY
Juicy Couture
LOVE BOAT
d.i.a
cocolulu
GOLDS infinity
babymetalclub
Nails
I get most of my nails from maomao, both pre-made and custom
This one only does customs
Clothing
Hair & Wigs
Accessories
Makeup
As a rule of thumb, use whatever makeup works for you
You can also find CANMAKE at Teso life
nyx jumbo pencil in white is a staple
Misc