Japanese Fashion Event Report: Seattle Style Swap
written by Angel Cake (@AngelCakeDeco)
A few weeks back I hosted the Style Swap in Seattle.
Style Swaps are gatherings where people recycle/trade their Japanese/”Kawaii” fashion they no longer wear. These styles include (but are not limited to) “Lolita” inspired by Victorian fashion, “Gyaru” fashion which is more modern Western influenced, and “Decora” style known for colorful layers.
As a recycled (and Japanese) fashion enthusiast, it’s exciting to find people to swap style with. It is nice to know that your old style is going to a nice home while getting “new” pieces in exchange.
For some, it might be motivation to clean out the closet.
StyleSwaps are not only great for swapping, but also a great way to listen to some Seattle DJs play, or even try your skills on open decks. This event featured DJ Hojo from J/K pop, DJ SakeBomb and Pete Ellison. Music that was played ranged from Shibuya-kei, J-pop/Anime electro, and Pete Ellison’s take on “Tan Mom.”
Not only the DJs were talented, there were many designers and artists that showed up as well!
The multi-talented YouTube starlet, Becky Bachhi, a Jane Of All Trades artist, showed up and got a few things from me, including deco den I made. She also shot a video about the event. (Thank you!) Please check the links posted below.
Kreepy Kawaii: designer (Also named Angel.) brought a lot of cute necklaces and hair accessories. She even lowered her prices for the Style Swap!
Seattle Lolita: Annika aka DJ Jimini Cricket with the lovely Kendra (Who was a big part of this making happen-Thank you!) showed up with their kawaii flair. On top of always being fashionable, Annika’s talents also extend to music. Since 1999 she has been a household name in Seattle’s nightlife. If you like hardcore styles, check out her stuff!
I didn't just meet wonderful people during the StyleSwap, I got wonderful stuff too! I’ve always admired Lolita from afar; dedicating my wardrobe to mostly Gyaru brands like “Liz Lisa”, “Cocolulu” and “Cecil Mcbee”. Thanks to the Style Swap I got a few cute Lolita pieces that I would like to share.
I swapped a “Liz Liza Doll” dress for this cute “BodyLine” dress.
I also got some really sweet deals on some “Baby The Stars Shine Bright” items. I got the rabbit hoodie with detachable sleeves and a skirt for under $100. No catch here, it’s all flawless! Lolita fashion can be pricey, especially iconic brands like BTSSB.
Everything about the Style Swap makes me excited and happy. From cleaning out my closet, meeting other Japanese fashion enthusiasts and scoring cute clothes for cheap. Maybe I can find more pieces like a petticoat, blouse and shoes for my growing Lolita wardrobe at the next event. Perhaps indulge my dedication to Gyaru styles a little more? I might even find treasures to entertain my inner Decora diva?
For more photos, details, and news on upcoming events, please check out and like Seattle StyleSwap on Facebook.
Links:
Becky Bachhi
Becky’s YouTube Style Swap Video:
Youtube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/BeckyBachii
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BeckyBachiii
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BeckyBachii
Instagram: @BeckyBach
Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/BBcafe
Deviant Art: http://beckybachii.deviantart.com/
DJ Hojo
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/deejayhojo
J/K Pop Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jkpopnight
J/K Pop Twitter: http://twitter.com/jkpopnight
DJ Jimini Cricket
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/jimnicricket
DJ Sake Bomb
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deejaysakebomb
Soundcloud: https://Soundcloud.com/sake-bomb
Kreepy Kawaii
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KreepyKawaii
Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/KreepyKawaii
Store Envy: http://kreepykawaii.storenvy.com/
Pete Ellison
Website: www.heyitspete.com and djinitialp.com
Angel Cake is an American Deco Den designer and Japanese fashion enthusiast. Aside from fashion and designing, she is passionate about mostly Retro video gaming and cute bento boxes. Make sure to like her on Facebook and follow her on Tumblr.
