That ‘Cool’ Japanese Style In A Boat Neck Dress
Don’t you find Japanese fashion so appealing? If it’s not the kooky Harajuku style, it’s the playful anime dress up, the traditional kimono & yukata or hilarious T-shirts with chucklesome misspelt English written on. Japanese fashion has so many faces but let’s focus on the cool, chic style today. Japanese ladies look so pristine and well put together and their style is one to keep an eye on! With summers reaching heights of 30+, when you feel like you’re melting on the inside, how can you stay looking “cool”?! (Pun most certainly intended!). I give you… the boat neck dress!
A classic silhouette with subtle shaping and breathable material is bound to give you the fashion boost your wardrobe needs. At a great price too, this relaxed style dress is going to give you years of fashionable comfort. Let’s dive in shall we…
“If you've been keeping up with the happenings of international fashion weeks, then you are well aware of Tokyo's status as a hub for style”
– Harper’s Bazaar
Why Is A Boat Neck Dress Called A Boat Neck?
The boat neck, a bateau neck or even a Sabrina neckline! Take your pick when it comes to the name but the game is the same; a beautifully wide neckline that runs horizontally from each shoulder, front and back, skimming gently across the collarbone. Where did it get the name “boat neck”?
Not because it’s the shape of a boat but rather it is traditionally used in nautically inspired clothes such as cardigans and knitwear. How’s that for a little fashion history? This dress boasts femininity and charm with its boat neck. As there is no collar it gives it a casual feel and can be worn dressed up with jewelry and a fancy clutch or dressed down with your favourite trainers; it’s completely up to you.
Will This Modern Japan Outfit Suit My Body Shape?
Absolutely! Although personally I’m an advocate for “wear what you want, no matter” and “love the skin you’re in”, sometimes it is nice to find clothes that do flatter and compliment your best bits. A boat neck will highlight your collarbone and reveal a modest amount of chest area whilst elongating your frame. As this neckline gives an appearance of a slight broader shoulder, it helps to balance out wide hips…. Making it a perfect piece for you pear shaped people.
As I mentioned before; no matter what shape or size you are; if you love that style then you rock it, whether you’re a pear, apple, hourglass… you’ll look gorgeous darling!
“Japanese street fashion remains the pinnacle of the fashion-forward”
– MATCHA
Cotton Linen Blend Is The Ultimate Material
So you’ve heard of cotton… and you’ve heard of linen… but have you heard of cotton linen blend? It’s taking the best of both and mashing them together to create a texture and material so superior you’ll never want to wear anything else again! Ok… maybe a little over exaggeration there but honestly it is a lovely material, especially in sweltering summers. The softness of the cotton cancels out the roughness of the linen at the same time the stiffness of the linen counteracts lightness of the cotton. They work hand in hand to give you the ultimate fabric. The unusual combination makes it THE perfect choice for summer clothing. What’s more, since they are both natural based fabrics, they’re both environmentally friendly as they don’t use any chemicals, pesticides or nasty ingredients like formaldehyde to make them. As well as being good to the environment, it’s also a guaranteed, skin friendly fabric that does not cause itching or irritation of the skin as the pH value is the same. It’s air-permeable meaning it quickly absorbs sweat so you can happily and comfortably wear this breathable material in any season. The last amazing point for this wonder cloth is that it’s sewn together using pure cotton which makes it almost impossible to deform, makes it anti-static, and gives you peace of mind with no edge scrolling issues. Phew!
“Cotton/linen – a little softer, and won’t wrinkle as much as pure linen”
– Style Forum
Japan Style Clothes – The Boat Neck Dress
Let’s have a look at the boat neck dress available from Zak Zakka, shall we! Made with that unbeatable cotton linen and a mix of polyester too, it’s a perfect dress for all year round, but particularly in those hot hot hot summer months and autumn too. It’s certainly a relaxed style and can be worn alone for that hip, airy look or paired with jeans or leggings and your favourite trainers for an even more casual feel. I love that it can be dressed up or dressed down so if you’re looking for a wardrobe staple that will never let you down, this is the one! It’s that typical “Japanese, simple look” that’s quite edgy.
Dare I say it’s inspired by the Japanese clothing style of Mori Girl; a style reminiscent of a forest lifestyle featuring loose, light and airy clothing. It fits like a dream, not too baggy but not too tight either: just like Goldilocks it’s “just right”. This loose fitting dress is wonderfully comfortable creating a soft outline but can also be worn with a nice waisted belt if you’re looking for more of a cinched silhouette. Versatile, am I right?! The pockets on the side are handy to keep your phone or coin purse in or just to look cool with your hands in your pockets. The boat neck shape keeps the outfit looking fresh and with a good length of 103cm, it’ll look great with or without heels. With three earthy colours to choose from – red, green and black, you’ll be the belle of the casual ball with this little number.
There you have it! Comfort AND cuteness all in one. The Japanese really do know how to dress, don’t they?! Don’t delay and order yours today! With summer just around the corner, why not splash out on a dress to impress? Get that true Japanese style from Zak Zakka who is happy to take your order.