Top Tips for Beginner Gaijin Gyaru

Hello m’dears, it is your gaijin gyaru granny speaking. Well, that’s how I feel anyway – because did you know that I’ve been into this Japanese fashion for nearly 8 years? Shocker. But gyaru is forever changing so there’s always something new to learn, and even now I will put my hands up and admit that I still suck at styling my hair. It’s something that I’ve grown to accept, so I focus my efforts more on trying to help others – such as yourself – into this wonderful world of gyaru. There have been many obstacles along the way, so I have gathered my top tips to help you out on your path as a newbie gaijin gyaru.

Top Tips for Beginner/Newbie Gaijin Gyaru

Never stop researching & experimenting

The best way to learn is to practice and experiment, and this especially goes for gyaru because there’s just so much to take in. I would advise starting with the makeup, following a few tutorials before discovering what is best according to your eye shape (as not all makeup tutorials will work for you). It’s also good to have a look at non-gyaru makeup tutorials just to learn about the basics like blending and doing smokey eyes, and contouring for your facial features.

In terms of research… Well, the internet is at your disposal! I personally love Universal Doll and GxL Bible for the latest gyaru news. They both have Twitter & FB accounts which they regularly update so keep an eye out on them.
Take all research with a pinch of salt as everyone interprets gyaru differently – including this blog! I might have a different opinion to others so don’t take my word as gospel; discovering things for yourself is part of the whole gyaru journey.

Discover your style, but don’t be afraid if your path changes

I am a gyaru-chameleon, so I speak from experience. It is an amazing feeling to finally discover your style – and I wrote a lil’ tutorial on how to do so here – but don’t force yourself into it when you notice your passion for it faltering. Try something new!

Don’t jump straight to brand clothes

The beauty of gyaru is that you can wear your normal clothes, so why spend £££s when you can just wear what’s already in your wardrobe? Give it about 6 months – a year when you know that gyaru truly is your passion before buying brand items, because brand is quite expensive. Besides, knowing how to coordinate items into an amazing outfit is so much better than just throwing on all of your brand items. Here’s a little guide on how to build your gyaru wardrobe!

Join an online community

If it wasn’t for the online community I would’ve lost my way a long, long time ago. It’s just so inspiring to see other gaijin gyaru just doing their thing in their style! It’s a great way to make friends and to also get honest advice, which is key to improving your gyaru style. Without the online community I would never have met other gyaru, even those from abroad like at an International Gyaru Meet or when meeting up with Akipoyo in Japan! There are plenty of FB groups (such as Sekai no gyarusa) and there’s also an Amino page which I’ve grown to love recently. If you’re a little bit shy but still want some advice, don’t hesitate to send me a lil’ message on Twitter/FB/Insta as I’d love to help others!

There is always a way to be gyaru

Can’t wear circle lens? You can still be gyaru. Have short hair? Still gyaru. Plus-sized? Still gyaru. I’ve had so many people ask ‘but can I still be gyaru if…?’ and my answer is always YES (as written here). There is no limit when it comes to gyaru, so don’t let anything hold you back from doing it.

And have fun!

Gyaru is all about “get wild and be sexy!” so remember that at the end of the day, if you’re having fun with the style, then that’s all that matters. It’s quite easy to get knocked down by haters but don’t let that stop you from doing the things you love.

And there we have it! I hope you have an amazing time in your journey to being gyaru, and if you have any questions or need a lil’ help, I’m here for you!

And to those experienced gaijin gyaru – what advice would you give to newbies?

Love,
Lizzie xx