How Japan Saved American Style

Japanese Americana as a genre within fashion has always interested me - and for this week's video we peel back the layers on the movment that is and continues to be Japanese Americana.
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Chapters:
0:00 Intro
1:10 Audible
2:14 How does Culture Spread?
5:01 What happened to American Style?
12:06 pvv
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Height: 6' 4"
Waist: 34"
Inseam: 35.5"
Sleeves: 27.5"
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MLA Citation:
W David Marx. Ametora : How Japan Saved American Style = アメトラ : 日本がアメリカ スタイル を救った物語 / Ametora : How Japan Saved American Style. New York, Ny, Basic Books, 2015.
‌
Music Credit:
#JapaneseAmericana #JapaneseFashion #Fashhion

[@WalterDEgger]

in the beginning of the book he talks about how Japan adopted American style in part to defend against colonialism. around 1910, the Japanese upper class adopted suits and short haircuts in place of robes and top-knot hairstyles. it's harder to colonize people when they present themselves in the same way as the colonizers. having the same wardrobe conveys "we have the same ideals" instead of being viewed as an "other."

[@Ebathora]

I haven't read the book, but does it discuss Japan's colonialism at this time? Like how did adopting the costumes of colonizers track with Japan's own colonization (and human sex trafficking/genocide/military dictatorship/etc.) in Asia at that same time? It's an interesting connection I drew from your comment.

[@tamnguyen-ou6es]

@@Ebathora no it doesn't go deep into war and colonization. the main focus is around fashion trends such as the Ivy, and the people behind them

[@jpeg204]

Ah yes because the japanese famously were never colonizers

[@WalterDEgger]

@@jpeg204 I'm clearly talking about American colonialism from the very first sentence...

[@Ebathora]

@@tamnguyen-ou6es such a missed opportunity from my perspective 😭 like how did the author draw the connection between American colonization to Japan and then not take that one extra step to talk about Japan as active colonizers. We deadass fought a world war about this

[@motar6825]

there was this “fashion in japan” exhibition in tokyo last year, where they showed how japanese fashion have changed and evolved since 1945, right before ww2. they didn’t talk much about meiji era but still it was absolutely wonderful. and i went with my grandma, who has lived in tokyo all her life, since 1948. she basically knew all the “japanese american” fashion eras. it was by far one of the best fashion history exhibitions in japan.

[@presidentgibby1319]

drew is my fav fashion youtuber because of his style. not many of his contemporaries share it. i see a lot of “all black silhouette rick owens raf stan yohji yamamoto archive” it’s nice to see something different

[@metonika1591]

Thanks Drew for introducing "Japanese Americana" to me. Hope you can make a video about it for beginners/starters/newbies like me. Like maybe how to style, trends, or any references we could look at and hopefully I could find something similar in a thrift store. :D

[@MattyIceIceMan]

He’s got an older video about Japanese Americana if I remember correctly

[@pimpom5355]

Well Japanese Americana is just carbon copy of old american clothing catalogs, might start there. I think the main charm of JA is authentically made clothes, not the styling themself

[@bymesco1416]

Love the vid! I worked for Asics for bout four years and dove deep into Japanese fashion history. Keep the series going so many layers.

[@juunji]

Love it when you talk about Japanese Americana Drew! Definitely great to see your perspective, thoughts, and the history of the niche I love

[@meadow3598]

Thank you so much for the book recommendation! One of my 2023 goals is to read more books too, and I must say: audible fits like a glove, especially for those who want to practice their "english listening" (like me). so thank you for the book and platform rec! I would love to see more videos on the topic, you're awesomeeee! Sending peace, love and positivity from Brazil 🇧🇷

[@sivane.2485]

I have been a BIG fan of Japanese Americana. You should definitely listen to the Podcast "Articles of Interest" season 3, titled American Ivy. The season dives deep into the Kensuke Ishizu influence. So interesting. Thanks Drew for being awesome !

[@DrewJoiner]

Thank YOU for another place to learn more I will definitely give this a look

[@keithwong5541]

Really appreciate content like this. The reference point where you come from is priceless information.

[@TongTong-or2bh]

Would love to hear more about this topic!! I think I’ve been really inspired by this style from images on Pinterest but didn’t know any terms until now

[@busychilling9190]

Please talk about it more, you just introduced japanese americana to me, and it was really intresting and a fun to watch video😁

[@anonymousotter6455]

My feelings towards Japanese Americana are fully represented by that wonderful thumbnail LMFAO The prominence of Japanese influence on Americana is clearly seen by the bespoke brands which make this style of clothing. The Real McCoys, John Lofgren, Clinch Boots, like 80% of selvedge denim brands, Kamakura Shirts, MoonstarJP shoes, White Kloud, The Flathead... You get the point. In my opinion, these brands not only keep that style alive, they elevate it. I'm extremely grateful that this genre exists.

[@flipo2009]

Love that book! Ametora is amazing!

[@tameelaclaver3080]

Love this style of video!

[@elfedelaforet8]

Great video! Ametora is such an excellent book.✨

[@moien997]

I love your videos. Very interesting topics and good research.

[@ranchblonde8369]

Love the vid, you should make more Japanese Americana videos. Cheers

[@aqilahchase-hill]

Living in Japan has really inspired me fashion wise. Like I literally found my style here😊

[@zenniszarkov2271]

Super interesting Drew, great tip of the iceberg for Japanese Americana. I’ll be picking up Ametora now👌 I’ve been watching Daniel Simmons lately, his style isn’t exactly like what I wear personally but I like his formats as they’re very chill. Keep up the great work in your videos Drew👊

[@rhinestonesamurai]

Great video bro! Been really loving Beams and Kapital stuff lately

[@DrewJoiner]

same!!

[@thatorthisway]

If you’re interested in the history of how collegiate and prep fashion that was founded in the U.S. and was later adopted in Japan definitely listen to the podcast “Articles of Interest”. Their 3rd season is about “American ivy” and dives into some subcultures in Japan that adopted that look. Really informative and their other seasons are great as well talking about the history of other types of clothing and stuff that people wear

[@vladabalinsky7276]

I was about to write the same thing begging him to listen to it.

[@zacharystrohschein6997]

Love that Jacket... I fall into the "importance of craftsmanship" in fashion category.. so this video holds a great deal of significant for me! When the culture values shifted from quality to quantity the american standard was KILLED ☠.. Japanese culture seems to value high quality and craftsmanship, which I am very thankful for. Japanese denim FTW

[@studyboi9433]

Love how you execute your content, something about it feels so soothing. Keep up the good work drew ❤

[@khairulhelmihashim2510]

Immediately in post WW2, Hollywood films were allowed to be screened again in Japanese cinemas. It creates demand from Japanese youths on popular Americana styles portrayed by Hollywood actors in the movie. As Japanese in general is quite a conservative society, such demand for new, foreign style was met by small, independent clothing firms taking risk of producing such clothing style for youths. They went to a great detail to achieve proper Americana look, not just by producing clothing of similar cut, material and quality, but also guide the youths on how to properly style them in fashion/lifestyle magazines.

[@ready2start]

Yo! I remember talking with you back when you dropped your old Japanese Americana video about the manufacturing shift from USA to Japan. It's so cool to see you go deeper down the rabbithole (the history is fascinating). Thanks for the informative content as always :) By the way, you are one of the featured creators in my latest newsletter so check it out!

[@DrewJoiner]

🫶

[@mahinislam5575]

Reading "Ametora" right now. About a third of the way through...This is a great summary so I know what to look forward to...

[@user-xx6fy6zz9i]

I'm watching your video from the latest and really liked everything. I got into ivy style lately and your videos help so much. Thanks alot. It's good to study English as well. lol

[@mac5333]

Gr8 book indeed!

[@capngrimm3684]

Yes to more Japanese Americana

[@liowalker5365]

Always excited to see an upload, thanks for another great video drew!

[@jessicam.9751]

I’ve been really into rian phin’s videos. Her takes on the fashion world are just so well informed and interesting. Understitch also makes really great videos

[@aaronglacier9213]

Great subject, I’ve been fortunate enough to live in Japan for 3 years. Greatly opened my eyes to fashion and I absolutely love their Japanese Americana

[@CokeWithIceAndLemon]

Stumbled upon your channel and easily subscribed, thank you for what you do brother, sending you love and respect from Saudi!

[@DrewJoiner]

love right back! I appreciate you

[@lukelukeluke_]

woooow, very interesting, thx for the video xoxo from belgium !

[@luisclavijo983]

I just voted in your poll but nah man, your audio is great!

[@DrewJoiner]

Thanks for letting me know!!

[@gggsss4969]

Man, great video! I think Japanese Americana is so interesting because its so unique and you don‘t see it that often

[@iot9510]

Fun fact is American style is trending in Japan. I love Japanese American style. They are retro and dope.

[@Colourisedspoon]

it never really left tho

[@danshakuimo]

@@Colourisedspoon I thought it was trending since the end of WW2

[@Colourisedspoon]

@@danshakuimo thats right

[@kanavgupta1086]

please make more videos about japan-american fashion ties. PLEASE!!

[@stormzybanksy]

love this, and love the respect for japan conveyed in this video.

[@Whodnl]

Drew giving us the best content

[@tydo2991]

No way u made a vid on this book, was such an amazing read!

[@noiretblancetmoi]

It goes without saying that Japanese Americana also was heavily adapted into the Japanese culture via the economic boom around the 70s - 80s. If you dive deeper just into that era and see designers and culturally influential people from Japan around that time the people were not only able to have other companies and fashion brands introduced into Japan but it was also a time where most to all of the people we look up to were returning from trips to America further adapting what was going on over there throughout those years. There is a lot of interesting things linked to how the state of imagination of the "golden era" of 40s-60s America is celebrated through the techniques of manufacturing and cultural/social sensibilities within the Japanese Americana genre of fashion.

[@TundeEszlari]

Sensational content.

[@monog762]

Really enjoyed this deep dive into Japanese Americana. I am still figuring out my style and it's strange how I always end up being influenced by Japan. Current content Creators I'm watching this guy named Drew Joiner I think you know him? The Casual, and Frugal Aesthetic 😂.

[@DrewJoiner]

😂 just read this

[@thomasbalaoing7520]

yes, I've actually been wondering alot on "what are the lines between Japanese Americana vs just Americana"

[@danshakuimo]

Now that I think about it, I'm not sure what Americana even refers to nowadays. Does it refer to the American fashion in that time period? Or the American fashion now? Though when people say Japanese Americana I think of it as referring to both the past and the present. Though a funny thing nowadays in the States is the obsession with heritage workwear and the like and how Japanese Americana brands are being recognized by Americans. The loop has come full circle back lol.

[@Shing02tv]

great read!

[@CrucifiedinChrist]

Yes we should continue to talk about the ties between america and japan fashion wise

[@carloamirante5325]

Could you make a video that also delves into the culture of fashion in Italy? that would be really cool because i live there but i don't know enough about it. thank you

[@miguelrivera4314]

Pvv question answer: tbh your my new hidden gem of a content creator

[@DrewJoiner]

🫶

[@JesseBesse]

Really glad the style's been reflected on more. Hope you don't mind me asking but where is that blue shirt from? I've been looking for button ups that have a slightly thicker and firmer material and it really fits the bill

[@nickbeach2679]

Gifted Hater is the funniest person on skate KZbin, and fashion YT a lot of Kenijima, Keezy and Jacob Wallace lately. Always making classics. #pvv

[@Drakemirny]

Hello, interesting video, love this format of videos 📖. Actually I prefer Japanese Americana. From what brand is this cap? Awesome one.

[@kanavgupta1086]

Im so glad that someone made a video about this. Even though japan has had such a big influence on fashion, its not widely covered. Great Video, hope you make more about this topic.

[@jimshen0308]

#PVV Almost vintage style is on the top of my list. His videos and blogs have helped me figured out sizing and brands to keep an eye on when it comes to Japanese Americana. Another one is the Casual, because I am a sucker for contemporary Japanese street wear and how they are able to incorporate kimono into modern fashion

[@matthewraleigh5751]

Yes I love the Japanese Americana!!! I like when you talk about specific pieces, maybe a vid about your favorite Japanese Americana pieces! (You a hopper too, I like that, fashion and hoops you my man!!!)❤

[@tuesdayallweeklong]

Oh man - I could watch an hour long essay on this topic. Definitely get into it more if you feel inclined to - I'd love to hear about some more of the prominent Japanese Americana designers, and what their trademark touches were. #pvv I watch wayyyyy too much KZbin, and I'm super eclectic with it. If I had to just throw three names out though, it's prolly Ro Ramdin (social commentary video essay-ish stuff), Scott Cramer (comedic commentary videos, often about 90s nostalgia stuff), and (you're usually in my top three, but because that's not helpful in this instance:) Will Tennyson (bodybuilding tips, delivered with 10000 jokes). I also watch a lot of cooking content, but don't have any real "standout" favorites in the category.

[@emoba_8381]

Gotta feel Japanese Americana had something to do with pop/rock culture in the US which spread to Japan in the 60-80s

[@make-it-funky]

I’m Japanese and this video is well-organized! As cosplay culture was brought into Japan from America, I think Japanese culture is shaped by lots of elements from other culture. Unlike New York or London, Japan is not a cultural centre, but I think we are able to express our Japaneseness by incorporating various cultures. Japanese dainty and careful craftsmanship makes them possible. 英語の勉強になるのでいつも見てます。次のビデオも楽しみにしてます😙

[@GurpreetSingh-ye3uj]

Your english is very good! Im glad we can both enjoy Drew's videos together, even from different parts of the world 🙇‍♂️

[@maeldnt]

I'm really surprised when you say Japan is not a cultural centre with a proper japaneseness. From a European perspective, on the contrary Japan Soft Power, Cool Japan, Japanese streetwear, Anime and Manga industry, Cosplay, Tokyo Street Fashion, Kawaii aesthetic and industry have a major impact. Japanese culture's enthusiast are even called by the derogatory moniker 'weebs'. I would even say , As America was in the 20th century, Japan is the country with the biggest influence in the early 21st century, within a few years it influenced fashion, design, Technology, youth culture (Emo, Cosplay, E-girls, ...) the way we consume goodies, fiction tropes, the way we relate to fictitious characters(moe) what we eat (Sushi and ramen can be found as easily as Macdonald in any city), the way people create new communities, or even music pastiched by westerners (future bass, future funk, City pop). What is interesting is even though cool Japan was intended to be an exportable soft power, all the things mentioned were developed by the Japanese for the Japanese in the first place(島国だから) as a really personal take on popular and modern culture (alas, often perceived a west-centric way). Korea (Halyu) on another hand, has a great impact in the west, but it does incorporate a blend of things from many cultures to cater to both the west and Asian countries. This pop culture is developed in light of its exportability in the first place. I'm really happy that lately, Asian impact on global culture starts to be widely acknowledged.

[@francescomaffei799]

Hi Drew! Could you suggest me instagram pages with regular posting outfits inspiration that you like? Japanese Americana would be great

[@evzzs]

LOVE THIS SO MUCH 👖 🇺🇸 🇯🇵

[@ewancloake792]

What are the boots behind you on the table. Look very cool

[@britneydaniels6294]

Yeah this was great. Would love to learn more.👍🏽

[@mirror9865]

Love this so much!!! I would love to know more!

[@DMorgan77]

Pvv: Carl Muralski and Timothy Desaint (sorry for any spelling errors) Great video Drew.

[@noppongtomprom1393]

Japanese fashion style were all about expression and using different elements in other’s style and add some twists to its , in Japan you can see anything from ivy league, military style or street fashion .

[@abiwall7949]

Definitely going to give Ametora a read! I recommend Avant Magazine by Eric Maggiori if you haven't heard about it already, he puts together Vintage workwear anthologises that are so detailed and his collection is insane....

[@kavencci]

🔥🔥

[@tekufu]

As soon as I read the title, I was like "Drew read Ametora didn't he?"

[@DrewJoiner]

haha yup!

[@ZaydWalid]

Can someone list some good Japanese Americana brands

[@hannahfrazier5332]

I was wondering how youd make the end rhyme in 2023. I like it

[@DrewJoiner]

Thanks!!

[@krm5693]

#pvv The Casual and Greg Ntore for fashion and Aaron Terrence Hughes for fragrances

[@jacobmperry]

Great video as always Drew. You gotta come to the UK at some point man. #PVV my most watched KZbinrs right now besides you are Daniel Simmons, Frugal Aesthetic, Nathan Zed, Starlinc and Volksgiest.

[@mash12372]

I thoroughly enjoyed this video! Love these essay style explorations into style history.

[@DrewJoiner]

🫶

[@Von199X]

Talk about Old Money aesthethics next :)

[@y2j138]

Pvv Forrest ripperton , Keezy

[@mcl223]

KeezyTV he dont miss with the vlogs #pvv

[@Emiljep2509]

Ive really wanted to look more into Japanese selvedge denim. Is There some Japanese brands People Can recommend, When it comes to that?🌻

[@brendanr.3087]

There are so many good ones, it just depends what exactly you’re looking for. Naked and Famous is pretty great and has a nice mix of classic styles and funky one-of-a-kind fabrics. Sugarcane 1947s are a classic straight cut that suit a lot of body types (they’re cheaper from denimio than other retailers). If you want to jump straight into a more expensive pair, you could look at Oni, Studio d’Artisan, and Pure Blue Japan. I’d highly recommend trying on in person if at all possible, as tag sizes in selvedge jeans can often be different from you’re typical Levi’s etc.

[@bradycat7526]

Fire vid you should cover like different countries style progressions ya feel gotta get those different sources of inspo 🐛

[@SchwarzerShatten]

Which brand are the loafers on the Titel?

[@DrewJoiner]

Visvim

[@felixgonzales9786]

Drew Joiner? I barely know her! idk what else to comment I'm never this early

[@DrewJoiner]

lmao

[@ericluu2582]

any book recs anyone?

[@internetuser985]

Nice, you finally uploaded a video like this I was waiting for you since this was definitely your type of book I have the hardcover!

[@kingofpancakes1278]

Idk where else to ask this, has anyone else ordered from Amac Customs and still waiting on an order?

[@Mars-uz3xt]

I admire your passion for finding the facts in your research and adding your natural stance on that, really inspiring honestly. Brilliant work! Love your vids

[@onaopemipoadeniyi]

drew is a hooper hooper

[@DrewJoiner]

you seen that 👀 haha

[@mylesjohnson9987]

Yes I love it

[@snacknnap]

Yes! Quit asking us "should I make a vid-" Yes! Make it, we love them!

[@DrewJoiner]

haha roger that

[@kallmeej9106]

Fashion is abt having cool and comfortable stuff to wear

[@jordachejordan90]

I think the same thing may be said abt Japan saving American streetwear. Japan's reverence in it's interests always comes off as genuine.

[@lorenzogodio7371]

HI Drew, first of all, great video, thank you for introducing me to this! for the #pvv question of the day: 3 creators that I've really been into in the period are Daniels Simmons, Deon Hinton and Bliss Foster!

[@tenzinchoeying2820]

I’ve been watching laini and you and game streams

[@DrewJoiner]

Laini is the best! Which games?

[@tenzinchoeying2820]

@@DrewJoiner among us, i know its old now but the streams are pretty funny and owh i watch hautelamode as well, he covers mostly fashion and its history.

[@ygoroliveira5901]

Hey Drew for someone who wears Dickies loose fit shorts size 38 do you recommend sticking with the same size for the 874 or should i go up a size?

[@Sturnburn772]

You should go deeper into the topic Drew

[@KyleFlores]

I keep on coming back to watch the Levi's documentary about Made and Craft from Japan! kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5TXdZ-cft6mask

[@cameront.9638]

#ppv Hello Drew this was a very interesting video about Japanese Americana, I knew so little of it. Im watching FrugalAesthetics, KSI and Coryxkenshin

[@domicrush3069]

Ivy was started by brooks brothers

[@RampzProducer]

btw 'Swathe' is pronounced 'sway-the'

[@DreroSenpai]

❤

[@dominion1697]

12:42 I can’t find him on KZbin how do you spell his name?

[@wawabze]

Shevon salmon

[@dominion1697]

@@wawabzethx 😅

[@trevor419]

you aint tell us you had a stroke like that, dribble pull up was pretty