Ghost of Harlem 2011 “Grunge Bikers” collection

As I mentioned recently, I’m bowled over by Ghost of Harlem’s new line, Grunge Bikers.

Based on a mostly monochromatic palette of black/white/grey which will please the black brigade, there are contrasting pops of colour – yellow, blue or red- to zoozh up the collection and amp up the drama factor.

Lovers of the rock-chick, goth and punk look (like me) will love the skull motifs, use of fishnet, distressed leggings, grunge lettering and studded details. Gyaru Mode gals will love the Murua-like long floaty outer dresses, and everyone will recognise the very on-trend tie-dye abstract prints, seen here on pants and shirts.

Leopard print is thrown in there, in turquoise or coral, for those who (like me) believe that leopard is almost a staple neutral. There’s even a nod to the 70’s look so popular now, but with a rock look and without the over-use of fringing, feathers and Indian motifs that is a little heavy handed in some brands (see their skull poncho for example). While I’m not a personal fan of denim, the collection is styled to show how well denim does pair with the various pieces, for a casual youthful look. If that’s not your thing, eschew the pale denim, bare legs, bright colours and headbands, add chunky platform boots and masses of silver rings and studded cuffs and voila, a rock-punk look is yours. Eminently wearable.

Anyway, see the collection yourself – don’t you love it? (Click on any picture to see a larger image):

LOVE this yellow jacket sooo much! It also comes in white or pink, and has a detachable hood (buy at Rakuten here)

I started off a massive TutuHa fan, then moved onto Glad News (the studded skull tee of whose I’m currently wearing to death) – but Ghost of Harlem is threatening to take its place as fave rock gyaru brand. What do you think?

NB: for those asking “but how can I buy it, when I’m not in Japan?”, I did a search on Rakuten, and the shop Bubbly sells Ghost of Harlem items. So why not check it out? There are some great older items there too, and more of the new collection will be available in time.