Red Bomber Jacket from Japan Thrift Store

As you may have peeked from my recent post on my past year of travel adventures, I had the most amazing experience in Japan earlier this year! Part of that awesome  experience I owe to this special, rich-in-quality secondhand shop I peeped into while staying in the rural Fukui prefecture. One of my favorite types of souvenirs when traveling is buying clothes like this red bomber jacket.

Cultural Capsule

By checking out little thrift shops in different parts of the world, it’s like taking a step into a historical time capsule. It captures the style and lives of the people who live in those areas, worn by the people themselves. I find it special that this red bomber jacket was worn by some rad Japanese person who has the same fashion taste as I do. Isn’t that very special? To connect with a stranger I’ve never met, yet to wear something personal, like their jacket? In a world that sometimes seems to be full of hate and confusion, openly accepting the intimacy of wearing a stranger’s clothing is a beautiful thing to me. The line of ownership is broken down and there exists a humble moment of ‘what is.’

Love at First Sight

Sometimes when I shop I’ll see something and be 100% sold the moment I lay eyes on it. That’s exactly what happened when I bought this red bomber jacket. This piece was on sale for ¥ 600, which is about $6! My friend Austin, a men’s eco wear blogger, had the bright idea for us to head to Little Tokyo in Downtown Los Angeles to shoot these images.

I love this jacket because it’s so unique. The lining on the cuffs and collar gives it a 1980’s feel, and I love the power of the color and style of the jacket. Paired with blue jeans and a chunky heel, I feel badass.

Masculine Touches in Fashion

When paired right, I love to wear masculine clothing. It makes me feel like I can’t be messed with and puts a bit of boldness in my veins. As someone who’s naturally soft spoken and sensitive, I’m down to express attitude here and there with what I wear. It’s not as corny as putting on a costume. It’s subtle, but taps into a part of my personality that feels different compared to when I wear a frilly sundress, or a structured pencil skirt and blazer.

Fashion is so damn fun. I love wearing pieces that bring me so much joy, confidence, and attitude like this thrifted jacket! What’s your favorite preloved piece?

Photos by Austin Hall of Dissident Dreamer