Being the same with majority is good?
Posted by: kirin on 
Nov 20th, 2009 | 
Filed under: Uncategorized
Upon this post, I received an interesting comment from Shayna and I’d like to share my opinion in this post.
Here’s her question:
“Why do Japanese people tend to dress up almost the same as everyone else (etc. wearing same color workshirt – which is White most of the time, carrying the same design of work bags and also shoes, belts, etc?)
I really want to know what is the reason behind this…. Hope you could share with me…”
She is speaking of the photo I uploaded in the above post (you can check it from here) and you can see every young Japanese man and woman is getting dressed almost exactly the same as the one next to him or her.
This photo focuses on those who came to seminars run by Japanese blue chip companies that were trying to hire new graduates next or next after next spring. That’s why they dress in this way to stay as “safe” (無難). I don’t want you to misunderstand that we are dressing like this same way to this extent in any cases, which is apparent if you are a regular audience of Tokyo Kawaii TV that tells what’s going on in today’s Tokyo fashion.
But you’ll still wonder why we have to get dressed with the same color, same bag, same shoes, same coordination, etc. I said that is to be liked by HR of the companies they met on the day. But you’d think, “It shouldn’t be that same, and it should be alright as long as the looks are appropriate for such occasions.” Right, and I think so, that’s why I sometimes feel that I don’t fit into Japanese culture, although I am 100% Japanese! LOL
First of all, let me tell you this. In Japan, it’s basically considered good to be the same as others. This tendency gets stronger when you go to country side, or when you have to be conservative, just like the meeting with companies mentioned above or in such occasions like everyone orders the same thing at a restaurant when they are not close each other. Men are basically more conservative than women, and I think that’s why every Japanese business man looks almost the same as others.
There are following proverbs in Japan and being unique and sticking out of the crowd is regarded “not pleasant”. And staying the same as majority of other people is considered safe, peaceful, pleasant, and nice in Japan.
-出る杭は打たれる。(Nail sticking up is ready to be hammered.)
-寄らば大樹の陰。(Select a big tree for your shelter. / There’s safety in numbers.)
-長いものには巻かれろ。(Yield to the powerful.)
Being homogeneous race and speaking only Japanese in a small island may have created such culture. I sometimes feel sick when I’m back from other cosmopolitan big cities where many other nations live together to feel how small it was where I was living. This sense is very difficult to explain, but it’s there!
Considering that these people are trying to get job under such bad economy, they should not give bad impressions to the companies. There are some stupid companies that secretly say no to specific colored suits like navy blue and the students need to be safest because it’s ridiculous if they didn’t pass the interview or a ticket to the next step because of what they put on.
But it’s also true that Harajuku – Shibuya fashion that is often picked up by Tokyo Kawaii TV is also something special. Most of the places, you’ll hear such conversations in Japan.
shop assistant : “This shirt is selling well in this season. It was also introduced in this fashion magazine and that one, too. The model XX-chan wears this. Isn’t it cute? Many people come buy it, so why don’t you get one for yourself while there’s a stock?”
shopper : “Which color is most popular?”
shop assistant : “Definitely this one!”
shopper : “Then, let me take it!”
To me it’s no way! I don’t want to wear something many people like to. I just like to buy what I like, and whether it sells well or not doesn’t matter at all! How about you? I wish I were good at sewing and enjoy making and wearing clothes of my original. :p
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November 20th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
What do I think?
I think that, yes, the nail sticking up is ready to be hammered. But, at least he is being brave, and doing what he wants to do. He's willing to take the risk of being hammered, in order to be what he wants to be, and not 'just another nail' in the wood. He is unlike the other nails, which hide in the wood, too afraid to be different and do what they desire.
November 20th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
Hi Kirin!
I also had a theory about one reason why Japanese culture values sameness so much. There is such a huge population of people on a very small island. With so many people living close together differences can lead to disruptions and fights. Sameness ensures harmony and peace which makes living together in a small area easier. It is just a small idea that I had once when thinking about sameness in Japanese culture. What do you think?
In Australia there are many movies, TV shows, books, magazines and ideas that promote the idea of being unique and different and "being yourself" but when you are very different (like if you wear lolita fashion in Brisbane or dye your hair all pink – I have done both!) you find that it is only an idea. Many people in Australia will treat you badly and insult you if you are very different to the norm. However sameness, like in the photo you posted, is also thought of as bad and robotic – not thinking for yourself but following everyone else.
November 20th, 2009 at 9:00 pm
It's funny because on one hand Japanese uniforms appear super cute! On tthe other I dislike wearing a uniform myself and appreciate individuality. I come from a place where "normal" is to shave your eyebrows and draw them on with pencil….O.o As for making clothes, I am right there with you! I wish I could make my own cute clothes too! ^^
November 20th, 2009 at 10:19 pm
I don't like when I "meet my outfit" on the street. I mean if an other person wears the same as I do. So I usually get my clothes from second hand shops (besides you get unique items from there, it is much more cheap). Sometimes I check fashion magazines or websites about fashion, but I usually wear what I like, what I feel comfortable to wear and what matches my body features. I take care of the coordination of my outfit, but I'm not the type who dresses up for other people.
When I'm watching those episodes of Tokyo Kawaii TV where they show people sewing their own outfit, I start to think seriously about buying a sewing machine.
About dressing the same way as others to feel safe: I think this phenomenon exist in my country too. For example my friend's mother works at an office, where if someone is wearing something "striking" or changes her hair colour into blonde or into other striking colours, her collegues start gossiping about her in a very negative way. For example: oh look, she might picked up a wealthy guy as a lover and it shows… etc. :S
Some workplaces have certain rules or dress codes. For example men can't have longer hair, women can wear comfortable clothes but their clothes shouldn't be too colourful… etc.
November 21st, 2009 at 12:59 am
i think japan (as a majority) is more conservative than other people…
i think though, many other people would agree that is fine to wear whatever to work, as long as is appropriate. and that you should buy things because You like it.
hopefully i am not alone, but,
buying clothes because "this" color or style is more popular, seems boring and not original.
then , what would be the point of having fashion shows?
sometimes is good to be "safe in numbers" (like orchestra needs to work together to sound good)
but to apply to most parts of life….? i dont know….
November 21st, 2009 at 4:43 am
I had a somewhat similar experience when I needed to buy a new handkerchief in Tokyo at a department store. The salesperson kept stressing that what brands were popular, and what colors were good. I didn't care about any of that, I just needed a handkerchief. It struck me as a bit odd, but I didn't think deeply about it.
As for sewing, my mother taught me how to sew from when I was little, but I don't really take the time to make my own clothes. Generally, I will just make Halloween costumes or the like.
November 21st, 2009 at 7:18 am
I just wanted to say I stumbled over your blog and I must say I'm fond of it! It's so interesting and well written. Keep up the good work!
Honestly here in Austria people also tend to look and dress the same, thogh not to the same extend as in Japan.
) and it got me a interview for a caffee right away, cause the CV really stood out this way. If this method is successful depends on the job you're applying for …
If you're having a job interview your supposed to dress appropriate (suit) and you should look neat. It's an important factor how you present yourself, cause you're supposed to represent the companies image.
So, I was looking for a job for a long period of time and I always got turned down as there always were too many applicants and then a friend of mine recommended me to change my CV. Like, include a non-typical CV photograph. At first I was reluctant to do it, but then finally decided to add one of my Gothic Lolita pictures (I love this fashion
November 21st, 2009 at 1:50 pm
Mm… I think Singapore is a little like Japan – we don't really want to stick out too much. For example, wearing a hat is not our culture. If we see people wearing a hat, we'll take a second look. But the young people are getting more adventurous. But unfortunately, they just look like they're following the Japanese/Korean culture!
For me, I'm too lazy to think about fashion. =P I don't really care. But if I must choose a style, I'll say MUJI!
November 21st, 2009 at 3:39 pm
I feel lucky to live in America where there is a variety! When I go back to Taiwan, which is even smaller than Japan, I think that EVERYBODY looks exactly the same! All the shops sell the same style of clothes, whatever is "in" this season. Then everybody wears it, and the next season they move on to the next trend. I thought it was so boring…
November 21st, 2009 at 9:16 pm
B) It's the same in many countries. We're being told to be ourselves and unique individuals , but the minute you do you're the nail that sticks out. In Japan this seems even more pronounced than in my country. Run with the herd or else..
So ? If you want a job , dress the same, talk the same and don't stick out and outside your job , be the individual you want to be.
If you care what people think about you , you'll never be free, because you can't please everybody. Someone somewhere always will take offense. F**k them ! Do you want to make everybody else happy or yourself ?
So paint your hair blue or wear a loud shirt. And yes, people are uncomfortable with everything that's not like the ordinary.
Do you want to live your life and die in the knowledge " yes it was boring and I didn't feel free, but hey I never offended anyone ?"
Seriously !
Every society admires it's artists, actors, singers ,etc because they're so unique and individual , no ?
But you can't do so, because : "Oh what would the neighbors think ? "
Why would you care what the neighbors think ? Do they care what you think ? Be yourself.
And, BTW, America the land of the free ? Ahahaha ! I just read there's states where it's illegal you to hang out your laundry to dry outside, because it causes offense. I have grown up seeing ours and the neighbors shirts and undies hanging from the washing lines in the summer breeze. Very eco-friendly !
Of course you can always hang your undies in a spot where the neighbors can' t see it. You didn't buy a pink frilly bra for the neighborhood boys to drool over , didn't you ?
And about the company that wouldn't hire you if your suit is blue ? Ask yourself, do you want to work for a company where the managers are so anal-retentive that the colour of your suit is more important than your skills profile ? if it is, wear the grey suit. Otherwise , sc**w them! Get a job with a company where you're judged on the work you deliver , not the color of your tie.
November 21st, 2009 at 9:34 pm
As for shopping and buying things you like, GOOD FOR YOU Kirin ! (Applause) xD . It's your money , right ?
If the clerk points out the latest fashion or what idol-chan number 502 wears, I would politely thank her for the information and I'll buy the one I LIKE, thank you very much,my dear , because it's MY MONEY and I'm gonna wear what I lIKE , not what idol-chan likes.
Let's also not forget that idol-chan 502 has a manager who has contracts with Company 1074 , who make the clothes idol-chan 502 wears in public and that she likes sooo much. It's a money thing.
I don't follow fashion At ALL!
Because tomorrow idol-chan nr 502 will be SOooo yesterday, it will be idol-chan 503 who's hot today and she prefers totally different things, yessir, ahahahaha !
November 22nd, 2009 at 10:06 am
I agree with both of your comments!
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:22 pm
You know, I have to tell you, I really enjoy this blog and the insight from everyone who participates. I find it to be refreshing and very informative. I wish there were more blogs like it. Anyway, I felt it was about time I posted, I
November 23rd, 2009 at 8:39 am
An interesting post as usual, Kirin! I'm glad you expanded further on the employment interview clothing.
I had some students that were preparing for job interviews before finishing college, and sometimes they would come to my class dressed in the typical black suit with white shirts… For me it was really strange because usually they dressed quite casually and especially a couple of them were very fashionable and stylish. Suddenly all of that disappeared when they were job hunting! But I guess I understand – for an interview you want to be remembered for all the right reasons, not the wrong ones. Why take a risk if even the colour of your suit may affect your employment possibilities? But it does seem a bit strict.
I also had some students who had uniforms at work (they worked in offices, not in shops), but they really liked it. All the women looked the same at work, which gave them a kind of bonded feeling since they were quite few. (The men didn't apparently have uniforms) But they argued the best point was that they could wear exactly what they wanted on the way to and from work, so when they were going home etc they felt quite free. I quite like that idea too. You leave *everything* about work at the office when you go home.
I'm not so good at sewing yet, but soon! Since I'm studying fashion design for a year I'm hoping I'll gain the skills to make whatever I want! I'm tired of going shopping and finding something I like, but it doesn't quite fit, or they don't have the colour I like… I wish we had a factory that offered old used clothes for cheap! We have secondhand offerings here, but they're quite limited…
And actually, back to people wearing the same thing and safety in nrs – in Sweden, colour is completely 'banned' when fall and winter comes along. Not really banned, but everyone wears grey, black and brown… It really depresses me!!! I miss summer, so I dress brightly to try to cheer myself up – maybe I worry other people in the process, haha! ^^
November 23rd, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Thank you for your theory, and I think you explained things well that I couldn't express well in English.
When I meant homogeneous race in the small island, I wanted to mean something you commented here. Thank you for helping me and I want my readers to read your comment for better understandings. :p
I wish I were raised in Australia, taught "being yourself" because I often feel myself restricted in Japan. Harajuku and Akiba (Akihabara) are 2 free spaces we have in Tokyo where we are free from unspoken restrictions. You will not treated badly there with pink hair or lolita looks. (I like that you did both of Lolita and pink hair in Australia!) Hahaha…
November 23rd, 2009 at 12:43 pm
I like cute school uniforms, but I don't like company uniforms even if they are cute. I don't know why. When I was a high school girl, I was OK wearing school uniform as long as it's cute. But I feel very stressed and disgusted against wearing company uniform. I once worked for a company where I had to wear their uniform, and I was feeling sick all day long, everyday, and I didn't care about anything about myself such as what I ate for lunch, how I should keep beauty, etc. because I really hated myself in the dull and plain uniform that didn't make myself look any good. People say that I am strange and stupid but that's how I am, I cannot help it. :p
November 23rd, 2009 at 12:50 pm
We have to dress conservatively at working offices. Men have to wear tie and suit, women should not expose their skins too much, and so on. When I was working at office, I really wondered about my wardrobe. From Mon. to Fri. I had to wear something conservative, and it's only Sat. and Sun. I can dress whatever I wanted. That means I had to buy a lot more conservative clothes than what I liked, and thought "I have to grow up to accept this." LOL
November 23rd, 2009 at 12:55 pm
I have been wondering for a long time why everytime store assistants tell me what's selling well and what's popular, because that means, those items are the last one I would buy. Seriously, it's been a question to myself until finally I found how most of others react to that. :p
November 23rd, 2009 at 12:57 pm
^ ^; oh…you already had similar experience…
It's cool you make your Halloween costume. I like that!
November 23rd, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Ahahaha! Gothic and Lolita picture!? I like that!!
Well, thank you for your visit and kind comment over here. Sometimes I cannot express everything in English as I do in Japanese, and so I appreciate every comment to check if I made myself clear to my blog readers in English. It's also nice they share additional insight, experience or knowledge in their comments as they supplement what I try to mean.
November 23rd, 2009 at 1:25 pm
MUJI! Good choice, if you like simple/ casual/ natural style!
I like to watch people dressing fashionably or in a unique way but as for myself, I cannot spend much time searching and buying clothes any more. When I was a teenager and had more free time, I spent a whole day to look for what I wanted to wear.
November 23rd, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Hmmm….Taiwan sounds very similar to Japan. I can find many common points in Taiwan culture that we have in Japan.
November 23rd, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Funny … "idol-chan 502" XD I like your comments, thank you!
November 23rd, 2009 at 2:00 pm
Thank you Lisa for your comment that adds color to my post, as I cannot express everything exactly as I wanted in English. ^ ^; I always have the same feelings that you had against your students who usually enjoyed casual fashion suddenly changed to black and white safest but boring looks only to be safe at company interviews.
It's cool you can make whatever you want by yourself soon! If only I had more time, I want to learn how to sew to make clothing, and how to do DIY work to make a small rack or a shelf at hand. :p
OMG there sounds such an unspoken rule in Sweden!? That reminds me of the story from my friend who once lived in France, saying "Everyone dresses black coat in cold freezing winter! I thought people in Paris are more fashionable!"
November 26th, 2009 at 2:09 am
Hi Kirin!
thank you so much for the post. Really helps alot for me to understand the Japanese. Haha.
I was curious when I had the chance to join a training with 70++ Japanese few months ago and it stumbled me and left me a huge curiosity “why is everyone dressing up like each other??” Haha.. You are right, girls tend to have the will to differ a little bit, but the guys… erm, imagine every guy is wearing white shirt with black coat, same style of belt and shoes, and same style of bag. Every guy looks almost the same. Haha.. To be honest, I was having a pretty hard time remembering who was who back then.
Kirin, I think u’re one of the unique ones and is really brave too chosing to be who u are and not following the others just for the sake of having a sense of belonging in a group. As for myself, I chose to have my own style. Eventhough the people in my office don’t really dress up and put make up, I strived to be different and be myself! I don’t care if they look at me in another way or talk about me. I dress up for myself and to please myself too. In fact, I feel happy knowing that I look good!
=)
Thanks alot again!
November 26th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
Hi Shayna,
I hope I could explain things well…you know sometimes it's not easy to explain cultural things. :p
I like you enjoy your style. BTW 70 more Japanese people at a time? Wow! So many…. I've heard there are many Japanese living in Malaysia. I have had a manner training course in Japan and too strict one just made me sick again…Strict dress code, strict manner, strict way of speech…too many strict things surround our working environment in Japan, and I was sick of them. I like to relax and be myself with appropriate politeness and common sense, which I believe is enough.
November 28th, 2009 at 2:32 am
you say that the Japanese race is homogenous but I don't think this is the case.. how do you explain the discrimination against burakumin, ainu, resident koreans and nikkei? it is just something we learned that is problematic, and the group orientation explained from your long history of rice-farming and cooperation within a mura. I am also quite surprised by the way japanese culture is so group-oriented, as the fashion styles can be so unique yet grouped into various set "styles" like gyaru, visual kei, gothic lolita etc.
November 28th, 2009 at 12:44 pm
To be exact, there are people as you mentioned, but as for me, I've never had anyone who belong to any of what you mentioned around me or in my class, at the office, neighbors, etc. Or there might be someone but no one treated that person any differently from us, and so I didn't even notice that.
They may have different culture, and yes, in that sense "homogeneous" was not appropriate.
Group-oriented, this is right. Somehow we like to classify any things into some groups or categories. Blood types are good example, which we like to talk about so much. (http://tokyokawaiietc.com/archives/2640)
February 12th, 2010 at 6:40 pm
That's really interesting
Your culture preaches conformity because it makes people easier to control-hence the reason why prison inmates wear uniforms. There's certainly not anything bad about people choosing to be like everyone else but I don't choose to! There's a reason why I shop at thrift stores! lol
February 13th, 2010 at 12:37 pm
It's very interesting when you use the example of prison where people are dressed with uniforms to be easily controlled. Japanese society is sometimes like an army or something. Our working atiitude should be very strict, regardless of army or not. I like more laid back and free style. This society is too rigid to feel easy for living.
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