Japanese Sun Protection Blaster Shields

Anthony and I can laugh for hours about the amount of "blaster shields" we see when spring and summer arrive in Japan.  The other day "The Crank" was lucky enough to spot some at a local store and he snapped a picture for us!  If you look at the Japanese it basically says "Sun Visor", but as you know there is  only one true name for them....... "Blaster Shields".

Along with the blaster shields you cant forget the "arm gloves" that just about every Japanese woman over 25 wears.  Of course they are trying to protect their skin and NOT get a tan.  It's funny because it will be about a million degrees hot (and humid) and they will be rocking the blaster shield and these arm gloves.  Often they wear these inside cars while the windows are up..... To each is own I guess ;-)

What's Up With the Japanese Girls with Loose Socks?

One of the more unique fashion styles in Japan is the "Loose Socks" style.  Loose socks are usually worn by female high school students when they are hanging out, usually outside of school.  Most schools don't allow the school girls to wear them during the school day, but of course there are exceptions at some schools.

[Image Credit: Colodio]

At first look you might think, "What the heck are they wearing, leg warmers?".  Well, at least that's what I thought at first.

[Image Credit: Colodio]

Why do Japanese girls wear loose socks?  Well the best answer I got was that with their school uniform skirt hiked up and the big loose socks on it gave their legs the appearance of being long and skinny. Kind of like a tall model.  I guess if you think about it, this fashion does give an optical illusion of longer and skinnier legs.

[Image Credit: sainz]

This fashion has also hit the Cosplay scene as it is often seen in manga and anime.


Another thing I learned from an old girl friend of mine that liked to wear them even several years after she finished high school, is that there is a special glue for loose socks. This "special" glue helps them stay exactly where the wearer wants.  I laughed when I heard this!! The things girls will do for their fashion...