Japanese Schoolgirl Inferno

I'm fascinated by the whole fashion subculture with teens in Japan. The book, Japanese School Girl Inferno ($16.95 at Chronicle Books) takes you behind the scenes at the trends created by each category of girls from sailor-suited gangsters, Pippi Longstockings risen from the dead, girls in blackface, teens sporting giant hamster costumes, the Gothic Lolitas and more. Each fashion profile is packed with photos and illustrations, history, ideal boyfriends, and must-have items. This would make a great holiday gift for any fashionista or teen you know.

I love these charts in the book that show you how to dress up in that special school girl style. To find out more about this book, visit the Chronicle Books blog.