????? Excuse me?:confused:

I have made an art out of disappointing you, Koir. Doesn't the fact that I went back and changed the original post show my true feelings about my superiority?

The purpose of this thread was not to be "a judgmental flame fest with me in the position of superiority" in any way whatsoever. I am getting on a plane this afternoon, and was reminded of the common scene of a foreigner in what are seen as traditional Japanese dress. I was also tired of seeing the Akira poll continue with little interest from JF users.

I never intended for it to be that big a deal, but was just wondering if JFers would invest in the traditional image or not.

Well now....
Uh, my opinion would be to make your own style. Wear your own clothing, as you always wear, but add something thats traditional japan style to it. You don't want to look like you're "trying" to dress like they do. but, you don't want to be all, acting too comfortable or something, you know?

I would wear what I feel comfortable in definitely. Traditional clothing is generally only worn at certain ceremonies and Im under the impression that even then it is an option.

Though I wouldnt dare "do what the Romans do" either when it comes to some of my peers everyday dress sense. The standards commercial pop culture sets in Japan arent my thing. (the same can be said for the pop culture standards set in the West too).

In other words, you can often find me wearing a faded sweater and a modest pair of slacks and trainers most of the time.

bELyVIS: Do you need me to explain that?

Oh, I thought you weren't a native English speaker but I see you are a product of the American School system. Makes sense now.

How should this be taken? Was that a criticism of the American school system, or were you trying to say something entirely different?

I don't want to jump on you if you don't deserve it.

THIS. Although I would add again 'for appropriate reasons'; not just to stand out and act the 'cool gaijin' on a random wednesday. I think people would be more likely to goggle at you if you were wearing something badly; kimono folded wrong or sloppily, for example.

Actually, something I noticed in Japan was that you were much more likely to see girls (of any nationality) in traditional gear than men. I think I only saw about three men (grooms and a guy at a graduation), and a handful of monks.

Oh, unless I count the kyuudo, karate and kendo lots. Fair few guys amongst them.

I was being critical of the school system. Too many pass without the proper education.
So I guess you'll jump on me if you are a teacher.:ywave:

I really want to try wearing a Japanese traditional cloth, even though I chose the second option.