Skip to main content
BoF Logo

Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.

Can ‘Sick-Cute’ Fashion Break Japan’s Silence on Suicide?

With garments spelling ‘I Want to Die’ and accessories like syringes and bandages, a dark offshoot of the oppressively cute ‘kawaii’ culture is addressing the hush-hush topic of depression and mental illness in Japan.  
A 'yami-kawaii' look by June Crees | Source: Courtesy of June Crees
By
  • Kati Chitrakorn

TOKYO, Japan

Please sign in to ensure you can read our agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice. Or get in touch at support@businessoffashion.com if you experience difficulties.

© 2026 The Business of Fashion. All rights reserved. For more information read our Terms & Conditions

More from News & Analysis
Fashion News, Analysis and Business Intelligence from the leading digital authority on the global fashion industry.
view more
Latest News & Analysis
Unrivalled, world class journalism across fashion, luxury and beauty industries.

Who Won Fashion’s Red Carpet Season of Change

Sunday night’s Oscars concluded an awards season that fashion’s biggest labels used to show off their new creative game. BoF breaks down what we learned about brands’ celebrity strategies.


VIEW MORE
Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.
CONNECT WITH US ON