October 6, 2016
Web post update from Teresa!
When you think of September 30th and October 1st, what is the first thing that goes through your head? Halloween? For me, my mind jumps to the Halloween season, but for the Japanese working class and schools, it signals the start of “koromogae” or 衣替え.
“Koromogae” combines the Japanese words, 衣 or clothes, with 替え or change, giving us a word that means “the change of clothes to suit the season.”
The change of seasonal clothing means that the nicely dressed salarymen in their suits and ties in the winter will finally be free to wear an open-collared short-sleeved shirt, a fashion called “Cool Biz.” This campaign was started in the summer of 2015 by the government as an effort to decrease electricity consumption by air conditioning.
For students, “koromogae” means the switch between their winter (冬服 - fuyufuku) and summer uniform (夏服 - natsufuku). For most students, including Seiritsu students, they have two sets of school uniforms (制服 - seifuku). Winter uniforms worn from October 1st to May 31st have a crisp blazer and ties for males and ribbons for females. Summer uniforms worn from June 1st to September 31st have sweaters and are open-collared.
Winter uniforms, as modelled by overseas study returnees Michiru and Kouki.
Our Junior High students wearing their summer uniform - note the lack of ribbon and blazer!
“Koromogae” or 衣替え does not only signify the change of clothes though! You’ll notice the vending machines lining the corners and streets will change inventory. As the temperature drops, you’ll see more hot beverages than cold drinks, something I am very grateful for.
Even though the change from September 31st to October 1st may mean the seasonal change of clothing in Japan, it doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate some Halloween-inspired clothing in your outfits. Just make sure it’s not too extreme and noticeable that your boss or teacher will have a word with you.
Teresa Fong
JET Assistant Language Teacher