Visual kei

Visual kei (ヴィジュアル系, vijuaru kei, literally "visual style") refers to a movement in Japanese popular culture characterized by the use of eccentric, sometimes flamboyant looks. This usually involves striking make-up, unusual hair styles and elaborate costumes, often, but not always, coupled with androgyny or distinctively feminine or bishōnen aesthetics.

These looks have enjoyed popularity especially in Japanese music, ranging from independent underground projects to artists achieving mainstream success, with similarities to and influences from European and American genres like new wave, punk and glam rock. Magazines published regularly in Japan with a visual kei focus include Arena 57°C, Fool's Mate and Shoxx. Noted bands who at least at some point sported a visual kei theme include Dir en grey, Malice Mizer, and Luna Sea.

Though not considered to be the creators of Visual Kei, the band X Japan appear to have been instrumental in its rise to popularity, becoming nationally recognized after the release of their major label debut Blue Blood, and almost receiving an international launch..

See also

• Ero guro
• Gothic Lolita
• Nagoya kei