The 40th edition of the Mynavi Tokyo Girls Collection (TGC) 2025 Spring/Summer kicked off on March 1, 2025, at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium First Gymnasium in Shibuya, Tokyo. The event, showcasing the vibrant Japanese girls' culture, featured popular actress Ayami Nakajo as one of the leading models strutting down the runway.
Ayami Nakajo donned a stunning black bear-top dress paired with a matching black jacket, exuding cool sophistication. Her runway performance was noteworthy, illustrating her creativity as she removed her jacket mid-walk to reveal her radiant skin. Following her appearance, dozens of models, including Yu-Chami and others, took to the runway, culminating in a spectacular finale where Nakajo returned to the stage, playfully running and blowing kisses to the crowd.
During the event's talk segment, Nakajo humorously recounted her 'runaway' experience: "TGC is celebrating its 20th anniversary. I wanted to pull Mr. Noguchi, our stylist, along with me, hence why I was literally grabbing his hand from the back." Mr. Noguchi has styled for the TGC Special Collection since the 2011 Autumn/Winter season, and his contributions remain integral to the event's success.
The TGC event aims to promote Japanese girls' culture on the global stage. It has been held biannually since 2005, with the latest edition featuring various celebrities, including Meru Nukumizu, Eliza Ikeda, and Raoul from the popular group "Snow Man." Live performances from musical artists such as ME:I and FRUITS ZIPPER added vibrancy to the day, alongside the dynamic hosting duo, EXIT, and popular announcer Reina Sumi.
Interestingly, Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba made a surprise appearance at the event, marking the first time a sitting prime minister participated in TGC. His unexpected arrival stirred excitement among the audience, with comments from the comedy duo EXIT noting, "It was more of bewilderment than applause." Ishiba, dressed casually with jeans and sneakers, introduced himself with humor, remarking, "I am the Cabinet Prime Minister who is 'accompanying' the official mascot of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, Myakumyaku, who is here today as well."
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to promote the upcoming expo, which is just 43 days away. He actively engaged the audience, encouraging them to attend the upcoming expo and expressed his wishes for TGC to continue its mission to present Japan as cute, vibrant, and stylish. He stated, "It would be wonderful for TGC to thrive even more to make Japan such a place. Let’s create such Japan together!" His presence and willingness to connect with the younger demographic showcased the inclusive spirit of the event.
During the show, Yamashita Mizuki also made waves, appearing dressed as a princess, complete with a tiara, captivating the audience with her charm. The TGC featured its 40th edition with the theme "HERE WE GO," focusing on recent fashion trends for the Spring/Summer season. Yamashita’s appearance marked her 12th time participating, establishing her as one of the most familiar faces at TGC.
Parallel to the fashion show, Daiso launched its new cosmetic brand, Kyumme, announced with Miyu Ikeda, known as Michopa, as its ambassador. This launch coincided with the TGC, presenting products available at Daiso stores starting March 1. Their offerings aim to make every day sparkle with feminine shades and shimmer, presenting items like charm eyeshadow palettes and lip glosses to incorporate TGC's glamour.
"Kyumme transports you to enchanting moments and enhances your daily routine with adorable cosmetics," the brand representative stated. Daiso, renowned for its affordable products, also debuted collaborative items with TGC, including cute pouches and smart accessories, fitting for the new spring season.
The TGC's immense popularity, boasting recognition from 94% of the population, is not just about fashion; it serves as a branding platform representing various aspects of Japanese culture. With its wide reach extending over eight million via real and online engagement, the event partners with numerous influencers, emphasizing positive youth messages and responding to societal challenges.
Looking back, the inaugural TGC launched with the aim of merging fashion with cultural representation, and it has consistently drawn significant attention both nationally and globally. The initiative has evolved over the past 20 years, hosting events across multiple cities. Each event keeps the spirit of fashion forward, aiming to present the charm and vibrancy of Japan's youthful identity.
The 40th Mynavi Tokyo Girls Collection not only highlighted the latest fashion trends but also underscored the essence of modern femininity, creativity, and cultural pride, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating the next gathering as they look forward to the continuing evolution of Japan's vibrant girls' culture.