How to say "fashion" in Japanese

Choosing the right word

式しきJLPT N3approx.Common
noun, noun (suffix)Covers 'fashion' only in the sense of a manner or method of doing something. It is really 'way' or 'style' of procedure, not clothing or trends, so it is seldom the word you want for fashion as dress.
モードCommon
nounA loanword for fashion, especially the world of high fashion and current styles in dress. It carries a somewhat chic, industry-flavored tone compared with the everyday ファッション.
若わかい女性じょせいの間あいだで、前髪まえがみをクルクルさせるのは、モードではない。↗
It's not the mode for young girls to curl their bangs.
ファッションCommon
nounThe default word for fashion as clothing and personal style, covering both the industry and what people wear. When you mean fashion in the dress sense, this is usually the word to reach for.
その店みせのウインドウには最新さいしんのファッションが展示てんじしてある。↗
The shop windows display the latest fashion.
流行りゅうこうJLPT N3approx.Common
suru verb, intransitive verb, no-adjectiveMeans what is currently popular or in vogue — a trend or craze. Use it when 'fashion' implies the latest thing rather than dress in general, as in following the fashion of the moment.
あの種しゅの服ふくが今いま流行りゅうこうだ。↗
That kind of dress is now in fashion.
流りゅうJLPT N1approx.Common
suffixCovers 'fashion' only in the sense of a manner or style of doing things, like one's own way. It is really 'way' or 'manner', not fashion in dress, so it is rarely the word you want for clothing.

For clothing trends use 「ファッション」 or 「モード」; 流行 means what is currently in vogue; 式 and 流 mean a manner or way of doing things, not fashion in the clothing sense.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents

式しきway
モードfashion
ファッションfashion
流行りゅうこうfashion
流りゅうway
流儀りゅうぎway (of doing things)
流行りはやりfashion
好尚こうしょうtaste
時好じこうfad

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