T’s personal rating:
Spice: 4/5
Romance: 5/5
Fluff: 3/5
Art: 4.5/5
Characters: 5/5
(NEW) Overall rating: 4.5/5
After seeing supermodel Ai’s confidence and style on the runway, high schooler Chiaki Sumuira found a new sense of passion and motivation in the realm of punk fashion. Now, as a second year in fashion school, Chiaki dreams of seeing his work on the runway. Specifically, worn by his idol. When a competition promises to make that dream happen, Chiaki is ready to do whatever it takes. However, with his scowly, unapproachable nature, he ended up pairing with Enaga Ayumu, an equally unapproachable, clumsy, and unfashionable student.
The two struggle to collaborate, however, Chiaki slowly starts to find Enaga’s clumsiness charming. However, at the same time, Chiaki encounters his idol after wandering into a bar by himself. He’s caught between his enigmatic, mysterious classmate and his celebrity crush, struggling to navigate his feelings. However, both Ai and Enaga have secrets of their own.
Punks Triangle is a JBL and manga, the manga written and illustrated by Yuho Okita. In the world of Punks Triangle, fashion becomes a way to put yourself out to the world, but also to shield yourself. After all, how you present yourself is the first thing people notice about you.
Chiaki hides behind his piercings and ripped clothes, but he’s also very sensitive and reserved. His struggle to socialize is masked by his appearance, and that’s something which makes Chiaki a character who can resonate a lot with people who don’t often fit into society because of their appearance. This contrasts heavily with Ai, who emanates the punk aesthetic and wears it with pride, and is defined by it. His brand, his public image, all revolve around it.
People like Ai and Chiaki I find highly admirable. From an individual standpoint, I strongly admire those who are able to express themselves authentically through clothing. Finding your personal style takes much experimenting, time, and commitment. In a world where the fashion scene is full of microtrends, I find myself appreciating “stylish” people more and more. Ultimately, what you wear should make you feel comfortable and confident.
Punks Triangle opens the eyes for many of us who can often feel trapped by the clothes we wear, whether that be constricting uniforms or the desire to fit within a certain societal image. I think it’s a worthy read for all.
And yes, this book is the reason I’m getting more ear piercings. Maybe snakebites too, we’ll see.
The Blue and White 