One of the hottest fashion items to come out of Japan recently isn't what you may expect it to be. Moisturizing face masks, a long-time part of Japanese women's beauty routine,have been getting a makeover. While most still resemble plastic-surgery post-op gauze, now you can also find ones that make you look like a monster, animal or even a member of KISS. It's become part of the "costume play" craze that has seen anime and manga seeping into mainstream style agendas.

The Design Face Pack series should have fashionistas getting into the trend — Kansai Yamamoto, designer of David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust outfits, has created a look that melds his famous kabuki-style runway makeup with artistic brush strokes. For ¥900 you get a pack of two styles. (M.J.)

Available at Tokyu Hands. www.tokyuhands.co.jp