As a second generation SCAdian I've observed a few friends and their friends choose Japanese style Garb. While I didn't ask them why at the time, my theory is anime. From hearing stories from older SCAdians it wouldn't be the first time that a love of media led to a love of history and culture. Additionally, this may be a way to differentiate themselves from their parents as they grow into themselves. Maybe this develops into a whole Persona or maybe it's a phase but either way it encourages participation that works for them.
This interest can also be a good introduction to making their own garb. My minimal research reveals loose garments with minimal tailoring and made of nearly all rectangles, so accessible to new sewists.
Here are some links to jump start research:
- Wodefordhall : The individual articles have cited resources for further research.
- Sengokudaimyo: not only fashion but culture as well
- sbooth.net: inspiration more than source
- daigaku-ryou: outdated event listing but reading the class descriptions may lead you down some rabbit holes
- jeongyo-teahouse.net: database of sorts for sources covering most of Asia it appears
