Was reading through an email I got from a Star Wars mailing list I subscribe to and found out this interesting piece:

the artist looked to the Ralph McQuarrie-designed stormtrooper suit, which itself had been inspired by samurai armor

According to the same article, apparently the new Clone Commando is also partly inspired by the ninja. So those of you who are Japan buffs, here's some interesting trivia for your friends :-)
BTW if you do read Japanese, there's now a Star Wars Japan website for your viewing pleasure!