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

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 (opens new window) is also partly inspired by the ninja (opens new window). 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 (opens new window) a Star Wars Japan (opens new window) website for your viewing pleasure!