What is Lolita? The Lolita fashion took off in the 1980s in Japan. The name of the fashion results in a few raised eyebrows as the first thing that comes to mind is Vladimir Nabokov's novel, Lolita (1955) which was controversial in depicting an older man's relationship with a minor. But the use of the name 'Lolita' in this fashion was to refer to the very child and doll-like style found in the clothing making it both beautiful and sweet, rather than sexy or vulgur. The style is actually quite modest and those from any age group can wear this style (YES, ANY AGE GROUP). I myself did not offically start wearing the fashion until the spring of 2011, but before then I had always been a long time admirer.
As mentioned earlier there are many different styles under the Lolita banner. The more known styles to choose from are Gothic, Sweet, and Classic Lolita. There are many more, such as Country, Sailor, Ero; the list goes on! You can also sew your own, for those who create their own clothing can even start their own style of Lolita. Those that do not sew, the style can be expensive if you just want to buy specifially Lolita Branded clothing. I am a firm believer that if it looks Lolita, you can wear it and no one has to know it is a top bought from Goodwill or at the mall. Especially if it is your first time wearing Lolita and you are trying to find your own style and see if it is for you. For both the list of the more specific styles and to gather more information on the fashion itself, there are links to websites that I found to be most helpful, when I was first starting out, at the end of this blog post. It also includes a forum so that you can meet others who have been into the fashion for a while or those just starting out as well.
I'm going to cover some of the more popular styles in more detail, starting with Gothic Lolita. The primary colors in this style are black and white with religous symbols on them or coffins, bats, or roses. With this style the make-up can be a bit dramatic, mainly focusing on black and other dark colors for the eyes while the lips are most commonly painted red or black. Though like all styles you can wear it however you like! So if you like the dresses but not a fan of the makeup, you never go wrong with a natural look. The important thing is to be comfortable in your own style, as it is an expression of your own individuality, as well as being part of a community.
Sweet Lolita, this would be the 'Baby Doll' look with the very cute and cheery patterns of candy, flowers, and cute little animals. This style is said to be influenced by the Rococo era. In this style the colors are mostly light, with the skirt's fullness to give it a 'cupcake' like shape. The right petitie coat will give this effect, and most if not all lolita dresses and skirts require a petitie, but different ones will cause different shapes. This style focuses more on the childlike innocents.
Classic Lolita, my personal favorite. In a way this could be seen as the more 'Historical' style. The style is influenced by the Victorian era, Rococo, and Regency styles. Its a more mature style with small delicate patterns. Most dresses and skirts are a-lines, more clean cut than the poofed out skirt found in the Sweet style. I feel that this style is very romantic and is a perfect reflection on my personality and taste.
Lolita is not just a fashion, it can also be a lifestyle. I have worn Lolita regularly before, but my work schedule does not permit me to wear it every day and as often as I would like. Aside from wearing the fashion, if you really wanted to you could style your room to give it a Lolita feel and look. There are different places online that you could check for references, or the Gothic Lolita Bible (sadly discontinued in english). I found a few video blogs and even documentaries on youtube.
For more references, insperation, or shopping needs please follow these links! I hope that this blog was helpful in any way and that the links below are as well. Check back with me for more posts as I delve deeper into the heart of Lolita Fashion, with more detailed information on specific products, styles and retailers! Follow my blog, and let your friends know about me. Thanks!
Lolita Styles and Forum. http://www.lolitafashion.org/
Clothing and Blog for Candy Threads http://www.candy-threads.com/
Blog for I Do Declare http://idodeclareshop.blogspot.com/
Etsy for I Do Declare http://www.etsy.com/shop/IxDoxDeclare?ref=seller_info
Blog for Elegy Clothing http://www.elegyclothing.com
Etsy for Elegy Clothing http://www.etsy.com/shop/ElegyClothing#
Baby The Stars Shine Bright http://www.babyssb.co.jp/
Angelic Pretty http://www.angelicpretty.com/en/
Innocent World http://innocent-w.jp/
