Over the years of existence, Lolita fashion has significantly grown its influence and popularity not just in the streets of Japan where it originated, but in the whole world as well. It began its trend in the 1980s following the Victorian and Rococo fashion of Europe. The key elements that separate this style from the others are the color scheme, a frilly skirt, a decent pair of socks or stockings, dainty and striking shoes, and a doll-like makeup. It is expressive, elaborate, with a twist of modesty that can make any person stand out from the rest of the crowd. The general confusion about Lolita fashion is it being a type of cosplay wear that aims to imitate a certain character. Maybe because it has gained a lot of its reputation and acknowledgment from appearances in anime. But to clarify things out, it is a type of a clothing trend with very particular standards and restrictions.
“An evil angel in Lolita dress.” There are a lot of subcultures under Lolita fashion. But one of the most well-known and probably the most traditional type is the Gothic Lolita. It is a perfect combination of Gothic wind and Lolita style. As usual, it mainly features the color black alongside other color accents such as blue, purple, red, and white. However, under no circumstances should you incorporate light and pastel colors like baby pink and light blue in your outfit. Gothic Lolita is very popular among anime characters with dark and mysterious personalities namely, Celestia Ludenberck from Danganranpa: Kibou no Gakuen, Misa Amane from Death Note, and Cyan Hirijikawa from Show by Rock. Some of the famous J-rock bands particularly the Malice Mizer are also heavily influenced by this fashion trend. Mana, the leader of this band was the one to take credit for starting the Gothic Lolita culture or what she refers to as the “gothloli”. Almost every Gothic Lolita enthusiast subscribes to a Japanese magazine called The Gothic and Lolita Bible to help them create their personal looks as well as follow updates and find resources for pieces, attires, and jewelry.
Most of Gothic Lolita‘s printing elements are related to religion and supernatural references. In a way, the style and theme can distinguish itself from the rest of the Lolita subcultures. The typical motifs in a Gothic Lolita style are church windows, crucifixes, thorns, candles, broken buildings and castles, bats, caskets and coffins, or other macabre designs. All of these details contribute to depict grudge, drama, darkness, and gloominess. Often times, normal people are offended with the Gothic theme as it is perceived to be rebellious and anti-religion. Wearing sacred symbols like the cross as a fashion statement is usually seen as disrespectful. However, that is not the case. The reason behind this is that Goth enthusiasts believe that religion and the bible are full of mystery, death, and misery that is why the Gothic culture tries to make poetry and meaning out of it. It is almost the perfect theme to portray the essence of the culture, just like Gothic Lolita’s.
Gothic Lolitas usually have dark, grotesque-designed parasols. For their makeup, they go for a soft grudge, sophisticated look with a mix of a doll-like feature to match the mysterious but sweet aura they are trying to portray. One of the common makeup motifs is the “little vampire” characterized by dark eyeliner, blood-red lips, and a powdered pale face for the doll look. Others can also go for a more natural aura with deep bright eyes to capture and lure the whole attire. Black lipsticks are only used if you are going for an intense and dark overall-look. The hairstyles of Gothic Lolitas are diverse, but the twin-tail style is a signature among all looks. Curls, bangs, and elegant ribbons are often present it their look. And Lolita’s adored accessary–clips and pins are necessary. The classic Japanese look is also a common hairstyle with long straight hair and bangs. Black angel wings, large horns, and other appropriate headpieces can further spice up the attire. Hairstyles can vary from simple to very detailed.
In terms of the dresses that go well with a Gothic Lolita outfit, people usually wear one piece as it is more comfortable and easier to pull off. Nevertheless, it solely depends on your tastes and preferences. You have the option to wear a two-piece outfit; that is a skirt and blouse. When choosing a Lolita skirt, people usually stick closer to jumper skirt designs because they find it more manageable to pair and coordinate. Naturally, skirts must sit right at the waist for a more refined appearance. Avoid high-waist skirts as they are unflattering. Length is a crucial detail in Lolita fashion, thus skirts and dresses that are too skimpy are discouraged. Pieces that reach at least the knee length are ideal. Of course, the Gothic Lolita attire won’t be complete without black as its main color, complemented by minor color accents. Chokers and elegant-looking gloves are almost a requirement to complete the attire. They are usually ornamented with charms, chains, or jewels. It can be enhanced by obvious elements that match the theme, such as spider decorations and other gothic materials. Coordinating foot and legwear is also vital. Mary janes and Victorian boots are a standard, paired with fancy lace or fishnet stockings. Some Gothic Lolitas also go for black high heels and large blocky platforms.
If I wear to dress up as a Gothic Lolita, I would much likely go for a sexy black Lolita dress in which the top resembles a tight corset with ribbons on the front just like this one right here:
.The skirt needs to be flowy and not bulky in shape. My make up would be on the natural side with black eyeliner. I want my hairstyle to be a brush-up while I put little horns on the sides of my forehead. I will wear a lacy black choker with silver jewels and match it with black gloves. For my legwear, I will opt for black platforms and lacy stockings. Fake tattoos like roses and crucifixes are definitely an eye-catcher and a look completer.
