Gothic Lolita

If your curiosity is piqued as to who the young girl is in the image of my previous post, I will elaborate. She is a girl that is part of a "Goth" scene in Japan known as "Gothic Lolita." It is also known as Goth Lolita, GothLoli, Gosurori and Loli-Goth.

Lolita fashion is a style of dress that originated in Japan by teens in Tokyo's youth mecca, Harajuku. The fashion is inspired by the clothing of Victorian women and children and always has a goth twist. At times, it aims to imitate the look of Victorian porcelain dolls. Other influences include goth genre horror movies. Lolita followers prefer to look cute, beautiful or elegant rather than sexy. An outfit may include a pinafore, tiny top hat, parasol and lace gloves.

Headgear might consist of a headband with ruffles, ribbons, lace or bows. Sometimes even bonnets are worn. Hair may be curled to complete the porcelain doll look. The naturally dark Japanese hair color may be colored blue, red, blonde or kept black. Some may choose to wear wigs as well. Pale complexion make-up is optional but dark eyeliner and lips are preferred.

Gothic Lolita clothing is usually a combination of black and white and typically decorated with ribbons and lace trims. Skirts are knee length and may have a crinoline or petticoat to add volume. The fashion statement emphasizes accessories such as handbags in the shape of bats or coffins, intricate old-fashioned jewelry, frilly socks with dangling charms. White or black tights are also common. Lace trimmed headdresses or mini top hats are popular. Platforms rather than stiletto shoes are favored.

"Lolita Goths" may favour long skirts and jackets to emulate Victorian women rather than overtly child-like designs. They aim for elegance, but are not trying to look like children or victorian dolls. Goth Lolita designs are usually modest, sometimes with long lace-capped sleeves or frilly, high-necked blouses. Makeup is used sparingly and used more often by Elegant Lolita Goths than with other Gothloli styles. Black eyeliner is typical. A pale complexion is preferred, so white foundation might be used. Red or black lipstick is preferred.

"The Gothic & Lolita Bible" plays an instrumental role in defining the Japanese Lolita style. This quarterly mook (magazine/book hybrid) is a combination fashion magazine, culture guide and art book. It caters to fans of two separate but related fashions, "Gothic" and to a greater extent "Lolita."

The "Gothic & Lolita Bible" is now published in English and available in the U.S.

Oh, to be sixteen again.