Buying Your First Winter Coat

Early autumn and late summer are the time all of the brand coats start coming out for winter - be they sugary concoctions with bear-ears or subdued beauties described in colors like 'milk tea' and 'coffee'. Some lolitas will be wearing last year's coats, brushed up and newly accessorized; others, long in the game, will have sold their previous season's coats so as to purchase the newest darling. Others may never have before bought a lolita coat, either from lack of funds or simply that this will be their first winter in the frills. Buying a coat doesn't look easy, they fuss. They're as expensive as two dresses put together, and made with all sorts of requirements different than the usual shopping criteria. Besides that, you'll most likely be wearing the coat every day (especially if you can afford only the one) - it may be all people see you in from November until March.

Cost: Set yourself a budget and decide just how much you can afford to spend on a coat. You will be hard-pressed to find a lolita coat of winter quality that costs less than $150. You can buy an offbrand coat from a store like Fanplusfriend (where I got my first coat) for around $150 - 200, and there are similarly priced and slightly cheaper ones from Hong Kong stores like Rose Melody (though I can't vouch for them personally). If you must have a brand coat, be prepared to pay somewhere within $350 - 500. In case you just experienced a wave of nausea, think of it on the pay-to-play scale. If your coat originally costs $400, but you wear it every day for five months (400/[5 * 30], give or take) you've only paid $2.60 a day or per wearing, which is probably less than your morning latte (do I sound like a commercial or what?) This method can be applied to anything you purchase - if it gets enough wear, it will eventually start paying for itself. (And of course, getting a coat that makes you happiest versus compromising is, as the commercials say, priceless). So even though a coat may be substantially more costwise, you'll be wearing it more than your favorite special-occasions only dress, which actually makes it more cost-effective. You can also buy non-lolita coats (there is a very chic 60s sort of coat at H&M currently) for a price range of $100 and under, but bear in mind that they are not cut to fit in the lolita silhouette. I had a $25 pink wool coat from Marshall's at my very start, which, while cute, gave me the dreaded 'poof peen' - there was always a wobbly wen of fabric sticking out of the coat, and squashed my petticoats. If you prefer more casual lolita, then this could be useful to you. If you're definitely into the silhouette, then don't bother.

Style Needs: So now that you've decided your budget, you need to decide just what you want your coat to do for you (ask not what you can do for your coat... ). Do you want to wear your coat every day, or just to events like winter meetups? Should you coat go to the opera or the office or both? Are you a super-sweet lolita, and can you walk into class with a bunny-eared hood without getting booed out of school?

If you're going to be wearing your coat often, you'll probably want something less distinctive or over the top. Angelic Pretty's fawn coat is made more like a dress, and if you wore it every day, might tire of it quickly. Can you imagine Day #56 straight of putting on your Bambi coat, on some raw February morning, or does the thought make your stomach turn? A coat doesn't need to match your clothes, as it should cover the majority of your outfit - but if you're the kind of person who likes to switch around styles, can you really wear a super sweet style every day if you're feeling more Gothic? Not only that, how does it fit into your everyday life? Would you need a more toned-down, standard coat, or does it not matter if you waltz in with six dozen bows on your hood?

If you'll only be wearing your coat to special events (ice skating meets, Christmas parties, etc) then you can go absolutely wild and pick out the flashiest, craziest coat with the most ruffles and frills. Ermine? Glittery leopard print? Sure!

Weight and Climate: What is winter like where you live? Do you typically get snow, ice, and wind, or simply a cold rain? Or perhaps it doesn't even get very cold where you live at all. These influence what weight of a coat you want. A heavy weight coat is usually made of wool and then lined, to stand up to freezing temperatures. A light-weight coat, sometimes called spring weight or autumn weight, is better for milder climates. Typically these are more of a brushed broadcloth. The best suggestion for knowing how a coat will stand up to weather before ordering it is to do your homework. A coat or a brand's typical coats may be reviewed on a lolita community like egl (use the search function), or you'll need to look closely at the specs of the item. Does it say what it's made out of? Can you get a good look at the inside by looking at the photos?

Bear in mind that even the winter weight lolita coats are assuming that you are wearing layers - sweaters, blouses, dresses, undershirts, the whole shebang - you generally can't sling it on over your strappiest little black dress and go. So don't be surprised if even your wool coat doesn't keep you perfectly warm at times - but you can read tips for wearing lolita in the winter here and here.

Color: When wearing a full lolita coat, it's actually cut like a large dress, and should therefore cover the entire outfit (barring shoes, socks, hair accessories, etc). So don't worry about matching your coat to your outfits - just pick whichever color you like best. My only warning is to be careful with light-colored coats - sweeping white fur against my dingy car before commuting every day was not fun! Even if your coat is a dark color, you will probably need to wash it (most likely at the cleaners') halfway through the season and then once more before packing it away for next year. Be careful with faux fur - sometimes washing will give it the texture of a used teddy bear. Check to see if your fur collars are detachable before going to your local dry cleaners'.

And that is all you need to know about selecting and purchasing your first lolita winter coat! There will be a follow-up article on winter accessorizing as well, so keep reading!

Doesn't this just make you excited for the first snowfall? I am!

Labels: guide, shopping, winter

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 11:27 PM 10 Comments

Neo-Victoriana At NYAF

Last wet Sunday Miss Lumpy and I got up early and piled onto the train so as to visit NYAF - New York Anime Festival, and model for the up and coming classic and steampunk inspired brand, I Do Declare. I Do Declare was featured in the Neo-Victorian fashion show, a side interest to the dealers' room - which was quickly becoming a lolita haven.

Tokyo Rebel, Kinokuniya, and other lolita-catering shops could be found, including Minty Mix and Cute Plush. Tokyo Rebel brought some wares to test-drive their market - and had a beautiful array of Victorian Maiden and Algonquins (quickly becoming a favorite of mine!) Kinokuniya, the Japanese-language bookstore chain, has typically been a carrier of Baby the Stars Shine Bright clothes, or at least sparsely. But now they've expanded to add more of a motley mix, including Metamorphose, Victorian Maiden, and even a few hints of Angelic Pretty. I couldn't resist supporting Minty Mix, which is a lolita-run accessories brand; and I've always loved Cute Plush, run by a (Connecticut!) lolita as well. Both had stepped up their products, with Minty Mix presenting new brooches and bows, and Cute Plush debuting new tee-shirts (my favorite are the fawns!)

The fashion show was right on the heels of the shoppers, presenting gorgeous showpieces and commentary to encourage the growing lolita population. Shien Lee, founder of the Dances of Vice I attended earlier this month, provided the rundown while donning a beautiful green dress with Rococo side-hoops. I think the trend is picking up - there was an interval with a audience-participant show, where girls wearing everything from elegant black to teacup hats strutted their stuff. It was wonderful to see a line of lolitas curled around the stage ready to show off their style - proof that lolita fashion is moving up in the world. I hope we see many more converts!

My work was to model for I Do Declare, in a black and pale pink confection of lace. I Do Declare premiered some of its first items at the show. I Do Declare crosses classic lolita, Victoriana, steampunk and mori style to make a very romantic and wearable look expressed in cream, sage, and muted historical tones. Miss Lumpy wore a steamboat-inspired style, and other designs in the line brought about the air of the Old West, with some models carrying pop-guns (which Miss Lumpy and I quickly made off with!) Considering the rise in classic and mori style right now, I can't wait to see what they come up with next. As they continue to develop, keep your eye out for more updates from Lolita Charm!

Labels: event

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 5:38 PM 3 Comments

Idiot's Guide to Loving a Lolita

In response to Miss Lumpy's excellently written post on a Guy's Guide to Romancing a Lolita, I decided to put together the Idiot's Guide - consider it an appendix or cheat-sheet to the one above! Make copies onto note cards if you're really nervous about your first date with Miss Princess. Try out just a few or go the whole nine yards and try out every single one! Of course this is also applicable for ladies, as well :) Happy flirting!

• Invent adorable pet names whenever possible. Suggestions: treasure, kitten, or creampuff. (For sweets, of course!) And almost any style of girl would enjoy lady, princess, or dearest. Take it a little old-fashioned!
• Bring home tiny things from your travels - a glittery hair pin, a single flower, a chocolate that made you think of her. This does wonders if you're traveling a lot for work or school.
• Send her letters, the old-fashioned kind. Make your handwriting presentable and be yourself - with a little more cute than a 'hey sup'. Just don't go James Joyce on her - keep it pretty PG-13 unless you're already together.
• Compliment something like her false eyelashes, her lipgloss, or new bow. She puts a lot of effort into her appearance with things you may not notice, and it will make her heart melt if you do.
  
• Flowers. Any time, any place. Steal them from windowboxes, buy them at a florist, or even a bouquet of autumn leaves.
  
• Keep an eye out for events that interest her, especially seasonal. If you ask her to see the Nutcracker Ballet this winter, you're probably set.
• Has she left a momento behind at your place - a hair ribbon, a rhinestone? Keep it with you. Picture it now, when she finds out: 'You've kept my hair ribbon? How sweet!'
• Keep up on what's going on in her community. She'll be amazed that you have a notion about the difference between Melty Choc and Milky-chan.
• Rent vintage movies for the evening, and make cupcakes. Even from a box is fine.
• Split a sundae together.
• You'll always get points if you wend your way through the craziness of Japanese ordering to get her something like a bonnet or parasol for a holiday or birthday. Enlist her friends if necessary!
• Draw, paint, photo, play music? Make her a subject.
  
• If you have one nearby, suffer through a purikura machine. Then let her cover your face with sparkles. (Note: a lot of these tips are about suffering through her cuteness. But isn't that what you love about her?! And she's probably willing to play Dungeons & Dragons with your friends sometimes, right?)
• Send your texts with lots of emoticons or emoji - take your smiley face up a notch.
• Manstand. Huge points for manstanding as she picks through a shop, and extra if you come along for the commentary.
• Learn how to tie a bow correctly. Inevitably there will be a day when she offers you a wrist, a sash, or ribbon, and ask you to tie it. If you look at her at a loss... well, you get the picture.
• Extra for experts: learn how to fix bobby pins, wigs, or lace the back of a dress correctly. Lolitas wear an absolute ton of very complicated clothing and sometimes it feels like we need assistance! Again, if you're really lost, ask her friends to teach you the intricacies of bows, ribbons, and corseting.
• Dress with her, or at least look mildly fashionable. Today's fashions for men involve a lot of heraldry on button downs, thermals with Gothic arches, and adorable sweater vests. Swing by your department store and try it.
• Hopefully you're already doing this, but keep clean! If you have long hair, make sure you wash and condition and possibly even use a clear glaze (John Frieda makes an excellent one) regularly.
• If you're of drinking age, know and order her favorite drink. She'll be touched you remember, and thought of her.
• Similar to the above: learn her Starbucks order, or how she takes her tea!
  
• Pretend you're from the 1800s - hold open doors, pull out the chair, and make sure you walk on the outside of the street. If she falls on ridiculous shoes, try to catch her!
• With this - if you're already dating and she doesn't mind, foot massages. Seems a little over the top but she just spent all day in those shoes. Alternately: get her Dr. Scholl's for ladies.
• Learn a few tidbits on the fashion guidelines, if she has taught you already - like the differences between good or bad lace. It'll save her the awkward moment if you bring home the latest Hot Topic concoction.
• Remember White Day, which is March 14th and traditionally the day guys give girls things in Japan. Even something little, like a white carnation or rose, would be appreciated. Hopefully she made you chocolates as well, on the 14th! ;)
• Got a puppy, bunny, or kitty? Introduce the two for major adorability (make sure she's not allergic!) Have a lint roller for pet hair.
  
• If you spot a skirt or tee that you think is lolita-esque, make a mental note and mention it to her.
  
• Brush up on your classical poetry and Shakespeare!
• Take dance lessons with her, preferably ballroom, but swing is cool too.
• Most important point: simply take her for what she is, however unusual that may be. Whether she's a cotton candy fairy or a little Gothic maiden, love her for her quirks. That's all you need, really.
  

Labels: boys, guide, inspirational

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 10:39 PM 10 Comments

Presents Par Avion

Nothing is more important to the lolita than presentation. Think about it: a dress is nothing without the right accessories, tea without a pretty cup is just a beverage, and flowers look best tied with ribbon. Plenty of girls sell their items or things they've made, making attractive packaging high on the list. And with the holidays coming up (oh God did I just say holidays?), it's a great idea to refine your presentation abilities for, well, presents. Here are some tips on adding that special elegance next time you send out a package!

First, make sure your item is in good conditions and fold carefully (if fabric), preferably so that the most attractive side faces outwards. Then, wrap the item in tissue paper. This keeps the item clean. Go crazy picking out matching or appropriate colors - red and green for Christmas, or pink and blue to match your item, let's say. Glittery paper or paper printed with different designs is also cute! Seal your wrapped item with a little decorative tape or a sticker. I used a glittery carousel pony sticker on my recent package, hinting at the dress inside ;) I like to keep a few lolita-inspired stickers kicking around for just this purpose! You can also use a plastic brand bag to wrap your item if you have one, especially if it matches the brand of the item you're sending.

Make sure to include a note (or a card if it's personal). I bought a notepad from Daiso for $1.50 that contains four different 'PRINCESS POODOLE' designs, which can be individually used for stationary. Use a pen with pretty ink to add a message. If you want to add an extras to your package, now is the time - a lot of sellers include small trinkets from their area, or just something sweet. I've been delighted to find small Japanese hard candies, a Hello Kitty key chain, even a few sheets of stationary. And make sure to include anything else, like if your item came with extra buttons for repairs.

So now, get out your package (box or padded envelope) and fit your item in. Seal the outside securely as specified by the local post. If you sell or send items frequently, you could get your own return address labels made up - find cute ones or design them on your computer with brushes or graphics. Then use your pretty inked pen to write out the address, maybe with another little sticker. Whenever I write an address, I make sure it's legible, but also with a few added hearts and swirls!

If you're sending a present, remember that you can also get decorative packaging supplies down at the post office. They're a little more expensive, but are a pretty punch of color compared to the usual white or brown envelopes.

So now you're all set! Receiving your beloved dream dress is one thing, but receiving your dream dress in a shimmery little package? Even better! It's like adding whipped cream to your cocoa. So I hope you give it a try!

photo by Karin Elizabeth on Flickr.

Labels: crafty loli, lifestyle

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 11:49 AM 0 Comments

Trending Towards Mori

The big themes this year are clear: embroidered net lace. Fawn or doe anything. Soft creams, antique pocket watches, and oodles of classic seem to all be coming back. Brown is this winter's It Color, from chocolate to mocha to caramel; crocheted bags and roses are in. Lately I've been into this different flavor, too: champagne pink, fairytale braids, and 1920s tailored men's shoes. I've been calling it 'romantic classic' to myself - inspired by hippies, Victorian and 1920s children's books, and butterflies under glass.

If you've ever braided daisies into your hair, wore furry gloves in the first snow, or snuggled into a cushy scarf, then you might already have an interest in this new trend: Mori.

Mori comes from the term 'forest', as the look gives the impression of girls who came from the forest, and is related to otome and natural-kei. To quote the front page of the Livejournal community morigirls:

'"Mori girl" (forest girl) is a fashion genre that started in Japan circa 2007 which combines natural-kei with the style of Ura-hara. This style got it's origin from a mixi community. Started by choco* after someone described her outfit as "a girl who came from the forest", the community has grown to 8000+ members, with more each day as mori girl is fast becoming a well-known trend due to features in television and magazines such as SPOON, FRUiTS, CUTiE and Zipper.

What does the mori girl style look like? In short, a girl who looks like she lives in the forest. Combining soft natural colours, layering, lace, and hand-made items, an aura of a girl living in the woods is the essence of a mori girl.'

Here are a few tell-tale bullets from the 'mori checklist'.

＊Wears one piece dresses and skirts as everyday dresses
＊Loves soft, cushy knit or fur caps.
＊ Finds old items charming.
＊ Loves pocket watches.
＊ Loves animal motifs.
＊Loves candy and sweets motifs.
＊Loves checks and polka-dots.
＊Loves laces.
＊Feels the pangs for puffed sleeves.
＊ Loves fairy tales.
＊ Loves hand-made stuff.
＊ Loves winter and autumn as far as the seasons go.
＊Likes to put round make-up on cheeks.

One of the great facets of mori style is that it lends itself well to winter and comfort. Lolita blouses, petticoats, and socks can all be uncomfortable from time to time; mori encourages slouchy sweaters, cashmere hats, and loose tops. They even promote flats over heels, wedges, or platforms (my feet now believe pain is a natural part of existence, unfortunately).

It's not a subset of lolita, but with a few accessories and an idea, it could easily lend itself to the crossover point. Maiden-length lolita dresses, with cream lace tights; velvety corsages and embellished berets all seem like fanciful ideas. If I were to put together a mori-inspired lolita outfit, it'd probably consist of a bell-shaped skirt, perhaps even a drop-waist dress; a snuggly scarf, knitted and edged with vintage lace; a cream beret with an antique crown pin; a pair of simple pigtails and slouchy, sweatery socks in brown Oxford shoes. Add bows, pearls, lockets, and long lashes, and maybe a subtle Clara Bow lip.

Flip through your current Japanese magazines, vintage books, and old fairytales. Tear out ads at the doctor's office and press flowers in phone books. Think of turn of the century script, pine cones in winter, and giant mugs of chai tea.

A few brands to look for Mori-meets-lolita type dresses are ETC, Shirley Temple, or more casual Victorian Maiden pieces. Or try this list of shops to buy natural-kei clothes. Of course, you always have the option of lurking around your local H&M, Forever Love, or Forever 21 - where I recently found a hairband adorned with a vintagesque bridal applique, creamy, tattered, and pearled.

Get mori inspiration by joining such beautiful image communities as laceandflora and inspireplease, where pictures of deer, shimmering makeup, and gray seasides are common place. If you need that cinematic touch, try watching the film Ballet Shoes or Penelope. And there's a Morigirls tumblr! Plus this article on mori, describing theirs as a slow, dreamy way of life.

I'm not entirely sure about this new style either, lovely readers! I've only just been introduced to the look, but love it so far for blending into my personal lolita taste. If you keep looking for beautiful things, you will soon find them. I'd love to see what you come up with!

Labels: fashion

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 11:18 PM 9 Comments

In the Big Top: Dances of Vice

Last night I, country mouse from the middle of nowhere, Connecticut, made the journey into New York City for my very first Dances of Vice! Dances of Vice is a monthly themed event in the city, with a dress code somewhere between the Rococo period and the Jazz Age. Home of lolitas, pirates, neo-Victorian goths, and according to their website, 'ne'er-do-wells', it can be found in a refurbished warehouse/theater hidden away in Brooklyn. This month's theme was 'Cursed Circus', and the dress code is defined as: "Bohemians, Clowns, Jugglers, Strongmen, Lion tamers, Human oddities, Sideshows, Diviners, Victorian villains, Harlequins, Flappers, Festive fops, Vamps, Madmen, Vintage, or your most deprived attire requested." I decided to go as an acrobat, and Miss Lumpy had a cluster of star-shaped balloons to go as a balloon seller.

After a train ride, a subway ride, and clattering down sidewalks (in new velvet shoes!) Miss Lumpy and I spotted a few film noir clowns and a building exuding a cigar-like fog onto the walk. "That," she said to me, "looks like a cursed circus." Between glowing theater lights, the slightly out of control fog machine, and dusty hangings, the vaudeville-styled crowd felt right at home.If you've ever seen the movie the Prestige, or Chicago - it was very much like that. It felt like walking onto a movie set.

Every half hour or so, a new act would go on, announced by the ringleader - a pair of tap-dancing beauties in glittery pasties, a senior lady with the best contortions (and makes me excited to get older! if she can do that, so can you!), wonderful bellydancers, and a few excellent jazz singers with an old-school, metal microphone. In between the acts, a live band, equipped with an accordion, a trombone, and a deep-voiced cello. And of course all of the guests began to dance in an eerie mix of belly dance, swing, and waltz.

It was exactly the kind of circus I wanted to see.

As for me? My look was comprised of a black, off-shoulder corset with chiffon flutter sleeves, my best black bloomers, pink tights, and new black velvet shoes with teardrop cutouts. I wore my pink wig, my yellow rhinestoned Doki Doki 6% hat (customized with a feathered and glittered yellow rose), and masque of pink and gold glitter I discovered on Seattle's Broadway. (You can see my daily_lolita entry here!) And I felt underdressed! The costumes were fantastic. Sequins, rhinestones on eye makeup, false lashes, and Clara Bow lips abound. Top hats, fascinators, and coned caps were in style; so were corsets, garters, and anything that could glitter. To see the fashion alone was worth the trek.

Next month's party is, of course, for Halloween! Will I go as zombie Marie Antoinette, a lady draped in lace and the skulls of small animals, or simply a mysterious butterfly-faced woman? If you're in the New York City area, I'd love to see you there!

Want more? Check out the Dances of Vice Flickr pool!

Labels: event

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 6:50 PM 8 Comments

September Style Tips

• Cut an apple so you can see the star of seeds inside.
• Choose chocolate, espresso, mocha, or caramel colors to compliment the autumn season. Bonus points if any of these are in tartan, or if you wear them while sipping coffee from a giant ceramic mug.
• Bejewel your calculator if you've already finished with your phone! Math class could at least be sparkly, and you'll probably get major nerd street cred.
• Start looking around for bundly, soft socks, preferably ones that go right up to your bloomers! It was raining and cold quite suddenly here and all I wanted to do was burrow - so these are burrowing socks ;)
• Go to an apple orchard and climb a tree. Then realize how old the world seems when surrounded by a fairy-tale.
  
• Summer is beginning to close, so start cleaning up your loose summer ends. Put comforters on your bed, throw out old papers, and forgive someone! Essentially, clean out your nest ;)
• Meeting new people as school starts, possibly even... a romance?! Carry a piece of rose quartz with you for help! I'm working on wearing tiny charm bags pinned to my petticoats or bloomers - what sort of energy would you like to keep with you? Use the Victorian idea of a pocket to hang onto a private keepsake with luck!
• Halloween candy has come early to the grocery, as usual - beat the rush and satisfy your craving for ghostly marshmallows or pumpkin-shaped chocolates.
• Shop around for apple-themed jewelry and pretend to be Snow White. Large red bows are a must! This pair by Putumayo have captured my heart, and there are always a few beautiful things from Suppurate System.

Labels: style tips

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 1:33 AM 7 Comments

So, You Think You Want to Be a Lifestyle Lolita

Recently on Ask a Lolita, a girl mentioned that she wanted more information and guidelines on lifestyle lolita. She said that most lifestyle things are learned through 'tips' and that a more definitive guide might be helpful for the newer girls who want to give it a go.

I've been a lifestyle lolita for most of my lolita career, and this is a lifestyle-geared blog, so I figured I'd put up a few sign posts, so to speak. If you have any questions or comments (like, 'Well, I interpret this differently') then please leave a comment on the post! The comments other readers leave can be really helpful. In the latest post about school and lolita style, girls had some very handy things to say about lab coats, handkerchiefs, and science goggles! Thanks for your comments, they're full of information I'm sure can be of use!

So, you've done some poking around the communities, started thinking that a skirt shaped like a cupcake is a good idea, and got your frilly little bonnet on. And now you're thinking you'd like to get into the world of lifestyle lolita - land of butterflies, unicorns, and pink-tressed heroines! ;) Well, not exactly! Here are a few soul-seeking questions that should sort out your concerns!

What do I expect lifestyle lolita to be like? How do I think it differs from non-lifestyle lolita?

This is the best question to start with. What do you envision when you think of lifestyle lolita? Do you think it's more of a princess-y feel, or do you think it's more about a cellphone with lacy phone charms? Do you think that lolitas should listen to a certain kind of music, or maybe enjoy reading the classics? How do you think it differs from being a non-lifestyle lolita? Do you think it has more personal meaning to you, or just more bows on your tissue box cover? Do you think that one is right, and the other wrong - or one is crazy and the other more realistic? Some of these sound prejudiced, and they should - we're trying to sort out your preconceived notions about lifestyle lolita before beginning. The idea is to work out what you believe the concept to be, and then see which parts of it are actually suitable for your life.

In my case, I decided to be a lifestyle lolita because that's simply what I identified with, even before I was interested in the actual fashion. As a child I embroidered (badly!), read Alice in Wonderland until it fell apart, and managed to alienate the entire second grade by deciding that I could talk to wind spirits. I continued to read fairytales long into adulthood (I still look for vintage illustrated children's books!), and my mother taught me the customs of English tea. I dressed up as Thumbelina every year for Halloween, and play the harp. I think a lot of lifestyle lolitas are pre-disposed to the sort of things that define lifestyle - namely, your outside interests or views that fit well with the fashion. If you're interested in lifestyle lolita, you probably already have some 'lifestyle interests' - maybe a musical instrument, a craft, anything! After all, the things that drew to the fashion's style in the first place were probably the same sort of thing, right?

The great thing about lifestyle lolita is that you get to cherry-pick what you want from it. If it makes you happy, do it!

The other thing I'll mention briefly is lolita stereotypes of the lifestyler versus non-lifestyler. No matter what camp you fall into, you probably have ideas about the other that probably aren't true for the majority. I'd like to break you all into groups and stick Post-Its on your forehead like diversity training on the Office, but that's completely ridiculous and over-the-top, so never fear ;) The simple thing here is to decide that people just have differing opinions, and that neither view is better than the other. And since lifestyle lolita is all about making your own decisions, don't worry about trying to drop people into one box or the other, if they don't want to be labeled. The lifestyle lolita label is for the people who enjoy it, not really the people who are watching. If you consider yourself a lifestyler, then you are. If other people consider you one or the other, just keep doing your thing and enjoying it!

Do you feel you need to give up anything or stop doing something you enjoy to be more lifestyle lolita?

Danger! This is a warning sign. It's easy for people to build up a lolita addiction - whether this resembles a shopping addiction or escapism gone too far. There's nothing sadder than a girl saying, oh, I can't do that, even if I want to - because I've decided to do this instead. Don't limit yourself! If you start to feel like you're doing things because they're expected of you - like constantly dressing for your lolita peers or other people in general, only ordering tea, or not being athletic - take a few steps back and take a breather! If the way you envisioned your life isn't making you happy, then what's the point? Keep working on your vision and lifestyle to fit you best - they're entirely custom built. Sometimes I feel pressured to dress lolita merely because I typically dress lolita. It's like I've actually built myself a 2-D character to fit into - pink-haired girl in poofy dress, end of story. I worry that if I wore Gothic or maybe just jeans, everyone would be weirded out! It's easier to do what people expect. But it's much harder - and more exciting! - to break yourself out of others - and your own - expectations. Go with your intuition on what would make your life better, and go with it - even if it means breaking out of the rut and doing something spontaneous.

What little things can you slide into your day to make it feel more beautiful?

I know we just did a big talk about deciding what makes your lifestyle personal, but here's my take, and nature behind lifestyle 'tips'. No matter what you decide is an important facet in your lifestyle definition, I think i can safely say they're all about adding something beautiful. The key is spotting these moments in your life and acting on them. One could almost call it pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone, or pushing yourself to change your life. For example, maybe you're shy, but your idea of a lifestyle lolita is that she brightens the day of perfect strangers. Make it your mission to coax a smile out of everyone you meet that day! (God Mode: Try this next time you're at the airport. Hardest mission ever!) Or if you discover a place that makes a perfect chai is right next to your office, take a little 'me time' break and grab one. Pick yourself wildflowers; tote around something like a Jane Austen novel to read on the train. If you idea of lifestyle lolita is all about dark roses and baroque music, keep a CD of it in the car for your commute. These little additions, things to make you smile - that, to me, is what lifestyle is all about. First, decide what you want, and why; then decide how to work it into your real life.

And that's really all there is to becoming a lifestyle lolita! I hope this helps you to make your life into the story you want it to be!

Want more on lifestyle lolita? Since there seems to be quite a bit of confusion and I hate repeating myself, all explanatory lifestyle lolita articles are going to start linking to each other at the bottom. If you want a quicker fix while I edit the archives, just click the 'lifestyle' tag on the entry and you're all set!

Labels: guide, lifestyle

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 2:59 PM 6 Comments

The Most Wonderful Time Of the Year

As the Staples' commercial in America touts, it's the most wonderful time of the year - back to school time! Or at least, it certainly is here in America, where lolitas start heading back to middle school, high school, and college. Last week was my first week back at the usual grind of the fall semester - already full of books, classes, and dreaded school lunches. So, even though Indian summer will be upon us for a little while longer, it's time to pack in the tootsie-showing sandals, the sunny hats, and the strawberry baskets for the autumn to begin. What are you going to need to start back to school fresh?

A comfortably cute pair of shoes: I always seem to learn this the hard way - buy a pair of shoes that work for your lifestyle! If you spend much of your day sitting in the same room, then you can wear something that simply looks cute - if you spend all of your time trekking across campus, then you'll need something that doesn't bruise or blister your feet. Experts recommend a low heel for most women, but not a flat, as it causes stress on the tops and arches of the feet. I've only heard this advertised, but it's worth a try - slip some cushioning gel pads in your shoes for softness, as it seems lolita shoes don't have anything but the hard soles. Speaking of soles, try to find something with a tread if you're worried about sliding sand, leaves, or grass. You're more likely to find a good treaded shoe in mainstream shoe stores, however. I'm liking this Innocent World pair quite a bit - cute, but no crazy platforms, runaway straps, or tangling ballerina ribbons.

Cardigan: Layers are important in the fall, when you might be struck with Indian summer or just a sudden chill. Then of course, there is the lecture hall that is always kept suitable for penguins, or the tiny English room where they still haven't heard of air conditioning. Something you can slip on and off easily will work best. My favorite is my bunny hoodie from Baby the Stars Shine Bright - easy to button on and off, with the added bonus of, hello?! bunny ears!

Small fan: Heat can come on quickly in the first few weeks of school, and in all of those pretty new school clothes, you could be suddenly overheated. Make sure your fan, a constant summer companion, is with you until at least two months in. I'll probably quit carrying mine when the first frost comes.

Sturdy bag or purse: I've never been a fan of the traditional backpack, myself, and even less so now that I prefer to wear lolita or at least highly romantic clothes to school. You'll need to make sure you have a bag capable of carrying your things without breaking, so try one of the brand bags made for school-sized notebooks, or a Sanrio product. Even if super cute isn't usually your thing, you'll find an actual messenger bag in this category, which will be easier to use. I have one with Charmmy Kitty, as seen above - and Miss Lumpy has a Mother Garden strawberry laptop bag! If you only have a few light books or notebooks to carry around, totes and brand tote bags are a great alternative.

Pencil case: Also invest in a pencil case. If you'll be using a good purse to carry your school things, the last thing you want is to have the fabric lining irrevocably stained with pen ink, graphite, or lipgloss. Pack it away in a pencil case to keep the shaving and mess where it belongs. I discovered this the hard way with my first Mother Garden strawberry purse, unfortunately!

Change purse: This tiny bag piggybacks inside your large schoolbag with the essentially: change, cash, student ID, cellphone, and driver's license and credit card. If you need to leave your bag for a minute, it should have all of your valuables inside - also handy if you just want to run to the bathroom or the dining hall. Plus, when the weekend comes and you want to carry an adorable bag instead of your heavy pack, it lifts right into the other and you haven't forgotten a thing.

Collapsible Parasol: I find that regular parasols are large and a pain to store when you're in class, so I've switched to carrying a tiny collapsible. Good for sudden showers, they'll fold up small enough to fit in your bag, or at least loop over your wrist, without taking up all of the available floor space. Mine is always in my car in case of emergency.

I hope this list helps! I found out most of these things the hard way through Mother Experience, so please benefit from my... trial and error! ;)

If you're interested in wearing lolita to school full-time, consider reading this article for dressing down for daily wear.

Miss Lumpy and I took a bunch of photos around the oldest parts of campus, which I'll be posting to my Flickr shortly! I've always loved the romanticism of old buildings, so I had a ball!

Labels: fashion, guide

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 10:20 PM 4 Comments

Sucrerie Features Loligirls!

The new issue of Sucrerie just went live, and it's one of my favorites yet!

Sucrerie, an online webzine, produced by western lolitas for western lolitas, is a great piece of reading - and this edition is no different! Not only can you read about topics like lolita and self defense, poetry, and coverage on Japan Expo, but you can also see ads for all the best indie lolita sellers (and in my case, an ad for Lolita Charm - look for it!)

I flipped open (can one do that with an online magazine?!) Sucrerie's autumn edition tonight and was delighted to see that our director, Kate, was interviewed about our upcoming documentary! The first showing is less than two weeks away, and everyone is on their edge of their seat to see what she has created. Having seen the trailers, I can only imagine that it's going to be a wonderful piece on the nature of the subculture and fashion (as interpreted by three steadfast lolita friends). Loligirls has been one of the best experiences of my time wearing lolita to date - the opportunity to talk realistically about our emotions and how that connects to the fashion. And of course I'll be taking photos at the first showing, which promises a red carpet-like atmosphere and as many interested parties as can be generated!

There are also hints of a full-length sequel following up the film - with travel to a few choice locations! Nothing is decided yet, but we shall see ;D So keep watching!

Labels: documentary

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 11:24 PM 5 Comments

East Coast/West Coast

So, now that the west coast can brag that they've got the first lolita store in America, the east coast had to one up them. I'm very pleased to write that Tokyo Rebel, a Gothic, Lolita, and Vis-kei store, is going to open its doors on October 3rd in New York City!

And being from the close location of Connecticut, you have to know that I am most excited! The new shop will be somewhere (location yet undisclosed) in the East Village, stocked with such brands as Victorian Maiden, Atelier Pierrot, and, if all goes well, even more lolita favorites. I love the fact that they'll be carrying many different items, especially ones not typically available online. If you can't wait, you can also see them at NYAF, where they will have a booth.

But of course nothing happens without impacting something else? What trends could result from this opening?

One interesting possibility of the Tokyo Rebel store is more mainstream acceptance. I have heard from some of my friends that since an actual storefront with lolita clothes exists in San Francisco, the local area has become more accepting. Not that you'll see every girl you know decked out, but that people will say, oh yes, that. Yeah, they sell those down in lower Manhattan. It's a thing, you know. And then they'll nod knowingly. It'll make a nice change from, Sweet Jesus, what is that lacy thing and should I call the national guard?

Dollpart has mentioned that since Baby, the Stars Shine Bright has chosen to nest on the west coast, some sort of rival company on the east coast (most likely its largest city, New York City) must spring forth. I would love to see Tokyo Rebel do well and draw the attention of other lolita brands, intent on opening their market overseas. I especially hold out hopes that perhaps Angelic Pretty would open up a New York City storefront, though as Baby continues to receive American money, they might be up to the challenge first.

Lastly, there may be more of a style shift, particularly for the NYC area. As of yet, the store mostly stocks clothes trended toward classic and gothic styles of lolita fashion. With Innocent World shipping overseas and now an American retailer of Victorian Maiden, it may be that elegance's stock has gone up yet again. Will we see an increase in classic florals and cleaner lines, instead of neon candy and cupcake-giant poof? Meanwhile, on the west coast in the area around San Francisco, will there be an upswing in adorable sweet style and more Alice and the Pirates? Or will the presence, with their promise of nearby shipping, effect the fashion trends of the United States as a whole?

Only time will tell, but I personally cannot wait to visit the new shop! It seems that after all these years of obscurity, lolita fashion will finally rise to its rightful place of... less obscurity, I suppose. And that is just where I liked it!

Want to keep up with Tokyo Rebel? You can follow them here on Twitter!

The above image is a beautiful Atelier Pierrot skirt being sold by Tokyo Rebel currently - you buy it using their shopping cart here.

Labels: fashion, shopping

posted by Victoria Suzanne @ 6:36 PM 6 Comments