Lolita: Starter Guide

Writer: Grace
Let's talk about starting Lolita: A Basic Look and Feel.

Contrary to most popular beliefs, Lolita fashion is very easy to wear.
What it takes to wear Lolita fashion properly, is simply an eye for details, some simple research through the use of widely available Internet and practice.

As Lolita has a certain look and feel, there are some guidelines to wear Lolita style. Just like how Gothic culture is of a certain look and feel and Punk culture is of a different look and feel. Lolita look is about Elegance thus we are properly covered up with minimum amount of unnecessary skin to be shown. And please do remember that lace are meant to be small detail points of the clothes to make them aesthetically pleasing thus it should consist of less than 10% of the clothing.

General components for basic lolita
Petticoat - The most basic of a lolita outfit, the basic silhouette poof. It can be either a cupcake shape (for cuter styles: sweet, sailor) or a A-line shape (for more subdued style: classic)

Hair accessories - There are many to choose from such as a simple head bow, headdress, hair corsgae, hair ties, a hat or for the more adventurous - a bonnet, all will work great with a lolita outfit.

Tops - There are a few choices for tops, you can choose to wear a cardigan, a blouse or even a cutsew. For material, a good quality cotton that is breathable but not sheer enough to see the color of your undergarments will work best in Singapore hot weather. When choosing one, do look for the detailing such as peter pan color, ribbon tie collar, pint tucks, frills on the hems or unique buttons. Usually recommended for a more versatile look would be a short sleeve blouse with peter pan collar.

JSK/OP/Skirts - If you have to sacrifice and only purchase a brand piece, do choose a dress or a skirt as it is the biggest visible item. The main item quality do really pull together the whole feel of the outfit. Thus do pick something elegant, sturdy and beautiful enough to wear everyday to anywhere thus it is about the quality of the material - flattering good cutting and construction, thick and rich fabrics with beautiful soft lace that will not tear easily nor is scratchy on the skin. Satin pieces with lots of lace are usually avoided as the feel you will like to present is of elegance and not that you have just step out of a costume party.

Socks - There are crew socks (ankle length), knee high socks, over knee socks or full length stockings to choose from. Simple solid colored knee high socks are one of the easiest to get, next to full length stockings.

Shoes - A lolita will usually use covered shoes for a basic outfit. Think simple mary janes with rounded toes. To decorate, you can get shoes clips
But most importantly, have fun! Mix and match with some of your unique personal style to create your favorite look!

Recommended links:
1) http://lolita-handbook.livejournal.com
2) http://community.livejournal.com/egl
3) http://fyeahlolita.blogspot.com/2009/08/gothic-lolita-starter-coordinates.html

For those new to Lolita, do not worry. If you have any question - whether it is looking for a nice item to coordinate or what type of styles are, the staff of Black Alice is always available to help you, so do drop by soon =D

Here's an example coordinate picture!