Bonjour mes amis!
For the next series of post I will be referencing to the basics of Lolita.
What I mean by the basics is what makes an outfit Lolita.
The Skirt (on skirts, Jumper-skirts (jsk) and dress (op): The quintessential item that can make or break your Lolita coordinate.
Ideally it should be bell shaped but I have seen
a-line,
trapezoid and circle skirts (though not as common). Something that will flare out and accomodate a petticoat. If you want to truly put this basic on its head you could also try for a pencil skirt a la
Victorian Maiden.
But what ever the shape you choose, take note Lolita prides itself on modesty so this should be at knee or just 2 inches above the knee.
Tops: Blouses and cutsews, they are the thing that goes with the skirt or under the jsk. Though there are many options for tops. Not any old thing will work. Traditional a
Peter Pan collar blouse or for a sailor inspired look
a sailor collar have been the ideal, but brands come up with many variations.
Socks and Tights: This is your most open item, by that I mean you can go along with
brand socks ( super cute but very expensive) or even hit up your local boutiques and novelty stores for options. Usually the kept at knee length or over the knee and thigh high.
If you have an issue with knee high socks or want to cover up a too high skirt (for taller lolitas)
Headwear: everything from a head eating bows to cute cake hats and mini top hats.; and the old school headdress too! Remember to hit up accessory departments in your locals stores.
Undergarments: The petticoat has been suggested as the most important part of your wardrobe, it is the base without it you have no silhouette. Don't fall prey to getting a square dancing petticoat they don't have the right shape! Almost all Lolita brands have options:
Bloomers: remember the part where Lolita was all about modesty well, bloomer help to keep your modesty on windy days or when bending forward.
Shoes: There are many options but at the same time some are clearly un-loliable.
The Mary-jane style shoe is the most basic of Lolita shoes; and is the base of many brand shoes (cute
teaparty shoes). Other options the famous and infamous (Naomi Campbell incident) RHS (
Rocking Horse Shoes)
Final Note: All these are suggestions, the Basics are open to interpretation; though mind the bell-shaped or flared skirt and petticoat when looking for items, they are the staples of Lolita fashion.
Have fun and happy shopping!
*image credit to owner.
Angelic Pretty's grand opening will be this saturday Nov 20 and extends its festivities through sunday for customers who spend 200+, with a tea party. It is so exciting to think that like Baby, AP will be accessible to Lolis in the US. Will San Francisco become a second Lolita Mecca?
Baby started the passage to the US but don't believe that AP would be left behind. Rumors have been buzzing all over the Loli interwebz but it is finally made official by the people of AP in an announcement .
I want a fall and winter cloak a la Victorian Maiden... Perhaps I can make one myself. 
Of the three styles Classical Lolita has the most apparent reference to the Victorian age, and the Rococo era.The Classic Lolita exudes elegance in muted tones and floral fabrics, relaying a more subdued but still Lolita style.The basic silhouette is present in Classical Lolita, but brands have been known to lower the hem or even get rid of the bell shaped skirt in favour of a more lady like pencil skirt a la Victorian Maiden or even use bustle skirt bringing back the late 19th century feel.
Probably the most popular and the one most people associate with Lolita. She is the sugary sweet princess that portrays the innocent and colorful side of Loli. 
