Misako Aoki posing in lolita

Misako Aoki, famous lolita, posing in a coord for lolita brand Metamorphose Temps de Fille

Mana-sama holding Super-dolfie mana, which is a doll

Mana-sama, pioneer of gothic lolita

Rundown

What is lolita?~☆

Lolita fashion (ロリータ・ファッション in Japanese, pronounced "rourita fasshon") is a fashion originating from Japan, heavily influenced by Victorian and Rococo fashion. Typically, the fashion is rather doll-like, with frills, bows, petticoats, and of course, lace! It is also quite accessory heavy, with bonnets, top-hats, knee-high socks and more, so there is something for everyone!

Diagram of lolita outfit, highlighting from top to bottom: headwear, blouse, bell-shaped skirt (jumper skirt), bloomers, socks (overknee), and shoes (mary janes)

There are clear elements to all lolita outfits, commonly called 'coords', short for coordination.

Lolitas use plenty of headwear, typically in the form of 'Alice' bows and bonnets.

This is then followed by a frilly blouse and bell-shaped skirt.

To achieve the shape, you may wear an under-skirt, commonly called a petticoat.

Add some long socks and cute shoes, et voila! You're in lolita!

There are many ways to style lolita, as shown by many models and lolita-celebs, and there are plenty of styles/motifs to follow too. From sweet motifs to the dark and gothic, explore them all!