How To Be a Gothic Lolita

The Japanese style of Gothic Lolita is a unique way of dressing and accessorizing practiced by teens or young adults who want to express their beauty in an inspired way. While the term Gothic may be confused with Goth, the two are not the same. To develop your own version of this style, follow these steps.

1. Enjoy dressing up. The most important thing you can do is have fun with the Gothic Lolita look. The subculture that dresses in this style is based upon an enjoyment of costumes and putting creative looks on display. If you do not enjoy having people look at you in wonder and amusement then this is not the style for you.
2. Get in touch with your femininity. The Gothic Lolita style celebrates youth and innocence. The term Lolita applies because men may be attracted to the look of youth and false modesty similarly to the way Nabokov expressed when describing his own Lolita. Practitioners of this style enjoy being girls and looking sweet yet provocative. Be prepared to wear lace and ruffles as part of the wardrobe for this style.
3. Start with the skirt or dress. The easiest way is to begin with a baby doll type dress. If you cannot find one then select a skirt that poufs out and is shorter than knee length. Lace and ruffles are a nice touch. Remember that you are searching for a balance between innocent and provocative.
4. Select an innocent top. Choose a blouse with a lace trim or innocent-looking Peter Pan collar. Choose a top that is simple and buttoned up so that you are covered. Long sleeves are preferable. You might also consider covering the top with a fitted coat or lace up corset.
5. Stick with dark colors. All the pieces of your wardrobe should be dark to provide the Gothic part of the style. You don't have to don all black. Consider adding a dark blue, wine red or elegant emerald green to accentuate the black attire.
6. Accessorize. Wear a headdress in simple black or white that complements a pigtail style. Or consider wearing your hair straight and long with just a simple accent barrette. Again remember that the key is innocence. Lace gloves or high lace collars help complete the look. Wear hose or knee socks with a pair of Mary Jane shoes for the young, feminine style.
7. Let your wardrobe create the drama, not your face. Remember that innocent femininity is what you are striving for which means that make up should be minimal or nonexistent. You want to add a flirty smile but emotion should not be overt flirting. Consider a delicate fan or umbrella in the Victorian style as a complement to your wardrobe.

The Gothic Lolita style is not an everyday style. For weekend promenades or parties, this wardrobe is an excellent style choice for young women. Follow these steps and you can be a Gothic Lolita strolling the promenade.