Lolita fashion and the sexualization of children

One of the major arguments people outside of the lolit sub-culture have is that it promotes the sexualization of children. I strongly feel that this is brought on by the fact that we- as a culture refuse to believe that someone would make what appears to be such an unnatural choice of fashion without it stemming from some sort of fetish. Yes, it is commonly believed that what is not "normal" is abnormal in the very worst way. "Don't you think you're making men feel that it's okay to daydream and fantasize about little girls?". Agh, how many times poor girls, dressed in their lolita have been subject to these offensive questions. Perhaps they don't realize how truly unfair and brutal these inquiries are. Lolita does in no way promote anything sexual. What horrible examples have lolitas set for the rest of womanhood and girlhood alike?
That we shouldn't wear our skirts too short?
That we shouldn't be in a hurry to grow-up?
That we shouldn't dress to please men, but instead to please our selves?
Lolita teaches us that femininity can be strong. That we, as girls have the power and ability to cast off the shackles of conformity. Lolita teaches girls to value modesty and to respect themselves as well as others.

However, I'm not claiming that the sexualization of children in the US and all over the world isn't a growing problem. Mini-skirts, low-cut shirts, and VERY mature high-heeled boots- While many women would consider such clothing appropriate for themselves, they must keep in mind that as women, we set an example for little girls. Do you remember when you wear little and would play house, or mother your little dolls? You were unconsciously mimicking your mother- the first woman to influence you. But as children reach the age of 7 or so, they begin to notice the other women around them, and...maybe unconsciously mimic them as well. They look up to us, they follow our example. And what do little girls see on TV, on billboards, and within the music industry? They see women presenting themselves in a scanty and inappropriate way. This so-called "normal" society we consider a "healthy environment" is the very thing poisoning our children. So is the problem of sexualization the result of women dressing like children, or children dressing like woman? Who would you rather have little girls learning from, the picture at the top of this post which features a sweet lolita, or the picture below which features some of today's most popular woman in pop-culture.

♥Lolita: Rules & Why we need them♥

I've heard it said by many a girl that Lolita has too many rules. Or that they can't understand why we need the rules to begin with. Thus, this post was born.

While it's very true that the world of Lolita is rot with "laws", "rules" and "guidelines" that some people may find "repressing" It is also a lovely place full of artistic freedom. How is a world both repressing and freeing?

...Allow me to elaborate.

First, let me make a point of the fact that the rules of lolita are not meant to tell you what to wear. But rather, to tell you if what you wear IS lolita. And if these "rules" did not exist, then the beauty and integrity of the fashion would be diminished. For instance, if lolita could be made of any material , if it could be made any length, if it could be less elegant, then would you feel the same way about the fashion? Certainly not. A dress with lace and bows is not necessarily lolita. Take these two picture for example. Both have lace, a gothic lolita color scheme, and full skirts. But these are in no way lolita. Remember, lolita has no rules that say your dress should have lace, bows, frills, etc. So those factors alone are not qualifiers for lolita fashion.

 

～～～～～～↑↑↑Not lolita↑↑↑~～～～～

～～～～～～～～～～～～↑↑↑Not lolita↑↑↑~～～～～～～～

 But the "laws" that shape the fashion do not shape the people that wear it. Lolita has so many sub-styles, colors, and themes that almost anyone could find something they like, while still following the guidelines. And many girls find wonderful ways of expressing themselves within this medium. Lolita can very much be a reflection of who you are, if who you are corresponds with the philosophies and ideas that bred this unusual fashion. It's important to remember that even the fashions and time periods that influenced lolita had strict laws about what is and is not acceptable. And, more often than not, the people who like lolita fashion are more than willing to follow it's guidelines, because they can be very helpful for achieving your desired look. In many ways, rules are a lolita's best friend. They make understanding and reaching our doll-like goals much easier. But if you still find the rules too strict, then there are many alternative fashions that will suit your personality. As much as we may not want to believe it, lolita is strict. Some people find that aspect of lolita attractive and interesting, some people like to follow the rules and be part of this fashion. Still, many do not. The important thing to remember is that you should wear what makes you happy. Lolita makes me happy, I'm okay with the rules. But if your not, it isn't the only great style out there. There's something for everyone.

These are only just a few basics to keep in mind:

1.The length of your lolita skirt/dress should be no more than one or two inches above the knee.

2. Fishnets, corsets, and (Please excuse the crude term I'm using for lack of a better word)"stripper boots" don't suit this fashion at all. And can give off a very fetish-like feel.

3.Nothing low-cut should be worn in this fashion. Cleavage doesn't exactly give off that child-like charm we're aiming for.

4.The material commonly used in lolita fashion is cotton. No scratchy or shiny fabric should be used. It can look costume-ish.

5.You shouldn't ever let your petticoat show. It should be one or two inches shorter than your skirt/dress.

6.You MUST wear bloomers. It's not a matter of comfort, but rather a matter of modesty. And is a necessary part of this fashion.

7. It's proper to wear a blouse under your jsk, or a cardigan over it. I've seen lolitas that don't do this, and I doubt that anyone will cut your head off for it. But it always looks a a little better in my mind.

8.While there are set rules on how your dress must not be shorter than 1 or 2 inches above the knee, the rules about how long your dress can be are a little less clear. As far as I can tell, your dress can be up to mid-calve while still maintaining it's childish charm. But when you make it-say around the ankle length, it starts to look like inaccurate Victorian costumes. Also, keep in mind that dresses and skirts that come up to mid-calve can make you look a little shorter, so wearing shoes with a slightly longer heel might counter act that.

9. Though some would argue that as a lolita you do not necessarily need to be proper or even kind, I find the image of an adorable lolita cursing and behaving inappropriately a ghastly sight indeed. No, I should hope that a lolita would take the time to consider the basic rules of manners every person should put to practice. Please remember that as a lolita, you are the face of this fashion. And people will most likely judge it solely on the way you present yourself.

If you'd like a more in-depth look at etiquette and manners, then this fascinating article is a great source of info.
http://community.livejournal.com/egl/2123015.html

♥The song 'Lolita' by yajun zhou♥

A basic translation I found.

Dance with me Lolita
On The white sand by the sea
Love has to continue
The summer is long for a 17 year old

Is it okay to like one person for just a day, Lolita?
Maybe I've never loved him
i just fell in love with a fairy-tale

Standing By the window frame overgrown with wild chrysanthemums
The curtains moved against my hair
I dropped my red dancing shoes gently
I don't care anymore, Lolita

The fields are golden yellow, Lolita
The stage has been built
Are we the same, Lolita?
Used to loneliness

If I do not become my own audience
I would still think I love him
I'll take a plane to the sea side to search for him
How crazy that is, Lolita

Is it okay to like one person for just a day, Lolita?
Love has to continue
The summer is long for a 17 year old

Will everything be forgotten, Lolita?
The flowers that were left behind in a hurry
After blooming diligently for a summer

A 17 year old waiting for him by the sea side
Love still has to continue
The summer is long for a 17 year old

~♥~A really cute makeup/hair tutorial!~♥~

I was searching the internet for cute tutorials, and found this. I thought it was really cute, so I posted it her. Enjoy!♥

Part 1



Part 2



Part 3



Sorry it's in Japanese. But I think it's pretty simple, so it should be fine.♥

~♥~What is 'Lolita'?~♥~

Lolita is a Japanese fashion movement that started in the 1980s. It is primarily inspired by Victorian and Rococo fashion, though it can take inspiration from various periods that valued cuteness and innocence.

Most styles leave room toexparament, but lolita has a very specific set of guidelines and rules, which dictates what is, and is not lolita. While these 'guidelines' may seem a little restricting, they are absolutely necessary for achieving the right look.

The term 'lolita' may seem a little disturbing for those who have heard of Vladimir Nabokov's novel with the same name. For many in the western world, The novel changed the meaning of the "lolita". However, it is thought that the name 'lolita' for this fashion is due to a distortion of meaning while the Japanese were word-borrowing from English. In the case of the fashion, the name refers to the child-like nature, innocence, and cuteness of the style. And most Lolitas in Japan are not aware of the novel. This fashion has absolutely nothing to do with being seductive, or sexy. So if that's what you're looking for, this probably isn't the style for you.

For more info read-  ♥Lolita: Rules & Why we need them♥ 

And - Lolita fashion and the sexualization of children

~♥~L●lita styles~♥~

♥Gothic Lolita

Gothic Lolita, sometimes called Goth-Loli (ゴスロリ, gosu rori) is one of the most popular Lolita styles. Gothic Lolita combines the doll-like charm of Lolita with dark colors and themes (Such as cross motifs, etc.) akin to western goth fashion. The result, A beautiful Gothic doll who embodies the childish charm of a Lolita as well as a dark and fascinating elegance. This style may take some practice to perfect, but the effect is well worth the effort.

Gothic Lolita is a popular style for ladies who are new to Lolita, because it's generally easier finding shops that sell Gothic accessories around where you live. And because it's easy to coordinator a Gothic Lolita outfit, due to the classic goth-loli White-black color scheme (though Gothic Lolita can be made up of other colors as well.) Other accessories in the Gothic Lolita style include purses in shapes like bats, coffins, and crucifixes.

Below are some examples of Gothic Lolita fashion
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♥Sweet Lolita

Sweet Lolita, also known as ama-loli (甘ロリ, ama rori) is the most child-like of the Lolita styles. It involves sweet motifs (such as fruits, desserts, fairy-tales, and Alice in Wonderland.) The color scheme for sweet Lolita is pretty simple, just keep it sweet! for this kawaii look, Pastels are perfect!

Popular accessories for a sweet Lolita sometimes include things like teddy-bears, dolls, fruit/dessert themed jewelry, and anything that will exemplify the sweetness of the style.
Below are some examples of Sweet Lolita style fashion
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♥Classic Lolita

Classic Lolita is more mature than it's sweet and Gothic counterparts. Generally, it involves less lace, ruffles, and frills. Unlike sweet Lolita whose point is to be as cute as possible, classic Lolitas aim at looking classy. Classic Lolita takes much of it's inspiration from the floral patterns, and color schemes of the Victorian era; Bright and bold colors don't normally have a place in Classic Lolita fashion.

Below are some examples of Classic Lolita fashion
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♥Hime Lolita (Princess Lolita)

Hime Lolita (or Princess Lolita)is the most Rococo inspired style of Lolita. And(much like the era it was inspired by) is full of uncontrolled exuberance. It's usually accompanied by a small crown, or tiara. Sweet Lolita and Hime Lolita have a lot of similarities, the best way to tell the difference between the two is actually by the accessories and the hairstyle of the wearer, rather than by the actual clothes. Big, elegant, and often rococo style hair suits hime Lolita very well.

Below are some examples of Hime Lolita fashion
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♥Wa Lolita (Japanese Kimono/yukata Style Lolita)

Wa Lolita is a combination of Lolita fashion and the  Japanese Kimono/yukata. It often has very long 'sobe'(Sleeves) and 'obi' (Sashes) as well as very extravagant fabric. While it closely resembles traditional Japanese clothing, it holds on to it's Lolita charm with  adorable platform MaryJanes, and the classic Bell-shaped dresses/skirts Lolita is so well known for.

Below are some examples of wa Lolita fashion
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♥Qi Lolita (Traditional Chinese Style Lolita)

Qi-lolita is like the Chinese version of Wa-Lolita. The difference lies in the wearing of traditional Chinese clothing, like the Qipao.
The blend of traditional Chinese style clothing with the Lolita bell-shape, makes for a very pretty and unique style.

Below is an example of Qi Lolita fashion (It's hard to find pics for this style.)
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♥EGA (Elegant Gothic Aristocrat)

While EGA isn't really a sub-style of Lolita, it is often coupled with Lolita fashion. And both styles share themes of elegance and class. In Japan, this fashion is actually called "elegant Gothic". EGA is a western term for this fashion, and most likely started because of Mana-sama's clothing brand Moi-même-Moitié, which features two lines of designs. One named Elegant Gothic Lolita (clothing aimed at ladies) and the other, Elegant Gothic Aristocrat (aimed at gentlemen). Square-shaped skirts and dresses are very common in this style. And the color scheme is very dark. Common symbols include crucifixes and Christian imagery, as well as skulls and roses.

Below are some examples of EGA fashion
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♥EGL (Elegant Gothic Lolita)

EGL,(Elegant Gothic Lolita)is a term used be Mana-sama to describe one of his two lines of clothing. Mana created his own clothing label, Moi-même-Moitié, which features two
lines of designs named Elegant Gothic Lolita and Elegant Gothic Aristocrat. EGL are dresses and EGA are generally mens' clothing. EGL is NOT a general term for Gothic Lolita, it is only Mana-sama's style which can be bought at Moi-meme-Moitie.

Below is the link to Moi-même-Moitié's official website.
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http://moi-meme-moitie.shop-pro.jp/
Below are some examples of EGA fashion
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♥Sailor Lolita

Sailor Lolita is pretty much what it sounds like. It's Lolita with sailor style elements, (like Sailor collars, and the classic navy blue and white color scheme)along with Nautical motifs (Such as ship anchors etc.) Which Makes this the perfect style for nautical-natured lolitas!

♥Kuroi (Black Lolita)

Kuroi, or black Lolita is a lot like other Lolita styles, only it's all black. You might be wondering "what makes kuroi Lolita different from Gothic Lolita?" Well, Gothic Lolita isn't usually all black. Gothic Lolita fashion does involve a lot of black, but is generally full of ascent colors. While kuroi Lolita is all black, all the time.

Below are some examples of kuroi Lolita fashion
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♥Shiroi (White Lolita)

Shiroi, or white Lolita is the exact opposite of kuroi Lolita, (meaning it's all white, all the time.)

Below are some examples of shiroi Lolita fashion
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♥Country Lolita

Many people have a hard time distinguishing country Lolita from sweet Lolita. This is because country Lolita is derived from sweet Lolita, and they can share a very similar color scheme, (though country Lolita can also be much brighter and more bold). The best way to tell the difference is by the accessories, (things like straw hats and baskets, as well as fruit themes) and by the gingham patterns often used.

Below are some examples of Country Lolita fashion
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♥Guro Lolita (Gore Lolita)

Guro Lolita portrays a 'broken-dolly' look, a gruesome yet innocent style of Lolita. It can include bandages, eye-patches, blood splatter, and other gory elements. But remember not to over do it. Gore Lolita is not a costume, it's a valid Lolita style. But this isn't really a sub-set that works great for tea parties and meet-ups.

Below is an example of Guro Lolita fashion
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♥Punk Lolita

Punk lolita is one of the hardest styles to pull of. It really takes someone with a lot of knowledge to combine Lolita and punk style. It contains punk elements, like chains, plaid patterns, and studded belts, (as well as other punk accessories) But keeps a bell shape knee length skirt and often has girlie details like lace and bows.

Below is an example of punk Lolita fashion
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♥♥♥♥♥♥♥I'll cover more Boy-styles later.♥♥♥♥♥♥♥