Dr.Who-Lita ~~~~ A Meme

First off, how was everyone's holiday? Good I hope. Mine was fantastic, with a little brand, some old movies, and of course great family moments. Now on to a little meme for lolita purposes. I did this one on my livejournal once, but I thought it'd be even more fun to do it again on here and with a little more thought put into it.

1. Best Lolita fashion advice you've ever received?
To be myself. I never compromise my own interests and style for the fashion. I'm always going to be the same geek loving, pink puffy princess that I've always been. I do though try to make myself curse less a bit, not because of lolita, but for other reasons (though it did start when I got into a lolita.)

2. Style icons?
I have many style icons, some of them the usual sweet lolita victims and others that wouldn't normally come up in conversation. I think though rather bringing up the usual suspects (Maki and Asuka for example), I am going to bring up other key players within this category and show you some people you don't hear about enough.

Belle (from both 1934 and 1991 versions of Beauty and the Beast)

Belle is one of those great female characters, and her style is just as fantastic. Beauty and the Beast is my favorite fairy tale, but in these two film versions, Belle's style shines in glory above others. Though most of you have probably seen the 1991 Disney version, please see Jean Cocteu's version. The costumes (Belle's and Beast's included) are unbelievable and I dare you not to be inspired by them.

Sarah Crew from A Little Princess

Though small, Sarah's style is that of a victorian doll of any little girl's dreams. I would guess she would be Innocent World's dream model. The version that I recommend for inspiration is the 1997 film, which probably has the best cinematography of any other version out there (sorry Shirley Temple). I think I get most inspired by Sara's hair styles. They are very simple, but the light curls are beautiful. This outfit though stands out the most.

Wizard of Oz (1939)

You probably have all seen this cinematic jem (and if you haven't, I hope you can see my jaw wide open). If you have, you know how precious the style is. I'm also inspired by the slightly steam punk twist, and of course most lolitas are told that they look like Dorothy, among many other iconic puffy clothed girls. Of course the Dorothy outfit is just one that can not to be topped, and the 1939 version is the best in my opinion. Also, Dorothy's hair towards the end is totally Loli appropriate, don't you think?

Erik, The Phantom Of The Opera

Maybe not the most feminine of the bunch, Erik is one of the most fashionable characters in literature. But why a lolita inspiration? I think he's more an inspiration of what to look for when your out in lolita for starts. He's a great romantic figure, tragic but beautiful to hear and see. I chose the 1990's tv mini series to show off, since this is my favorite version (next to the 1989 Robert Englund version). He's my inspiration when I'm looking to do boy's style (in those rare occasions) or gothic attire. I mean look at that Red Death outfit and try not to say how awesome it is.

and finally.....

PRINCE

Now many of you might get a nostalgic giggle when you read this, and also be puzzled that this isn't, like the others, a movie related inspiration, but I just needed to include his majesty of 80s Rock and Soul. With his sometimes beautiful and always fun lyrics, incredibly dramatic guitar riffs, ruffled blouses (and of course, Purple Rain) PRINCE is such a great male lolita inspiration. Many consider Mana to be their lolita rock god, but I personally find PRINCE a better choice. Though Mana is definitely an important figure, PRINCE has an entire movie about his life, where he rides a purple motorcycle and carries roses for 111 minutes. Trying getting more Rori then that!

3. Describe your personal style.
I have to say that I'm definitely sweet style. Secretly though I lone to try out things like classic lolita or pirate lolita. But because usually in normal clothes I wear black or grey, I let myself get as pink and girly as possible when it comes to lolita (hence why I haven't dabbled into the other styles yet, but I promise to one day.) I personally prefer simple bold colored piece's to prints, but I do always love a great fantasy or food related border print. I also love pairing off brand with brand, especially when it comes to shoes. Then of course, I have moved from wearing socks. Tights are just so much more fun to roll around in, and I don't have to roll my socks up every 20 minutes !!

4. Favorite designers/brands?
Angelic Pretty by far is my favorite fashion brand period. They just create such fantasy cracked out pieces, it's hard not to want to collect all of them (like they are a sparkly series of Pokemon cards) There are other brands I like, Baby mostly. I have fallen in and out of love with them, but recently with new prints coming out, they have regained attention. There are also brands I hope to require a few pieces from in the future, mostly H.Naoto and Atelier Pierrot (Romeo and Juliet print please). But also I should mention I love some non-lolita brands too, like Betsey Johnson and Anna Sui. Tarina Tarintino is also amazing for jewelry!

5. Most cherished items?
My Angelic Pretty Dreaming Macaroon One Piece and Metamorphose Cherry Gingham Jumper skirt. Both of these pieces I will never ever sell. They continue to look great on me every time I wear them, and always make me happy no matter what has happened that day.

6. Most used item?

Currently that would be my Baby Sweet Cake Factory Jumper skirt. It's been worn to numerous family parties, dates and meet ups. It's a great simple piece that isn't too boring at the same time (you can also see my Dorothy inspiration in the gingham on the outfit) I always pair it with a simple black cardigan and some red jewelry.


7. I feel best wearing?
A jumper skirt paired with a simple cardigan along with some boots. It always makes me like I'm in lolita, but not so much that it would stand out and make me feel like I'm wearing something over the top.

8. The first thing I look for in another Lolita's outfit...
Unique twists and overall beauty, added with a pinch of confidence. The outfit could be great, but if you don't have that sparkle in your eye when you wear it, the outfit will fail regardless.

9. Lolita Fashion rule you never break?
The poof. It's the best part of the outfit, it's the simple thing that easily makes it lolita without much work at all. I personally love layering with multiple petticoats. The more poof, the better.

10. Never caught wearing?
No Mini Top Hats. Some people can rock them, but I personally think (unless you are wearing Kodona) these can turn what was a great outfit into a costume. Again, some people know how to wear them, but definitely not me.

11. Dress to impress who?
The little girl inside my soul :)

12. Your next "must have" purchase?
I'm actually looking to buy a few very cheap pieces from Bodyline and Mashimaro Girl. So I can go shopping and to school in lolita, without worry of getting my brand dirty.

13. Favorite type of head accessory?
I'm not much for head gear. I'm more a fan of simple things like hair clips or headbands with little bows in them. I guess my biggest hair accessory is my pony tail extensions, which I got from Ricky's for $20 each. They just automatically make me feel more lolita in an instance.

14. Favorite cut of clothing (shirring, high waist, princess seams etc)?
Shirring for sure. It's the most comfortable and easiest to fit too. It's just to buy a shirred item from a brand, since you know that 99.9 percent of the time, you'll fit into it then.

15. Current obsession?
Finding cutsews and cardigans to go with my jumper skirts. They always can quickly add a touch of cuteness to your outfit!

16. Best Lolita fashion advice you can give to anyone:
Many people have asked me, how do I know what style is right for me? My answer, the style that makes you smile when you look in the mirror. The one that when you walk down the street, you feel proud in. The point of lolita, for me anyway, is to explode with confidence when you wear it. So don't wear something that brings you down, only wear things that bring you up !

Thanks for reading everyone. Hope you enjoyed this little post and expect an real post in the next few days. Also if I don't get to post it here later, Have a great New Year and enjoy it all in frills !

Interview + What to wear on Christmas?

Before I get into the topic of today's post, I wanted to let you all know that an interview I did with one of my favorite bloggers Crystal is now posted on her blog Pretty Wonderland (link is here). I loved filling out the questions and can't wait to see the response that comes from it (if any.)

Now on to a debacle that all ladies have, lolita or not. What do I wear on Christmas Day? A lot of you may fear the "Granny Sweater" look or the "it's cold outside" outfit. The style I fear most upon christmas is the "My mom made me wear this" look, which always seems to happen if you are my family.

My Grandma is the sort that is a big hater on fashion from today, especially things like ripped jeans and mini dresses. She is the sort that will announce to everyone how she really is unhappy with your wardrobe choice. But the question is, so she (or your family)ok with lolita? The good news is my family is very much a fan of my lolita clothes, but there are times when I come in completely decora style sweet, that will generally freak them out.

So that's why I have brought to you my guide to dressing lolita for Christmas (and other holiday/family gatherings).

1) Pick a color scheme that is tame.

How does one accomplish this? Well the best example is to compare brands, Angelic Pretty or Baby? Now you are talking to someone that is an Angelic Pretty freak for higher, but in this case I'd say, pick Baby. Why? With their Victorian mixed with Sweet themes, and their toned down color scheme, Baby is the perfect choice for family friendly coordinates. They still have the cute elements like teddy bears and fairies, but not so over the top that your Uncle will wonder if you just escaped from The Rabbit Hole's rave party. Personally I'd go with either something in a red, brown or black color. Also I recommend picking a Jumperskirt over an OP. Why? It's easier to pair things for layering purposes with, and you won't have to deal with the unfortunate "arm puff" that can happen with layering over an OP.

2) Pick a layer (cardigan or cutsew?)

Again, it's a question of over the top or tame. With the family, I'd personally go the tame route, meaning go with a cardigan. This means it can be a brand or off brand cardigan, but I'd personally go with Off-brand for two reasons. One being this cardigan can be used over again in your day to day outfits and also be can re-coordinate into other outfits depending on the color. I'd so chose a cardigan thats in the less used color in your jumperskirt. If the jumperskirt is black x white, I'd personally got with a white cardigan, but black is classic and can work as well. If you are going with a black x red jumperskirt, pick a red cardigan. The details then will pop in the outfit. Where should you get said cardigan? I'd recommend H&M or Forever 21. H&M usually makes their cardigans tailored to the waist that measures the same with most brand jumperskirts, while Forever 21 just makes adorable very vintage looking stuff, nough said. But I warn you, be careful not to buy a cardigan with a long length. It'll make the poof on your coordinate look crinkled, and also not flatter your waist line.

3)These boots are made for walking

Personally, I recommend not wearing lolita shoes. Unless they are SS or real AP tea party shoes, most lolita shoes will scare your Aunt Nancy away and make you the talk of the party, in a bad way. I actually love pairing any of my lolita outfits with shoes that are off brand. The best shoes for the holidays and with lolita? Boots. Boots are my best friend, They make my legs look long and lean, and are cute depending on the cut you so chose. I'm a fan of cowboy boots, ones a little above the ankle with a nice chunky heel, or Steve Madden's Classic Bonanza boots are the best. They are way more comfortable then UGGS and cuter too. They come in a variety of colors, even in a purple (which I must get !!) The second best shoe choice would be a very comfortable simple pair of heels, even with a slight touch of a bow or cute decor on them. But don't go all out, it'll ruin the simplicity of your outfit.

4) Socks or Tights?

Simple, Tights. The majority of them come in many many colors, but don't go for ones with patterns unless your dress is really boring. Remember the more simple, the more elegant you'll appear. Also, with tights you won't have to worry about having to pull up your socks every 20 minutes. This rule/guideline I actually apply to all my coordinates, anytime of year. Since though they are cute, socks are a big problem that you don't need to have. Also, remember to wear your bloomers. That way your little cousin won't peak under your dress and announce to the whole party what brand your undies are (true story).

5) A good answer to a simple question.

Now you've got the cute outfit, what's going to happen next? Well if this is the first time your family as a whole has seen you in lolita, you are probably going to get loads of questions. Remember to explain kindly and nicely what you are wearing, but don't focus on all the brand names and other things too much, unless you are asked. This sometimes can confuse more then educate, and you know you'd rather move on to those presents then sit next to Grandpa Joe for 2 hours, explaining what "Rori" means. Just be cute and polite, and in the end you'll get your Sparkling Dreaming Cupcake Surprise print under the christmas tree with no problem !!

I hope this helps, and that you have a fun time wearing lolita in front of your family. It sure will bring up more interesting conversation then your Aunt's "interesting" fruit cake.

Peppermints

So school has finally let out for Winter break, and the time that once was filled with stress and hoping to succeed with your final project is gone. What to do with your days? Well for sure I bet many of you are wrapping some presents for your loved ones (or hoping that you can purchase all of them in time.) For me, right now, I am editing my brains out to make my personal deadline for my presents, since they are all digital this year. But other then getting presents all shinny and new readying for giving, what does one do during this season, if you are frilly especially?

Well here are some suggestions from my own personal experience.

For example, one of my favorite things to do is hold a Gingerbread/Baking party with my family and friends. Everyone brings their own selection of candies, baked goods or special drinks, and we all enjoy making either Gingerbread houses or Cookies. Even not baking anything, just smelling all of the good things around and having fun conversations is great at these parties. I especially love when everyone picks out a great Christmas CD or DVD, which either is great background noise or a great thing to watch/listen too all together. It's also fun to pick a fun apron to wear as you bake these goods. Personally, I have a Rilakkuma Apron (which can be found here) that I can't live without. Just be careful if you do plan on wearing lolita, baking gingerbread and cookies can be very messy at times (wouldn't want to ruin your Angelic Pretty jumperskirt, or Baby blouse.)

Speaking of CDs, I have to recommend my two personal favorites. One of them I am actually listening to as I am writing this. A Classic Cartoon Christmas is a fantastic collection of merry jolly tunes from your favorite cartoon christmas specials. Including all the Rankin/Bass (Rudolph, Frosty The Snowman) specials and Muppets specials, just to name a few. I also have to recommend Nat King Cole's "The Christmas Song" album. It's just classic traditional christmas music, with my personal favorite spin of Nat King Cole.

In terms of movies, I have a couple to recommend.

1) The Polar Bear King

This is based on the fairy tale "Kvitebjørn Kong Valemon" and is about two kingdoms, Winterland and Summerland. In Winterland, a wise old king is trying to keep his youngest and most precious daughter from leaving her home. She wants to travel to a place filled with flowers and sunlight, which then brings up the other subplot, King Volemon's story. He is the new king of Summerland, due to his father's passing. When he and his mother are visited by The Evil Witch, he angers her and in turn is transformed into a Polar Bear. In his new form, he goes in search of a bride that can fix his curse. This is where The Winterland and Summerland are crossed in fate. You have to see the rest though. It's delightfully adorable, 80s cheesy, but yet a beautiful fairy tale. (Psst, it can be found on youtube here... just promise to watch the real thing, since she hasn't uploaded all of it)

2) A Muppet Christmas Carol

I know I know, this is such a strange choice. But I honestly think this is the best adaptation of the classic story. Why? Well for one thing, it's the only version I'd ever show to kids, because I think every other version is very frightening. This takes the story, adds a bit of pop to it, yet makes it educational for the kiddies! Also Michael Cain's Scrooge is great. Very classical, and adorable at the end. My favorite aspect of it though? Well aside that my favorite Muppet narrates it(Gonzo), The music is amazing. Very cheery and bright, and actually beautiful on occasion. Highly recommend it !

3) The Nutcracker Prince

This is personally my absolute favorite christmas movie. It stars Kiefer Sutherland, and tells a bit of a different version of the classic Nutcracker story. I recommend checking out the trailer for it, not that it's super special, but you see what I mean by saying it's my favorite. Especially for lolitas, I think the aspect of what happens to Clara near the end of the story will really delight some of you (but I won't give it away incase you don't know the story). Some of the scenes have some really nice animation (especially the Sugar Plum Fairies sequence), and some parts are actually rather intense, but I can't tell you how fabulous this movie is till you see it for yourself !

So what do all these recommendations have to do with lolita? Well I really think lolita's will appreciate these things much more then the regular person. First of all, in terms of the movies, they all hold lolita ideals, and coordinate inspiration I might add. Did I mention that all these movies have great coordinate ideas? (Now I'll zip my trap)

So what do you all do during the holidays? Any special events before Christmas? Listen to any music? Watch any movies?

I'm sure its full of whimsy and fun.

(Photo courtesy of weheartit.com)

The Stone Flower

Today I was lucky enough to visit The Stone Flower. Though I wasn't able to go to it's flagship location, I was able to go to it's Bryant Park location. I have to say for those in New York and loving lolita that haven't gotten a chance to visit it, do it ! It definitely is one of those cute accessory stores that can't be missed for the frilly and lovely. The tiny replica of the store is pink and bright, filled with lovely decor and amazing products! I didn't buy much (lack of funds) but I must say, the one thing I did buy will be a long loved treasure.

Here is a picture:

Isn't it fabulous?

New Start

So you've probably noticed this blog is very empty. To put best this beast of a thing needed a lot of love, and with that I bring you some deleted posts, and hopefully a new beginning.

You are probably wondering, what is the point of this blog at this point? It's to tell you about me as a lolita. Everything that has to do with me in this little frilly butt fashion that I call "my favorite hobby". I don't want to use the word "obsession", but for the moment it'll stand. I can't really qualify it as an obsession, only because I have other things I love a lot like lolita, but nothing is like lolita, at the same time.

The main focus of this blog at the moment is my documentary, "Freedom of Fashion", which will be a "Trekkies" styled film on Lolita's in America. I hope that once my crew is created and the budget is in line, we will spend the summer filming at different conventions (primarily Otakon, of course)

We also will have interviews with big lolita celebrities. I really hope to get interviews with my fellow bloggers, and also I definitely have scored an interview with Tokyo Rebel (New York's first lolita brand clothing store) and hopefully we will be getting more !

At the moment, the mini test run doc "Frilly in the City" is only available on Facebook, but once it's on Youtube, I'll put it up here for sure.

So what's new in terms of social life? Well last night as our new annual Christmas party and it was lovely. I rocked a black x pink sweetness coordinate, and I was very very happy with it.

Next up on my social list is enjoying time with my friends for their birthdays and also getting to know the CT Lolita's more, since they are absolutely fabulous ~~~

Look for some more updates ~

Fill out the poll while your at it, and hope you are excited for updates ~!!