Gothic Lolita is an emerging fashion trend which blends feminine Lolita kei with goth elements for an inherently dark and dramatic style.
Gothic Lolita girls often sport large Alice bows from Alice in Wonderland as well as black or dark-colored hair accessories like headbands, clips and combs – and small top hats or fascinators may also be worn.
Blouse
Dressing like a goth lolita requires selecting an appropriate blouse. While black may work better to demonstrate Gothic elements of your ensemble, any color can work just as well – though black typically stands out more when trying on this look! Sweet Lolitas usually opt for light pink shirts with straps; Gothic Lolitas may opt for darker hues like black.
A goth lolita outfit often includes a skirt. This element may be short or long depending on your dress style; typically short crinoline skirts feature many layers of lace and ribbons while other popular options may feature ruffles or puffy layers.
Petticoats are essential pieces for this fashion style, often coming in bell or A-line shapes to give the costume more classic aesthetic. Made of either cotton or nylon material, petticoats may also be embellished with ribbons or beads to further complete its classic appearance.
Shoes are essential components of Gothic fashion style. Mary Jane shoes or any type of low heeled shoe with decorative elements such as crosses or skulls to complement your outfit are a good starting point; other forms may also work.
Gothic Lolita (gosurori) has quickly become one of the most renowned Lolita styles in Japan. Combining elements from both Goth and Victorian fashions, Gothic Lolita became popularized by Mana of Visual Kei movement fame and continues to gain momentum today. Gothic Lolita girls may follow lifestyles influenced by perceived Victorian mores such as attending high tea or engaging in needlework activities.
Gothic Lolita attire tends to be darker than that worn by Sweet or Classic Lolita characters, yet they still maintain a childish appearance. Black is typically the main color chosen for Gothic Lolita outfits adorned with dark motifs such as crosses, bats, coffins and other dark symbols; grey, navy blue and deep red may also be suitable options.
Skirt
Gothic lolitas typically don a skirt that highlights her curves. This could be anything from a miniskirt, knee-length, or full length. Preferably black in color with layers of frills. A sash or ribbon may tie around her waist for added whimsy; alternatively it could be worn alongside corset for more structured looks.
Some lolitas opt for bloomers or panties under their skirts for modesty purposes, typically black or white and sometimes with garters for additional support. Gothic Lolitas typically prefer opaque stockings instead of sheer nylon tights as well as hose to keep their legs from showing through, although younger Lolitas tend not to wear these accessories often enough. Their skirt will also often feature velvet ribbons and roses of either black or dark velvet that coordinate perfectly with dark shoes which match the outfit; most Lolitas opt for Mary Janes due to their classic silhouette while boots would likely look out of place among Gothic Lolitas while chunky combat boots would likely not fit either!
Gothic Lolita differs greatly from Sweet or Classic Lolita by being heavily influenced by Victorian-influenced Goth styles, popularized by Japanese musician Mana. Gothic Lolita can be considered one of the early Lolita substyles.
Gothic Lolitas can be identified by their wide array of accessories, which may include fingerless lace gloves, choker necklace and headband with tiara or headband; parasol for sun protection; cross-shaped bag or coffin-shaped case to store accessories; teased hair or straightened locks are among their signature looks.
Gothic lolita makeup tends to be minimal and smoky. She may utilize dramatic eyeliner or lipstick, or opt for more natural styles instead. Many opt for dark blush with highlighter on their cheeks; and black or brown mascara will often be found.
Shoes
Gothic lolitas are fashionistas who combine the cutesiness of lolita fashion with dark goth culture. This style has quickly become trendy in Japan and even some Westerners, and each variation comes with its own distinct flair – gothic lolita being one such unique variation, typically defined by black, pink, and white attire, high heels, dark smoky eye makeup and bold lipstick colors.
Goth lolita wardrobe shoes should complement the rest of the ensemble. Common choices are black, white or light pink shoes with rounded toes; many also feature floral details and even platforms; whatever style chosen, however, should be comfortable for walking in.
Combat boots or combat shoes are another style of shoe suitable for wear by goth lolitas, although they should only be worn with Punk Lolita and Industrial Goth Lolita outfits; sweet or classic Lolitas should eschew these options.
Goth LOLitas may also opt for other shoes such as ballet flats and tea party shoes, which usually feature soft material and come in various colors. However, these styles should be avoided for an authentic goth or punk aesthetic.
Goth lolitas often wear more than shoes, such as top hats and large Alice bows; hair accessories like combs or headbands; parasols can also provide shade from the sun.
Anyone interested in becoming a gothic lolita can find many stores online offering this type of clothing, some offering tutorials on how to create the ideal look. When creating your look, the key to successful gothic lolita attire lies in incorporating elements of this style with your personal aesthetic – creating your outfit accordingly!
Accessories
Accessories that complete a lolita outfit are just as essential to its overall success, such as the hat, lace gloves and plushie that go along with it. A typical lolita motif hat may feature bows or lace trim for decoration; additionally it should complement well with any skirt or dress being worn alongside. A long fluffy scarf may also look adorable with matching coat or capelet.
The blouse is another key element of a lolita outfit. Ideally, it should be dark in hue and heavily embellished with lace or ruffles; look out for pointed or rounded collars with puff sleeves; fabric should either be chiffon or velvet; fitting tightly around female figures rather than baggy is a must.
Lolita socks are an extremely fashionable fashion statement and come in various varieties – some have stripes while others come solid colors. Most commonly seen paired with black or dark brown shoes.
Other accessories to complete a look may include hairbows, headbands, mini hats and plushie toys. Some come in shapes like ribbons, cupcakes, hearts, stars and ice cream cones; while more generic styles like teddy bears or cats may also be added for flair. Stickers and rhinestones may even be applied directly onto the head and hair for additional flair!
Lolita purses are essential accessories that add a finishing touch to any look, be it small and simply trimmed with lace, or larger and shaped like a pink bunny. Whatever size, shape or material it takes shape should complement the overall theme and appear handmade – perfect for matching outfits of different themes!
Gothic Lolita, the darker variant of this style, is less casual and more formal, often found at concerts and events. Inspired by Visual Kei music – which mixes elements from glam-rock, metal, punk – Gothic Lolita can also be found associated with bats, crosses, skeletons, dark roses and Gothic architecture – as well as specific characters or motifs like bats, crosses, skeletons dark roses.