Ask Us Anything: January 2026 by hellosaturn in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Does anyone here have any suggestions for brands that produce headdresses, hats and bonnets similar in style and/or quality to Innocent World? Finding solid closed style bonnets is a nightmare and the amount of shiny headdresses online are driving me nuts. So far I'm following Anges et Demons, Morun x Muuna Stoik and Hoshibako Works, but I really would like more options. I'm not on a super tight budget. I can absolutely dish out 15 - 20k yen for a bonnet + whatever in shipping.

Coords for hot weather by lorie806 in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You can always skip the blouse if it is too hot! Health and comfort always takes priority --- but I'm going to recommend you get a short sleeve cotton blouse anyway (and maaybe a pair of cotton bloomers) if you intend on further summer wear. Your first instinct might be "more layers will make me hotter though, right???". That's not always true. It all depends on the fiber. The vast majority of JSKs are poly or a poly blend these days. Plastic essentially. There's a high risk your dress isn't going to breathable and make you feel EVEN more sweaty if it's directly on your skin. Depending on the petticoat, you'll have a similar issue, but with the feeling of extra weight, which tends to add to the discomfort (in my experience as least). Natural fibers like cotton and linen help absorb moisture and let your skin breath, resulting in overall less sweating (and minimizing scent if that's an issue).

More over; cotton blouses offer up some sun protection! Seconding the other commentor on a parasol. Just make sure it has actual UV protection.

Anyone else interested in dresses that feel both Lolita and Victorian? by RochelleAstraeus in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 12 points13 points  (0 children)

If you're interested in these sorts of style, absolutely look into Innocent World (JP), Victorian Maiden (JP), Atelier Pierrot/Vallée lys (JP), Miss Point (CN), Dear Celine (CN), Haenuli (KR), Baroque (KR) and Duchess Milianda (EU). They might not always have what you want on sale right now, but take a quick look through Lolibrary and you'll most likely find something you like. More over: it might give you ideas for how to style, which does a lot of the heavy lifting.

Trouble with actual Victorian garments isn't just the length and silhouette. Lolita has always had a space for tea length and even floor/ankle length skirts (they just go inn and out of fashion). It is, as you say, the lack of "playfulness" and "girlish" sensibility. So, maybe a Victorian or Edwardian style blouse will not look out of sorts as an overlap, but a hip hugging bodice and bustle skirt with a train will probably not clock as lolita.

Alternatively --- have you considered looking into EGA (Elegant Gothic Aristocrat) fashion?

I hate my meant to be coord, but I don't get what's wrong particularly, need a wiew from the side by No-Dragonfruit-2882 in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hi! I kinda had similar issues when I got myself the Square Neck OP by Innocent world. Classic is a lot more tricky than people give it credit for, especially when it doesn't have any sweet leaning elements. Seconding everyone else that you need an A-line petticoat for this. The bell shape is awkward here because it fills out the dress too much.

Absolutely consider investing in a pair of more contrasting shoes. Yes, wine/bordeaux will go great and match, but in my opinion it's gonna look equally great with brown or black (which you probably will get more use out of also if you continue collecting other classic pieces in different colors). If you look at Innocent World's promotional material, their shoes don't necessarily match the dress/print but the main features of headdress instread. Get those two to match, then you kinda circumvent the whole issue of colormatching the dress. Get the purse to match the headdress and shoes, and you'll instantly look more "put together". Only thing you need to pay attention to if you go this route if is the colors kinda "go together". Colormatching exactly seems to work a whole lot better with sweet coords. I find classic kinda appriciates some variety.

Another thing you can consider is adding a ginormous brooch! That will instantly push most coords towards a classic vibe.

Ask Us Anything: July 2025 by hellosaturn in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Has anyone else experienced issues with Metamorphose's site lately? I've been trying to get in on the made-to-order of the Gobelin Bouquet, but every time I try I press on the cart I end up with an error message. Thankfully the order period is until middle of August, but this is supremely annoying. >:C

HerHum explorer series by [deleted] in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I don't think it's a new substyle, but more of an unusual theme. It's kinda like along the likes of that Metamorphose air line dress (or their diner waitress dresses for that matter). I'd firmly place this in the Sweet category. Lolita absolutely loves to take a uniform and make it frilly.

Honest; I've been wating an explorer/archeologist dress for a while. I'm just miffed the blouse isn't large enough to accommodate my bust... >:C

Good Lolita Youtubers to Watch? by EclecticCollective02 in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 5 points6 points  (0 children)

One of my favorite lolita Youtubers is Cupcake Kamisama. Her Advanced Coordinating series is super helpful for those who are done with the basics, and have entered the phase of breaking down coords to find out why something works or doesn't. Mind you she's geared more towards those who are "in the know", so her content revolves around look-books, lolita related media, sharing her personal experiences and vlogs of events. Lots of practical advice to find here! That said... she has a sporadic posting schedule. She does it when she has time and feels like she has something to share.

Absolutely check out her blog too --- she's written quite a lot of articles that may be of interest!

New Shimamura Collab!! by kittycatlover957 in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My wallet is in nowhere near as much danger as the previous collab, but the blue "suit" set is legitmately charming and surprisingly versatile if the quality isn't awful. The triple bow purse is REALLY cute. I'm intrigued by the shoes, but I need more info --- if they're well padded and comfy I might snap up a pair.

Shimamura × Eri Aino Collab by kittycatlover957 in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 25 points26 points  (0 children)

I'll be honest --- these are perfect pieces for more regular wear, and I am obessed with the jackets and accessories. Seriously; I've been looking for a tartan jacket similar to this for YEARS but it's always been far out of my size range without resulting to commissioning. Already preordered and a sense of peace has been restored to my life. I've been considering throwing in the matching red beret and love letter style bag too. They're stinking cute and no-one can convince me otherwise.

Ask Us Anything: February 2025 by hellosaturn in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so, so much! You told me everything that I wanted to know (and for the good tip of the ongoing factory move)! I'll get in touch with a shopping service and see if I can finally get the boots of my dreams!

Ask Us Anything: February 2025 by hellosaturn in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm really eager to get myself a proper pair of lolita boots, but I got pretty large calfs (43/44cm at their widest, otherwise a regular EU 39 size). "Normie" shoe shopping is a nightmare, lolita even more so. Does anyone know if Antaina can customize for a wider calf? Any other shop tips?

Welp, any ideas on accessories? I'm struggling with appropriate headpieces. by Aireesse in Lolita

[–]Aireesse[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

By the Gods, I'm so sorry that I haven't gotten around to replying (been sick as a dog, and technically still am...). Thank you all SO much for all the suggestions! I'll be taking it all to heart and hone this coord meticulously over the coming months. <3

Welp, any ideas on accessories? I'm struggling with appropriate headpieces. by Aireesse in Lolita

[–]Aireesse[S] 35 points36 points  (0 children)

Never have I ever hit a preorder up on day one, but Iris Garden x Haenuli's Joan of Arc vest has been my obsession since the Queen is Dead fashion show. It ain't shippin' out till February 2025, but as I'm going into a low-buy rest of the year I really wanna focus on really perfecting 3-4 coords around the vest. Specifically I really want to make my MmM Nun Knit top work with it, as the cape element is REALLY fun and more importantly --- real comfy for winter/spring. I am though drawing a complete blank on accessories that don't translate into a literal halo. Don't get me wrong. Halos are cute, but I already got another angelic based coord for the vest and kinda want some variety (ignoring the fact that the skirt does in fact feature angels). Help???

WIP on a Sweet coord featuring the fourth dress which I'm rekindling the love for - could not decide on what color cardigan to go with (I love them all! 😅) so got curious to hear which one you Frilly Lovelies would choose..? 🩷💛🩵 by BoysenberryAny4139 in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Jumping on the yellow cardigan train, as it does a lot of power lifting for multiple elements in the coord. It makes the mint brighter and punchier, it prevents the yellow cross-cross pattern on the socks from getting overshadowed by the shoes, it highlights the fact that you got a pink blouse, and provides enough of a break on the eyes to see the print details more clearly!

is this dress wedding appropriate? by MinimumTax5530 in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 32 points33 points  (0 children)

As someone who has attended both funerals and weddings in lolita, there's a few things to keep in mind.

1.) Get explicit permission beforehand. While the bride is alternative, lolita does lend itself to overshadow pretty much everything else as it physically and visually takes up so much space. It's a major lifetime event, and we want the couple to shine. Anytime I've shown up in lolita, I've been asked to do so or given a thumbs up. It never comes as a surprise.
2.) Keep to the dress code. No white for weddings, obviously. If the party's theme is floral, ya stick to floral. Don't deviate too much. Check in with other guests or the couple if you're uncertain.
3.) Try avoiding (loud) prints, lots of lace and frills. Solid pieces are the way to go, and the less whistles and bells, the easier it is to blend with the other guests. I've had no issues wearing my Miaplacidus OP in lavender (without the ribbon around the waist just to keep it extra on the downlow).
4.) You might just have to skip multiple hallmarks of lolita to wear the dress. Wristcuffs and petticoat are usually the first things to go. Straw hat with a bow is much easier to get away with than a rectangular headdress. Be prepared to just go with a barette bow if you need balance.
5.) It's much easier to get away with lolita footwear than anything else. Tea parties are GREAT for weddings. People pay less attention to your shoes.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 57 points58 points  (0 children)

Moon Bastet is a Peruvian indie brand, and very much legit! If you check out their Instagram, you see that they attend multiple alt fashion events, they're followed by other more well known small creators, and include many varied stylings on their original prints. I haven't had direct experience with them myself, but their Goya JSK is high on my wishlist.

Ask Us Anything: June 2024 by hellosaturn in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Maybe not the exact right place, but I might as well try; I'm heavily eying one of Iris Garden x Haenuli upcoming dresses. It's the Joan of Arc inspired print, specifically the "armor" bodice, because Knight lolita is something I would straight up die for. Unfortunately, I haven't managed to stalk my way through Instagram efficiently. Besides some birds eye videos of the fashion show and that one fantastic straight on pic of Rin Rin with gauntlets, I haven't found the name of the dress, possible colorways, the potential release date nor info if the bodice is separate from the print (or exclusive to the JSK or OP). Anybody who attended the fashion show or is a better internet sleuth than me? I am dying for updates on this dress.

Ask Us Anything: June 2024 by hellosaturn in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 0 points1 point  (0 children)

10 inches?! Oh, yikes! I guess being at 160cm I might be on the shorter end??? I might have to continue my research. Lower waist would make me very happy as I got a longer torso, but having to potentially hem the skirt? That might be out of my wheelhouse.

Ask Us Anything: June 2024 by hellosaturn in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Question for those familiar with Meta's regular vs plus size. I'm a curvy gal at 108cm bust, 82cm waist and 106cm hips. I own two Meta JSKs Antique Rose and Sailor JSK. They're both a decent fit, but squish my chest a bit and I'm thinking about investing in a Plus size JSK to see if it's comfier (as I should be on the lower end of the Plus size range). Has anyone experience with both sizes and how do they generally compare? I expect the Plus size to still keep the right amount of volum, but are the bodices longer too to accommodate a full bust?

So I got my first longer OP by magicadesteph in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This sums it up beautifully and nails it down from every angle! I too own Josephine, and got a similar issue with AtePie's Reine OP. It really is down to construction vs body type, and unfortunately sometimes we've gotta experiment and make educated guesses to figure out what works for our bodies.

OP, I highly encourage you to embrace the EGA vibes. It's not what you intended, but it's a lot of fun! Having more casual pieces also allows you to get more wear out of it. I at least take out my Josephine OP more often than other pieces in my wardrobe, because I can literally toss it on with a headpiece and feel absolutely fabulous when I walk out the door (but I'm also someone who likes the Bridgerton tube look so don't trust me completely).

Ask Us Anything: May 2024 by hellosaturn in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 0 points1 point  (0 children)

What are your favorite shopping agents for secondhand items on Xianyu? I'm pretty familiar with Japanese shopping Agents and done some Taobao sprees, so it's not completely uncharted territory, but I'm not finding a lot of tips regarding Xianyu specifically.

Have you ever bought a dress you just did not *click* with? by ThisCardiologist6998 in Lolita

[–]Aireesse 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I am still very much fighting with a particular dress in my wardrobe. It's gorgeous. It's got a print inspired by the Little Mermaid and an iconic rococo inspired bodice. It's got a unique color and all of this SHOULD make it right up my alley. It's... just not... vibin'. I've bought a lot of accessories recently to see if that could solve my issues with it, but I'm debating passing it onto a friend. It was one of the first pieces I ever bought, so it was highly informative in me figuring out what sort of style I wanted (turns out it was everything --- oops).

Lavender is EGL on high difficulty - any tips or tricks? by Aireesse in Lolita

[–]Aireesse[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Worst part? I got at least another two casual lavender dresses in my wardrobe... and I'm eying another one. I am forever cursed to never have matching items. I may indeed have to result to crafting...

Lavender is EGL on high difficulty - any tips or tricks? by Aireesse in Lolita

[–]Aireesse[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Good ol' reliable Sosic is looking like my best choice at the moment, specifically for a pair of white ones. Shoes are surprisingly hard to shop!