Some years ago, and it feels now like a lifetime, I discovered a few new things that changed my way to see the world. Long story short, I met a thing called: “Lolita Fashion”…

And I fell in love!

Because, I like lace, bows, cute things, puffy skirts, … The fact is I fell in love with Lolita and I decided to make for myself some pieces of clothing for some events I was going with friends.

Of course, I was amateur. And even today I’m not an expert at all as I kept myself in almost the same position in some way. But I really like the style and I find it absolutely fascinating.

By then, buying only a good petticoat, a pair of dolly shoes and a white dress to use as a shirt and under dress, I made my base for 3 outfits.

Shirololi because I was too scared.

My first skirt was in white. A classic style piece. But my idea was using it in a completely different way. Even if it was already a bit démodé, I wanted to go to an event dressing Guro Loli… That idea of a broken doll seemed so appealing to me. I couldn’t resist it.

I made a few big bows for shirt and hair and an eye-patch! Full of lace! I had my red shoes, some bandages with red stains but in the last moment, I couldn’t damage the white skirt. It was so much work and it looked so beautiful. I just couldn’t.

My old School Classic Lolita

For my second outfit, I made an old school piece. In black and classic. I had some help with ideas and also to understand the style, what was in or out or… allowed. I will always keep a place in my heart for the lovely lady who helped me at that time.

I made a headband with a huge black bow and a small detail for the blouse. A black cardigan was also welcome to finish the look. Simple but effective.

Both black and white skirts had the same adjustable closure design. A lace up on the back, imitating a corset. I also used plastic bones for the waist, keeping the shape of it on both of them.

Metres and metres of lace, satin ribbon and basically the same pattern for both. I think I wouldn’t mind to share the pattern and the explanation of it if people were interested.

Flowers and pearls

For the third one, I spent some time looking for the perfect fabric. I wanted something classic, of course, as that was my style at the moment. But also, the baroque mood was getting bigger by then and I tried to include that into the outfit.

The patterned fabric I chose and details as the pearled buttons or the collar-choker were part of that attempt.

The style of the skirt was simpler than the other two. No corset closure on the back or multiple seems with lace everywhere. Just a cute creamy lace on the bottom to make some contrast.

By then, I was really glad with the result. I wouldn’t be today to be honest. There is a pattern-making course in between now and then. Lots of hours designing, making patterns and sewing; for myself, for others and as a profession. A whole world in between.

But I really enjoyed those projects as much as I enjoyed wearing the outfits with my friends. Nowadays, I’d wear some classic or gothic lolita, darker but more elaborated for sure. And I would care a bit less about what is right or not. I don’t think there is a real right or wrong here. The interesting thing about being “alternative fashion” is don’t give a f**k about fashion rules.

I really think that clothing needs to talk about who is wearing it, make them feel as they want to feel. Whatever that is. Simple, isn’t it?

Berenice
xx