Half and Half color hair

[coffinhert]

I've seen this style pop up a few places lately and wanted to share this very nice example! Has anyone else seen this left/right coloration or done it themselves?

http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_luprqv9VBQ1qems8ho1_500.jpg

[longhairedlady]

umm maybe its me but something about this pic is offensive to me.

[HazyMoon]

I haven't seen it before but I do wonder if this is a wig of some type.

[UltraBella]

I also wonder if it might be a wig, but I think it would be pretty neat if it was her real hair.

It's no more offensive to me than a costume, or dressing up for Halloween.

[uptosomeone]

When you said half and half color hair I'll admit I first thought Cruela de Vil :D but that actually looks quite nice!


I also wonder if it might be a wig, but I think it would be pretty neat if it was her real hair.

It's no more offensive to me than a costume, or dressing up for Halloween.

I agree, I'm not exactly sure what's offensive about it...:confused:

[kamikaze hair]

i'm loving it, although i'm not sure about the baby/pastel as a permanent everyday look. for some reason for me i think maybe either brighter colours or more subdued colours (still half and half and contrasting) would work better for everyday use.

[spike316]

I also don't understand this being offensive? And actually that style is very popular in lolita culture and though I've never seen it out in the wild, I've seen it on quite a few lolita blogs, and this wig website has an entire section devoted to this hair style: http://cosplaywigsusa.com/split-lolita-wigs/

[longhairedlady]

Well i dont know what "lolita' culture is but I dont care for this look at all. Im not saying its ugly, I just dont prefer this kind of look. I mean she is in a bra! Maybe I am just a little more conservative lol. I wasnt trying to be rude, but maybe it came across that way. If it did I am sorry.

[bbvt]

Her colour of hair reminds me of bubble gum or cotton candy hehe. I've never seen anyone have half and half hair like that, only on the top and underneath.

[ebba]

that is definatly a wig. This style is big in many Japanese fashions. you can get split wigs in any color you could practically think of on many online sites

[Arashi]

Cute! I'm not usually a fan of purple & pink together, or pastels for that matter, but somehow that it's in pastels makes it work. I agree that it's most likely a wig, though.

I have never seen anybody with their real hair colored that way, however. It would be neat to encounter someone with it some day.

[irisheyes]

I like it! Especially when this technique is done in the natural color combinations.

[unknown]

OMG! I wish I could curl my hair like that...

[Elistariel]

I think this look is adorable, but as a 28 year old woman who works in a doctors' office - I'd look ridiculous. It's cute - but I think it's more suited to My Little Ponies and dolls.
If you're young, don't have a job where it wouldn't be allowed - or go to a school where they actually let you have colored hair - I say go for it. -Provided your hair is light enough to dye odd colors. Mine's too dark to do that without a wig or bleaching (heck no).

Now I want to swing by the mall after work today and buy another clip in colored hair extension.><

[Chetanlaiho]

Definitely a wig, quite popular in Japanese street fashions =) I'd love to dye my hair like that only pink and black but the bleach would kill my hair, completely.

[Chetanlaiho]

umm maybe its me but something about this pic is offensive to me.

I didn't even notice the bra until I was looking for something offensive ^^; (cute bra though) but it does kind of make me wonder who this picture is aimed at. The make-up, hair and facial expression can be pretty typical Japanese street fashion-ish but the bra makes me think more loli-con than Lolita :/

[numbernine]

I had half bright red, half bright purple once Its a real pain to dye it like that.
as for the pic i'm sure its a wig, but its cute very japanese gothic lolita style which is always very doll like, but also has that sexy undercurrent which can be a bit creepy to somepeople.

[Fairytale]

Usually when I see half and half color Im thinking top and bottom, not side by side.

Thats cute , but lots of bleaching process involved if it is her real hair .

[longhairedlady]

as for the pic i'm sure its a wig, but its cute very japanese gothic lolita style which is always very doll like, but also has that sexy undercurrent which can be a bit creepy to somepeople.

I think thats what I didnt like about this look. I obviously live in a bubble cause I have never seen this look. :cool:

[coffinhert]

Sorry, I didn't notice the bra either. I assumed she was wearing a dress like the vast majority of Lolita models :P (and if you think lolitas are offensive, what about the cultural appropriate of ganguro (https://www.google.com/search?pq=tan+japanese+fashion&hl=en&cp=6&gs_id=18&xhr=t&q=ganguro&tok=4jNq4ILj3ogw5u-gP6IFGA&safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=83M&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&gs_sm=&gs_upl=&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.,cf.osb&biw=1258&bih=577&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=isch&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi)? don't worry they're all fully clothed, just weird). Japan has a wide variety of VERY creative fashion types.

[Unofficial_Rose]

umm maybe its me but something about this pic is offensive to me.

Me too actually. Strange creepy child-woman. shudder:

Sorry, OP.

[Unofficial_Rose]

Sorry, I didn't notice the bra either. I assumed she was wearing a dress like the vast majority of Lolita models :P (and if you think lolitas are offensive, what about the cultural appropriate of ganguro (https://www.google.com/search?pq=tan+japanese+fashion&hl=en&cp=6&gs_id=18&xhr=t&q=ganguro&tok=4jNq4ILj3ogw5u-gP6IFGA&safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=83M&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&gs_sm=&gs_upl=&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.,cf.osb&biw=1258&bih=577&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=isch&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi)? don't worry they're all fully clothed, just weird). Japan has a wide variety of VERY creative fashion types.

Ganguros are not creepy, because they don't have the kiddie-porn aesthetic of some Lolita looks, IMO. After all, that IS what Lolita is about, cf Nabokov original.

[UltraBella]

The long hair may easily be a wig or clip-ins, but the bangs and the hair close to her face have a different look and texture and appear to be her real hair.

[Arashi]

The style in that photo is all bubblegum and cutesy, but I really wouldn't call it lolita... most lolita styles are rather modest in terms of skin showing. Even "ero loli" doesn't get to the point of only wearing a bra. :shrug:

[SwordWomanRiona]

umm maybe its me but something about this pic is offensive to me.

I have to agree with you. Don't anyone dare to call me such horrible words as "demure" or "tight-minded" (*growl*!), but I find the picture very patriarchal in the free-access-to-women way. It's not only because of the bra (neither men's nor women's body is shameful, don't mistake me, but it shouldn't be used and objectified, as it usually is!)- it's also because of the na&#239;ve, submissive and 'male-alluring' expression. I find that most disgusting. And I also have to say, I cannot but despise those males that find that kind of 'sexy-little-girl-expression' to be alluring...*sigh*

No offence to the OP, really, but I had to say that. About half-and-half colour hair, I think there's a member here who has a half-white, half-black hair avatar. I think it can definitely look cool, but it's not something I'd try because of the damage and the permanence of it.

[Amber_Maiden]

I have to agree with you. Don't anyone dare to call me such horrible words as "demure" or "tight-minded" (*growl*!), but I find the picture very patriarchal in the free-access-to-women way. It's not only because of the bra (neither men's nor women's body is shameful, don't mistake me, but it shouldn't be used and objectified, as it usually is!)- it's also because of the naïve, submissive and 'male-alluring' expression. I find that most disgusting. And I also have to say, I cannot but despise those males that find that kind of 'sexy-little-girl-expression' to be alluring...*sigh*

No offence to the OP, really, but I had to say that. About half-and-half colour hair, I think there's a member here who has a half-white, half-black hair avatar. I think it can definitely look cool, but it's not something I'd try because of the damage and the permanence of it.

I'm not offend by it, but the feminist part of me has never understood this Lolita culture thing. Hasn't anyone ever read the book? It's about a pedophile and him liking/getting off on little girls. The Lolita culture is basically about looking like a little girl. I think it's creepy that any man would like that... A woman who wants to pretend she's a little girl? Not cool. But that's just my opinion. :shrug: I don't know why aging is considered bad in ALMOST every society out there. What's wrong with women having curves and looking like real women? We're meant to have babies, and little girls can't have babies. The whole point of a man being attracted to a woman is to procreate. If a woman doesn't look like a woman... well, then there's something messed up behind that attraction...

As for the hair, that is cool. I'm pretty sure it's a wig as well. That would take weekly dying to keep it that colour and the roots from showing.

[Neneka]

I would like to have a wig like that, maybe in dark red and purple. :) Oh, and also in green and blue.. I would never do that to my real hair but I would definitely wear that kind of wig in a party or something.

About that pic. I don't really know what to say. I get the creepy little girl-woman thing but really... It's not that bad. Anyway. I am too tired for saying anything really clever about anything so I just say that her hair is really cool. :)

[spidermom]

A roommate in the 80s used to dye one side black, the other red.

[longhairedlady]

Me too actually. Strange creepy child-woman. shudder:

Sorry, OP.

yea exactly shudder:


I have to agree with you. Don't anyone dare to call me such horrible words as "demure" or "tight-minded" (*growl*!), but I find the picture very patriarchal in the free-access-to-women way. It's not only because of the bra (neither men's nor women's body is shameful, don't mistake me, but it shouldn't be used and objectified, as it usually is!)- it's also because of the naïve, submissive and 'male-alluring' expression. I find that most disgusting. And I also have to say, I cannot but despise those males that find that kind of 'sexy-little-girl-expression' to be alluring...*sigh*

No offence to the OP, really, but I had to say that. About half-and-half colour hair, I think there's a member here who has a half-white, half-black hair avatar. I think it can definitely look cool, but it's not something I'd try because of the damage and the permanence of it.

Perfectly said.


I'm not offend by it, but the feminist part of me has never understood this Lolita culture thing. Hasn't anyone ever read the book? It's about a pedophile and him liking/getting off on little girls. The Lolita culture is basically about looking like a little girl. I think it's creepy that any man would like that... A woman who wants to pretend she's a little girl? Not cool. But that's just my opinion. :shrug: I don't know why aging is considered bad in ALMOST every society out there. What's wrong with women having curves and looking like real women? We're meant to have babies, and little girls can't have babies. The whole point of a man being attracted to a woman is to procreate. If a woman doesn't look like a woman... well, then there's something messed up behind that attraction...

As for the hair, that is cool. I'm pretty sure it's a wig as well. That would take weekly dying to keep it that colour and the roots from showing.

and also perfectly said.

[sun-kissed]

I'm so sorry, but she looks like she's some sort of perverted baby-shower decoration to me. :rollin:

ETA: I have seen this style done, with more subtle colors. If done well, it is a very defined and unique look. I also like the different-colored fringe look. :D

[vanillabones]

I like it I think it is very cute and I personally love the pastel colors if you're going to go for non-natural hair colors. I love it :) - not that I would dye my hair like that though. And her outfit... could be a bathing suit, it's cute as a costume either way, I mean look at what Katy Perry wears... this is nothing =P

[pepperminttea]

My bets would be on a wig, too. A friend of mine who uses a lot of unnatural colours tends to stick to a single colour rather than mixing them like she used to; she says they'd blend together and look muddy after a few washes.

I'm not a fan of the Lolita look either, sexualisation of childhood in general makes me shudder. shudder:

[|Xei]

I've done two-tone, but never to such an extent where an entire half of my hair was a different colour than the other half.

[Malibu Barbie]

Yes, I dyed my hair half and half all the time.. blue /gold, pink/orange, green/pink.. We used food coloring dyes and it never hurt the hair. It was very popular back in the 80's

[Amber_Maiden]

Thought you might be interested in this- they have half and half wigs very similar to hers-
http://www.facebook.com/GothicLolitaWigs

[Fencai]

I also don't understand this being offensive? And actually that style is very popular in lolita culture and though I've never seen it out in the wild, I've seen it on quite a few lolita blogs, and this wig website has an entire section devoted to this hair style: http://cosplaywigsusa.com/split-lolita-wigs/

its fun for a night out clubbing...

and the wig she's wearing is listed on the second page of wigs from this link :)

[SwordWomanRiona]

I'm not offend by it, but the feminist part of me has never understood this Lolita culture thing. Hasn't anyone ever read the book? It's about a pedophile and him liking/getting off on little girls. The Lolita culture is basically about looking like a little girl. I think it's creepy that any man would like that...

Yes, I agree. That's why I find the 'Lolita culture' so disgusting. 'Standart' free-access-to-women (or men, although that's much less seen) is bad (very bad!!), but objectifying children or making models dress like children to excite males? That sets me seething! :mad:

[McFearless]

I have seen that look in real life. Black on one side and red the other.

[pink.sara]

I've obviously been off the radar too long not to be mentioned on this thread! ;)

<- there's my half-black, half-white. It's also been pillar box red and White.
Black/pink, black/red, red/auburn, purple/pink.
And is currently black and purple.

There are loads of pics in my album of varying degrees of streaks of colour and half head do's etc.

And I'm 30 with a grown up official office job and everything.

[supercupcakexx]

I'm not offend by it, but the feminist part of me has never understood this Lolita culture thing. Hasn't anyone ever read the book? It's about a pedophile and him liking/getting off on little girls. The Lolita culture is basically about looking like a little girl. I think it's creepy that any man would like that... A woman who wants to pretend she's a little girl? Not cool. But that's just my opinion. :shrug: I don't know why aging is considered bad in ALMOST every society out there. What's wrong with women having curves and looking like real women? We're meant to have babies, and little girls can't have babies. The whole point of a man being attracted to a woman is to procreate. If a woman doesn't look like a woman... well, then there's something messed up behind that attraction...



Yes, I agree. That's why I find the 'Lolita culture' so disgusting. 'Standart' free-access-to-women (or men, although that's much less seen) is bad (very bad!!), but objectifying children or making models dress like children to excite males? That sets me seething! :mad:


I'm not sure if this is referring to the lolita fashion/subculture (assuming that it is?), but if so, I have to say that lolita fashion has nothing to do with the book, and is not meant to objectify women or sexualize children AT ALL. Lolita fashion is a very modest style that is influenced by victorian (and other) fashion, with very little to no skin showing. While some sweeter styles of lolita may look somewhat childlike, it is not about sexualizing children or appealing to men in any way (in fact, many like it because of the exact opposite, that it allow them to not conform to conventional beauty standards of what is sexy or appealing).

Not to say what you both said about objectifying women and children is in any way wrong, I completely agree that that is ABSOLUTELY wrong, and disgusting. It is just a common misconception that lolita fashion is about sexualizing oneself or about being appealing to men, and it often gives lolita a bad name, not to mention it is often based on outfits, etc. that are not actually lolita at all. Again, I don't mean to offend or attack your view, as it is completely justified to be outraged at the sexualization of children, I just would not want someone to be misinformed about the fashion, and judge a lolita they saw on the street or online unfairly. [/endhijack] :blossom:

Sorry to get so off-topic, but I just felt I needed to say that!

[slz]

I'm not sure if this is referring to the lolita fashion/subculture (assuming that it is?), but if so, I have to say that lolita fashion has nothing to do with the book, and is not meant to objectify women or sexualize children AT ALL.
If so then it should have taken another name. You can't call something a duck and then pretend it's supposed to have fur and meow, and people should know it, because well, words have a meaning and a duck has feathers. Lolita is not a made up word, Lolita is the child heroin of a book whose life is destroyed by a 40 y/o man who forces her to have sex with him repeatedly over a long period and uses her. And that's what it is, it is just not possible to use the word and pretend it's not, just like you can't call a cat, a duck.

[supercupcakexx]

If so then it should have taken another name. You can't call something a duck and then pretend it's supposed to have fur and meow, and people should know it, because well, words have a meaning and a duck has feathers. Lolita is not a made up word, Lolita is the child heroin of a book whose life is destroyed by a 40 y/o man who forces her to have sex with him repeatedly over a long period and uses her. And that's what it is, it is just not possible to use the word and pretend it's not, just like you can't call a cat, a duck.

I am aware of this, and it is a very unfortunate name. However, it was also once a very common female name, and this style originating as a Japanese steet fashion, it is very likely the name was taken without knowledge of its connotations. Many English loan words mean something entirely different when adopted into usage in Japan.

It is also for this very reason that many people avoid calling the fashion lolita if asked about it, instead just calling it a victorian-era influenced Japanese street fashion, or something of the like.

[raehysteric]

If you're young, don't have a job where it wouldn't be allowed - or go to a school where they actually let you have colored hair - I say go for it. -Provided your hair is light enough to dye odd colors. Mine's too dark to do that without a wig or bleaching (heck no).


Some people I know will do a compromise of this to be fairly work acceptable. They dye an underlayer or a hidden stripe a funky color so it only shows when they wear their hair in certain style. They just don't wear it like that at work so no one really notices.

Currently a coworker has one of those half shaved on bottom, and really long on top. Even with that her hair is INCREDIBLY thick (thicker than me with a full head of hair, so jealous!) and I didn't even notice until she was brushing her hair in the bathroom.

Personally, I'm more likely to do a thicker lighter stripe in a more natural color coming out of my part, or throw some indigo on top of my side bangs. I'm too reserved to stand out THAT much.

[raehysteric]

I'm not a fan of the Lolita look either, sexualisation of childhood in general makes me shudder. shudder:

Me either. I can just barely tolerate the usual catholic school costume without all the sexualized submissive posing and models that look like kids.

[spike316]

I'm not sure if this is referring to the lolita fashion/subculture (assuming that it is?), but if so, I have to say that lolita fashion has nothing to do with the book, and is not meant to objectify women or sexualize children AT ALL. Lolita fashion is a very modest style that is influenced by victorian (and other) fashion, with very little to no skin showing. While some sweeter styles of lolita may look somewhat childlike, it is not about sexualizing children or appealing to men in any way (in fact, many like it because of the exact opposite, that it allow them to not conform to conventional beauty standards of what is sexy or appealing).

Not to say what you both said about objectifying women and children is in any way wrong, I completely agree that that is ABSOLUTELY wrong, and disgusting. It is just a common misconception that lolita fashion is about sexualizing oneself or about being appealing to men, and it often gives lolita a bad name, not to mention it is often based on outfits, etc. that are not actually lolita at all. Again, I don't mean to offend or attack your view, as it is completely justified to be outraged at the sexualization of children, I just would not want someone to be misinformed about the fashion, and judge a lolita they saw on the street or online unfairly. [/endhijack] :blossom:

Sorry to get so off-topic, but I just felt I needed to say that!

This exactly, if you're going to judge a subculture please learn what it's ACTUALLY about first. For reference the dress I'm wearing in my avatar is loita. And the bra that this girl is wearing is not a good example of lolita fashion, but it does cover as much as the average bikini top.

[spike316]

If so then it should have taken another name. You can't call something a duck and then pretend it's supposed to have fur and meow, and people should know it, because well, words have a meaning and a duck has feathers. Lolita is not a made up word, Lolita is the child heroin of a book whose life is destroyed by a 40 y/o man who forces her to have sex with him repeatedly over a long period and uses her. And that's what it is, it is just not possible to use the word and pretend it's not, just like you can't call a cat, a duck.

This is a culture that originated in japan, they probably aren't familiar/didn't consider the stigma that the name would have in america. How many japanese books/movies are you familiar with? It's rather ethnocentric of you to say that they should have taken into consideration what Americans might think of the name. :rolleyes:

[slz]

This is a culture that originated in japan, they probably aren't familiar/didn't consider the stigma that the name would have in america. How many japanese books/movies are you familiar with? It's rather ethnocentric of you to say that they should have taken into consideration what Americans might think of the name. :rolleyes:
Actually I'm ready to bet that it is exactly what was meant first by choosing this name. Since Lolita isn't a japanese name, yes I would expect that whoever chose to use it to first knew what it was about, like, if I'd choose an american name for something, I'd make sure to understand its meaning and implications first. Also, the stigma isn't just in america, it's known well enough in the northern world culture that I'm sure japan knows about it, too.
Actually, since the term lolicon is a japanese creation naming a japanese style of manga/anime, I wouldn't say they "probably aren't familiar/didn't consider the stigma" at all.

[supercupcakexx]

Actually I'm ready to bet that it is exactly what was meant first by choosing this name. Since Lolita isn't a japanese name, yes I would expect that whoever chose to use it to first knew what it was about, like, if I'd choose an american name for something, I'd make sure to understand its meaning and implications first. Also, the stigma isn't just in america, it's known well enough in the northern world culture that I'm sure japan knows about it, too.
Actually, since the term lolicon is a japanese creation naming a japanese style of manga/anime, I wouldn't say they "probably aren't familiar/didn't consider the stigma" at all.

Either way, unfortunately, it is what it is, and I think you could ask anyone involved in the lolita fashion and they would agree that it has nothing to do with pedophilia or being sexualized for mens' pleasure. This misconception is a topic that comes up rather frequently in the online lolita community, in fact; and as much as many would like, it would be nearly impossible at this point to change the name of this large a subculture.

[spike316]

Whatever, I'm going to tell you that it's not sexual and you're obviously not going to believe me and are not going to learn anything about it. You enjoy that bubble, lady.

[supercupcakexx]

Whatever, I'm going to tell you that it's not sexual and you're obviously not going to believe me and are not going to learn anything about it. You enjoy that bubble, lady.

I feel like we are taking rather different approaches at defending our stances...unfortunately, I don't think attacking others will particularly help our case. :undecided

[spike316]

I feel like we are taking rather different approaches at defending our stances...unfortunately, I don't think attacking others will particularly help our case. :undecided

I'm sorry, just frustating. This is why I never talk to anyone about lolita and just accept compliments on the dresses and shoes.

[supercupcakexx]

I'm sorry, just frustating. This is why I never talk to anyone about lolita and just accept compliments on the dresses and shoes.

I understand. I just wouldn't want to hurt the argument by getting defensive and causing someone to tune everything out, or to offend anyone, as that is certainly not my intention. Especially on such a delicate subject such as this. I know it's hard to accept, but to some, this is a very worrisome topic (I know if I thought something was degrading women and condoning the sexualization of children, I would definitely be outraged!) There is a lot of very well meant, but inaccurate, information on the fashion out there, and it's easy to see how this misinformation combined with the name and its common associations could lead to some confusion. :)

[raehysteric]

This exactly, if you're going to judge a subculture please learn what it's ACTUALLY about first. For reference the dress I'm wearing in my avatar is loita. And the bra that this girl is wearing is not a good example of lolita fashion, but it does cover as much as the average bikini top.

I do so love your outfit!

I'm generally not opposed to the outfits in the lolita culture, which honestly can be rather cute and like opposite of a grungy steam-punk. I think the general disliking comes from the stereotypical representation of what 'lolita' is (i.e. the overtly sexualized children), which is what's more likely to be picked up by the people that don't know about the group as a whole.

I don't have the exact quote, but: "When they see one of us act like a fool, they assume we all are."

[spike316]

I understand. I just wouldn't want to hurt the argument by getting defensive and causing someone to tune everything out, or to offend anyone, as that is certainly not my intention. Especially on such a delicate subject such as this. I know it's hard to accept, but to some, this is a very worrisome topic (I know if I thought something was degrading women and condoning the sexualization of children, I would definitely be outraged!) There is a lot of very well meant, but inaccurate, information on the fashion out there, and it's easy to see how this misinformation combined with the name and its common associations could lead to some confusion. :)

It reminds me of something that happened in one of my boyfriends' classes in college: His teacher had recently been to Japan and was talking about cosplaying and how interesting she thought it was that people would dress up as their favorite characters and act like them. Then another guy in the class goes "No, they dress up like that and have sex with each other." Her: "No, that's not what happened when I was there..." Him: "No, you're wrong" Her: "..." :rolleyes: For reference, cosplaying is not the same as bedroom roleplaying.
ETA: raehysteric: Thank you! And that quote is all too true. :(

[longhairedlady]

Whatever, I'm going to tell you that it's not sexual and you're obviously not going to believe me and are not going to learn anything about it. You enjoy that bubble, lady.

WTF??? Are you directing this at me??? I think your approach to this conversation is a little out of line.

[spike316]

WTF??? Are you directing this at me??? I think your approach to this conversation is a little out of line.

No, that was directed at slz.

[longhairedlady]

Well the way I see it, there is a slight difference between your little girl type dress and the picture shown. SHe is in a bra, little girl barrettes, and was a little girl type expression of her face. Your picture while dressed modestly, IMO, portrays a little girl type look. You are wearing a little girl type dress, and are posing kinda like a child would. I have never come across any of this so I dont know anything about it, but I cant help but wonder why in the world you would want to look like a little girl??? I am not trying to bash you or come across rude I really just dont get this at all. I think in a world were children are abducted, raped, victimized, abused, and murdered, this is just going to appeal to all sorts of sickos and feed their evilness. I guess I shouldnt be surprised that this kinda stuff is out there though.

[Amber_Maiden]

Ok... Maybe we should just come together and eat some :yumm::gobblecheese: people? Remember the cheese... :cheese:

[spike316]

Well the way I see it, there is a slight difference between your little girl type dress and the picture shown. SHe is in a bra, little girl barrettes, and was a little girl type expression of her face. Your picture while dressed modestly, IMO, portrays a little girl type look. You are wearing a little girl type dress, and are posing kinda like a child would. I have never come across any of this so I dont know anything about it, but I cant help but wonder why in the world you would want to look like a little girl??? I am not trying to bash you or come across rude I really just dont get this at all. I think in a world were children are abducted, raped, victimized, abused, and murdered, this is just going to appeal to all sorts of sickos and feed their evilness. I guess I shouldnt be surprised that this kinda stuff is out there though.

This is super judgemental. I am so over this thread.

[longhairedlady]

Ok... Maybe we should just come together and eat some :yumm::gobblecheese: people? Remember the cheese... :cheese:

Only if cheeseballs will be there! Cheeseballs rocks.

[longhairedlady]

This is super judgemental. I am so over this thread.

It is merely my opinion. People will have differences of opinions, it doesnt mean that opposing views are judgemental. It just means that we all see things differently. I think the hairstyle is cute for halloween, but living life everyday like this?

[jesis]

Whatever, I'm going to tell you that it's not sexual and you're obviously not going to believe me and are not going to learn anything about it. You enjoy that bubble, lady.

Although I usually adopt this community's stance on KNIT, I have to agree with you here. A lot of people don't understand the Japanese culture and the interpretation of it in the United States (and, subsequently, other countries as well, I'm sure). Before I started watching anime and then studying more into the culture, I was kind of "afraid" of it as well.

I have to say that I highly doubt anything of this nature is based off of a book about a child being abused. Japanese culture is different, but it's not THAT different. And thinking that any normal human being, no matter where they are from, could support that kind of abuse and even name something like this after it is odd.

Just my thoughts.

[supercupcakexx]

Well the way I see it, there is a slight difference between your little girl type dress and the picture shown. SHe is in a bra, little girl barrettes, and was a little girl type expression of her face.

Not trying to start an argument, but I would like to point out the original picture is really not lolita, and should not be considered an accurate representation of the style. Also, I would like to mention that lolita is a very diverse fashion with many different looks, many of which more mature than what is being seen/described here (not that there is anything wrong with your dress, spike316!)

[spike316]

It is merely my opinion. People will have differences of opinions, it doesnt mean that opposing views are judgemental. It just means that we all see things differently. I think the hairstyle is cute for halloween, but living life everyday like this?

Though you may not have meant it what you said came off as quite judgmental. Why does it even matter so much to you what someone else does? If it makes someone happy they should be able to do whatever they want with their hair and clothing style.

[supercupcakexx]

Ok... Maybe we should just come together and eat some :yumm::gobblecheese: people? Remember the cheese... :cheese:

Ooh yay, cheese! :cheese: :D

[jesis]

Well the way I see it, there is a slight difference between your little girl type dress and the picture shown. SHe is in a bra, little girl barrettes, and was a little girl type expression of her face. Your picture while dressed modestly, IMO, portrays a little girl type look. You are wearing a little girl type dress, and are posing kinda like a child would. I have never come across any of this so I dont know anything about it, but I cant help but wonder why in the world you would want to look like a little girl??? I am not trying to bash you or come across rude I really just dont get this at all. I think in a world were children are abducted, raped, victimized, abused, and murdered, this is just going to appeal to all sorts of sickos and feed their evilness. I guess I shouldnt be surprised that this kinda stuff is out there though.

There is tons of this out there. Not just in the Japanese culture, but in just about every culture everywhere in the world. It's a type of cosplay and if you don't get it, please, for the sake of this thread, look it up.

Just like you have things you do for fun, so do other people. I personally love to cosplay and that generally means changing your appearance entirely, and if that means looking like a doll or any other anime character, so be it.

[raehysteric]

You are wearing a little girl type dress.

The dress itself isn't childlike. It looks rather like a Victorian/steampunk white dress shortened to current social hemlines. I wouldn't wear those shoes or those socks, but that's a personal preference. And I don't think her pose (or expression) is very childlike.. it looks pleasantly modest and demure. I also do something very similar with my legs when I need to shift weight off a foot while I'm wearing heels.

Its quite different than posing in a bra as a kid in a sexual nature. And honestly the first picture wasn't that bad at all (I've seen much worse.)

While I respect your right to have an opinion (and yes there are sickos out there), I don't think its very nice to knock on someone who's actually doing it in a really appropriate and unhurtful way.

P.S. I have some colby jack in the fridge. Perhaps it is time to nomnom on it. Plenty to share!

[spike316]

Although I usually adopt this community's stance on KNIT, I have to agree with you here. A lot of people don't understand the Japanese culture and the interpretation of it in the United States (and, subsequently, other countries as well, I'm sure). Before I started watching anime and then studying more into the culture, I was kind of "afraid" of it as well.

I have to say that I highly doubt anything of this nature is based off of a book about a child being abused. Japanese culture is different, but it's not THAT different. And thinking that any normal human being, no matter where they are from, could support that kind of abuse and even name something like this after it is odd.

Just my thoughts.

You said much more eloquently what was in my head. lol


Not trying to start an argument, but I would like to point out the original picture is really not lolita, and should not be considered an accurate representation of the style. Also, I would like to mention that lolita is a very diverse fashion with many different looks, many of which more mature than what is being seen/described here (not that there is anything wrong with your dress, spike316!)

It's true. And I was a broken doll for halloween so I got the look I was going for with the dress.

If anyone is interested in the different types of lolita fashion here's an awesome website that really breaks it down for you: http://www.lolitafashion.org/styles_list.php

[longhairedlady]

Though you may not have meant it what you said came off as quite judgmental. Why does it even matter so much to you what someone else does? If it makes someone happy they should be able to do whatever they want with their hair and clothing style.

I think maybe you are reading too much into what I am saying. I am not trying to change you, I am just giving my opinion of it. You pointed out your picture, and I was just giving my opinion of the comparision of you and the OPs picture. I am not begrudging you or anyone else happiness over their style. I was just curious as to why you would want to look like a child? If you want to look like little girl, more power to you. I just assumed since you brought attention to your picture that you were okay with discussing it.

[CurlyCap]

Her colour of hair reminds me of bubble gum or cotton candy hehe.

That's what I thought too!

[supercupcakexx]

The dress itself isn't childlike. It looks rather like a Victorian/steampunk white dress shortened to current social hemlines. I wouldn't wear those shoes or those socks, but that's a personal preference. And I don't think her pose (or expression) is very childlike.. it looks pleasantly modest and demure. I also do something very similar with my legs when I need to shift weight off a foot while I'm wearing heels.

Its quite different than posing in a bra as a kid in a sexual nature. And honestly the first picture wasn't that bad at all (I've seen much worse.)

While I respect your right to have an opinion (and yes there are sickos out there), I don't think its very nice to knock on someone who's actually doing it in a really appropriate and unhurtful way.

P.S. I have some colby jack in the fridge. Perhaps it is time to nomnom on it. Plenty to share!


^This. And honestly, I'd rather look a little bit more childlike than in some of the extraordinarily revealing things I see on a regular basis. :undecided

[spike316]

I think maybe you are reading too much into what I am saying. I am not trying to change you, I am just giving my opinion of it. You pointed out your picture, and I was just giving my opinion of the comparision of you and the OPs picture. I am not begrudging you or anyone else happiness over their style. I was just curious as to why you would want to look like a child? If you want to look like little girl, more power to you. I just assumed since you brought attention to your picture that you were okay with discussing it.

When I dress in lolita I don't view it as dressing like a child, and I'm not trying to look like one. I just like the style and I think it's cute, I don't pose as a child and I don't do seductive poses when I'm wearing lolita because that's not what it's about. If I wanted to dress sexy or seductive I would be wearing something that showed more cleavage or further highlighted my waist to hip ratio like a bustier or corset, and the only time I usually do this is around my boyfriend because I don't necessarily want/need other people to see that.

[jesis]

I think maybe you are reading too much into what I am saying. I am not trying to change you, I am just giving my opinion of it. You pointed out your picture, and I was just giving my opinion of the comparision of you and the OPs picture. I am not begrudging you or anyone else happiness over their style. I was just curious as to why you would want to look like a child? If you want to look like little girl, more power to you. I just assumed since you brought attention to your picture that you were okay with discussing it.

As far as I can see, she never said she wanted to look like a child.


When I dress in lolita I don't view it as dressing like a child, and I'm not trying to look like one. I just like the style and I think it's cute, I don't pose as a child and I don't do seductive poses when I'm wearing lolita because that's not what it's about. If I wanted to dress sexy or seductive I would be wearing something that showed more cleavage or further highlighted my waist to hip ratio like a bustier or corset.

Exactly. I have seen women on this forum who have dressed a tad provocatively and I don't see anyone jumping down their throats.

[supercupcakexx]

As far as I can see, she never said she wanted to look like a child.



Exactly. I have seen women on this forum who have dressed a tad provocatively and I don't see anyone jumping down their throats.

Exactly. Not that anyone should, but I don't think this should be treated differently either.

[CurlyCap]

A woman who wants to pretend she's a little girl? Not cool. But that's just my opinion. :shrug: I don't know why aging is considered bad in ALMOST every society out there. What's wrong with women having curves and looking like real women? We're meant to have babies, and little girls can't have babies. The whole point of a man being attracted to a woman is to procreate. If a woman doesn't look like a woman... well, then there's something messed up behind that attraction...

I had a convo with a grad student who studies women's issues and how people interpret "attractiveness", and it's apparently less about looking like a kid and more about looking young enough to still be fertile. Fine line, I know. The way she put it, the concept of women having their first kid in their 30s is relatively new. Men are therefore hardwired to look for traits in a mate that indicate youth and therefore fertility. Lighter hair (as most blondes tend to go darker with age), smooth skin (and less visible coarse hair), eyes with no lid droop (and therefore look bigger), higher breast (which therefore can look bigger), full lips, etc. The problem is, when all of those things are put together at one time...well, that's a kid. Ew. It explains a lot of what women do to themselves to seem attractive, though. It also explains why when appearances of extreme youth are simultaneously presented with one of extreme attractiveness it makes one confused on a very basic level. Too many inputs that feed into too many basic drives.

Anyway, for some reason I love lolita fashion. I personally think it's an expression of how little girls always wish they can grow up and dress just like their favorite doll. In the real world, though, you grow up and realize you really can't get a printed skirt with a petticoat and walk around in sausage curls. Except in Japan, you can. Big poofy dress, unreal hair, pouty lips and all!

[jesis]

I had a convo with a grad student who studies women's issues and how people interpret "attractiveness", and it's apparently less about looking like a kid and more about looking young enough to still be fertile. Fine line, I know. The way she put it, the concept of women having their first kid in their 30s is relatively new. Men are therefore hardwired to look for traits in a mate that indicate youth and therefore fertility. Lighter hair (as most blondes tend to go darker with age), smooth skin (and less visible coarse hair), eyes with no lid droop (and therefore look bigger), higher breast (which therefore can look bigger), full lips, etc. The problem is, when all of those things are put together at one time...well, that's a kid. Ew. It explains a lot of what women do to themselves to seem attractive, though.

Anyway, for some perverse reason I love lolita fashion. I think it's an expression of how little girls always wish they can grow up and dress just like their favorite doll. In the real world, though, you grow up and realize you really can't get a printed skirt with a petticoat and walk around in sausage curls. Except in Japan, you can. Big poofy dress, unreal hair, pouty lips and all!

I've heard this, too, in psychology studies. To add to that, everyone wants to look young. We, as a population, are obsessed with looking younger than we are. We have surgeries, fillers, creams, and tons of advice on how to look "younger". I've never met a person who wanted to get old.

[spike316]

I've heard this, too, in psychology studies. To add to that, everyone wants to look young. We, as a population, are obsessed with looking younger than we are. We have surgeries, fillers, creams, and tons of advice on how to look "younger". I've never met a person who wanted to get old.

I can't wait to have silver hair, but I think that's just more because I like how that tone looks on my skin. =D I'm always trying to get my hair as ashy as possible. :cheese:

[longhairedlady]

I've heard this, too, in psychology studies. To add to that, everyone wants to look young. We, as a population, are obsessed with looking younger than we are. We have surgeries, fillers, creams, and tons of advice on how to look "younger". I've never met a person who wanted to get old.

I have no problem growing older. I dont wear makeup, I dont have surgery, I dont dress to be alluring to others, I dress for my own comfort and what makes me feel pretty, I dont color my hair, I embrace any silver hair I get, and I feel beautiful in everyway. Thats my opinion. Others might look at me like an old frumpy hag. And thats okay, its their opinion. :p

[Buggheart]

It's cute! I've never seen hair dyed in those colors but I've seen a few gals with the brunette/blond combo and it's intriquing.

[jacqueline101]

I think its cute for a party as a temporary look not for everyday wear.

[raehysteric]

I can't wait to have silver hair, but I think that's just more because I like how that tone looks on my skin. =D I'm always trying to get my hair as ashy as possible. :cheese:

While I like being young and being mistaken for 8 years younger than I actually am, I can't wait to be old. Get wrinkles, yell at kids for no reason, get to wear lipstick oustide the lines without being judged, go to bed early, wear comfy elastic banded pants without feeling like I look like slob, have pale blue hair, and being able to get away with the usual forgetfulness or inconsiderateness by blaming it on my age and being horribly confused.

With the way my family goes grey, I'd get AWESOME highlights with henna.

[spike316]

While I like being young and being mistaken for 8 years younger than I actually am, I can't wait to be old. Get wrinkles, yell at kids for no reason, get to wear lipstick oustide the lines without being judged, go to bed early, wear comfy elastic banded pants without feeling like I look like slob, have pale blue hair, and being able to get away with the usual forgetfulness or inconsiderateness by blaming it on my age and being horribly confused.

With the way my family goes grey, I'd get AWESOME highlights with henna.

LOL! My boyfriend is the same way! He aspires to be a curmudgeon and get a cane not because he'll need it, but because he'll want to keep whippersnappers in line with it. :D

[Yozhik]

I had a convo with a grad student who studies women's issues and how people interpret "attractiveness", and it's apparently less about looking like a kid and more about looking young enough to still be fertile. Fine line, I know. The way she put it, the concept of women having their first kid in their 30s is relatively new. Men are therefore hardwired to look for traits in a mate that indicate youth and therefore fertility. Lighter hair (as most blondes tend to go darker with age), smooth skin (and less visible coarse hair), eyes with no lid droop (and therefore look bigger), higher breast (which therefore can look bigger), full lips, etc. The problem is, when all of those things are put together at one time...well, that's a kid. Ew. It explains a lot of what women do to themselves to seem attractive, though. It also explains why when appearances of extreme youth are simultaneously presented with one of extreme attractiveness it makes one confused on a very basic level. Too many inputs that feed into too many basic drives.


I've heard this, too, in psychology studies. To add to that, everyone wants to look young. We, as a population, are obsessed with looking younger than we are. We have surgeries, fillers, creams, and tons of advice on how to look "younger". I've never met a person who wanted to get old.

I read a number of interesting wikipedia articles on this subject, specifically neoteny (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neoteny)in humans and its relation to sexual attractiveness.


In a cross-cultural study, more neotenized female faces were found to be most attractive to men while less neotenized female faces were found to be less attractive to men, regardless of the females' actual age.[19] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neoteny#cite_note-18) Michael R. Cunningham of the Department of Psychology at the University of Louisville (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_Louisville) found, using a panel of "Asian (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asian_people)", "Hispanic (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hispanic)" and "White (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_people)" judges, that the Asian, Hispanic and White female faces found most attractive were those that had "neonate large eyes, greater distance between eyes, and small noses"[20] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neoteny#cite_note-Cunningham-19) and his study led him to conclude that "large eyes" were the most "effective" of the "neonate cues".[20] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neoteny#cite_note-Cunningham-19) Cunningham also said that "shiny" hair may be indicative of "neonate vitality".[20] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neoteny#cite_note-Cunningham-19)

[supercupcakexx]

I read a number of interesting wikipedia articles on this subject, specifically neoteny in humans and its relation to sexual attractiveness........

This is really interesting!

[GlennaGirl]

I absolutely love that wig (in the OP). Love, love, love. That is very cool.

[tamchronic]

Lolita fashion has nothing to do with the ******isation or sexualisation of children. To insist so is both ignorant and highly offensive to women who wear lolita fashion.

Rather, women wear lolita fashion because they love the femininity, elegance, cuteness and quirkiness of the plethora of ruffles and lace we adorn ourselves in. 'Sweet lolita' styles are admittedly rather childlike, but lolitas do not wear them as some sort of kinky sexual statement. They wear them because they think they're cute, unique and aesthetically appealing. I assure you, nobody is trying to seduce older men while wearing these fashions.

It is true that the fashion shares a name with Vladmir Nabokov's novel, and this is an unfortunate circumstance that causes much confusion and misunderstanding. Nobody really knows exactly why the fashion is called lolita, but it is attributed to Japanese word-borrowing gone slightly awry, as has been previously stated in this thread. Please be aware that lolita fashion has nothing to do with the Lolita of the famous novel, or the usage of the term in ****** circles.

OP's picture is not representative of lolita fashion. It is much closer to 'fairy-kei', which is a style of Japanese fashion that utilises bright colours and pastels, and over-the-top accessories. Split wigs like that are popular in what is known as 'OTT sweet lolita', but that is where the resemblance ends.

If I may, I will post some images representative of 'classic lolita' fashion, my personal favourite lolita sub-style. Classic lolita is more mature and historically-inspired than sweet lolita, taking influence from Rococo and Victorian fashion.

http://www.marymagdalene.jp/contents/dress/213/0107/213-0107_11.jpg

http://www.lolitafashion.org/images/classic10.jpg

http://innocent-w.jp/shopping/112202/h.jpg

One might not like these fashions, but that is no reason to condemn them as sexually perverted. Simply because something exists outside of what one considers 'normal' does not mean it is morally degenerate.

I am sorry if this is off-topic or has gotten too long. I simply feel the need to defend a fashion that is dear to my heart. Seeing people misunderstand the fashion and call it pedophilic is truly upsetting to me.

I hope that I've cleared up some issues, and that nobody in this thread is left confused as to the nature of lolita fashion.

[shawty]

YES I HAVE SEEN IT. I saw this on a friend 6 years ago. He only kept it for about 2 months, as he was a frequent hair-dyer.

[kwaniesiam]

I love that, it's adorable. I've been contemplating one color on the top and one on the bottom but the left/right combo is neat too.

[Arashi]

I'm not sure if this is referring to the lolita fashion/subculture (assuming that it is?), but if so, I have to say that lolita fashion has nothing to do with the book, and is not meant to objectify women or sexualize children AT ALL. Lolita fashion is a very modest style that is influenced by victorian (and other) fashion, with very little to no skin showing. While some sweeter styles of lolita may look somewhat childlike, it is not about sexualizing children or appealing to men in any way (in fact, many like it because of the exact opposite, that it allow them to not conform to conventional beauty standards of what is sexy or appealing).

Not to say what you both said about objectifying women and children is in any way wrong, I completely agree that that is ABSOLUTELY wrong, and disgusting. It is just a common misconception that lolita fashion is about sexualizing oneself or about being appealing to men, and it often gives lolita a bad name, not to mention it is often based on outfits, etc. that are not actually lolita at all. Again, I don't mean to offend or attack your view, as it is completely justified to be outraged at the sexualization of children, I just would not want someone to be misinformed about the fashion, and judge a lolita they saw on the street or online unfairly. [/endhijack] :blossom:



Lolita fashion has nothing to do with the ******isation or sexualisation of children. To insist so is both ignorant and highly offensive to women who wear lolita fashion.

Rather, women wear lolita fashion because they love the femininity, elegance, cuteness and quirkiness of the plethora of ruffles and lace we adorn ourselves in. 'Sweet lolita' styles are admittedly rather childlike, but lolitas do not wear them as some sort of kinky sexual statement. They wear them because they think they're cute, unique and aesthetically appealing. I assure you, nobody is trying to seduce older men while wearing these fashions.

It is true that the fashion shares a name with Vladmir Nabokov's novel, and this is an unfortunate circumstance that causes much confusion and misunderstanding. Nobody really knows exactly why the fashion is called lolita, but it is attributed to Japanese word-borrowing gone slightly awry, as has been previously stated in this thread. Please be aware that lolita fashion has nothing to do with the Lolita of the famous novel, or the usage of the term in ****** circles.


As for both of these posts, very well said. It is unfortunate that there are so many misconceptions about lolita fashion.

All I have to add is that I have seen some posts regarding the feminist movement as the basis for disliking lolita fashion.. and I really don't understand how that works! Is accusing women who have done nothing more than participate in a subculture that appreciates pretty, frilly(and modest) clothing (and perhaps a fancy tea party or two) of trying to appeal to men by sexualizing children, really something that empowers women? :confused:

[Revontuletar]

This is a wig, most probably made by either Gothic Lolita Wigs, or Mintymix. I am an avid lover of Lolita and Fairy Kei fashion and would recognise this wig in an instant. I never wear wigs myself, as I consider it "cheating," haha.

With regards to Lolita fashion and peoples' misconceptions and beliefs that it is a ****** or whatever: This topic has been discussed over and over in lolita communities and the general concensus is we wear it because we like it and think it is pretty. If someone random happens to have a ****** for it, it is their business not ours, and we certainly do not dress to please them. After all, there is a ****** for almost everything in this world, and almost every clothing style, alternative or otherwise, will have someone out there who thinks of it sexually, because that is the way the human race operates. Lolita fashion is not intended as a sexual ******, despite its unfortunate name. Nobody knows how it came to be named so, but most think it had something to do with the language barrier between Japan and the west. It is my theory that years ago, someone from the west visited Japan and saw girls wearing clothing that bore a resemblance to a certain style of childrens' clothing. The western guy probably shouted "Lolitaaa!" at them, meaning it as an insult, and the Japanese girls, not understanding, thought it to be a cute name for what they were wearing, and since then the name has stuck! I really think it ought to be changed though, as it just fuels misconceptions among the ignorant masses.

[Toadstool]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lolita_fashion
I always assumed the name was borrowed from Nabokov,now it seems not.

[Revontuletar]

I'm not offend by it, but the feminist part of me has never understood this Lolita culture thing. Hasn't anyone ever read the book? It's about a pedophile and him liking/getting off on little girls. The Lolita culture is basically about looking like a little girl. I think it's creepy that any man would like that... A woman who wants to pretend she's a little girl? Not cool. But that's just my opinion. :shrug: I don't know why aging is considered bad in ALMOST every society out there. What's wrong with women having curves and looking like real women? We're meant to have babies, and little girls can't have babies. The whole point of a man being attracted to a woman is to procreate. If a woman doesn't look like a woman... well, then there's something messed up behind that attraction...


Also, how is this statement in any way feminist? The feminist in me says that women should be allowed to have the freedom to dress however they want, not be confined to dressing for men's pleasure. And that is what lolitas do. We dress for us, because we like it, NOT FOR MEN. May I repeat, that it is NOT FOR MEN. Believe it or not, there are people out there who express themselves artistically through fashion, just as others do through art or music. Nobody bashes people for liking a certain type of art or music, and this is the same. It is just as separate from sex and sexual attraction as listening to classical music or liking renaissance art is. I wish people would realise this.

[Rini]

Lolita fashion has nothing to do with the ******isation or sexualisation of children. To insist so is both ignorant and highly offensive to women who wear lolita fashion.

Rather, women wear lolita fashion because they love the femininity, elegance, cuteness and quirkiness of the plethora of ruffles and lace we adorn ourselves in. 'Sweet lolita' styles are admittedly rather childlike, but lolitas do not wear them as some sort of kinky sexual statement. They wear them because they think they're cute, unique and aesthetically appealing. I assure you, nobody is trying to seduce older men while wearing these fashions.

It is true that the fashion shares a name with Vladmir Nabokov's novel, and this is an unfortunate circumstance that causes much confusion and misunderstanding. Nobody really knows exactly why the fashion is called lolita, but it is attributed to Japanese word-borrowing gone slightly awry, as has been previously stated in this thread. Please be aware that lolita fashion has nothing to do with the Lolita of the famous novel, or the usage of the term in ****** circles.

OP's picture is not representative of lolita fashion. It is much closer to 'fairy-kei', which is a style of Japanese fashion that utilises bright colours and pastels, and over-the-top accessories. Split wigs like that are popular in what is known as 'OTT sweet lolita', but that is where the resemblance ends.

If I may, I will post some images representative of 'classic lolita' fashion, my personal favourite lolita sub-style. Classic lolita is more mature and historically-inspired than sweet lolita, taking influence from Rococo and Victorian fashion.

http://www.marymagdalene.jp/contents/dress/213/0107/213-0107_11.jpg

http://www.lolitafashion.org/images/classic10.jpg

http://innocent-w.jp/shopping/112202/h.jpg

One might not like these fashions, but that is no reason to condemn them as sexually perverted. Simply because something exists outside of what one considers 'normal' does not mean it is morally degenerate.

I am sorry if this is off-topic or has gotten too long. I simply feel the need to defend a fashion that is dear to my heart. Seeing people misunderstand the fashion and call it pedophilic is truly upsetting to me.

I hope that I've cleared up some issues, and that nobody in this thread is left confused as to the nature of lolita fashion.

EXCELLENT post and explanation. Couldn't have said it better myself :D I dress in this style quite often, not to look like a little girl (I'm a bit beyond that!! LOL) but because I'm in love with the Victorian era and adore the dress of that time. I find Lolita fashion very appealing and readily accessible, much more practical than authentic vintage clothes of the era.

Btw, I love that wig. At the rate my hair is turning white/silver, I should be able to do this myself in a couple of years ;)

[numbernine]

Lolita fashion has nothing to do with the ******isation or sexualisation of children. To insist so is both ignorant and highly offensive to women who wear lolita fashion.

Rather, women wear lolita fashion because they love the femininity, elegance, cuteness and quirkiness of the plethora of ruffles and lace we adorn ourselves in. 'Sweet lolita' styles are admittedly rather childlike, but lolitas do not wear them as some sort of kinky sexual statement. They wear them because they think they're cute, unique and aesthetically appealing. I assure you, nobody is trying to seduce older men while wearing these fashions.

It is true that the fashion shares a name with Vladmir Nabokov's novel, and this is an unfortunate circumstance that causes much confusion and misunderstanding. Nobody really knows exactly why the fashion is called lolita, but it is attributed to Japanese word-borrowing gone slightly awry, as has been previously stated in this thread. Please be aware that lolita fashion has nothing to do with the Lolita of the famous novel, or the usage of the term in ****** circles.

OP's picture is not representative of lolita fashion. It is much closer to 'fairy-kei', which is a style of Japanese fashion that utilises bright colours and pastels, and over-the-top accessories. Split wigs like that are popular in what is known as 'OTT sweet lolita', but that is where the resemblance ends.

If I may, I will post some images representative of 'classic lolita' fashion, my personal favourite lolita sub-style. Classic lolita is more mature and historically-inspired than sweet lolita, taking influence from Rococo and Victorian fashion.

http://www.marymagdalene.jp/contents/dress/213/0107/213-0107_11.jpg

http://www.lolitafashion.org/images/classic10.jpg

http://innocent-w.jp/shopping/112202/h.jpg

One might not like these fashions, but that is no reason to condemn them as sexually perverted. Simply because something exists outside of what one considers 'normal' does not mean it is morally degenerate.

I am sorry if this is off-topic or has gotten too long. I simply feel the need to defend a fashion that is dear to my heart. Seeing people misunderstand the fashion and call it pedophilic is truly upsetting to me.

I hope that I've cleared up some issues, and that nobody in this thread is left confused as to the nature of lolita fashion.

excellent reply
I love the classic lolita look
it is doll like not child like
and I don't think anyone should assume that a persons dress is chosen purely to appeal to men.
I find the lolita style to be a great creative expression along with cosplay.
:cheese:

[PriscillaCherel]

I've never seen this before! But I don't think it is real hair and never want it, but love to see it on her.

[Unofficial_Rose]

Also, how is this statement in any way feminist? The feminist in me says that women should be allowed to have the freedom to dress however they want, not be confined to dressing for men's pleasure. And that is what lolitas do. We dress for us, because we like it, NOT FOR MEN. May I repeat, that it is NOT FOR MEN. Believe it or not, there are people out there who express themselves artistically through fashion, just as others do through art or music. Nobody bashes people for liking a certain type of art or music, and this is the same. It is just as separate from sex and sexual attraction as listening to classical music or liking renaissance art is. I wish people would realise this.

No-one's saying women aren't allowed to dress like this. However, people are also allowed to have opinions on it, as on everything else. This would be called freedom of speech. :)

[tamchronic]

No-one's saying women aren't allowed to dress like this. However, people are also allowed to have opinions on it, as on everything else. This would be called freedom of speech. :)

Of course, it is understandable if a person does not like the appearance of lolita fashion. Nobody is insisting that everybody adore it. The issue here, however, is that some were insisting it is a sexual ******, when it definitely is not. That is not an opinion: it is a fact. Some may find it sexually appealing, just as some find Catholic schoolgirls, nurses, or even cheese sexually appealing. This does not make the thing in question inherently sexual.

(Also, it's great to find some fellow lolitas on this forum! Perhaps we should start a thread in the off-topic section for it. :) )

[Revontuletar]

No-one's saying women aren't allowed to dress like this. However, people are also allowed to have opinions on it, as on everything else. This would be called freedom of speech. :)

Very true, but the person I was quoting in that post seemed to be making the assumption that everything women do appearance-wise is to do with being sexually appealing to men, and therefore implying that it would be ridiculous to do it for any other reasons, as if in their opinion the almighty rules of society state that they are not allowed. If you know what I mean. This subject and people who think like this just really make my blood boil.

[jesis]

I have no problem growing older. I dont wear makeup, I dont have surgery, I dont dress to be alluring to others, I dress for my own comfort and what makes me feel pretty, I dont color my hair, I embrace any silver hair I get, and I feel beautiful in everyway. Thats my opinion. Others might look at me like an old frumpy hag. And thats okay, its their opinion. :p

Let me remind you. I never said that people didn't mind getting older. I only said nobody WANTED to. Who wants to grow old and die?

I won't mind it when it comes my way, either. But I definitely don't want to.

[jesis]

While I like being young and being mistaken for 8 years younger than I actually am, I can't wait to be old. Get wrinkles, yell at kids for no reason, get to wear lipstick oustide the lines without being judged, go to bed early, wear comfy elastic banded pants without feeling like I look like slob, have pale blue hair, and being able to get away with the usual forgetfulness or inconsiderateness by blaming it on my age and being horribly confused.

With the way my family goes grey, I'd get AWESOME highlights with henna.

I stand corrected.

I guess to each their own. I definitely love being young and all of the adventures that come with it. Maybe it's my profession that has led me to feel this way. Working around old people who have no freedom, no life, and, basically, no family has really made me want to live my life to the fullest while I have the chance.

[Amber_Maiden]

Let me remind you. I never said that people didn't mind getting older. I only said nobody WANTED to. Who wants to grow old and die?

I won't mind it when it comes my way, either. But I definitely don't want to.

Sorry, have to jump in here...
Some people want to get older... I do. I want the wrinkles, grey hair, etc. I want to be an old crone. :) I want my appearance to match my old soul status, and I can't stand the way people look at me like I'm only 22. I've never looked how old I am, inside. It bothers me. There's a major disconnect there. Always has been. I want my outward appearance to catch up...;) I know it sounds weird.

[jesis]

Sorry, have to jump in here...
Some people want to get older... I do. I want the wrinkles, grey hair, etc. I want to be an old crone. :) I want my appearance to match my old soul status, and I can't stand the way people look at me like I'm only 22. I've never looked how old I am, inside. It bothers me. There's a major disconnect there. Always has been. I want my outward appearance to catch up...;) I know it sounds weird.

If you'll read the post I posted right after that, I said I stand corrected. :)

Being on the opposite side of that, I'm only 23 and I look older than I am. I'm already not aging well, which is genetic I'm assuming because my mother has terrible skin (she's 47 and looks 65) and I wish wish wish I could look younger than I do because I honestly don't want to look old at a young age like she does. Seeing her skin terrifies me to no other.

I already use a prescription retinoid, a very expensive under-eye cream, and am seriously considering fillers. My teeth are already falling out of my head due to some weird genetic disorder that runs in my family. My teeth literally rot from the inside out. Soon I won't even be able to chew on my left side.

My sisters face is "falling", too. She's 4 years younger than me and every time I see her I feel so sorry for her.

I watch a lot of TV when I am doing homework and I almost always see women getting stuff done to their face/body to make them look younger.

I guess I'm just saying a vast majority of society wants to look younger with a few exceptions. And I'm sure they don't mind growing old and all of the wisdom, etc. that comes with it.

[jesis]

I guess I should say that I wasn't saying that literally NOBODY wants to get old........ because obviously I don't know everybody or their wants and desires. I was simply saying that in my experience, nobody I know wants to get old.

/clarification.

I don't really want to get bashed (for lack of a better word) for that comment anymore. I have clarified what I meant. Thanks.

[longhairedlady]

If you'll read the post I posted right after that, I said I stand corrected. :)

Being on the opposite side of that, I'm only 23 and I look older than I am. I'm already not aging well, which is genetic I'm assuming because my mother has terrible skin (she's 47 and looks 65) and I wish wish wish I could look younger than I do because I honestly don't want to look old at a young age like she does. Seeing her skin terrifies me to no other.

I already use a prescription retinoid, a very expensive under-eye cream, and am seriously considering fillers. My teeth are already falling out of my head due to some weird genetic disorder that runs in my family. My teeth literally rot from the inside out. Soon I won't even be able to chew on my left side.

My sisters face is "falling", too. She's 4 years younger than me and every time I see her I feel so sorry for her.

I watch a lot of TV when I am doing homework and I almost always see women getting stuff done to their face/body to make them look younger.

I guess I'm just saying a vast majority of society wants to look younger with a few exceptions. And I'm sure they don't mind growing old and all of the wisdom, etc. that comes with it.

I looked at your pics and you look like a typical 23 year old. You do not look like youre aged beyond your years. I think you are being too hard on yourself. There is all forms of beauty in the world. There is no rule that states you are only beautiful at the age of 18. Each day that you age is a new page in your book. A thin sparse book is not that interesting, but a book with many chapters and pages will keep you interesting! Also, You may not want to die now but after you have lived a long fulfilled life you might have a different opinion. I dont want to die either, but I look forward to all the years between now and then. :)

[GlennaGirl]

Some may find it sexually appealing, just as some find Catholic schoolgirls, nurses, or even cheese sexually appealing. This does not make the thing in question inherently sexual.


One vote for sexy cheese here! :cheese:

[Clelia]

When I was in grammar school, a classmate of mine went to the hairdresser, and came back as Cruella Deville. No kidding. She had her right side coloured black, and the left was bleached very very light blonde, almost white. It was so great! Well, she had shortish hair, I think it was a pixi cut. But she looked so cool. I loved it.

[airmid]

I love the look, wig or no wig! I'd never do it myself because of the damage it would do to my hair and because I could never pull it off, but on other people it can look great! My best friend in high school had this done to her hair, only her hair was much, much shorter, always hovering from 2 inches to maybe 5 or 6 inches at its longest. She loved colouring it every colour of the rainbow, and she often did the half-and-half thing... I think she even had those exact colours at one point! I'll never forget the day my friend was being dropped off to my door once to come over and hang out (wearing a cloak, with her hair dyed), and my sister was looking out the window with her glasses off, and saw her and got all excited and happy thinking a clown was coming to the house. :)
She had very striking, beautiful features so it looked absolutely fantastic on her. :)

[Cania]

Cute colours! Wish I could do this, but I'd have to kill my hair with bleach :P

I didn't even notice the bra.

And those little wrist cuff bracelets are adorable! I used to wear one like that.

[SwordWomanRiona]

I'm not sure if this is referring to the lolita fashion/subculture (assuming that it is?), but if so, I have to say that lolita fashion has nothing to do with the book, and is not meant to objectify women or sexualize children AT ALL. Lolita fashion is a very modest style that is influenced by victorian (and other) fashion, with very little to no skin showing. While some sweeter styles of lolita may look somewhat childlike, it is not about sexualizing children or appealing to men in any way (in fact, many like it because of the exact opposite, that it allow them to not conform to conventional beauty standards of what is sexy or appealing).

Not to say what you both said about objectifying women and children is in any way wrong, I completely agree that that is ABSOLUTELY wrong, and disgusting. It is just a common misconception that lolita fashion is about sexualizing oneself or about being appealing to men, and it often gives lolita a bad name, not to mention it is often based on outfits, etc. that are not actually lolita at all. Again, I don't mean to offend or attack your view, as it is completely justified to be outraged at the sexualization of children, I just would not want someone to be misinformed about the fashion, and judge a lolita they saw on the street or online unfairly. [/endhijack] :blossom:

Sorry to get so off-topic, but I just felt I needed to say that!

Well, to tell the truth, I didn't know what the 'Lolita culture' was (had to look it up), but when I look at the pic (and at others in the Internet), I see an objectified woman...:( I also think you don't need to show skin to objectify a human-being. And, In my view, their expressions are quite obviously there to excite males :(.

[Unofficial_Rose]

For me it's just the first picture that I have the issue with.

And to explain why - the chest area. She has a bra on but her chest is so narrow it looks like the chest of a 10 year old. And the face could be that of a 10 year old, but with a huge amount of makeup and pastel-coloured hair.

This is for the very specific reason that whilst browsing a second-hand bric a brac shop in Northern France once (some 20 years ago), my friend and I saw a magazine cover with a heavily made up face which I thought was that of a woman until I glanced down and saw the bare chest of a child of approximately 8 - 10 years old. I've never seen another image like that until now.

Hopefully it's just the camera angle coupled with the fact that some Asian women are tiny. Again, sorry OP, I'm sure you just wanted to discuss the hair and not unleash a whole storm of stuff from people. It would be fine on, say, Katy Perry. She is a grown-up and it's clearly her decision what she does with her hair and clothes.

[jesis]

I looked at your pics and you look like a typical 23 year old. You do not look like youre aged beyond your years. I think you are being too hard on yourself. There is all forms of beauty in the world. There is no rule that states you are only beautiful at the age of 18. Each day that you age is a new page in your book. A thin sparse book is not that interesting, but a book with many chapters and pages will keep you interesting! Also, You may not want to die now but after you have lived a long fulfilled life you might have a different opinion. I dont want to die either, but I look forward to all the years between now and then. :)

My pictures tell a different story, but I do appreciate your kind words. :) I guess I just expect that if I take good care of my skin and teeth, I will look young for longer than those who don't, but alas, that is not always the case.

I hope your book is full of lots of chapters! :)


For me it's just the first picture that I have the issue with.

And to explain why - the chest area. She has a bra on but her chest is so narrow it looks like the chest of a 10 year old. And the face could be that of a 10 year old, but with a huge amount of makeup and pastel-coloured hair.

This is for the very specific reason that whilst browsing a second-hand bric a brac shop in Northern France once (some 20 years ago), my friend and I saw a magazine cover with a heavily made up face which I thought was that of a woman until I glanced down and saw the bare chest of a child of approximately 8 - 10 years old. I've never seen another image like that until now.

Hopefully it's just the camera angle coupled with the fact that some Asian women are tiny. Again, sorry OP, I'm sure you just wanted to discuss the hair and not unleash a whole storm of stuff from people. It would be fine on, say, Katy Perry. She is a grown-up and it's clearly her decision what she does with her hair and clothes.

I lived with a Vietnamese-Laotian girl for ~6 months. She was about 4'9 and weighed approximately 70 pounds. She always complained that she looked like a little boy. She had to buy children's clothing and couldn't find undergarments that fit her. The first time my mother ever met her, she could not believe that the girl standing in front of her was 20, not 10.

I can understand if you've never been around asian women, but that's just the way some of them look. Just like some women have huge busts, hips, and butts, some women have nothing in way of that. That includes women of all races, too. Are you offended when you see a normal woman wearing a costume like this? Or is it just because she is so small?

[supercupcakexx]

Well, to tell the truth, I didn't know what the 'Lolita culture' was (had to look it up), but when I look at the pic (and at others in the Internet), I see an objectified woman...:( I also think you don't need to show skin to objectify a human-being. And, In my view, their expressions are quite obviously there to excite males :(.


Really? I personally have not had this impression at all. Of course, to each their own, and there is a possibility that someone may dress this way to "excite males", just as someone might dress in anything else for this reason. However, the OVERWHELMING majority do not dress in this style for that reason, and in general, anyone that did would be very frowned upon in the lolita community. I know that I personally, and most others, see a dress and think something along the lines of "Wow, I love those colors/print/detail/etc! It is beautiful and I would feel feminine and confident", and it would not once cross my mind that I should/should not wear it based on if males, or anyone else, would find it appealing. Of course I take common sense into consideration, but pleasing others is certainly not a main priority. In a nutshell, most would agree that if you're dressing in this way solely to attract male attention, you're doing it wrong.

Perhaps if you saw more "every day" photos, you would see a different perspective on the fashion. Not every lolita dresses in head-to-toe frills, all day every day, of course. ;) :blossom:




For me it's just the first picture that I have the issue with.

And to explain why - the chest area. She has a bra on but her chest is so narrow it looks like the chest of a 10 year old. And the face could be that of a 10 year old, but with a huge amount of makeup and pastel-coloured hair.

This is for the very specific reason that whilst browsing a second-hand bric a brac shop in Northern France once (some 20 years ago), my friend and I saw a magazine cover with a heavily made up face which I thought was that of a woman until I glanced down and saw the bare chest of a child of approximately 8 - 10 years old. I've never seen another image like that until now.

Hopefully it's just the camera angle coupled with the fact that some Asian women are tiny. Again, sorry OP, I'm sure you just wanted to discuss the hair and not unleash a whole storm of stuff from people. It would be fine on, say, Katy Perry. She is a grown-up and it's clearly her decision what she does with her hair and clothes.

Yes, I do agree with this. I'm not sure that it is a child and really don't think she looks that young, and I think she is most likely an adult/teenager. But I can see and sympathize with your concern, and again, I'm definitely not condoning such a thing :).

[supercupcakexx]

I can understand if you've never been around asian women, but that's just the way some of them look. Just like some women have huge busts, hips, and butts, some women have nothing in way of that. That includes women of all races, too. Are you offended when you see a normal woman wearing a costume like this? Or is it just because she is so small?

This is true. My Japanese professor is very thin and overall small, and still looks like a teenager. She has often been mistaken for a college or high school student, when actually, she is the teacher! In the words of my professor "Asians don't age" (kidding of course, but she has a point!) :D I have had American teachers like this as well.

[spike316]

Really? I personally have not had this impression at all. Of course, to each their own, and there is a possibility that someone may dress this way to "excite males", just as someone might dress in anything else for this reason. However, the OVERWHELMING majority do not dress in this style for that reason, and in general, anyone that did would be very frowned upon in the lolita community. I know that I personally, and most others, see a dress and think something along the lines of "Wow, I love those colors/print/detail/etc! It is beautiful and I would feel feminine and confident", and it would not once cross my mind that I should/should not wear it based on if males, or anyone else, would find it appealing. Of course I take common sense into consideration, but pleasing others is certainly not a main priority. In a nutshell, most would agree that if you're dressing in this way solely to attract male attention, you're doing it wrong.

Perhaps if you saw more "every day" photos, you would see a different perspective on the fashion. Not every lolita dresses in head-to-toe frills, all day every day, of course. ;) :blossom:

Agreed, in fact when I dress like this though my boyfriend thinks it's cute he considers it kind of a turn off, but he knows it makes me feel pretty so he doesn't really care. :shrug:

[Revontuletar]

Really? I personally have not had this impression at all. Of course, to each their own, and there is a possibility that someone may dress this way to "excite males", just as someone might dress in anything else for this reason. However, the OVERWHELMING majority do not dress in this style for that reason, and in general, anyone that did would be very frowned upon in the lolita community. I know that I personally, and most others, see a dress and think something along the lines of "Wow, I love those colors/print/detail/etc! It is beautiful and I would feel feminine and confident", and it would not once cross my mind that I should/should not wear it based on if males, or anyone else, would find it appealing. Of course I take common sense into consideration, but pleasing others is certainly not a main priority. In a nutshell, most would agree that if you're dressing in this way solely to attract male attention, you're doing it wrong.
.
AGREED. Why is it that no matter how many times we say it people can just not fathom that there may be a completely different reason for why we dress the way we do, not to excite men but because we LIKE IT. ARGH, how many times do I have to say it!? If you do dress in lolita to excite men, then it is my strong belief that you are an idiot who obviously needs to find a better hobby. Also, the girl in the first picture is not a lolita, just to let you know. And I will also add, as others have said, a lot of asians are TINY and look like this well into their twenties.

[tamchronic]

Well, to tell the truth, I didn't know what the 'Lolita culture' was (had to look it up), but when I look at the pic (and at others in the Internet), I see an objectified woman...:( I also think you don't need to show skin to objectify a human-being. And, In my view, their expressions are quite obviously there to excite males :(.


Again, I will state that the image in OP's post does not represent lolita fashion.It is a different Japanese fashion street style. Take another look at the images I posted a few pages back: those pictures are representative of lolita fashion.

I cannot stop you from believing what you do, but I am honestly baffled as to how a woman dressing in a fashion she finds beautiful that makes her feel confident and feminine, rejecting society's obsession with being 'sexy', objectifies her. If anything, I believe it empowers her. It empowers her to be feminine, to be modest, to dress for herself and not for anybody else.

The website HelloLace is a good resources for lolita fashion. The 'What is Lolita?' page is here: http://hellolace.net/about/the-fashion

"The origin of the fashion name has not been confirmed, but it may be a case of wasei-eigo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wasei-eigo) (Japanese pseudo-anglicisms). While the western adaption of lolita is sexy, Japanese Lolita fashion strives for the opposite. It's a very modest look that the majority of Lolitas would describe as elegant and cute, rather than sexy."


And here's the FAQ page: http://hellolace.net/about/faq-of-frills

"Lolita fashion is not related to any type of ******, nor do practicers of the fashion consider the style sexual, but rather the opposite. Some words that are typically used to describe Japanese Lolita fashion are "cute", "feminine", "modest", "elegant", "youthful", "doll-like", and "innocent". Lolita is like any fashion style, but contains more poof, lace and ruffles than most."


I hope this clears up some further issues.

[Revontuletar]

Again, I will state that the image in OP's post does not represent lolita fashion.It is a different Japanese fashion street style. Take another look at the images I posted a few pages back: those pictures are representative of lolita fashion.

I cannot stop you from believing what you do, but I am honestly baffled as to how a woman dressing in a fashion she finds beautiful that makes her feel confident and feminine, rejecting society's obsession with being 'sexy', objectifies her. If anything, I believe it empowers her. It empowers her to be feminine, to be modest, to dress for herself and not for anybody else.

The website HelloLace is a good resources for lolita fashion. The 'What is Lolita?' page is here: http://hellolace.net/about/the-fashion

"The origin of the fashion name has not been confirmed, but it may be a case of wasei-eigo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wasei-eigo) (Japanese pseudo-anglicisms). While the western adaption of lolita is sexy, Japanese Lolita fashion strives for the opposite. It's a very modest look that the majority of Lolitas would describe as elegant and cute, rather than sexy."


And here's the FAQ page: http://hellolace.net/about/faq-of-frills

"Lolita fashion is not related to any type of ******, nor do practicers of the fashion consider the style sexual, but rather the opposite. Some words that are typically used to describe Japanese Lolita fashion are "cute", "feminine", "modest", "elegant", "youthful", "doll-like", and "innocent". Lolita is like any fashion style, but contains more poof, lace and ruffles than most."


I hope this clears up some further issues.

THANK YOU.

[pinupdancer]

This is my hair back in June...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v39/Sharise/051-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v39/Sharise/002-2.jpg

Please excuse the scary third degree burn I'm showing off on my wrist. lol Ah the dangers of cooking. :p

[slz]

I think you missunderstood what I (and others who probably meant the same) were saying. Only you can tell why you chooose to dress like this or like that, and I was in no way implying that people following this style = wanting to look like little girls so as to be sexually desireable to pedophiles. Not at all. People do what they do for a myriad of reasons, and of course I would hope that very few women dress so with this goal in mind !

However, one has to be aware of the undertones and codes underlying their choices, whatever their own intent is. Like it was very truthfully said in the hitler youth haircut thread :

I think a lot of people will make the argument that it's just a hairstyle, and it's the intent that's important, not the look. Also that we should judge people my what's inside, not what's on the outside. However, I think that this viewpoint is fundamentally naive. We all make initial judgements based on appearance, and while this is sometimes unfair, it's important to realize that the way we present ourselves outwardly DOES say something about who we are inside. We've all had the day where we were sick and felt terrible, so we didn't bother to dress to the standards we might normally, whether that means wearing no makeup and pjs, or simply choosing the looser fitting outfit for comfort. The hairstyles we choose, the makeup that we wear (or don't) and the clothes that we dress ourselves in say something about who we are. Other people may not interpret it in the way that you meant it, but it still says something. If there is a certain image that society strongly associates with a certain lifestyle (and we all know that these exist), then projecting that image is a decision on our part. If I dyed my hair black, started wearing all black clothes, and heavy black eyeliner and lipstick, people would assume that I was "Goth" whether I thought of myself that way or not, whether I knew what a goth was or not. The same is true of this hairstyle. Whether or not these kids are ignorant of the hairstyle's historical signifigance (and if they're referring to it as the "hitler youth" they must be somewhat aware), they've chosen to present themselves in this way, and they must live with the connotations.

From a feminist standpoint, playing with codes really is not a problem at all, on the contrary, it is freeing and all.
HOWEVER, not being able to recognize them and caving in naively because you internalised them so well that you dont see them at all, that is the really problematic behaviour. Then next problematic step is denial, when you are presented with the obvious connotations of what you are playing with, and refuse to aknowledge them.

See, I really find latex wear beautiful - not in a sexual way, it doesn't arouse me or anything. Should I wear it anyway to go to work or the grocery store just because my intent is more important than the bagage it carries ? I don't think so. And should I do it anyway, it would be very naive of me to act all offended if somebody came to me and told me about their f*tish for latex and whatnot. Oh and I would definitely wear some if I lived in a large city with no risk of being labelled "the sicko" for life, though still not to work nor the grocery store, but I would fully know that I would subject myself to "the wrong kind" of attention, and accept it.

[GlennaGirl]

This is my hair back in June...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v39/Sharise/051-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v39/Sharise/002-2.jpg

Please excuse the scary third degree burn I'm showing off on my wrist. lol Ah the dangers of cooking. :p

That is absolutely adorable! Did you have to bleach first? Probably a dumb question, but that's the first thing I wondered. What an awesome, fun look. :D

[spike316]

This is my hair back in June...


Please excuse the scary third degree burn I'm showing off on my wrist. lol Ah the dangers of cooking. :p

I love it! Those colors go great with your skintone. ^_^ I hear you on the burns, my boyfriend was teasing me the other day about my cooking scars lol.

[pinupdancer]

Glenna Girl - Oh yes it was intense. lol I had to bleach it, tone it, and then dye it. I spent the following week doing daily deep conditioning treatments.

Spike - Thank you! lol Yeah, a month later I splashed myself with boiling pot roast juice and got one on my chest. :rolleyes: I'm dangerous in the kitchen.

[tamchronic]

However, one has to be aware of the undertones and codes underlying their choices, whatever their own intent is.

From a feminist standpoint, playing with codes really is not a problem at all, on the contrary, it is freeing and all.
HOWEVER, not being able to recognize them and caving in naively because you internalised them so well that you dont see them at all, that is the really problematic behaviour. Then next problematic step is denial, when you are presented with the obvious connotations of what you are playing with, and refuse to aknowledge them.

See, I really find latex wear beautiful - not in a sexual way, it doesn't arouse me or anything. Should I wear it anyway to go to work or the grocery store just because my intent is more important than the bagage it carries ? I don't think so. And should I do it anyway, it would be very naive of me to act all offended if somebody came to me and told me about their f*tish for latex and whatnot. Oh and I would definitely wear some if I lived in a large city with no risk of being labelled "the sicko" for life, though still not to work nor the grocery store, but I would fully know that I would subject myself to "the wrong kind" of attention, and accept it.

I agree with you, and the principle behind what you are saying is undeniably true. Our clothing choices have meaning and weight behind them, as all aesthetic principles do.

But I believe you are still confused about the core issue of this discussion. Lolita is not an inherently sexual fashion. I fail to see how people see sexual ******ism in the fashion we wear. Again, I refer to the images I posted a few threads back, not OP's image. I honestly cannot see how this clothing is sexually ******istic. As I mentioned earlier, people can ******ise anything, but that does not make it inherently sexual.

[GlennaGirl]

As I mentioned earlier, people can ******ise anything, but that does not make it inherently sexual.

^^ This. xxx

[Rybe]

See, I really find latex wear beautiful - not in a sexual way, it doesn't arouse me or anything. Should I wear it anyway to go to work or the grocery store just because my intent is more important than the bagage it carries ? I don't think so. And should I do it anyway, it would be very naive of me to act all offended if somebody came to me and told me about their f*tish for latex and whatnot. Oh and I would definitely wear some if I lived in a large city with no risk of being labelled "the sicko" for life, though still not to work nor the grocery store, but I would fully know that I would subject myself to "the wrong kind" of attention, and accept it.

But you see, if someone who knew nothing about lolita fashion saw someone in a lolita dress their mind might go to "Huh...weird" or "1800s costume" or perhaps "where is this awesome tea party happening and how can I join." But it wouldn't go straight to "OMG ******" it's the name that seems to be the entire sticking point, and the name came from what is almost without question a cultural word play misunderstanding. Sure, someone somewhere along the line probably knew, but just because that guy/girl was a jerk doesn't mean the rest of the community in Japan knew... As for latex, if seen in the correct contexts (like certain festivals) I'm sure few would think ******, but yeah, if you saw someone who was virtually naked walking down the street questions would be raised about its sexual nature. But that's because they're virtually naked. Some of them, not knowing anything about latex might even jump to "super hero...?" :D But because of the almost naked bit, I don't think it's the best comparison.

I also think it's quite possibly just as damaging to worry about avoiding exciting men in the way you dress as it is to focus on it :shrug: If I wanna wear sweats, I'll wear sweats, if I wanna wear a corset, I'll wear a corset, if that turns some guy on that's his own problem.

As for the actual topic here, there's no doubt that's a wig! I'd be scared of how much bleach you'd have to use to achieve it on your own head if you weren't already naturally super blond...

Also cheese.

[supercupcakexx]

I think you missunderstood what I (and others who probably meant the same) were saying. Only you can tell why you chooose to dress like this or like that, and I was in no way implying that people following this style = wanting to look like little girls so as to be sexually desireable to pedophiles. Not at all. People do what they do for a myriad of reasons, and of course I would hope that very few women dress so with this goal in mind !

However, one has to be aware of the undertones and codes underlying their choices, whatever their own intent is. Like it was very truthfully said in the hitler youth haircut thread :


From a feminist standpoint, playing with codes really is not a problem at all, on the contrary, it is freeing and all.
HOWEVER, not being able to recognize them and caving in naively because you internalised them so well that you dont see them at all, that is the really problematic behaviour. Then next problematic step is denial, when you are presented with the obvious connotations of what you are playing with, and refuse to aknowledge them.

See, I really find latex wear beautiful - not in a sexual way, it doesn't arouse me or anything. Should I wear it anyway to go to work or the grocery store just because my intent is more important than the bagage it carries ? I don't think so. And should I do it anyway, it would be very naive of me to act all offended if somebody came to me and told me about their f*tish for latex and whatnot. Oh and I would definitely wear some if I lived in a large city with no risk of being labelled "the sicko" for life, though still not to work nor the grocery store, but I would fully know that I would subject myself to "the wrong kind" of attention, and accept it.

But you see, until the first time someone expressed this (rather strange) view, it had never even occurred to me that this style could be seen as sexual, especially if one does not know the name of the style, and therefor would not have any reason to connect it to the novel.

I personally see it in a similar way to long hair--it is an innocent aesthetic preference and is not worn to be sexually appealing, even if some may see it as such. Not at all the same as going out in fuzzy handcuffs or a bikini and then being surprised when it attracts that kind of attention.

For example, I just don't see how
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa153/ninja_in_disguise/jj_2004_skirt_parfum.jpg

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa153/ninja_in_disguise/jj_2003_skirt_lever.jpg

or

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa153/ninja_in_disguise/iw_jsk_arabesquerose.jpg

etc.,

could be taken as being
1) Sexual
or
2) Childlike

And honestly, if someone for some reason does see it as childlike and has a f*tish for it, quite frankly, that is their problem. Not in the same way that "well you should accept my spandex shorts/10 inch high heels/hand cuffs, what do you mean that could be taken the wrong way?"

[cuddledumplin]

I think it's quite pretty, but I'm into a more natural look.

[supercupcakexx]

This is my hair back in June...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v39/Sharise/051-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v39/Sharise/002-2.jpg

Please excuse the scary third degree burn I'm showing off on my wrist. lol Ah the dangers of cooking. :p

I love the colors in this, the look really good! I love the how deep the teal is. It and the pink remind me of the sky or the ocean. Very cute :D

And eek! That burn looks like it hurt!


Also,

I agree with you, and the principle behind what you are saying is undeniably true. Our clothing choices have meaning and weight behind them, as all aesthetic principles do.

But I believe you are still confused about the core issue of this discussion. Lolita is not an inherently sexual fashion. I fail to see how people see sexual ******ism in the fashion we wear. Again, I refer to the images I posted a few threads back, not OP's image. I honestly cannot see how this clothing is sexually ******istic. As I mentioned earlier, people can ******ise anything, but that does not make it inherently sexual.

^ This :)


But you see, if someone who knew nothing about lolita fashion saw someone in a lolita dress their mind might go to "Huh...weird" or "1800s costume" or perhaps "where is this awesome tea party happening and how can I join." But it wouldn't go straight to "OMG ******" it's the name that seems to be the entire sticking point, and the name came from what is almost without question a cultural word play misunderstanding. Sure, someone somewhere along the line probably knew, but just because that guy/girl was a jerk doesn't mean the rest of the community in Japan knew... As for latex, if seen in the correct contexts (like certain festivals) I'm sure few would think ******, but yeah, if you saw someone who was virtually naked walking down the street questions would be raised about its sexual nature. But that's because they're virtually naked. Some of them, not knowing anything about latex might even jump to "super hero...?" :D But because of the almost naked bit, I don't think it's the best comparison.

I also think it's quite possibly just as damaging to worry about avoiding exciting men in the way you dress as it is to focus on it :shrug: If I wanna wear sweats, I'll wear sweats, if I wanna wear a corset, I'll wear a corset, if that turns some guy on that's his own problem.

As for the actual topic here, there's no doubt that's a wig! I'd be scared of how much bleach you'd have to use to achieve it on your own head if you weren't already naturally super blond...

Also cheese.

Very true!

[longhairedlady]

From a feminist standpoint, playing with codes really is not a problem at all, on the contrary, it is freeing and all.
HOWEVER, not being able to recognize them and caving in naively because you internalised them so well that you dont see them at all, that is the really problematic behaviour. Then next problematic step is denial, when you are presented with the obvious connotations of what you are playing with, and refuse to aknowledge them.

I agree with this.

My whole thing about this is, #1. The OP pic is offensive to me. I initially thought I was looking at a minor, then realized it was an adult TRYING to look like a child. I knew nothing about "Lolita culture" or any of the other styles brought up in this thread. It is not the hairstyle that I had issue with it was what was being portrayed in the pic. That was my first impression. #2. When the the lady spike called attention to her pics and classified herself as lolita also, my mind formed a comparision of the two pics. I dont see anything offensive with spike pictures, its just something I would imagine my 8 year old neice wearing. I mean really you can say what you want about this style but it doesnt change the fact that this style is more than likely appealing to some pretty bad characters. You can like it or lump it, but its not gonna change the element of people that admire this kind of stuff. I am not saying that you who dress in this lolita style are sickos (although I just dont understand it) I am saying that you are probably bringing an element into your life that you are not even aware of.

This is all my opinion. I am not begrudging anyone their style of dress or trying to talk anyone out of it. I think I am a pretty tolerant person. If you want to dress in little girl type dresses, fine! If you want to dress up like a cat, whatever, I dont have an issue with it. My issue is with the sexualized version of this. This does nothing but feed into a bunch of sick deviant people.

[tamchronic]

supercupcakexx, those images you posted make my heart race! They're breathtakingly elegant pieces.

Just so you know, someone has recently created a lolita thread for those of us into the fashion, over on the Crafts and Hobbies board. http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=79929 :)

[Jomo]

Hasn't anyone ever read the book? It's about a pedophile and him liking/getting off on little girls. The Lolita culture is basically about looking like a little girl. I think it's creepy that any man would like that... A woman who wants to pretend she's a little girl? Not cool.

Have YOU read the book? It is far less simple than you imply. It's not about a "pedophile who gets off on little girls", and it's an insult to Nabokov's writing to suggest it. A lot of people bringing up the book in this thread don't seem actually that familiar with it.

It's about a man who becomes obsessed with a girl who reminds him of his childhood 'sweetheart', an obsession which eventually turns into a twisted and unhealthy sexual/familial relationship, but it's also about the effect of popular culture on encouraging young girls to become prematurely sexualised - Humbert is NOT Lolita's first or even second sexual partner, and one of the main things he disdains about her is her crude attitude and her obsession with teen movies and comic books. There are scenes in which Lolita herself is the seducing partner, because she has been unfortunately indoctrinated into this sexual culture at such an early age. She is both victim AND manipulator. And she certainly doesn't dress anything like a girl wearing Japanese style lolita fashion.

The most likely reason for the name is that the movie version of Lolita came out in Japan in 1997, just after outfits reminiscent of modern lolita fashion had started showing up in shows by bands like Malice Mizer, etc. Somehow the name Lolita became conflated to mean 'young girl'. Looks like an outfit a young girl might wear? Let's call it Lolita.



Lolita fashion and several other concurrent movements in fashion actually emerged in Japan as a reaction to the continued dominance of low-cut, tight-fitting, hip-hugging 'sexy' western fashion. The common element was that the girls involved were sick of dressing the way men wanted them to look, and that it was okay to want to look like an anime character, or doll-like, or funny, or artistic, or just plain crazy. You didn't HAVE to try to be stereotypically sexy, or you could be 'sexy' in a comically exaggerated way which plain made fun of the 'California girl' look. Do you think Yamanbas are fake tanning their faces to burnt sienna and painting white stripes over the top to appeal to men with some sort of sexual attraction to the colouration of footballs? No, it's nothing to do with it. There are SO many instances on the big communities of lolitas complaining about their boyfriend, partner, whatever hating the fashion and thinking it's stupid or ugly or both.


We certainly do not do this for the attention of men. Frequently, female sexuality is portrayed in a way that is palatable and accessible to men, and anything outside of that is intimidating. Something so unabashedly female is ultimately kind of scary—in fact, I consider it to be pretty confrontational. Dressing this way takes a certain kind of ownership of one’s own sexuality that wearing expected or regular things just does not. It doesn’t take a lot of moxie to put on a pencil skirt and flats. It’s not, as some commentators have suggested, some sort of appeal to men’s expectation that women should be childlike, or an attempt to pander to pedophiles. Pedophiles like little girls. They don’t like grown women who happen to like dresses with cakes on them. I’ve never been hit on by a pedophile while in Lolita. We don’t get into it because it is some sort of misplaced pedo complex or anything, and the objective isn’t simply to emulate little girls, despite the name Lolita.

[supercupcakexx]

I agree with this.

My whole thing about this is, #1. The OP pic is offensive to me. I initially thought I was looking at a minor, then realized it was an adult TRYING to look like a child. I knew nothing about "Lolita culture" or any of the other styles brought up in this thread. It is not the hairstyle that I had issue with it was what was being portrayed in the pic. That was my first impression.

Again, I just want to mention that that first picture that OP posted is NOT LOLITA, or in any way connected with it. The only (loose) connection at all is that she is wearing a wig that has recently fallen into popularity with some individuals in a certain style of lolita (it is a very diverse fashion). Otherwise, the correlation stops there. I do believe you that you are not bashing the fashion, but I just want to emphasize that there is not a "sexualized version" of lolita, at least no more so than any thing else or any other style could be sexualized. So the particular thing you are objecting to (not the sexualization of children, but of trying to look like a child/sexualizing lolita), does not exist. There should not be any association to these pictures, and even if one person/picture may have used it in an innapropriate or sexual manner, it should not be connected as such--just as there is no correlation between a "sexy" police officer's costume you may get at a Halloween shop to an actual police officer, and they should not be judged as associating with such activities.

Also, Spike's outfit is in no way representative of the entire lolita fashion. There are 3 main styles in lolita, with many more substyles, with often little more than the basic silhouette/components of the outfits and modesty standards connecting the styles. Therefore, there are many more elegant and mature styles of lolita than the specific one shown in Spike's profile picture (not that there's anything wrong with your outfit, of course! :D)

[supercupcakexx]

supercupcakexx, those images you posted make my heart race! They're breathtakingly elegant pieces.

Just so you know, someone has recently created a lolita thread for those of us into the fashion, over on the Crafts and Hobbies board. http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=79929 :)

I think they are very beautiful as well. :inlove: I got the pictures from Hellolace, and I'm pretty sure the dress is Innocent World, and I think both the skirts are Juliette et Justine.

Cool! I was hoping someone might, I'll have to get check it out. :D

[sycamoreboutiqu]

Yeah, creeps me out too. The whole Lolita thing creeps me out. Kind of hard when you have daughters not to feel that way.

On the other hand the Ganguro thing is hilarious, I don't get it but find it very entertaining.

Have you ever seen the YouTuber version of it done by Glowpinkstah ?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzRTEJo9YYI

She is the one that was invited on to the George Lopez show to do a " Cholla " makeover on
Sandra Bullock. Too funny.

I also like her Avatar makeup tutorial - she just cracks me up.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zaJdq0VUtk

Caution - she can be rather crude at times, so skip it if you are upset by a bit of foul language or crude humor.

[candycandace]

I am Singaporean and I know from growing up around my family members who were very big into Japanese/Korean fashion, that Asian female teens and young adults in modern Asian countries, would rather look like a"cute little girl" instead of looking like a mature woman. It's strange to me and I never really picked up on that part of my culture. I also don't really understand how Asian men find girls who look twelve attractive. SO I understand why some people are offended by the pic. It's just Asian culture. Very different from the USA...unless you're a pedo-bear :bigeyes:.

[Diamond.Eyes]

I think a lot of people are taking this way out of context. Obviously the girl in the picture is of age. She's not a child. Besides, Asian fashion isn't about attracting pedophiles or even looking like a "little girl". They value youthful appearances. Every aspect of Asian fashion is so different, it's kind of stereotypical to say that all young Asian women want to look like little girls. A lot of Asian girls just dress this way to express themselves and to be unique. I don't see anything wrong with the picture. :shrug:

[Revontuletar]

And honestly, if someone for some reason does see it as childlike and has a f*tish for it, quite frankly, that is their problem. Not in the same way that "well you should accept my spandex shorts/10 inch high heels/hand cuffs, what do you mean that could be taken the wrong way?"

Exactly. If someone walks down the street wearing a latex bikini, thigh high boots with massive heels, carrying a whip and handcuffs, you can't NOT take that as ******istic, even if that person is not wearing that for that reason. It is ****** GEAR. Lolita fashion is NOT ****** gear. This is a fact.

[PaganPriestess]

It's cute on her. Not for me though.

[GlennaGirl]

Have YOU read the book? It is far less simple than you imply. It's not about a "pedophile who gets off on little girls", and it's an insult to Nabokov's writing to suggest it. A lot of people bringing up the book in this thread don't seem actually that familiar with it.

It's about a man who becomes obsessed with a girl who reminds him of his childhood 'sweetheart', an obsession which eventually turns into a twisted and unhealthy sexual/familial relationship, but it's also about the effect of popular culture on encouraging young girls to become prematurely sexualised - Humbert is NOT Lolita's first or even second sexual partner, and one of the main things he disdains about her is her crude attitude and her obsession with teen movies and comic books. There are scenes in which Lolita herself is the seducing partner, because she has been unfortunately indoctrinated into this sexual culture at such an early age. She is both victim AND manipulator.

Brilliant synopsis of the book, thank you, Jomo.

[GlennaGirl]

Besides, Asian fashion isn't about attracting pedophiles or even looking like a "little girl". They value youthful appearances.

Exactly. And so do we in the west, but we take it even to a k in kier extent. I mean if you want to talk about k in ky and inappropriate! We tell our girls (in one way or another...I mean societally and obviously via the media) that they should have straight up-and-down, very skinny figures, plus a ton of makeup.

So we don't idolize little girls who look like women facially here in the west. We idolize little boys who look like women facially and encourage grown men to be attracted to that.

:rolleyes:

You can take any "high fashion" look for women and have some f*tishist come lathering after it. And by the way, this is coming from someone who was s * xually abused as a 12-year-old by a family member. I personally don't see Lolita fashion as comparing to that type of objectification, though obviously, everyone's (bad) experience is different. Just letting you all know I'm not cavalier about the subject.

[cheetahfast]

I agree with this.

My whole thing about this is, #1. The OP pic is offensive to me. I initially thought I was looking at a minor, then realized it was an adult TRYING to look like a child. I knew nothing about "Lolita culture" or any of the other styles brought up in this thread. It is not the hairstyle that I had issue with it was what was being portrayed in the pic. That was my first impression. #2. When the the lady spike called attention to her pics and classified herself as lolita also, my mind formed a comparison of the two pics. I dont see anything offensive with spike pictures, its just something I would imagine my 8 year old neice wearing. I mean really you can say what you want about this style but it doesnt change the fact that this style is more than likely appealing to some pretty bad characters. You can like it or lump it, but its not gonna change the element of people that admire this kind of stuff. I am not saying that you who dress in this lolita style are sickos (although I just dont understand it) I am saying that you are probably bringing an element into your life that you are not even aware of.

This is all my opinion. I am not begrudging anyone their style of dress or trying to talk anyone out of it. I think I am a pretty tolerant person. If you want to dress in little girl type dresses, fine! If you want to dress up like a cat, whatever, I dont have an issue with it. My issue is with the sexualized version of this. This does nothing but feed into a bunch of sick deviant people.

Again. The first picture is not lolita.

On to the other parts that I bolded...pedophiles are not attracted fully grown women. Period. The way a GROWN women is dressed will not excite a pedophile. The word pedophile means one that is sexually attracted to young children. I don't see how someone who fits into that definition would be attracted to a women, no matter what she is wearing.

Toddlers and Tiaras feeds those sick people, little girls are sexualized on that show all the time. Dressing lolita in "little girl type dresses" does not. I think the lolita silhouette is very similar to the dresses of the 1950s, in fact I think lolita is more modest than those since a blouse is worn underneath to prevent cleavage.

In fact the word lolita being used to lable lolita fashion seems to be a contradiciton here in the west. We take the word lolita to mean a sexually attractive or seductive young women. The lolita fashion is far from sexual. It's almost anti-sexual since it is a very modest way to dress. I think in Japan and the east the word lolita does not have the negative connotations that everyone here seems to lumping in with a non-sexual way of dressing.

[pinupdancer]

I love the colors in this, the look really good! I love the how deep the teal is. It and the pink remind me of the sky or the ocean. Very cute :D

And eek! That burn looks like it hurt!

Thank you!! :) The funny thing is I was originally going to go with pastels but changed my mind last minute. Glad I did!

Oh, and yeah, that burn sucked so bad. haha

[rchorr]

I work with a young woman who has done this to her hair. The only problem I see with it, is that she had to bleach it 1st, so it's a bit damaged.

RCHORR'

[weddy]

I remember in the beginning stages of punk, there was a small group of punkers that came into the nightclub I waitressed at. But these punkers weren't "typical" punkers of that time - the closest I can think to explain it are the fairies in True Blood. The girls (young ladies) wore exotic, high-fashion style makeup with their hair done in many different styles of punk, each style-section a different color. Even the prudey ladies thought they pulled it off nicely LOL

I bet if your hair color is light enough colored, you could try koolaid dyes to play around with the style you linked. And hopefully you're outfit and makeup style will be grown-up, and not emulate sexy "little girls" (shudders!)

[coffinhert]

If anyone is interested in the different types of lolita fashion here's an awesome website that really breaks it down for you: http://www.lolitafashion.org/styles_list.php

Ooh, I love guides to japanese fashion... it's so extensive there's always something I haven't seen before. Thanks for the post!