What is Lolita?

Lolita is a Japanese street fashion inspired primarily by the clothing and general aesthetics of the Rococo and Victorian periods. This fashion movement started in Japan in the 1980's and has evolved greatly since. Lolita Fashion has grown to be relatively popular all over the world.

While it is true that most fashions are open to various interpretations, the term Lolita is used exclusively to describe a very specific look that is created by abiding by a number of strict guidelines and principles. The "rules" of Lolita fashion don't exist to limit the wearer but are rather qualifiers of what makes an outfit Lolita. Within these rules however there are a variety of styles.

The fashion term "Lolita" refers to the child like nature of some of the clothes and is also used because of the beauty or cuteness of the name. Lolita fashion is about looking cute or elegant.

In addition to being a fashion, some people enjoy living a "Lolita lifestyle" in which one sees Lolita as more of a philosophy of living beautifully rather than just dressing it. Someone living a Lolita lifestyle may try and live like a princess. They would surround themselves with things of beauty, taking part in a number of feminine activities such as baking, embroidery, sewing, and other old-fashioned women's activities.