What is Old School Lolita?
Old School Lolita, originating from the late 90s to early 2000s, is influenced by the Victorian era's girl's clothing, the intricate dress of the Rococo period, as well as Western gothic and punk subcultures. Old School Lolita, in particular, places more emphasis on retro elements, mimicking the characteristics of early Lolita clothing.
Highlights of Old School Lolita Outfits
Color and Patterns: Compared to other lolita styles, old school lolita places greater emphasis on the simplicity and refinement of its outfits rather than vibrant or intricate color combinations such as black, white, or other deep hues. It also features
simple patterns to avoid overly cute or flashy designs, emphasizing overall harmony and texture. The dresses are often crafted from solid-colored fabrics, featuring smooth design lines and avoiding excessive patterns.
Fabric: Old school Lolita style emphasizes retro elements, so the fabrics chosen often have a retro texture as well. These fabrics may undergo special treatments or use specific materials to present a unique sense of age and charm such as cotton, lace, silk, and others. These fabrics not only provide a comfortable wearing experience but also better showcase the retro charm and exquisite sense of the clothing. In particular, lace fabric, with its unique texture and shine, has been widely used in Old school Lolita clothing, becoming a hallmark element..
Design Elements: Deeply influenced by retro culture, old school lolita style incorporates a wealth of vintage elements into its outfits, such as decorative details from the Victorian era and the Rococo period, as well as the classic designs of early lolita dress. It incorporates a lot of classic elements, such as lace trims, ruffles, and bows. These elements not only add a touch of sweetness to the attire but also imbue it with a deeper sense of retro charm. Additionally, the multi-layered skirt design is a hallmark feature of Old school Lolita, where the overlapping layers create volume and depth, resulting in a fuller and more intricate overall look.
Accessories: To complement the dress, Old School Lolita also incorporates distinctive accessories such as vintage-inspired hats, gloves, necklaces, and more. These accessories not only elevate the overall fashion sense but also make the entire look more complete and harmonious.
Highlights of Old School Lolita Makeup and Hairstyle
Makeup: Makeup colors often choose hues that embody a retro atmosphere, such as warm browns, burgundies, and vintage pinks, which create a nostalgic and elegant feel. The eyes are a pivotal aspect of the makeup, where eyeliner pencils or liquids are frequently used to outline a deep-set eye shape. This is paired with retro-inspired eyeshadow shades like deep browns, burgundies, or golds, enhancing the three-dimensionality and depth of the eyes.
Hairstyle: Curls are a classic element in Old school Lolita hairstyles, capable of evoking a romantic and retro ambiance. These curls can manifest as natural, bouncy waves or intricate, tightly wound ringlets, chosen in accordance with the clothing and overall styling.
When dressing in Old School Lolita, ensure harmony and unity throughout. From clothing to accessories, makeup to hairstyle, everything should revolve around the theme of vintage elegance, avoiding any jarring or incongruous elements.
Old School Lolita design style embodies an overall atmosphere of vintage, sweetness, and refinement. It is beloved for its distinctive color combinations, fabric selections, design elements, silhouette tailoring, intricate detailing, and overall aesthetic. This style represents not just a fashion trend but also a cultural symbol. By wearing Old school Lolita outfits, girls can feel a yearning and pursuit for a better life, while also showcasing their unique personality and taste.