How to Introduce Lolita Fashion to NYFW - Victorian Maiden at Global Fashion Collective

Lolita fashion will forever be an outlier fashion; even as the style is slowly integrated into the mainstream, with elements seen in Hot Topic and the like. Majority of the time a Lolita fashion show is unheard of unless you attend an anime or comic convention where they are brought out as a guest. 

At New York Fashion Week this is even rarer. 

Global Fashion Collective aims to bring smaller, international designers to the forefront and a chance for their collections be viewed at an even wider, iconic audience like at NYFW.  And to my surprise, Victorian Maiden was featured this year. 

The last time New York Fashion Week showcased a Lolita fashion focused designer was in 2016 where Souffle Song (a Chinese Lolita fashion brand) was selected as part of Nolcha Shows.

It's interesting to note that Victorian Maiden was placed under the “Evening wear” showcase which is often interpreted as code for be as fancy as you want – which ultimately Lolita fashion tends to encapsulate. Since this is not an anime or comic convention where say a good number of attendees have a basic understanding of Lolita fashion, it makes you wonder what the reaction is for regular goers.

Level Up: Kitsby's Cookie and Cream Puff Kit Review

Baking has always been a form stress relief for me and living through this pandemic it's escalated to making something at least once a week. From cookies to madeleines to melon pan to swiss rolls. Put all the restless energy you would expend by going outside and socializing has been put into making something that could be delicious to share (contactless, of course) and eat.

Kitsby is a small Williamsburg cafe bakery that creates unique sweets with bar style setup and course style menu. They have also been currently selling DIY kits  and mixes for savvy bakers, and Dessert Boxes for savvy eaters that are available for delivery or pickup in NYC.  The Dessert Boxes have enough sweets to theoretically last a week.

I decided on the Cookies and Cream Puff kit. The suggested level was Advanced but I felt I was ready! 

What is Lolita Fashion Like During Coronavirus?

Virtual meetup photo credit to ceramic_samurai

From a general perspective Lolita or any alternative fashion always has a big social component. However -- what happens when you take it away? Surprisingly, like fashion in general – the community as a whole MADE IT WORK.

It's been a few months since New York City was declared a hotspot for the coronavirus. And while cases are going down, we're not out of the woods yet. What has impressed me though is seeing the community rise up and still remain active.  To some, after all, it is our therapy and this is a time where we need it most.

You still take outfit shots; you still host meetups; you still host fashion panels. Your coordinate post offers even more of a glimpse into your rooms and personal style. It provides a window on how much this fashion has integrated into your lifestyle. Instead of structured pose, you concentrate on the coordinate you were inspired by, blurry self-facing camera and fluorescent lighting and all. Then there's the Pass the Brush challenge (check out They/Goth, Black Lolita Pt 2, Boston Lolita, NY Lolita) which gave you a glimpse of people in and out of alternative fashion – the perfect visual example that alternative fashion takes work and practice.

Violet Fane and Peppermint Fox created a "Cozy Cottage Moments" prompt early on keep you active and inspired when the world was uncertain how long we would stay in our homes. If you've already participated, why not recycle and create new ideas from the same prompt?

Baby is offering masks as a novelty for purchase over $150

Indie brands rose up and like everyone else, started making masks. You coordinated to match your outfits like it was an existing accessory – except now it's functional to boot. Currently Japanese brands are postponing shipping overseas, the internet still allows you to see what's going on. They've also taking up mask making, selling out like popular print releases. 

List of indie designers selling masks:

Belladona

The Black Ribbon

Mossbadger

Voodooodolly

Miss Candyholic

Violet Fane

E.l.e.g.y.

Junko Mizuno

Note: Due to the current environment masks sell out quickly. If you see a brand you like but sold out, just follow their social media for updates. 

At Home Lolita Project X Harajuku Pop Contest promoted a solidarity that we are still fashionably at home and Lolita is not necessarily only for tea parties and meetups. Who says Lolita is dead?

Conventions have taken themselves virtual to remind you you are not alone, simply physically distanced.  If you missed Purgatorio's event check out some of the past content. 

If you were already physically drained from the curated social pressure, use this opportunity to BREATHE, SLEEP, RELAX. Rediscover why you love alternative fashion; find out if you are ready to move on or not. If you want to start this is a perfect opportunity to do your research.

. . . And if you're not doing any of these things that's okay! We're all trying to cope in our own way with this amorphous state of existence.

The Invisible Weight of Worrying

You've been invited to a meetup. You've planned your outfit and are ready to head out the door. Then it hits you. Is this outfit OK? Why didn't I wear X/Y/Z? Do I have enough time to get there? I got here too early am I at the right place? What if I don't know anyone? What's the app that filters out all the flaws? Should I hang out afterwards or go home? Will anyone like me?

I am constantly asked “is there drama?” when people want to get into Lolita or ask about the local community. Sometimes their response is “I'm not part of the community because I don't want to deal with drama.” Drama implies that you are already part of a close-knit group but if you've hardly attended an event there's no reason for this logic. It also implies you should be social whether you like it or not. Sometimes its more about what you think others will think of you than what others will say about you. Whatever negative thoughts you have before you even start it is probably that fear of the unknown.

It's very easy to say “Just do it” when someone wants to get into Lolita fashion. Sometimes it's not so simple. It's natural to have fears and worries and feelings of inadequacy, especially when your new at something. When you want to meet up with other like minded people you want to impress them with your knowledge and style take.

Sometimes you will amaze people and be talk of the town. Sometimes you feel like you said something wrong, hate yourself afterwards and replay that moment over and over. And over.

Ten years later: Just be yourself

“Lolitas do not recognize any authority. They follow only the values they have chosen for themselves, regardless of what anybody might say.” 

― Novala Takemoto, Kamikaze Girls

New York is where you find yourself, which for me was discovering Lolita fashion.  Since I was in high school I was always fascinated by the bell-shaped skirts and lace-trimmed bonnets that were clearly inspired by another time (but still entirely unique).  I could never fathom wearing something so outrageous down the street let alone meeting people who actually wore the fashion. Staring at the Baby, Stars Shine Bright website to distract me from college essays was enough.  I could never bring myself to think to wear clothes like that in real life. 

Then I moved to New York for various reasons: the probability of a job was higher, closer to my boyfriend (now husband), to get away from my parents and finally be the adult you're supposed to be (whatever that was).  Of course, moving to the big city after a childhood in the suburbs can be an overwhelming experience and you're not sure how to survive alone.  You drift to what you're comfortable with - which ends up to be anime and fashion.  In the early ideas of New York Anime Festival, I was able to talk to people who loved to dress up and discover that they were just regular people who wanted to express themselves.  It fascinated me; it also made me curious. What compels people to wear such elaborate clothes that was clearly different from cosplay. Who are actually these people? How much confidence do you need to be so cool?

In the end, they were just people who loved to dress up no matter the day or the occassion.

A Lolita's Guide to AnimeNYC 2018!

AnimeNYC is next week! Whether it's your first time or a regular congoer it's always good to plan ahead.  To help you out, here are some places to definitely check out if you love alternative fashion and the like.

6 Cool Recipes to Survive the Rest of Summer

With the weather being so humid I've been doing my best to avoid the kitchen and heating up small apartment.  Here are some simple recipes I've been referring to most of the summer. 

• Cold Brew Iced Coffee - When it's too hot to make an iced coffee run, pouring one from your fridge is not too bad either.
• Chia Seed Pudding - Add cinnamon for flavor and frozen fruit that will quickly thaw before you know it as you browse your Instagram or Twitter feed for the day.
• Lavender Lemonade - This was a popular trend at the start of summer but never got around to trying it until now.  Lavender by the Bay's stall at the Union Square GreenMarket always makes it easy to grab some on your way home.
• Banana Crumb Cake - Take advantage of those rare cool days.  Bake and eat.  Cut into 4 big slices, throw it freeze and you have breakfast to last you the next few weeks.
• Avocado Pasta - A change from avocado toast and tossing it in your salad. Here's a handy tip to depit and a chart to determine if its ripe or not.
• Coconut Jelly -  This recipe is vegetarian and vegan-friendly and using agar-agar powder (a plant-based gelling agent) instead of gelatin. Pour it in your favorite mold for something picture worthy.

6 Places to Check Out During Sakura Matsuri!

Sakura Matsuri is in full swing with the main celebration happening this weekend! Whether you are going this weekend or waiting until the Promenade is in full bloom, here are other places to explore if you are in that area of Brooklyn:

• "David Bowie is" retrospective exhibition is still going on at the Brooklyn Museum
• Keep the feeling of "kawaii" going and walk to Planet Cute for some retail therapy
• Walk to Anyone Comics for the local nerd hangout and grab your pulls to read under the cherry blossoms
• Head to Sunset Park to Prince Tea House's Brooklyn location before heading to the BBG
• End your weekend with a trip to The Waystation for geeky cocktails 
• Or head to Greenpoint for The Kawaii Society's 1 Year Kawaiiversary!

Simple and clean: MapleHolistics Review!

With all the makeup applied to complete your Lolita style, it’s also important to take care of your skin after all that social interaction.  In my 30s I'm still suffering from breakouts and constantly dreaming of a healthy complexion. As such I’ve made it an initiative to develop a skincare routine and really have been investing in Korean skincare routine. At the time MapleHolistics contacted me to try out their products just when I was ready to try new products for my regime.

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Attracted by their natural ingredients and production, I was willing to give them a try!

Kira Kira Launch Crate review!

Subscription crates seem to be all the rage right now, but I was never really on board to get a box of stuff that's cute (but I'll never use) or snacks (that I probably wouldn't eat).  Overall I hate wasting anything. In November, Japan Crate advertised in a new crate full of makeup and skincare products.  I've been into the Korean skincare routine for awhile but I'm afraid of buying a bunch of products and then finding out none of them work and then have it unused for years.  Kira Kira Crate does all the work for you - picking a few products for you to try out without too much hassle!

I've gone through about 3/4 using most of the products from their launch crate so I wanted to do a mini review:

7 Resolutions for the New Year That You Can Really Keep!

Post It Note wall in Union Square.

Happy 2017!  We all make resolutions that we never keep but here are a few that you can apply if you love Lolita and are in it for the long haul:

• Closet clean that wardrobe. Having read Mari Kondo's book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, a few months ago I've really gotten motivated. Your styles may have changed over time or you've hung onto items long after realizing which cuts suit you best.
• Revamp your wishlist.  Whenever you started Lolita or love of designer fashion, you've probably created a wishlist of items to own.  It's probably grown since you've started and hasn't really changed, just added on.  Now's the time to curate what you really, really want to own!
• Budget your income. This is tricky as everyone says they want to do this but never gets around.  Start with big stuff (rent/allowance, cellphone, groceries) - these numbers don't change too much and you'll know how much to reserve. Whatever else is extra (if there is leftover) can be devoted to stuff like savings and credit cards.  Don't rely on credit cards a lot - it's a slippery slope. Hiding it outside your wallet helps too. 
• Go solo. Have an adventure in Lolita by yourself. It's scary but it will exhilarate you and really give you a confidence boost. 
• Treat yourself. Splurge on a meal you would never do every week.  A full dinner course (tea, dinner, dessert) at Laduree is a luxury that you should do at least once.
• Meditate. Take 10, 20 minutes out of your day or week to meditate.  This is a good way to center yourself, clear those anxiety fears, and focus your mind on improving your cute lifestyle. I love using the SimplyYoga app and Sworkit. 
• Fly away. Go on a group vacation with close friends.  Far off Lolita events like a Street Fashion Europe event or Baby, the Stars Shine Bright San Francisco anniversary tea party is a great opportunity to see sights with the people you've really grown to care about!  Or start small and go to a convention you've never been before.

What are your goals for this year?

Visual Kei Takeover for "We Are X" premiere 11/4 and 11/5!

We Are X is a fantastic documentary on X Japan, one of the oldest visual kei bands out there.  If you're part of that older generation of Lolitas, visual kei was one of the gateways (praise Mana-sama).  Whether you are a big fan of J-rock, Yoshiki, X Japan, or just a fan of film documentaries - this is a must see.

Tickets are going fast at the Alamo Drafthouse Brooklyn!

Already going to the premiere on Nov 4th? If you are a big fan of X Japan and love visual kei - you can win  a sold-out, limited-edition Mondo art poster autographed by Yoshiki! Dress up in your best visual kei outfit and you may be picked from the crowd by Yoshiki and the director Stephen Kijak. 

Winners will be chosen at the following film Q&As:

• Fri 11/4 7:30pm - Yoshiki and director Stephen Kijak (sold out)
• Fri 11/4 8:00pm - Yoshiki and director Stephen Kijak (just added!)
• Sat 11/5 6:30pm - Director Stephen Kijak

Alamo Drafthouse Brooklyn
445 Albee Square West

Brooklyn, NY 11201

718-513-25

Post-It Note Journal: Cotton Candy floats, Star Trek and brunch!

Lolita and the City started way back in 2010.  Sharing events for those who admire the "cute" lifestyle has changed. I've started Post-It Note Journal to record all my mini-adventures.

Lolita

• Last week, Parfaitdoll and I checked out the Bubble Tea Float at Vivi Bubble Tea LES location. The Matcha Green Tea float really worked with the sweetness of the cotton candy.  (Order a float and get 50% off your next drink when you share a photo on social media! The float and promotion are only available at at the LES location.)
• Victorian maiden's Early Autumn Fair and Outlet sale just started!
• Registered for Rufflecon - See you Sunday!

Fun Stuff

• Checked out the Star Trek: 50 Artists. 50 Years art exhibit. As an avid crocheter my favorite piece was the Spock fiber art.

Shopping

• The fall weather Monday reminded me I needed a new travel mug and stopped by David's Tea. They also had their fall selection out like Pumpkin Chai, Mocha Latte, and Blueberry Muffin - if you love that "hot kick" from cinnamon hearts candy you will love their Pumpkin Chai tea.

Brunch

• Discovered the Alcove, one of my favorite Queens haunts is serving brunch! Speaking of brunch, the Lowery Bar & Kitchen was pretty neat - the Kale omelette was really delish.  

Upcoming

• Stood in the rain to see glimpse of Yoshiki for the upcoming "We Are X" documentary in October
• My favorite artist Carmilla d'Errico will be in town Oct 10 for a short Q & A about her new Pop Manga Coloring Book
• VAMPS tickets went on sale for their concert at Irving Plaza.

10 Ideas For International Lolita Day In NYC!

It's International Lolita Day tomorrow and while it's mostly about getting together with long lost friends, it's also important to reflect why you love this frilly fashion.  Do something different and have fun spending time with yourself too!

It's nice to recharge and reflect why you like this fashion of lace and petticoates; loving it not only because of the friends you've found but how much you've grown as a person overall.

Here are 10 ideas you can do by yourself but can easily do with friends too!

1.  Go out visit the museum like the Museum of Art and Design, you'd be amazed how serene walking through galleries alone area.
2.  Treat yourself to an expensive meal.  Indulge yourself. Or try something new at the Japan Block Fair.
3. Go see a movie you wouldn't normally see by yourself.  No one you know will see you cry during When Marnie Was There.
4. Get a summer version of the St. Honore, strawberry and pistachio, at Laduree.
5. Request to sit in a cafe by the window and just people-watch.
6. Be a tourist and check out the World One Observatory.
7. Do some retail therapy at Planet Cute.
8. Book-browsing at the Albertine, a store devoted to French literature (books are in French and English.
9. Buy a dried flower bouquet at the Union Square Farmer's Market.
10. Visit the Hello Kitty Time Capsule.

Planet Cute Pop-Up 6/4 - 6/28

Planet Cute is a one month pop up shop that will open up tomorrow, showcasing local Etsy artists inspired by cute, creepy, and kawaii styles.  Find everything from prints, cute flasks, plush toys, jewelry, and more!

On June 5, there's also a grand opening party with wine and cookies from 7-9.  It's a great opportunity to support small businesses (and artist)!

Here's a sneak preview of the shop itself.

Planet Cute Pop-Up
June 4th - 28, 2015
75A 5th Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11217

Alice: 150 Years of Wonderland at the Morgan Library 6/26 - 10/11

Lewis Carroll's Alice and Wonderland is an inspiration to many movies and archetypes in pop culture.  It's also a constant theme and inspiration for Lolita fashion - there are many prints and outfits modeled after the ever curious Alice.

If you've never been to the Morgan Library, it is a museum devoted to art and literature (think lots of first editions). As part of the 150 anniversary of this novel fairytale, the Morgan Library and Museum will house the original manuscript, as well as "an engaging account of the genesis, publication, and enduring appeal of Lewis Carroll's classic tale, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland,"  in their exhibition Alice: 150 Years of Wonderland.

Note: The museum is free from 7-9 on Fridays. Perfect way to start the weekend.

Alice: 150 Years of Wonderland

June 26 - October 11, 2015

Morgan Library and Museum

225 Madison Avenue

New York, NY 10016

212-685-0008

Vivienne Westwood Sample Sale 4/23 - 4/26!

If you haven't heard the news, Vivienne Westwood is landing in New York City later this year.  That means you can see all the orb jewelry, heart bags, and infamous rocking horse shoes (I hope) in-person.

But if you can't wait you can't always pre-game at the sample sale this Thursday, April 23 to Sunday, April 26.  From my experience stock tends to get updated every day.   

Vivienne Westwood Sample Sale

April 23 - April 26, 2015

20 West 23rd St

New York, NY 10018

Support Sebastian Masuda's Time After Time Capsule Event 5/3!

Preview of capsule from Instagram

Sebastian Masuda announced last month at his lecture at Japan Society that he will be bringing his Time After Time Capsule project to New York City!  This time it's the iconic Hello Kitty (see above). There's going to a big event where you can make your own kawaii memory to put into the capsule.

Eventually this will be part of a bigger project to be showcased at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.

Currently their holding a Kickstarter to help promote this event - an $80 pledge will get you a ticket to an exclusive VIP event later that night!

Time After Time Capsule - New York City
May 3rd, 2015
1-5PM
Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza
47th Street on 2nd Avenue

New York, NY 10017

Street Snaps: Anime Boston 2015

Stephanie, a new teammate, went to Anime Boston to check out some of the cute fashions.  I'm not great and trendspotting, but the Classic Lolita style was really prominent this year.  What do you think?

Note: As always, please credit me if you decide to use these photos elsewhere. And if you see your photo and would like it taken down, please let me know!

Street Snaps: Kawaii Meets Art and Fashion at Japan Society

Sketch of the Time After Time capsule art project for New York City.  Will debut later this year.

Last month, I went see Sebastian Masuda spoke on his artistic journey as well as the history and "real" meaning of Harajuku fashion at Japan Society.  Often people who are not familiar with Japanese pop culture think that "Harajuku fashion" is a definitive style of dress, similar to the silhouette of Lolita fashion.  Masuda says this is not the case but rather it is more about self-expression - so each person that has been captured in Fruits and Kera is expressing their style than a group style.

He also announced later this year he will be debuting another "time capsule" art project in New York City like he did at Art Basel Miami sometime in May.

Check out all the fashionably kawaii people I saw that night!

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