tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14804199993702475372024-03-05T16:39:50.573-08:00Darkly DarlingEricahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.comBlogger142125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-75170158614780377532021-03-21T22:02:00.012-07:002021-03-21T22:26:00.703-07:00Goth-cation in Richmond: The Black Pine, The Poe Museum and More<p> This Pi Day marked a significant milestone for me: I have reached the ripe old age of Thirty years old. </p><p>In a life Pre-Covid, I would have probably celebrated it enjoying a local club, or gathering with my friends for a "Funeral of my Youth". (I do, after all love to put the 'fun' in 'funeral'.) </p><p>But being that we are all trapped inside, and have been for quite some time, I found my options limited. </p><p>The seed for <b><a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/38127832?source_impression_id=p3_1616384492_SMQZh4qgTyZkLEGK" target="_blank">The Black Pine</a> </b>was first planted in my head by a fellow author, and lover of all things weird. She sent me a link to the aforementioned Air Bnb, enthusiastically pointing out how close by it was. I had just moved to the state of Virginia, and a one hour drive to Richmond seemed feasible. </p><p>I fell in love with photos of the decor. I could imagine a leisurely stay-cation there with my husband, drinking wine and making the rounds to local Goth and Alternative sites. </p><p>One night after opening the Air Bnb site for the umpteenth time, I had an extra glass of wine, pulled out my wallet and booked The Black Pine for my birthday weekend. I had no plan to get there, no one to watch my kids, and wasn't even sure if it was in my budget.</p><p>Luckily, the Black Pine has two bedrooms, and is very affordable when split between four adults. Babysitters are impossible to find, much less after moving to a new state; but my mom agreed to fly out and watch the kids. And much to my pleasant surprise, my husband gave the green light to go. </p><p>I was ecstatic. It was time to pack my Goth best and start looking up things to fill the itinerary.</p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Day One</b></p><p><br /></p><p>It feels hideously unnatural to leave your kids, even with your own mother. I've been a stay-at-home mom since 2018, excluding post-bedtime romps spinning at a hole-in-the-wall Goth Club. Add to that a full year of being quarantined with two small children, you could say I'd become protective. </p><p>That being said, I needed the break. As we pulled away in our truck, waving goodbye to my daughter as she colored with chalks on the sidewalk, I felt a sense of weightlessness and freedom. I feel guilty even typing that. <br /></p><p>The drive was just over an hour from our home to The Black Pine. Our friends from DC, room mates for the weekend, were close behind us. </p><p>The Oregon Hill area is just urban enough to remind you that you are in a city, but it is quiet and calm. Rows of old houses stand flank to flank on narrow two-way streets, with parking on either side. I noticed some addresses had half numbers, such as our Air Bnb. It made me wonder if the original houses were split down the middle, or if new additions were built on after. </p><p>Entering the house, I was hit with a comforting smell of lavender. It wasn't intense like incense, but subtle, clean and welcoming. </p><p>The front sitting room had a green velvet sofa and two matching armchairs, where we passed many conversations that weekend. The far wall was hand painted with a mural depicting scenes from nearby Hollywood cemetery. There was an old fireplace, stacked with electric bulb candles, and above it, a mirror encircled by a coiled gold serpent. </p><p>There were tasteful curiosities throughout the home, such as a porcelain palmistry hand, iron bats, a tapestry of moon phases, antique hard cover books, and old photos. There were some animal skulls used as decor, but no specimens or taxidermy. The longer I spent in the house the more it felt like home; each detail was lovingly curated, and told a story. </p><p>I stashed my suitcase in the master bedroom, which sat on the front of the house. Looking out the velvet curtained windows, I could see the early first buds of a sleeping tree, and beyond that, the looming facade of a church. </p><p>Once all were settled, we decided to make a trek to <b><a href="https://www.poemuseum.org/index" target="_blank">The Poe Museum</a></b>. As an avid fan of Edgar Allan Poe, it seemed fitting that should be my first pilgrimage in Richmond. My friend selected an all black Gothic Lolita outfit for the occasion, and I wore an ensemble of Triple Fortune, Atelier Boz and Alice and the Pirates to complement her. Piling into the back of a nondescript Honda, I'm sure we made an interesting sight, the goth version of a clown car; especially as we emerged in a flurry of black, petticoats and Vivienne Westwood.<br /></p><p>The Poe Museum was only about 10 minutes away, our trusty Honda steed hindered only by cobblestone streets. The museum appeared abruptly, protruding out of place in a bustling downtown area. Parts of the museum and surrounding stores were boarded up, possibly from demonstrations the previous year. Although glass windows were covered by plywood, they were decorated with neon murals.We followed the clashing trail past a black iron fence, turning into a small, neat brick building that was the Poe Museum. </p><p>To enforce social distancing, the museum was on timed entry allowing only groups of 6 at a time. To be honest that was a lot of people for the small rooms of the museum. The exhibit was divided between three buildings, each with a different theme in Poe's life: his humble beginnings, his writing career, and his mysterious death. </p><p>As a former denizen of Baltimore, I thought I knew a lot about Poe's life and death; I was surprised that even I learned a few things. </p><p>My favourite item of note was a set of illustrations to Poe's "The Raven", drawn by James Carling. They are intensely dark, with images many would have thought strange and unusual at the time. The Poe Museum acquired the pieces, and displays two at a time to preserve the work. A plaque on the wall reported that Carling died poor and was buried in a mass grave, not too unlike Poe himself. </p><p>We were through the museum in less than an hour, even taking time to read each display at leisure. I'd read before that the museum was "disappointing", for it carried very little of Poe's true possessions; but I found it enlightening. It was a heartfelt homage to the author. </p><p>Post-Poe, we set out for some destinations on our hit list: an alternative secondhand shop called <b><a href="https://www.shopsaturnreturn.com/" target="_blank">Saturn Return</a></b>, and a music shop called <b><a href="https://www.waxmoonrecords.com/" target="_blank">Wax Moon</a></b>. Much to my surprise, there was a poster of Mana (Moi Dix Mois era) behind the cash wrap of Wax Moon. "That's a deep cut," the tenant said, "Not many Americans recognize him."</p><p>Our get-up should have given it away. </p><p>I found a vintage vinyl of The Mission UK, and 45 Grave. Praised be to Mana. </p><p>For dinner we visited <b><a href="http://theanswerbrewpub.com/" target="_blank">The Answer</a></b> Brewpub. </p><p>In the words of the shop tenant who recommended it, "Try the Joose."</p><p>And for the love of god, you do not need more than a flight. </p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Day Two</b></p><p> </p><p>I awoke happy that I'd avoided a hangover, and that I was no longer bursting with food and sweetened beer. I was glad to walk off our overindulgence at the nearby <b><a href="https://hollywoodcemetery.org/" target="_blank">Hollywood Cemetery</a></b>. </p><p>Being that I was three decades old, it was high time to shop for crypt real estate. </p><p>I'll spare you the tasteless cemetery jokes from here on out, as it is an active and beautiful cemetery. Although dressed for a funeral in a black velvet dress, round sunglasses and large brim hat, I was on my best behavior. We watched a funeral procession of cars pass, to where an interment was about to begin; a solemn reminder that this was still an active site of grief. </p><p>We followed winding paths to President's Circle, the site of former US President James Monroe's tomb. As we reached the crest of the hill I noticed huge white blocks strewn along with walking path, and two more crosses were knocked to the ground. At first I wondered if it was an artistic choice, but there was a news reporter and a cameraman observing the scene with bewilderment. </p><p>The site had been vandalized the night before; which is a reserved term for the damage caused. Graves were grossly destroyed beyond recognition or repair. Unfortunately there was no way to tell who had done it or why; all we know was that it occurred the night of Friday, March 12th.</p><p>If you visit Hollywood Cemetery's website, they are collecting donations to restore the damage. It states that authorities are still investigating the crime.</p><p>With that to chew on, we realized the walk freed up some room in our stomachs. Armed with Google Maps and good internet reviews, we set off for the nearby <b><a href="https://www.821caferva.com/" target="_blank">821 Cafe</a></b>. </p><p>It had outdoor seating, many tempting options, vegan fare and- <b><i>mimosas</i></b>.</p><p>I'll be completely honest- it had been so long since I went out to brunch, I forgot that mimosas <i>exist</i>.</p><p>And they had several!</p><p>I opted for the Lemon Basil mimosa, and a Smoked Salmon BLT. It was served on a soft, fresh baked Everything Bagel, and a side salad drizzled with garlic tahini dressing. It was my favourite place we ate the entire weekend; it was delicious, refreshing, and frill-free. I recommend it for a casual outing with friends, especially when bottomless mimosas are a thing again. </p><p>Afterwards we made a mandatory visit to local oddities extraordinaire, <b><a href="http://www.restinpiecesrva.com/" target="_blank">Rest in Pieces</a></b>. It is a small but well curated curiosities shop, featuring occult wares, texts, wet specimens, and taxidermy galore. It is not for the faint of heart; as it is proudly emblazoned on their shop merch, "It makes me physically ill to walk by your shop".</p><p>I pondered if $299 was reasonable for a stuffed coyote. </p><p>It is. </p><p>That in mind we headed "home", making a pit-stop at <b><a href="https://vinylconflict.com/" target="_blank">Vinyl Conflict</a></b> record store. I picked up a Joy Division EP, wishing The Black Pine had a record player to play my recent acquisitions. </p><p>The Black Pine does not have a record player, but it <i>does</i> have a wireless speaker. I believe <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2IgGBN5tM5XeAcGEv8w4Kf" target="_blank">this</a> is the playlist we chose for our evening in. </p><p>As we were all a bit knackered, we passed the night playing board games stocked by the Air Bnb hosts. </p><p>The only spirits that night were imbibed. </p><p> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Day Three</b></p><p> </p><p>If you want to feel old, venture into the VCU area on Sunday morning, hungover and searching for smoothies. </p><p>I felt as if Thanos snapped his fingers and I was turning to dust, surrounded by thin, attractive twenty-somethings dressed head to toe in Forever 21. With raccoon eyes, my black mask, and a bomber jacket that screamed "FUCK CANCER" in white letters, I received a pretty wide berth. </p><p>I will not name drop the juice place, because it was not good. </p><p>If I were a young, attractive twenty-something still, I would have probably been up for exploring the cute college area. However I am now a grumpy geriatric, and had two small children I was dying to see. We gave our friends a tearful goodbye, insisting we would do this again soon, "Once Covid is over".</p><p>I love how tenacious hope is. </p><p> </p><p>After this trip I was left with a few thoughts. First, it is important to 'get away' if you can, especially if you have kids. I realize it is near impossible now, and I consider myself extremely fortunate. But I hadn't realized how tired I was, and that I hadn't felt like myself in so long. It was nice to wear my fancy clothes again, however tight they were, and remember who I am. </p><p>Next, I felt completely refreshed and inspired by The Black Pine. Having just moved into my new home, I returned from Richmond raring to go antique shopping, so I could bring a bit of that ambiance into my own living room. </p><p>I felt thankful for my friends who traveled from DC to celebrate with me. Given Covid-19 and the size of the house, we could only take two companions; but I'm glad they were close friends and people we trust. We were all careful and quarantined before and after the trip. </p><p>I'd love to start browsing Air Bnb for my next adventure, but I have a hard time believing anything will be as beautiful and unique as The Black Pine. The home was sparkling clean, and the hosts anticipated every need. If you're ever in the Richmond area I can't recommend them highly enough. </p><p>Lastly, Thirty is not as bad as I expected. </p><p>I imagine at Thirty, you can even buy a stuffed coyote if you want.</p><p>No one can stop you. </p><p> </p><p>Cheers,</p><p>Erica</p><p><br /></p><p>PS- I will edit to add my photos later, when not possessed by a midnight endeavor to write down my thoughts. <br /></p>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-5396363017220324472020-12-28T12:08:00.010-08:002020-12-28T12:16:41.837-08:00Parlor Nevermore<p> Good afternoon darlings,</p><p>Some of you may know that I started working as a DJ about three years ago. I started working as a resident DJ at the local goth club, Club Orpheus in Baltimore and went from there.</p><p>In about October, I learned that our goth club was sold right under our noses. I'd rather not get into the politics, but all you need to know is that none of the current staff, not even the current General Manager knew that the club was sold. By the time we knew it was already gutted and delivered. </p><p>You could chalk it up to the 2020 pandemic, but the truth is that the owners sold the club with no regard for the people keeping it alive.</p><p>Since then, I've taken to live streaming DJ sets for both charity and practice. Earlier this year I organized a live stream for "Goths Supporting Black Lives Matter", with all proceeds donated to BLM related movements. This past Saturday 12/26, I raised money for my childhood friend's cancer treatment costs. </p><p>All this to say, I have a large part of my life circling around gothic culture, including music, literature and film, and it is not accurately encompassed here in a Lolita sphere. </p><p>For almost 2 years now I've considered starting a separate blog strictly for set lists and music recommendations. The domain has been reserved but remained unused. </p><p>I think starting in 2021, I will move towards posting there on <a href="https://parlornevermore.blogspot.com/">Parlor Nevermore</a>. It seems more fitting that I separate these interests, since some events, music, films and subject material are 18+, and the Jfashion community often attracts a younger audience.</p><p>I will be happy to report the first post here when I decide on the theme. For now feel free to bookmark the page or subscribe for blog post notifications.</p><p>You can also find my DJing information below:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/djnevermore/">Recordings from previous lives on Mixcloud</a></li><li><a href="https://www.twitch.tv/djnevermore">Twitch Channel for Live Streams</a></li><li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/NevermoreBaltimore">Facebook Page for Events and Updates </a><br /></li></ul><p>I am moving to the Norfolk area in the next few months and am looking for local goth clubs and goth nights I can join. </p><p>Currently I am streaming "The Caterpillar" online through my public library system. It is an eroguro story based on the work of the same name from Edogawa Ranpo. I read a collection of his short stories this year, and greatly enjoyed it. This is the sort of media I would like to talk about on Parlor Nevermore. </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyyvCD6JJEr1WXrKcJwk_h3AWef4KLVzlim3i-3PPgOk1qUi7JRdN_3l6NbatB-FRviMkIwvvlleGQdwb5e4wMDYDK61CFB_ESiz9iY1PO04HplhH9Klmf2JAYC-5cl7sGXAEJt45kA38/s1911/cap2.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1035" data-original-width="1911" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyyvCD6JJEr1WXrKcJwk_h3AWef4KLVzlim3i-3PPgOk1qUi7JRdN_3l6NbatB-FRviMkIwvvlleGQdwb5e4wMDYDK61CFB_ESiz9iY1PO04HplhH9Klmf2JAYC-5cl7sGXAEJt45kA38/s320/cap2.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screen cap from the film<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>Until then, let's keep enjoying gothic culture through Gothic Lolita here.</p><p>Sincerely,</p><p>Erica<br /></p>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-68408362893843822402020-12-22T07:37:00.002-08:002020-12-22T08:06:17.084-08:00How to do Boy Style: Three Visual Kei Looks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In honor of this blog's 10th anniversary, I'd like to publish a post that's been sitting in my drafts since 2016. I never published it because I felt "Boy Style", or dressing to look more masculine <i>on purpose</i>, would be frowned upon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In the past few years it's become a part of me, and a regular style. I think it reflects my current self more than ever. So I present to you, largely unedited, how it looked to me four years ago.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQz8tvnpCdEpqOqRHvS_uapRMlFDM1Ji6F7ad6eRtwsTEGYxgRUQqJB4A5sBUFCAAUX-LQIC4cyqtPP0vYKbhp52kBZ09fF7BtzFeRDB7cv-VlNEaqfTgtIBFwDG0WHrusampscydF7A/s320/e0494513cebdf7bce277ca10cfe3d6ca.jpg" width="225" /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To me, Fashion is about <b>wearing who you are on the outside</b>, or expressing an <b>abstract</b> part of your personality in a <b>concrete</b> way. </div>
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Of course, there are as many different examples of this as their are different kinds of people; but today I am choosing to focus on one in particular. </div>
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Today, I am going to talk about... <b>Boy Style</b>!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmuVPES6uKy4TbjtmgHtX1OlgjvnQwlRLv8zNzs8_SN3Okpw7Wb4Oi6AyqIYVIACe5lcbL4IdoepLZ6ITLTVV0XxGCRcjEzXDrbvJZXw2uJbyeuoiJ7Jiy_iBRLIZt45s31FrvT4Ipaw/s1600/12439259_10204012949763625_5280816805813396189_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmuVPES6uKy4TbjtmgHtX1OlgjvnQwlRLv8zNzs8_SN3Okpw7Wb4Oi6AyqIYVIACe5lcbL4IdoepLZ6ITLTVV0XxGCRcjEzXDrbvJZXw2uJbyeuoiJ7Jiy_iBRLIZt45s31FrvT4Ipaw/s200/12439259_10204012949763625_5280816805813396189_n.jpg" width="198" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7OTN6vJrseVTaiKG4c6PUDCwC8UR3df89nk_pJxCSKAXSuGQkdwDYXW6Lz78q-rph0Jn4X9OGWPhCvqFq6zVTtLcHBH7C1xyKjUqLU0E2R0_Q0LwIkNxTyjVkBHXhyphenhyphenx5qbRWjJfRBDU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-18+at+11.25.56.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7OTN6vJrseVTaiKG4c6PUDCwC8UR3df89nk_pJxCSKAXSuGQkdwDYXW6Lz78q-rph0Jn4X9OGWPhCvqFq6zVTtLcHBH7C1xyKjUqLU0E2R0_Q0LwIkNxTyjVkBHXhyphenhyphenx5qbRWjJfRBDU/s200/Screen+Shot+2016-01-18+at+11.25.56.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQymwC-0ZsruY_aRy-EovM44Knjauc0JZCaYNKho2JpP7q28FJ8eiZuDZdZYee5BctMR1gwPE8l4XAxid6BHhQxSR2CeAfbZYyWGwWzf6xTsDy3B9M4Xb_RmdU6xfTAdpBCCe53lF_Pk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-19+at+08.12.43.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQymwC-0ZsruY_aRy-EovM44Knjauc0JZCaYNKho2JpP7q28FJ8eiZuDZdZYee5BctMR1gwPE8l4XAxid6BHhQxSR2CeAfbZYyWGwWzf6xTsDy3B9M4Xb_RmdU6xfTAdpBCCe53lF_Pk/s200/Screen+Shot+2016-01-19+at+08.12.43.png" width="199" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmPK47DjQhz1Tl8Jk4dNi7qnYmIVhoGAnSv4gIAL0pFGKwtzV8XO1Sta6sismwL3oI_UDRAK_NYo591fLpcEZf8CxJCRUD9K_AMDZsoeKokgnu0ZDWZm0wx9xqXSO1UVjUq3wFvSbD1g/s1600/20102_10203297773644669_5774220318977636998_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmPK47DjQhz1Tl8Jk4dNi7qnYmIVhoGAnSv4gIAL0pFGKwtzV8XO1Sta6sismwL3oI_UDRAK_NYo591fLpcEZf8CxJCRUD9K_AMDZsoeKokgnu0ZDWZm0wx9xqXSO1UVjUq3wFvSbD1g/s200/20102_10203297773644669_5774220318977636998_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><p>
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In the above images, you can see four different people at first glance- but if you look closely, you might notice subtle similarities or facial features.<br />
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<b>They are, in fact, all me</b>- just different "versions" of me.</p><p>The top two images are my Lolita self, and the bottom two have a more androgynous feel, leaning towards a more male aesthetic. (Or at least, I hope so.)<br />
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Just like I dress in Lolita, or apply girly makeup to feel a certain way, I dress in Boy Style to feel a certain way. </p><p>I don't consider it as cross-dressing or cross-playing, but just another different kind of clothing I like to wear to express a part of my personality.<br />
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However, this style does incorporate some elements of cross-dressing to achieve my aesthetic... and it is a lot of work, taking much trial, error, and experimentation! </p><p>For example, sometimes, my face is too feminine to do the clothes justice, so I will contour my nose, cheek bones, and jaw lineto achieve the full effect. </p><p>Also, being a rather busty individual, I use a safe, medical-grade binder to get the perfect fit for button downs, blazers and vests. </p><p>Since I don't want to cut my hair short, I use different short wigs depending on the look I am going for- but I also try to learn about different boy and visual kei hair styles, to make the wigs look more realistic.<br />
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There are several kinds of Boy Style, including:<br />
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<li>Ouji/Prince or Dandy Style</li>
<li>Elegant Gothic Aristocrat</li>
<li>Casual Visual Kei</li>
<li>Stage Visual Kei/Kotei Kei</li>
</ul><p>Today, in the interest of helping someone find a comfortable, every-day style, I will be focusing on "Casual Visual Kei". </p><p>I find that this is what I wear the most often, when I do Boy Style. The clothing pieces are also relatively easy to find, whether you are in Japan or not; and unlike Ouji and EGA, it doesn't require strict guidelines or branding to achieve the complete look.<br />
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There are even publications out for this more casual form of Boy Style, drawing inspiration from Punk, Grunge, Rock, Glam and Visual Kei. This publication, called "Boku" (a masculine pronoun for "me") features female Boy Style icons such as Oni, vocalist of Ganglion; Akira, vocalist of Disacode; and Root, who has recently risen to fame as a model in Kera magazine.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxdGK17EvebVTqdxEovZeXq0QzSd9Fs0j7BQKGV6rErItCODfKNDwc0zGG-O_L0zjsCy86f9N7azECYmn-fRUL3IeLVphim6nNUS5EId0roxpBHOiblkXEqns-p1KmbcIcMajiFBzGSM/s1600/26440_original.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxdGK17EvebVTqdxEovZeXq0QzSd9Fs0j7BQKGV6rErItCODfKNDwc0zGG-O_L0zjsCy86f9N7azECYmn-fRUL3IeLVphim6nNUS5EId0roxpBHOiblkXEqns-p1KmbcIcMajiFBzGSM/s320/26440_original.jpg" width="224" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cover of "Boku" magazine</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
</tbody></table><p>I remember writing a report on this magazine a couple of years ago, examining the social phenomena of females using masculine pronouns to refer to themselves while dressing in Boy Style. That might be a bit too dry a topic for now, but what you should know is that years later, this publication and style are still going strong. </p><p>If anything, the amount of girls dressing as boy models in publications or in bands, and "everyday" people following suit has risen.<br />
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Without further ado, let's take a look at my style inspirations, and how you can come up with a couple of looks, <b>probably using things in your own closet!</b></div>
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For my first example, I'd like to start with one of my favorite boy style inspirations, Mitsu, vocalist from the band Dolly (named after the cloned sheep, not the toy). I've written about Mitsu before <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2011/08/10-style-icons.html" target="_blank">here</a>, in "10 Style icons". Five years later, he still remains an icon for me. </div>
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Since I first saw him in <i>Cure</i> magazine years ago, something about his unique layering of clothing, and the flavour of his style appealed to me.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4x0uXPiACdLb_Y8UDnAcTc-XYrzo3EXlVKRSg5xPwxL0XQABzMCSA8f6jMh9b5OYJ5j3qD_Mvk1MqP2kBaimwiMGzzBsNwOzA98WxLntcTf3gQGT_F7e58hExbXKgdxb6erMXgEwaH9k/s1600/2mitsu.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4x0uXPiACdLb_Y8UDnAcTc-XYrzo3EXlVKRSg5xPwxL0XQABzMCSA8f6jMh9b5OYJ5j3qD_Mvk1MqP2kBaimwiMGzzBsNwOzA98WxLntcTf3gQGT_F7e58hExbXKgdxb6erMXgEwaH9k/s320/2mitsu.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mitsu, Vocalist of Dolly</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finally in 2012, I got to see Dolly perform live in Nagoya (<a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2012/05/live-dolly-iris-in-wonderland.html" target="_blank">read about that here!</a>). Upon seeing them live, I really came to appreciate the band's distinct style and atmosphere they set with their clothing. </div>
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It seems loosely Dandy, Ouji, or even Dolly Kei inspired, but with Visual Kei flair such as <b>layers of eclectic accessories</b>, <b>tapered leg pants</b>, <b>mix-matched patterns</b> and of course the iconic blacked-out eye makeup. </div>
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To get the look:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcU7wCuVJ2jUUlrCACPlAaRQBW7uKXGEmAAUh6nfL70bUSVFl-Hcgq9upNBj90UjTjTx8jQJ6AdUo0YxOiDffsstFgDfkyRHli_-j-fXhffhx_C7JHyd3KjyNP8wk3k8t2F010iwy1y0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-18+at+10.40.22.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcU7wCuVJ2jUUlrCACPlAaRQBW7uKXGEmAAUh6nfL70bUSVFl-Hcgq9upNBj90UjTjTx8jQJ6AdUo0YxOiDffsstFgDfkyRHli_-j-fXhffhx_C7JHyd3KjyNP8wk3k8t2F010iwy1y0/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-01-18+at+10.40.22.png" width="376" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cherielavendre.polyvore.com/" target="_blank">My Polyvore</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<ul>
<li>For tops, select <b>slim-fit blazers and collared shirts</b>, with longer hemlines if possible. </li><li>Avoid blouses and jackets cut for a woman's body, which may emphasize curves. </li><li>Dress up tops with broaches, scarves, ties, or jabots. </li>
<li>For pants, select a <b>skinny colored or patterned denim</b>; or if you have more full hips and thighs, try a straight-cut pant that doesn't hug your curves. </li>
<li>For shoes, select an <b>oxford with a pointed or slightly pointed toe</b>. This will elongate your foot and your leg, giving you height and adding a slight slimming effect. Rounded toe shoes will make your feet look smaller, more feminine, and potentially emphasize any curves you have in your legs or thighs. Heels should be one inch or less, and never pointed. </li>
<li>For Mitsu's look, feel free to <b>mix different patterns and colors</b>. But to avoid looking like a hot mess, stick to a certain color palette- warmer tones like tan brown, bronze, red, and warm grey can pair together with black and gold. Cooler tones like blue, burgundy, cool grey and crisp white pair better with black and silver. </li>
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For the next look, I opted for a more gothic-casual inspiration- San, guitarist of Nega, who have unfortunately disbanded. Though the band may have gone their separate ways, their older songs remain popular to this day, along with their gritty sound, lyrical imagery and fashion sense.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWqCU6oZ9IVukQqcK1cDG0WbmnbJ56sBRmR2wtc_-q4yXqOZGy1f1XYYR142Y7iDqgZIkxGlPQFSaAJe9KvaESIkH75UPvVzPKhdGNDdaroaXrOGPjS3L5Dp0dkOdoS8HpVPyGgHuxS8/s1600/sannega.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWqCU6oZ9IVukQqcK1cDG0WbmnbJ56sBRmR2wtc_-q4yXqOZGy1f1XYYR142Y7iDqgZIkxGlPQFSaAJe9KvaESIkH75UPvVzPKhdGNDdaroaXrOGPjS3L5Dp0dkOdoS8HpVPyGgHuxS8/s1600/sannega.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San, guitarist of Nega (disbanded)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I opted for San for two reasons: first, I remembered how tall he was <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2012/07/live-nega-seven-deadly-scenes.html" target="_blank">when I saw Nega live in Nagoya</a>. I thought, if he can find nice, stylish clothes that fit him, then I should have no problem! Another reason I chose him was for his unique taste. At lives he often wore unique things not usually seen in Visual Kei, such as hip scarves and sandals with black saurel/harem pants and gothic tops. </div>
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For a disheveled-goth chic that is comfortable and easy to wear on the daily, I present you with San's style. </div>
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To get the look:</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqdRlSHNHQlmj1a8gttGmdH_JxDyyIHN9G_VC19zxs0AUn4KVs7HHoDLt2-zoKqvVahb88S9MGDLcPgPcOORmqaJCIA-rwFCZev6wq7mbmhuDlxCVHzgvxJ2aeA6mFM8n5pX8m5hBDdUM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-18+at+10.41.44.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqdRlSHNHQlmj1a8gttGmdH_JxDyyIHN9G_VC19zxs0AUn4KVs7HHoDLt2-zoKqvVahb88S9MGDLcPgPcOORmqaJCIA-rwFCZev6wq7mbmhuDlxCVHzgvxJ2aeA6mFM8n5pX8m5hBDdUM/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-01-18+at+10.41.44.png" width="377" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cherielavendre.polyvore.com/" target="_blank">My Polyvore</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<ul>
<li>Opt for <b>thin, flowing, and comfortable layers</b>, and don't be afraid to mix genres. Try a long, flowing vest over a comfortable tank top, under a structured jacket or blazer. </li>
<li>Stack on the Rock and Roll accessories- <b>studded belts, scarves and thick, chunky rings</b> are iconic. </li>
<li>For bottoms, opt for <b>slim-fit pants that lengthen and slim your leg</b>. Or, try a pair of full, flowy saurel/harem pants. These fit a wide range of sizes and disguise fuller hips.<br /></li>
<li>For shoes, <b>boots are always acceptable</b>; either mid-calf or ankle cut for a more masculine look. As with Mitsu's look, I would recommend a pointed toe over a rounded toe, for an extra masculine kick. </li>
<li>San certainly wears a lot of black. <b>Add dimension</b> with different textures, patterns, and even subtle prints in tones of grey. </li>
<li>For hair, San often keeps his natural dark tone, with <b>bold color block </b>of blue or violet. A layered or shaggy short style can emphasize this. If you're not into bleaching your hair, pick up some color wefts at your favorite beauty supply store, and trim them to blend in with your hair length. </li>
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Last but not least, I wanted to select a look that was minimalist, yet unique- something someone with hardly any Visual Kei aesthetic might be attracted to or able to pull off. </div>
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Lately I have been feeling very inspired by Kyo, vocalist of Dir en grey and Sukekiyo. Since forming Sukekiyo, and releasing Dir en grey's <i>Unraveling</i> and <i>Arche</i>, Kyo has been sporting a very crisp style of clothing that has come to grow on me. It is easy to deconstruct and steal for yourself, if you are searching for a stylish and classic Boy Style look. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM47q87HeHEEbMiQayzw-LRft1M3rCx2z2ZQuKFe9YnJjssx1A-aNO7hQqRuuLiKD_900GtJAK9OMZlf64ilJuIfDR2uSKjvdTNwzWK7ShUn_eqrniqYgM0m6D8ucuzJ47X_Czvk6oP7E/s1600/14ccb0dbac372cabc9fce80040bf4adc.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM47q87HeHEEbMiQayzw-LRft1M3rCx2z2ZQuKFe9YnJjssx1A-aNO7hQqRuuLiKD_900GtJAK9OMZlf64ilJuIfDR2uSKjvdTNwzWK7ShUn_eqrniqYgM0m6D8ucuzJ47X_Czvk6oP7E/s320/14ccb0dbac372cabc9fce80040bf4adc.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
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It's worth noting that these looks aren't strictly "Visual Kei". Kyo has departed slightly from that camp, but continues to dabble in abstract, thematic and dramatic clothing and makeup. At least to get this look, minimal makeup and hair styling is required; unless you would like to add some contouring the shape your face a little. (Kyo does have cheek bones, brows and a jawline to die for!)</div>
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To get the look:</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihG3YtV44QzLCcB4Il3pTJ-9LTyT9mv09535HEPEgaMxyf5rsPG7K-SBcMAwU-WE3eOCW6hjeUbGwaeBGtqPN45Fr5sSUEPAXIjBDkRhZZq2JTYxAtIq41P5MeUgDm_Uj1zEyNrjfhs8I/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-15+at+15.20.01.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihG3YtV44QzLCcB4Il3pTJ-9LTyT9mv09535HEPEgaMxyf5rsPG7K-SBcMAwU-WE3eOCW6hjeUbGwaeBGtqPN45Fr5sSUEPAXIjBDkRhZZq2JTYxAtIq41P5MeUgDm_Uj1zEyNrjfhs8I/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-01-15+at+15.20.01.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cherielavendre.polyvore.com/" target="_blank">My Polyvore</a></td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>Kyo's recent style is about <b>abstract, artsy</b> things, a <b>monochromatic</b> palette, and clean lines. Though layers are used for contrast, he goes very scant on accessories and unnecessary layers. </li>
<li>Play with the different <b>volumes</b> of clothing. Try a long, slim-fit collared shirt with a fitted blazer, and baggy pant. </li>
<li>Play with <b>hemlines</b> and <b>forms</b>. Try a strict, slim-fit pant with an asymmetrical jacket and boxy-cut top underneath.</li>
<li>For accessories, keep it simple- a <b>statement necklace</b>, or an on-trend <b>hat</b> will do. </li>
<li>For footwear, Kyo tends to go with comfortable <b>sneakers</b>, or an edgy-looking style of <b>boots</b>. </li>
<li>This look is best suited to very simple aesthetic. If you normally sport a clean pixie cut in your natural color, or maybe you bleach it blonde; if you don't normally sport a lot of makeup, but may occasionally rock a smokey eye; this look will definitely work for you. </li>
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Want even MORE Visual Kei inspired style? Check out my old post here, <b><a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2012/08/steal-style-reita-gazette.html" target="_blank">Steal the Style- Reita from the GazettE.</a> </b></div><div><b> </b></div><div><b> </b></div><div><b>What did you think of this little spin-off article?</b> Was it helpful?
Would you like to see posts about different alternative styles or Visual
Kei in the future? Please feel free to leave feedback or concrit in the
comments. <b> </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>...</b></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>It's interesting that four years ago, I was reluctant to post this, fearing clap-back for straying from Lolita and wanting to dress more androgynously. Now, this has largely become my style.</div><div><br /></div><div>And yes, I even cut my hair short. No more wigs!</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>So my question to you remains: would you like to see more of this? </b></div><div><br /></div><div>Keep staying true to yourself; there's no need to question what you like. Even if you hide it, or keep it for your own enjoyment, it never goes away.<b></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Sincerely,</div><div>Erica<b><br /></b></div>
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Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-16320155571094238862020-12-22T07:11:00.004-08:002020-12-22T07:19:38.814-08:00Darkly Darling 10th Anniversary<p> My Dearest Darlings, </p><p>I never thought I would be writing on this blog for ten years. To be honest it's been a patchy account of things, touch-and-go as life went on. </p><p>I started this blog as a college student, as a way to share my interest in Lolita and other Japanese fashions. It's interesting to look back at past trends, the way my outfits evolved, and little ways I incorporated by passions into my lifestyle. </p><p>From learning to sew, to attending cons, and even studying abroad in Japan, Lolita fashion and its related hobbies has shaped my life. </p><p><b> I'd say it was all for the better. </b></p><p>The Lolita community has given me lifelong friends, and valuable connections. I've also found a sense of self-accomplishment that can never be replaced.</p><p>That being said, I think it is time to take a step back and focus on other things.<br /></p><p>2020 has been a difficult year for everyone. I don't need to rehash our shared struggles, or elaborate on my personal ones. One thing this year has taught me, good or bad, is that Lolita is no longer the cornerstone of my life. </p><p>Perhaps it was the lack of in-person meet-ups this year, or the lack of fluid income. Maybe the designs are a little too static nowadays, or maybe it's just me. Whatever the cause, I've pared back my wardrobe significantly- if I complete an annual wardrobe post, as in past years, you'll see how my style has become more simple; "back to black". </p><p>Instead, I've been really interested in kimono. I'd like to hear from you, if you'd like to learn more about the different types and formalities of dress, how to tie obi, and sewing lessons. </p><p>I've also stepped up my participation in the Dir en grey and Visual Kei community. I've been a longtime fan, but also a wallflower. I finally overcame some social anxieties, and started networking with other fans online.</p><p>Lastly, I signed up for Dir en grey's fan club, -a knot-. I wanted to do this for years, but there were many hurdles causing me to procrastinate. If there is interest, I could write about how to enroll in the fanclub even if you live overseas. </p><p>Though my focus is shifting away from the Lolita community, it is not entirely gone. I like to think of it as more of a kaleidoscope, the glass pieces changing colors and forms as they blend together into new designs. </p><p>It is inseparable from my love of Japan and it's youth street cultures. It was the door that led me here. </p><p>So 10 years since my first entry on this blog, I'm stepping back to say I'm sorry for my absence; and I hope you stick around a little longer. </p><p>If there is more you would like to know about, in the fields of:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Visual Kei</li><li>Street Fashion History</li><li>Kimono and traditional fashion</li><li>Being a long-term Lolita</li></ul><p>I'd love to hear from you. I may be the Captain of this ship, but I take itinerary suggestions.</p><p>Sincerely, and with gratitude,</p><p>Erica <br /></p>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-90545058736987854422017-03-01T18:51:00.003-08:002017-03-01T18:51:28.653-08:00Coord Roundup: FebruaryHappy First of March!<br />
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As I begin this new month, I have a lot to look forward to: Rufflecon ticket sales starting, outings with friends, my birthday, and a visit from family.<br />
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February was a busy month for me, but productive. I started reaching out to vendors to get some of my handmade accessories selling at cons. Rufflecon also announced their theme for 2017, which got me brainstorming, and contemplating whether or not I can create a line for the Label contest.<br />
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For coords, I tried to break my record of 4 from last month, but was unsuccessful. None the less, it was a month of trying new things for me, and I'm happy with how my experiments came out!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWS64VGRf1eCzDIlFfI04NRLj5g97w9GnZKni-Lu8Sd8X7eU9gMuRnyYMmaunj119YYoE9l-RWhdSgEnnliXv18bxPDFBr58oZv1bLiMTdIbXnMo_nw_odqKNruBdyNgD92l-4NT5dJ4/s1600/16508021_10206474971632633_239641072504687121_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWS64VGRf1eCzDIlFfI04NRLj5g97w9GnZKni-Lu8Sd8X7eU9gMuRnyYMmaunj119YYoE9l-RWhdSgEnnliXv18bxPDFBr58oZv1bLiMTdIbXnMo_nw_odqKNruBdyNgD92l-4NT5dJ4/s320/16508021_10206474971632633_239641072504687121_n.jpg" width="184" /></a></div>
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February 5th: Metamorphose meets Pinup</div>
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This was a very simple coord to meet some lolis at the mall. I wanted something somewhat casual, and closer to every day wear. I thought this Metamorphose Gingham Cherry Jsk would be perfect. </div>
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I like everything about this coord from the shoulders down; but if I could re-do this coord, I'd have put more effort into my hair, and chosen a different hair accessory. </div>
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Bolero: BTSSB</div>
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Jsk: Metamorphose</div>
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Shoes: Vivienne Westwood x Melissa</div>
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Headbow: Innocent World</div>
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Everything else: Offbrand </div>
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February 11th: Pastel Lolita</div>
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I almost never wear pastels, as I've adamantly said many times. But for whatever reason, on this day, I decided to give pastels a try. </div>
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It was also the first day I've ever ruined a jsk beyond repair. It was a disaster. </div>
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I met up with a friend to get boba tea- that much was wonderful! But we also stopped at a Korean cosmetics store, which had some sort of devil-spawn liquid lipstick smeared on the counter. The lipstick got on my purse, and when I put my purse on my lap in the car, it got all over my lightly coloured dress. (T__T) I've tried so hard to remove the stains, but they're impossible to get out.</div>
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So while this was a pretty look, and I feel like I balanced the pink and lavender well, I am extremely hesitant to wear light colours, or shop for cosmetics in Lolita ever again.</div>
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Jsk: Angelic Pretty</div>
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Bolero, Purse and Headbow: BTSSB</div>
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Everything else: Offbrand </div>
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February 12th: Boz and Boystyle</div>
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I adore boystyle, and have taken a stab at it in the past, but I feel like this was my first serious, successful coord. I'm very proud of how this one turned out; and with a better wig and a few more staple pieces, I hope to wear boy style more this year.</div>
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Coat: Atelier Boz Roland</div>
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Pants: MAM</div>
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Socks: Chantilly</div>
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Brooches: Voltaire, Chocomint</div>
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Everything else: Offbrand</div>
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February 27th: OTT </div>
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I think this was my favourite coord of the month! I got this Elizabeth I jsk a couple of months ago, and really wanted to coord it. I don't usually go so over the top with my coords, but I like the colour balance and all of the details in this outfit! Probably one of my favourite coords of the year so far. </div>
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Jsk: Taobao (I think the brand was called "Makiro"?)</div>
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Blouse: The Floral Notebook</div>
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Headdress: Sweet Mildred</div>
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Shoes: Bordello</div>
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Accessories: Voodoodolly, Offbrand</div>
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Socks: Metamorphose</div>
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And thus wraps up another month in Lolita! I'm excited to see what March has in store; I hope it includes more chances to dress up and improve my coords! I think my latest on the 27th was much more put-together than some of my others so far. I'm also a fan of my Boystyle outfit and can hardly wait to collect more pieces! </div>
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Here's to yet another month of frills!</div>
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Xoxo,</div>
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Cherie</div>
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Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-70456611297168986132017-01-30T19:35:00.000-08:002017-01-30T19:35:32.809-08:00Coord Roundup: January<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello Darlings,<br />
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One of my goals for 2017 is to better document my coords, and share them when I can.<br />
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One main reason for this is that I constantly forget to take photos of my outfits, even if I put a lot of time and effort into perfecting them.<br />
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Or, after I spend all that time dressing up, I am too scared to post photos outside of my personal circle. And it's not necessarily about my clothing, but my face or body type. I worry about retribution for my physical aspects I can't change, so I rarely post.<br />
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However, criticism is not always a bad thing. It is, after all, meant as a constructive thing to help you improve. As long as I receive criticism on how to make my outfits better, then I don't mind.<br />
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And after all-- this is a fashion blog. In spite of that, I have a handful of entries at best showing my outfits. That's awfully pathetic, and tarnishes my credibility, don't you think?<br />
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This month, I got to wear Lolita 4 times in total. In the past, 4 times in a month would be a lot, but in my current state, I think that's just where I want to be. I am moving towards wearing Lolita, or some aspect as often as possible. But as a new mom of a two-month old infant, who also works full-time, I'd say four times in a month is quite a lot.<br />
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January 12th</div>
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This was my outfit for my comm's monthly swap meet. This was my first time wearing Lolita since giving birth. </div>
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I was itching to wear some of the pieces I accumulated while I was pregnant, but couldn't wear. On the top of my list was this "Three Archangels" long OP by Innocent World. I find the silhouette very flattering, and I love the long skirt. This OP is also half-shirred in the back, which made it very comfortable. It was a good outfit to get back into the swing of things. </div>
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OP: Innocent World</div>
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Blouse: Bodyline</div>
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Headdress: Sweet Mildred</div>
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Socks: Enchantlic Enchantilly</div>
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Shoes: Offbrand (Dolce by Mojo Moxie)</div>
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January 15th</div>
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This is what I wore for my new comm's 10th Anniversary Tea Party. (I've been here a year, but it still feels like a new comm to me!) The theme was "Winter", so I wore my new jsk, "The Gift" by L'esprit de la Noblesse.<br />
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L'esprit de la Noblesse is a Russian Indie Brand, headed by fashion power couple Elizabeth and Nicolas. Together, they create many whimsical and unique Lolita designs, drawing from traditional garb of Russian royalty, and creatures of fantasy alike. "The Gift" was a limited Christmas release. Part of the profits were donated to a Russian charity.<br />
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With the long hemline and metallic champagne chiffon, this dress is easily one of my favourites.<br />
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My concept for this event was "Clara from The Nutcracker".<br />
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Dress: L'esprit de la Noblesse</div>
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Blouse: Bodyline</div>
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Socks: American Apparel</div>
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Headbow: Innocent World</div>
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Purse: Baby, the Stars Shine Bright</div>
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Shoes: Offbrand (Dolce by Mojo Moxie)</div>
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January 22nd</div>
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This is what I wore when visiting the San Antonio, Texas Lolitas, for their "Cheers to 2017!" Meetup.<br />
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My husband and I were visiting his family in Texas, when I attended this meet-up. My brother and sister in law both happen to be members of the comm, and were kind enough to take me along to the local meet-up. The theme just happened to be old school, which is one of my current obsessions!<br />
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My sister-in-law is to the left of me, in the photo above. I'm sorry, this photo caught me mid-blink!<br />
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Bonnet, Blouse, Jsk, Purse: Baby, the Stars Shine Bright</div>
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Socks: Metamorphose</div>
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Shoes: Montreal</div>
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January 27th</div>
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This is my favourite outfit of the month. </div>
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A lolita girlfriend and I decided to go out for macarons on a random Friday afternoon. I took her to my favourite Patisserie, "Sweethearts Patisserie" in Annapolis. I knew the shop often decorates for Valentine's Day about this time, so I decided to dress to match the decor.</div>
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Beret: Innocent World</div>
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Blouse, Bolero, Jsk, Purse: Baby, the Stars Shine Bright</div>
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Socks: Metamorphose</div>
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Shoes (Not pictured): Bodyline </div>
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And I think that's all I'll fit in this month! </div>
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Since I'm gearing up to go back to work, and transition by daughter into Daycare soon, I am sure that the next month will be hectic. But I hope that I still find time to dress up! With a promised monthly swap meet, and a special Valentine's Day Tea, I at least have two events to look forward to!</div>
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Here's hoping I keep up with the outfit photos, and that the quality of the outfits (and outfit shots) improves throughout the year!</div>
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Xoxo,</div>
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Cherie </div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-90161704202750960122017-01-28T17:26:00.005-08:002017-01-28T17:32:15.706-08:00LBC: What Would You Change About Your Wardrobe?Hello darlings! It's that time of the week (a little late this week, too), for the Lolita Blog Carnival!<br />
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This week, I would like to talk about the changes I want to make in my wardrobe.<br />
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I agreed with much of What Emily wrote on her blog, "<a href="https://thefatflatcat.blogspot.com/2017/01/lolita-blog-carnival-what-would-you.html?showComment=1485652135626#c6179604238696373415" target="_blank">It's Witchcraft</a>". 2017 will be my eleventh year wearing Lolita, so my wardrobe is, for the most part, well-established and well-rounded.<br />
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Most of the changes I'd like to see have to do with cohesiveness, and building a stronger collection.<br />
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I would like to continue fleshing out my collection with blouses, socks, shoes and bags that compliment what I already have; and I'd like to cut back on what I call "stand alone" or "unitasker" pieces.<br />
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"Unitasker" is a phrase coined by one of my favourite television personalities, Alton Brown. He loves to loathe what he calls Kitchen "Unitaskers"- gadgets and gizmos that only complete one function in the kitchen. Though Lolita isn't exactly cooking, we definitely have unitaskers in our wardobe.<br />
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These are stand alone pieces, things we are all guilty of- for example, a single pastel jsk in a gothic wardrobe, that sticks out like a sore thumb and doesn't really coordinate with the rest of your closet. Or, a pair of pink shoes that you bought specifically to go with ONE dress, even though you have nothing else pink in your collection. UNITASKERS!<br />
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The worst part about stand-alone pieces is that it breeds more impulse buys. You find yourself compelled to buy more pastels, even if you don't like them, simply because you now feel obligated to include that in your wardrobe.<br />
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In case you haven't figured it out, this reluctant pastel hoarder is me, myself. Even though I HATE how I look in pink, and often find pastels look terrible on me, I come back to them again and again. I buy it, I try it on, and instantly resell it. It's a vicious cycle, and it results in left over pieces I will never use again- the one pink blouse I bought specifically for that one pink dress, or the singular lavender headbow I bought to match my only lavender jsk.<br />
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While there is nothing wrong with variety, if I've learned anything over the years, it's that I don't, and I won't wear pastels. The things I wear over and over again are often rich jewel tones, or dresses in black colorways. I'm especially fond of emerald green, navy blue and ruby red.<br />
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So why the hell did I buy pastel, mint green shoes?!<br />
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Or why do I follow the lemmings off the cliff, diving head-first into a new AP print release, when I know that I won't actually love it or wear it?<br />
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That is exactly my point.<br />
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So if I could change anything about my wardrobe, it would be to make it ship-shape, tight and efficient. I don't necessarily want a minimalist, capsule wardrobe, but I do want to borrow from that philosophy that everything has multiple purposes and can be combined with the other pieces.<br />
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My goal, in short, is to emphasize what I already have and like to wear... and find new ways to wear it, by adding in things that frame it beautifully.<br />
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A short list:<br />
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<li>More solid, lace-topped socks in staple colours like white, ivory, black</li>
<li>More comfortable, multipurpose shoes </li>
<li>More boleros and cardigans</li>
<li>Add in some Ouji pieces, that also match what I have</li>
<li>Less impulse buys on main pieces, that don't fit with my collection</li>
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To see an example of my wardrobe and what I've curated, please see my recent <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2017/01/2016-wardrobe-post.html" target="_blank">2016 Wardrobe post</a>. Since posting it, I've already cleared out some pieces I never got to wear, or knew I wouldn't wear. </div>
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It's always hard to part with things, but I think it's a step in the right direction; and it makes room for new things to come!</div>
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What do you think about stand-alone pieces? Is variety the spice of life, or do you prefer to keep a general theme or colour scheme in your closet?<br />
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Let's take a look at what other Lolitas had to say!<br />
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Xoxo,<br />
Cherie<br />
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<a href="https://thefatflatcat.blogspot.com/2017/01/lolita-blog-carnival-what-would-you.html?showComment=1485652135626#c6179604238696373415" target="_blank">It's Witchcraft! </a></div>
<br />Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-24252721170239139692017-01-20T00:00:00.000-08:002017-01-28T17:06:53.249-08:00LBC: Habits You've Picked Up from Lolita FashionLolita fashion is more than a hobby to me; it's a part of myself.<br />
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To some people, fitness is who they are; or perhaps their career is an essential part of their reflection. Maybe they find their identity in a book club, cooking, or a sport. Others still find their true nature in performance: a stage persona, or a microphone.<br />
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Is it so odd for fashion to be a personal marker?<br />
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After all, it has permeated nearly every aspect of my life: the people I hang out with, what I like to eat, what I buy, and how I practice my hobbies.<br />
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Yes, I sew; but I don't sew curtains, quilts, or casual clothing. I sew Lolita fashion: jumper skirts, hair bows and onepieces.<br />
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Yes, I like music; but I like music Lolita fashion has brought me closer to, such as Visual Kei, or other music that fits the fashion's aesthetic. If I never got into Lolita fashion, who knows if I would have found some of my favourite bands, or vice verse?<br />
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In short, being a Lolita effects you in more ways than you realize. In this week's Lolita Blog Carnival theme, I'd like to look at some specific habits I've picked up from Lolita fashion.<br />
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<li>I have more expensive taste</li>
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In my early teens, before Lolita, I was a bargain-driven shopper. I used to look for the best deals on clothing at a thrift store or department store, and would choose to purchase something if it was cheaper, regardless if I liked it better or not. </div>
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Of course there is nothing wrong with being bargain-savvy, and it's still a useful skill; however after being a Lolita all these years, I've come to recognize the value of quality.</div>
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One may think that "value" and "quality" are the same, but it's not the case. Something can have value, because it is good quality; that is why heirloom jewelry is often saved and passed down through generations. Or, imagine a pack of plastic party cups, in a wholesale pack of hundreds. Perhaps it is a good value, because you get a lot for a low price; but plastic does not last, and rarely exceeds a single use. It will never be the same quality as fine crystal. </div>
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Quality comes from technique, mastery of the medium, and an investment in good materials. Lolita garments are not only expertly made and tailored, but they are also made from high-quality textiles and materials. From the unique printed textiles made in small batches, to the one of a kind embroidered lace specific to one brand, there is nothing cheap or mass produced about Lolita fashion. </div>
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For all of these reasons, Lolita has made me less of a bargain shopper. Now, I look at fashion as more of an investment. If anything, something that comes too cheap from the manufacturer makes me weary of the quality. </div>
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<li>I pay more attention to garment quality</li>
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Above, I spoke a bit about the value of quality. Since I sew, I've always inspected the quality of a garment in a store before I buy it. </div>
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After becoming a Lolita, this habit became more frequent. I flip clothing inside out in the store, to check if seams are finished. I look at the hem, to see if it nicely done, a rolled hem to prevent fraying, or if it is even hemmed at all. If the garment does not pass my tests, I do not buy it.</div>
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<li>I eat more sweets</li>
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Before Lolita, I did not have much of a sweet-tooth. My first job in my teens was lifeguarding, so physical fitness and nutrition were very important to me. Over the years, I came to know the simple pleasures of a small macaron; or the solace one could find in a cafe, with a sweet beverage. I've made good friends over hot lattes, or sharing an ice cream parfait after a meet-up.</div>
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I think Lolitas like sweets because they are aesthetically pleasing; that is why they are common motifs in prints. They also remind us of certain European countries, which are influential in Lolita fashion. Sweets are also an essential part of a tea party, one of our most frequent meet-ups. </div>
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Whatever the reason is, at least in small quantities, I find myself indulging more than before I was a Lolita.</div>
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<li>I mind my weight and measurements</li>
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Though this may sound contradictory to the above, Lolita has made me more conscious of my measurements, and more inclined to monitor them. Health, exercise and nutrition have always been important to me, certainly; but with Lolita, it comes back to the garments themselves.</div>
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Lolita garments are usually only produced in one size, as "one size fits all". I believe this is for two reasons: first, because Lolita fashion originated in Japan, where multiple sizes are not that common. Second, because of the quality and niche audience for Lolita fashion, it is produced in smaller batches. When clothing is produced in smaller batches, it is not always economical to produce many sizes. It is more efficient to produce one size, or produce one-offs in custom sizes.</div>
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Since Lolita garments are mainly made for Asian frames, they run smaller. As a clearly western girl, I have to keep myself at a reasonably low weight in order to fit them.</div>
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In the US, women wear an average size 14 or 16. I'd say with Lolita fashion, a western girl should average a size 8, to fit most of the clothing. Of course there are exceptions, and I am not claiming this is "ideal". I simply mean to say the size ranges for most brands max out around a US 10. </div>
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Not every Lolita takes this personally, as it's possible to order custom clothing, or find pieces that are plus-size friendly. I have just made it a habit to "diet for Lolita" when necessary, because it is important to me. </div>
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<li>I plan my outfits more carefully</li>
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In the past I never planned outfits in advance, I simply threw them on. Now I find myself planning at least a week ahead, even for a casual outfit to wear to a concert.</div>
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<li>I spend more time online</li>
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In general, many people spend more time online than they used to. Social media is a powerful drug; and it becomes addictive to share your life with the world, when you get instant gratification in the forms of likes and comments. </div>
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However, Lolita fashion depends on the Internet to survive, especially as a means to attain the clothing. As Lolitas in the West, we do not have Lolita stores in most major cities. </div>
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If you live near a fashion center, like Paris, New York City, or San Francisco, then you're lucky enough to live near a Baby, the Stars Shine Bright or Angelic Pretty flagship store. But the rest of us must rely on brand websites, shopping services, or websites where Lolita is sold second-hand.</div>
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I also spend my time online reading Lolita blogs, news about Lolita, looking at other Lolita's outfits, and reading debates about Lolita. Almost all of my news and resources, from what the latest releases are to when the next meet-up will be, are found on the Internet. </div>
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This may be a bad habit, as it often distracts me from sewing, cleaning, or otherwise adulting. But conversely, it has also made me more Internet savvy, and more comfortable with technology. After all, I can't be the only one who picked up a bit of HTML coding to format a Livejournal post. </div>
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Here's a few others I thought of:</div>
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<li>I travel more</li>
<li>I'm more open to new experiences</li>
<li>I have a stronger sense of community</li>
<li>I study fashion history</li>
<li>I study more languages (French, Japanese)</li>
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These are just a few habits I have picked up from the fashion. It's hard to say if they are good habits, or if they've made me more nit-picky, elitist and anal. I think that there is both good and bad with everything, and it is important to understand why somebody does something before we judge.</div>
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Would you like to see what other people have picked up from Lolita fashion? I invite you to check out the blogs below, on this week's Lolita Blog Carnival:</div>
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<a href="https://queen-and-commander.blogspot.com/2017/01/lbc-habits-youve-picked-up-from-lolita.html" target="_blank">Queen and Commander </a>// <a href="https://cupcakes-and-unicorns.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/habits-youve-picked-up-from-lolita.html" target="_blank">Cupcakes and Unicorns</a> // <a href="http://itsvanillabear.blogspot.com/2017/01/lolita-blog-carnival-habits-ive-picked.html" target="_blank">Vanilla Bear</a> </div>
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Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-51921632999236944872017-01-05T13:34:00.002-08:002017-01-05T13:52:23.122-08:002016 Wardrobe Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello, Darlings!</div>
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In the Lolita community, it has become a yearly tradition to share a yearly "Wardrobe Post". </div>
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Lolitas usually write about how their style and wardrobe has changed since the previous year, as evidenced in their purchases. Or, maybe each new ensemble has a story, rhyme, or reason behind it. Or sometimes, Lolitas just take it as an opportunity to photo dump and share their fashion eye candy. The posts are as colourful and varied as the individual Lolitas themselves. </div>
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I haven't completed a wardrobe post since 2014. I posted it <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2014/12/happy-new-year-2014-wardrobe-post.html" target="_blank">here</a>, on Darkly Darling, but many Lolitas also post it to the <a href="http://egl.livejournal.com/" target="_blank">EGL community on Livejournal.</a> </div>
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The EGL community, often referred to solely as "EGL" used to be a Lolita's main source of info on Lolita fashion, as well as a sounding board for Lolitas to share their outfits, lifestyle projects, and the like. Over the years, as the popularity of Lolita fashion grew, and the popularity of Livejournal died out, Lolitas moved on to easier to use platforms such as Facebook, Tumblr, and Instagram. These days there are even stand-alone social media outlets for Lolitas, such as Lacebook. </div>
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Still, no matter how many have wandered, many Lolitas consider it a tradition to return to EGL and share their wardrobe posts; as you can see <a href="http://egl.livejournal.com/tag/community%3A%20wardrobe%20post" target="_blank">here</a>. (Though recently, posting to Livejournal has been considered an "Oldschool Lolita" practice.) </div>
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This year, for nostalgia's sake, I'd like to post my wardrobe to EGL as well. But first, I'd like to share it here.</div>
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In the past year my wardrobe grew considerably. My closet used to contain only a few main pieces, with scarce accessories, shoes or bags. I had a couple of offbrand blouses I would switch out, but generally, I only had one coordination for each main piece.</div>
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Over the past year, instead of constantly buying main pieces, I focused on buying accessories and add-ons, such as boleros, different hair accessories, and different bags. It was a big success, and it's possible I even overdid it. I now have several different ways to wear a single item, increasing the wearability and vitality of my wardrobe. It brought new life into pieces I've had a long time, and also helped me invest in new main pieces more efficiently. It's hard to justify buying a pink dress you'll never wear, when 98% of your closet is a series of coordinated darker colours!</div>
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Another thing I did a lot of this year is re-buy old pieces I had years ago, when I started Lolita fashion. I started gravitating more towards an old-school aesthetic, such as older Baby pieces with embroidery, and solid coloured dresses with white lace. All-over prints appealed to me less and less, unless it was a piece I've had many years, or one I've coveted for a long time. </div>
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I may add a blurb with each main piece, but for now, I'd like to just jump in to the photos!</div>
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You may notice the photo backgrounds vary, and that has to do with the method of curating this post. Rather than re-photographing each individual piece, I reused old photos I took over the course of the year. The photos were either from when I first received the new piece, or as I was working out an outfit for an event. I apologize for the inconsistency, but hope you understand; I saved a lot of time this way!</div>
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Alphabetical by brand... </div>
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Alice and the Pirates</div>
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I've had the St. Helena's jsk since 2012 or '13, and it remains one of my favourite pieces. The silhouette is quite flattering on a tall hourglass figure, and the solid navy colour is appropriate to wear year-round. In 2016 I was delighted to complete the set with the matching capelet. </div>
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Angelic Pretty</div>
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In 2016, I trimmed down my AP collection. Fad prints came and went, and though I went all-out in Melty Berry Princess for Summer ILD, I realized I just wasn't comfortable in OTT sweet. </div>
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The prints I've held on to are more toned down, or, in the case of Wrapping Ribbon, it's just one I've loved for years. But in general, I've kept the prints that are in darker colourways, or have a more mature print. </div>
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I held on to both of my Holy Lantern pieces, because I adore the styles of the dresses themselves, aside from the print being considered "overdone". The Holy Lantern OP was comfortable for me to wear late into my pregnancy, because of the flowy trapeze-dress shape. </div>
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Atelier Pierrot</div>
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Another piece I've had since 2012 or so. Green has become one of my favourite colours in Lolita fashion, although it's rare. This is also a print I rarely see anymore. I don't see myself letting go of it any time soon. </div>
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Baby, the Stars Shine Bright</div>
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You can see the strong Oldschool influence in my BTSSB collection. I purchased three of their classic high-waisted jsks, both because of my infatuation with Oldschool style, and because of their ease of wearability while I was pregnant.</div>
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This year I also purchased an Usakumya rucksack, something that was a long-time wishlist item for me! In truth it's rather impractical, as you can hardly fit anything in it. But really, it's more of a Lolita icon than anything. </div>
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The "Angel in the Window"/"Angel's Relief" jsk (bottom right) was an important purchase to me. The first time I met a Lolita offline, she was wearing that jsk. At the time, I was wearing a very "ita" outfit, as I had just started wearing the fashion that year. When I saw her in that jsk, complete with a black Baby blouse and headbow, I remember being in awe of how beautiful she looked. I also remember marveling over the little details of the embroidery on the dress; after all, it was probably the first "real" brand dress I had ever seen. I was blown away by the quality.</div>
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I purchased the dress for myself a few years later, around 2008-'09. I wore it to my first Hiloli meet-up in Hawaii, where I made some of my closest friends I still keep in contact with. I ended up selling it later that year.</div>
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For all the memories attached to this design, as well as my love for the embroidery, I decided to bring it back home to my collection. I'm very glad I did!</div>
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Enchantilic Enchantilly</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2bPVbonwXKwrE-HH9trvuQCVFKOQzfva_4jIWVrvuujlP1BDmZufQqrO8uOuEgSoLF6gg644Gs3p5I5BgDNu7JhMyjhpjWdUum-fEpw8IZmE9I5PJ7v0_f_Qkjdloxu1e49u4AAz4lA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-01-05+at+16.32.43.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2bPVbonwXKwrE-HH9trvuQCVFKOQzfva_4jIWVrvuujlP1BDmZufQqrO8uOuEgSoLF6gg644Gs3p5I5BgDNu7JhMyjhpjWdUum-fEpw8IZmE9I5PJ7v0_f_Qkjdloxu1e49u4AAz4lA/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-01-05+at+16.32.43.png" width="315" /></a></div>
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Chantilly is one of my favourite brands, for their delicate prints and vivid jewel tones. I ordered a Happy Pack from them this year, and am excited to see what else I can add to my collection! </div>
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Excentrique</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPYh5y8qKlkQhBdod1pbKVQMMfyYXreFovPTixuFgxCJyz64U6A911mpgHHXT_QUUDSJvbSgiUf8J5yeGzUT5A0j32yJU_ptIFOjnyLanvgV4qCczQCe-XQoPt5GZy6AGjc7ywzIFJxFw/s1600/15800910_10206234032969317_5700358_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPYh5y8qKlkQhBdod1pbKVQMMfyYXreFovPTixuFgxCJyz64U6A911mpgHHXT_QUUDSJvbSgiUf8J5yeGzUT5A0j32yJU_ptIFOjnyLanvgV4qCczQCe-XQoPt5GZy6AGjc7ywzIFJxFw/s400/15800910_10206234032969317_5700358_n.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Not only is this jsk a favourite for me, for the military-style design; but it was also the jsk I wore when my husband proposed to me, at the top of Tokyo Tower.</div>
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I also won a "Best Dressed" fashion contest at a Steampunk event this year, dressed in it! </div>
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Innocent World </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixbmPO8QfifN4RW2S-OA3DVZilkFJcS7F4GHI2-96Bogndn582vsm0gahO1xIYmn7vSlycQpsbwfK_h23XA_caYevaFCUxiHuVRM8azxFjy_Y5RywFWoHIJuDY6ml5DeP9yXbyYYMjaww/s1600/15782118_10206234033729336_2133732664_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixbmPO8QfifN4RW2S-OA3DVZilkFJcS7F4GHI2-96Bogndn582vsm0gahO1xIYmn7vSlycQpsbwfK_h23XA_caYevaFCUxiHuVRM8azxFjy_Y5RywFWoHIJuDY6ml5DeP9yXbyYYMjaww/s320/15782118_10206234033729336_2133732664_n.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0m8EUkm1xOhaBt8IkKu5htH2SCwC4a3AZ_mnP30rtk4l3QXiH2qpgOWJ7hIuK151KMVEzJ10zTRBZrJro1ChN8yED5KmW9FRjIDztMtH0ldfk07xrujfosed8ES4jhP-2mhtRXjXuMuE/s1600/15822372_10206234034089345_1226745228_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0m8EUkm1xOhaBt8IkKu5htH2SCwC4a3AZ_mnP30rtk4l3QXiH2qpgOWJ7hIuK151KMVEzJ10zTRBZrJro1ChN8yED5KmW9FRjIDztMtH0ldfk07xrujfosed8ES4jhP-2mhtRXjXuMuE/s320/15822372_10206234034089345_1226745228_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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Innocent World remains one of my favourite brands, but I severely trimmed back my collection this year. The "Three Archangels" dress on the right is stunning when worn, and I think it's very flattering on my hourglass figure. I hope to purchase more long OPs from them in this cut, in the coming year.</div>
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L'esprit de la Noblesse</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTnum7UxErcx3RsAtnnLWp7AlhmVl9RqxvwKtfyt8QbA-ujuVRbu9TiKI-gyUS6z91XhyreOkDLJHWLr_HX90Te2pqkeO0JOl-gI4Og0CGDCLIbLfM2Da6H8MYQahIH1O4IMLXdvRpbw/s1600/15781965_10206234034129346_449072286_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTnum7UxErcx3RsAtnnLWp7AlhmVl9RqxvwKtfyt8QbA-ujuVRbu9TiKI-gyUS6z91XhyreOkDLJHWLr_HX90Te2pqkeO0JOl-gI4Og0CGDCLIbLfM2Da6H8MYQahIH1O4IMLXdvRpbw/s400/15781965_10206234034129346_449072286_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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L'esprit de la Noblesse is a Russian Indie brand, headed by an incredibly talented couple, Elizabeth and Nicolas. (You can see their signatures on a gift tag in the print of this dress). </div>
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This dress is a Christmas themed print, featuring Christmas trees, angels and small children in period dress. I love the long hemline, as well as the delicate, faintly metallic chiffon.</div>
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Part of their proceeds from this print went towards donating Christmas presents to the elderly, and children in need. When I received the dress, it was wrapped like a Christmas present, and accompanied by a Christmas tree ornament and Russian Christmas Card. It filled me with the joy and spirit of Christmas. I can't say I've had such a full experience connected to ordering a dress before! </div>
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You can find their Etsy shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LEspritDeLaNoblesse" target="_blank">here</a>. I highly recommend following them for future release. </div>
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Makiro</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZtqNIQp5PNCTJ4edZIiu78_7mod_BltdLrWLJXN98JOJsePnPuB-QzGppfkow09JrMgjd-87mXgIZFcWocJpEQudMeH1r9OAyasSYQN7IhFVDT6QvXbnO9ZTpp5n9xBUCjNdGIMLIfAA/s1600/15801490_10206234034289350_350519833_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZtqNIQp5PNCTJ4edZIiu78_7mod_BltdLrWLJXN98JOJsePnPuB-QzGppfkow09JrMgjd-87mXgIZFcWocJpEQudMeH1r9OAyasSYQN7IhFVDT6QvXbnO9ZTpp5n9xBUCjNdGIMLIfAA/s400/15801490_10206234034289350_350519833_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I believe Makiro is a Taobao shop. I purchased this dress second-hand, so I can't say for sure.</div>
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Marie Antoinette seemed very on-trend this year, and is popular with Lolitas in general. I, however, greatly prefer Elizabeth the First as a style icon. When I saw her on the print of this dress, I just had to add it to my collection. </div>
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Metamorphose temps de fille</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOyA-4rm0DJvGKjKiYhRZle0AA1nPnMH2JtmoKHJfh8AfasgODafYkzV616LK41D2idlKjAP0_3XS-8r5eaLFEh7mNkwI4unIriP3MmfKbjZTB7mmA9vewJDM7pczPZ9P45572-VbkDKg/s1600/15820309_10206234033969342_1018699197_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOyA-4rm0DJvGKjKiYhRZle0AA1nPnMH2JtmoKHJfh8AfasgODafYkzV616LK41D2idlKjAP0_3XS-8r5eaLFEh7mNkwI4unIriP3MmfKbjZTB7mmA9vewJDM7pczPZ9P45572-VbkDKg/s320/15820309_10206234033969342_1018699197_n.jpg" width="193" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpZm9I8PX2A12nAi0Oh1S0bB_TbpEjLW5aa9FGa-5-tcPPHda7CcSAiw4kd1q8XKYWptYbcdYXA-SGLf8BSFeBnn0-p32C0pUjqi7Y40VbaMHTAvSXvAHsbhUGnwaZ8_aUZk0xVHaF1Lc/s1600/15820283_10206234034009343_511922739_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpZm9I8PX2A12nAi0Oh1S0bB_TbpEjLW5aa9FGa-5-tcPPHda7CcSAiw4kd1q8XKYWptYbcdYXA-SGLf8BSFeBnn0-p32C0pUjqi7Y40VbaMHTAvSXvAHsbhUGnwaZ8_aUZk0xVHaF1Lc/s320/15820283_10206234034009343_511922739_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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When I first started Lolita, Metamorphose was my favourite brand. Today, I have surprisingly few pieces from them. </div>
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The Nostalgic Matryoshka Doll set, on the right, is the first set I've purchased from them in years. (The last thing I purchased from them directly was the <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2011/02/019-honey-picnic-lucky-pack.html" target="_blank">Honey Picnic Lucky Pack</a>!) However, I have an affinity for Matryoshka Nesting dolls, and have a small collection of them, now displayed in my daughter's nursery. So I could not resist investing in this set!</div>
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Purchasing it was a bit of a blood bath. I was travelling for work training, and six or seven months pregnant, but still woke up at 3 am to buy it! I'm happy I did, because the red colourway sold out in a matter of minutes. </div>
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Moi Meme Moitie</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWq6DfNtNSbBx8F0vxPQqnr__xpuTXE6thmEtgiTJBrQ747Ni66_ud5iVS06d5T5NTiQXDveBAMSKX_Xmvi9fe69ezhJtA8KzFaYcmanAKbK9HB9TmsreEFsYuimuH8hLVK-URZOOcojI/s1600/15801090_10206234033049319_329973410_n+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWq6DfNtNSbBx8F0vxPQqnr__xpuTXE6thmEtgiTJBrQ747Ni66_ud5iVS06d5T5NTiQXDveBAMSKX_Xmvi9fe69ezhJtA8KzFaYcmanAKbK9HB9TmsreEFsYuimuH8hLVK-URZOOcojI/s400/15801090_10206234033049319_329973410_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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I actually just sold this, but I like the coordinate photo anyway. As much as I love Moitie, I always end up parting ways with their pieces. I think part of the problem is the empire waist, which makes my bust look much bigger than it really is. </div>
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Funny, a lot of styles these days are hyper-sexualized and would probably value that! But in Lolita, it just doesn't go with the aesthetic, so it had to go. </div>
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Sweet Mildred</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5F0qfqi9MUaBryw11ONAEMoaVtmazdshb2R3WTpcExPDkIw1KB6ePT0QcV2NZ-oCpGPMfMCWF401SCWI-hLeflfZZi89WaAW0ZqmwwLpX2rlsNVbgdwa1hI2AmQnqOYBxGBDUwEeEmw/s1600/15782120_10206234033849339_741472732_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5F0qfqi9MUaBryw11ONAEMoaVtmazdshb2R3WTpcExPDkIw1KB6ePT0QcV2NZ-oCpGPMfMCWF401SCWI-hLeflfZZi89WaAW0ZqmwwLpX2rlsNVbgdwa1hI2AmQnqOYBxGBDUwEeEmw/s400/15782120_10206234033849339_741472732_n.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Sweet Mildred is a wonderful Indie brand that I highly recommend. I believe she is mostly known for her high-quality headpieces, of which I also own; but she also has a variety of jsks appropriate for Lolita and Otome fashion. This coffee jsk, which I purchased from her in-person at a convention, is one of my favourites. I love the unique charcoal colour, and how well it compliments warm tones such as brown. </div>
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You can check out Sweet Mildred on Etsy, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/sweetmildred" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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Triple Fortune</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAxn_0J6DvX9o4W-zmOaVncvbel16SDTM9Jx6xA88dMQGUGcRchoed8UgWe-1wAbmR3N-NjYzM9KP6YAuyTg7Htrqv_csS7DyxEqs3yi36sCpa7kSozhR8VGHv3nHFxNl7JPDgb408RhM/s1600/15801620_10206234032809313_726636708_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAxn_0J6DvX9o4W-zmOaVncvbel16SDTM9Jx6xA88dMQGUGcRchoed8UgWe-1wAbmR3N-NjYzM9KP6YAuyTg7Htrqv_csS7DyxEqs3yi36sCpa7kSozhR8VGHv3nHFxNl7JPDgb408RhM/s320/15801620_10206234032809313_726636708_n.png" width="258" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmw4hHVnuyreJxrqc5kmX8YxNcRmxjk7l0qtCdQnc4t2lFpdZ2MoNIC73ICxjQ0jqqvNqVbUzqL6YMZ9sLhSTWEicCSrhhyHsq3CstnpOTBr81ZdMtUTsucH09NgH42Phx8EpRPDkS68/s1600/15801499_10206234032769312_238551690_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmw4hHVnuyreJxrqc5kmX8YxNcRmxjk7l0qtCdQnc4t2lFpdZ2MoNIC73ICxjQ0jqqvNqVbUzqL6YMZ9sLhSTWEicCSrhhyHsq3CstnpOTBr81ZdMtUTsucH09NgH42Phx8EpRPDkS68/s320/15801499_10206234032769312_238551690_n.png" width="259" /></a></div>
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Triple Fortune was an unattainable brand for me for many years. Though I've loved their bonnets for as long as I could remember, they lacked a website where one could have their goods shipped overseas. So until recently, you needed an intensive shopping service to order from them. </div>
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However, recently Triple Fortune has started doing more and more events outside of Japan, allowing multiple opportunities to purchase from them in-person. Their increased popularity has also lead to more releases, which made them more attainable on the second-hand market. Because of these factors, I increased my bonnet collection from one to three, and also invested in my first Triple Fortune main piece.</div>
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I love it, but I will probably invest in a nice long petticoat for it this year. I am currently using a hoop skirt, to accommodate the long, full skirt. Though it fills out the silhouette perfectly while standing, I tried to wear the outfit like this to a tea party, and it was utterly impractical! The hoop skirt simply pushed forward and got in the way. It was very difficult to sit in, and as the host of the tea party, I was up and down constantly. I definitely need a proper petticoat for this dress, or to pass it on to the next lucky Lolita! </div>
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In addition to the above items, I also have these currently "in transit"... </div>
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I'm very excited to post about my Chantilly Lucky Bag! Some of my friends purchased one and got a great haul, so I have high expectations. </div>
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I was going to post individual accessories such as jewelry, tops, shoes, and bags, but this post is long enough as it is! That is why this year, I decided to post each main piece as it's own "coordinate", with hints of the other items included. It's not a thorough documentation, but close enough for me!</div>
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I hope that you enjoyed this wardrobe post, and that it wasn't too long! I am excited to see how it grows and changes in the year ahead! I wonder what new releases await this year, or what old dream dresses may pop up second hand? </div>
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As always, thank you for reading! I look forward to checking out everyone else's wardrobe posts this month!</div>
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Xoxo, Cherie </div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-46867742087467077502016-02-10T06:54:00.000-08:002016-02-10T06:58:25.797-08:00LLC: Dresses Released When I Started LolitaHello Darlings, and Happy Hump Day!<br />
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Today I wish to discuss the topic of "Time Travel". </div>
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For my first act of time travel, I will turn back the clock and journey into the distant past- by completing a Lolita Lifestyle topic on the wrong day!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjslpdYG2DkYIJGJ9LlhrYUL_FPT49OQssQDpppmwgvbHwAOpYdEKjedmR0BliYCE5rXPMOa66UesgtMRXT3HRBKYBuxXEwN1AnCPm_sddqpVsY_Xn_NLcab3oGZd4vcm4MZvJZhE4A08o/s1600/12644893_1519765444986926_7271580847214684790_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjslpdYG2DkYIJGJ9LlhrYUL_FPT49OQssQDpppmwgvbHwAOpYdEKjedmR0BliYCE5rXPMOa66UesgtMRXT3HRBKYBuxXEwN1AnCPm_sddqpVsY_Xn_NLcab3oGZd4vcm4MZvJZhE4A08o/s320/12644893_1519765444986926_7271580847214684790_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yes, this is out of order, but I wanted to complete it very badly!</div>
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And how appropriate, that the topic shall be "Time Travel" in it's own sense. I feel it is important to look back at the roots of your fashion, to see how it evolved and consequently, how you evolved with it.<br />
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This was an odd topic for me, actually! For the past couple of years, I was fairly certain I started Lolita in 2007. I wasn't sure how or why I knew that, it just seemed like a good guesstimate to me.<br />
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So in preparation for the prompt, I started browsing Lolibrary for Jumperskirts released in 2007.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHvIldZWuPyf31W4k5jAIPwkYrwKs0WhbwDxTQNiB-IhHjuTysTR1biIz815LdVVxFox2I5JeQ-wJkbSEZHogbxJIjlvO4JbaR52mEUYwBbWY3mMCt3_fRdxvhaQlOPAOO1C0oYBEPbA/s1600/2007+-+Apple+Print+-+810503+%25281%2529_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHvIldZWuPyf31W4k5jAIPwkYrwKs0WhbwDxTQNiB-IhHjuTysTR1biIz815LdVVxFox2I5JeQ-wJkbSEZHogbxJIjlvO4JbaR52mEUYwBbWY3mMCt3_fRdxvhaQlOPAOO1C0oYBEPbA/s200/2007+-+Apple+Print+-+810503+%25281%2529_0.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_nzvgdD5FBrh4yuB-PflQHhDDyjNMot1BXYkfTshxojajbrm-FyAWziy2_AmLlTpNxZWOEYk6gPLSc3LFGWU8llq5Wydd_Bqo4OYEBBI0EmwHLo-lv4ncfwCnBIhgt7OjjteP_KLBVO8/s1600/2007+-+Gingham+Cherry+720515+%25281%2529_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_nzvgdD5FBrh4yuB-PflQHhDDyjNMot1BXYkfTshxojajbrm-FyAWziy2_AmLlTpNxZWOEYk6gPLSc3LFGWU8llq5Wydd_Bqo4OYEBBI0EmwHLo-lv4ncfwCnBIhgt7OjjteP_KLBVO8/s200/2007+-+Gingham+Cherry+720515+%25281%2529_0.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLTlM09cM7uLVooVrJlyac1Uteun5e8k3vJ8dq43C1VbM6mfhHL1zJOeX9gV9BnvU9M1wdMh0XFq8_cWL5N-PCIJ9lzWz3QQNMtN8S7k8AYvETOi6Zou0EVb-qCZX7gbCT_eO6ASljUs/s1600/2007+-+Heart+Pocket+-+730508++%25281%2529_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLTlM09cM7uLVooVrJlyac1Uteun5e8k3vJ8dq43C1VbM6mfhHL1zJOeX9gV9BnvU9M1wdMh0XFq8_cWL5N-PCIJ9lzWz3QQNMtN8S7k8AYvETOi6Zou0EVb-qCZX7gbCT_eO6ASljUs/s200/2007+-+Heart+Pocket+-+730508++%25281%2529_1.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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Indeed, Metamorphose was in its heyday! I remembered the release of Gingham Cherry quite well, and have ever since pined for the navy blue jumperskirt with matching boater hat. I even owned the embroidery pocket jsk on the far right, at some point! </div>
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But as I was browsing the dresses of 2007, I thought, these were all released when I was already in to Lolita fashion. I remembered seeing the updates on websites and on EGL, so surely I was already decently "in" to the fashion? I couldn't have just been a beginner!</div>
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So... did I start Lolita in 2006?? </div>
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I plugged the year "2006" into Lolibrary, and low and behold, I saw it- the first dress I ever bought from Metamorphose.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-hKmdgF1fn_KkwVKevEokOsvY7ZOo-xn4SK4cD-rMzbjU7QGg8IzlHNe5iRJinSrSUTCJJQUdJc3wyz2X97Dpqhbd4PR7CKZ7-E2mqfEh9jrv1cZ9pLk7Z8LoUQifhUvli30G2LvRXQ/s1600/2006+-+Melody+Note+-+630513+%25281%2529_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-hKmdgF1fn_KkwVKevEokOsvY7ZOo-xn4SK4cD-rMzbjU7QGg8IzlHNe5iRJinSrSUTCJJQUdJc3wyz2X97Dpqhbd4PR7CKZ7-E2mqfEh9jrv1cZ9pLk7Z8LoUQifhUvli30G2LvRXQ/s320/2006+-+Melody+Note+-+630513+%25281%2529_0.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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"Back in the day", Metamorphose was one of the few easily accessible Japanese web shops for Lolita that shipped worldwide. So in my first humble beginnings in the quest to acquire a Lolita dress, Metamorphose was where I directed my mouse to.<br />
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I didn't have this dress for long, and I'm not sure I even wore it- but I can never forget that Music Note Print, the tulle collar and trim, and the gathered tulle bustle back of this dress.<br />
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A quick browse through the archives sent me down memory lane, with a number of other dresses I used to own:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ECzFkFdxKXQlpRI9ct268G6iavfs499pZS9I8uqNh2IrmuzM-5ozgKYkoB-kmAHnvs5hAgkfUzeUf4vQspQBAI9FqPX1_FslZHwdvLt6dUyVAtC6wB0ENU4VXpwv8Tnws10-NPRLdhs/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-02-09+at+13.07.25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ECzFkFdxKXQlpRI9ct268G6iavfs499pZS9I8uqNh2IrmuzM-5ozgKYkoB-kmAHnvs5hAgkfUzeUf4vQspQBAI9FqPX1_FslZHwdvLt6dUyVAtC6wB0ENU4VXpwv8Tnws10-NPRLdhs/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-02-09+at+13.07.25.png" width="239" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXZjfg18YFrgxNE9lyUYJctNLeah9XBn6XDioZLw3cx4gxN2j7T5_gJGWFmfhMtqnQ76jmffbM3l5i0kEbOkYb6zMlRcK_Nw4FwrTVIzMJo5VCG0AIArQlJF0N2Zl71GSIRj7aqnzTIs/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-02-09+at+13.18.03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXZjfg18YFrgxNE9lyUYJctNLeah9XBn6XDioZLw3cx4gxN2j7T5_gJGWFmfhMtqnQ76jmffbM3l5i0kEbOkYb6zMlRcK_Nw4FwrTVIzMJo5VCG0AIArQlJF0N2Zl71GSIRj7aqnzTIs/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-02-09+at+13.18.03.png" width="238" /></a></div>
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Looks like I always fancied the unusual colors!</div>
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And of course, I had a Candy Violet by Vivcore Classic Set in blue.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxVfrWx_P5hyphenhyphen9dNmr6E7ZbvLkhRHDtsMqGDyl-WPH0OlvLumIKTd8KTGSTRTgDSZ0EWR7vxgDfQOIYYFnWuC-SeEAbn1a6UxaGj4OdPbwHGKcuMsp-X9S_-liCWyzEtxbWi9enzuRHkWI/s1600/set_blue_classic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxVfrWx_P5hyphenhyphen9dNmr6E7ZbvLkhRHDtsMqGDyl-WPH0OlvLumIKTd8KTGSTRTgDSZ0EWR7vxgDfQOIYYFnWuC-SeEAbn1a6UxaGj4OdPbwHGKcuMsp-X9S_-liCWyzEtxbWi9enzuRHkWI/s1600/set_blue_classic.jpg" /></a></div>
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It was quite fun and nostalgic, browsing the archives of dresses released when I started Lolita fashion. The fashion has certainly changed a lot in ten years!</div>
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But also, I am kind of sad I didn't realize it's been 10 years! This year marks 10 years in Lolita fashion for me and I didn't even know it! At least I noticed it early on in the year, and I can still celebrate, and make this the best year so far.</div>
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Xoxo,</div>
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Cherie </div>
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Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-41658275713759811612016-02-09T09:50:00.001-08:002016-02-09T10:03:04.444-08:00LLC: Lolita Fragrances<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3CUFXHLYGjcAh7Vwv06EJDZN0ZV7R1UuRK3kteC21DbvtydxyazhfEJ2uKLcfynaY8bfOZxwcz4DsErRMTsY9Nq0MfHGVYbfpIJjUFd1tjPeZecyLZmuUx6dvYbFPX9o3DgyDWP7nEhM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-02-09+at+12.25.34.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3CUFXHLYGjcAh7Vwv06EJDZN0ZV7R1UuRK3kteC21DbvtydxyazhfEJ2uKLcfynaY8bfOZxwcz4DsErRMTsY9Nq0MfHGVYbfpIJjUFd1tjPeZecyLZmuUx6dvYbFPX9o3DgyDWP7nEhM/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-02-09+at+12.25.34.png" width="313" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of my favourite things on my vanity.</td></tr>
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Lace a la Mode's 365 Day Lolita Lifestyle Challenge is sometimes a challenge to blog about- it may prompt an activity, such as reading a Lolita related text, rather than producing blog content.<br />
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Today, Day 40, was one of those such days, but I decided to turn it into a blog post, anyway!<br />
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Simple enough, yet the act of wearing a fragrance can be the heart of your outfit. It can effect your worldview, causing you to see the world through rose-tinted glasses. Though invisible, I feel that fragrance is as important to an outfit as accessories and makeup. </div>
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Before continuing on, I recommend reading The Osaka Koneko's translation of <a href="http://theosakakoneko.blogspot.de/2010/02/lets-talk-about-perfume.html" target="_blank">Novala Takemoto's "Let's Talk About Perfume"</a>. Novala's light-hearted article, translated into English there explains the different types on perfumes he likes, and also provides some practical knowledge on the ranking of perfumes. (The Osaka Koneko also has some great perfume recommendations herself, at the end of her post.) </div>
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As Novala states in the essay, "While the note of a perfume (the scent of a perfume is called the “note”) changes slightly from person to person when worn, much like clothing, we don’t want to wear the same thing as everyone else. Because of this, whenever I’m asked to recommend a perfume, I always hesitate. I can only give advice to choose it yourself." </div>
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That being said, I would like very much to share my personal favourite fragrances below, and why I think they are a good match for my Lolita style. </div>
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While I enjoy them enough that I could implore you to try them yourself, I would follow Novala's advice and select a fragrance that speaks to you- and brings out the "note" of your own character.</div>
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I'll begin with my personal favourite fragrance, "Live Colorfully" by Kate Spade.</div>
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With a keynote of gardenia, and undertones of mandarin, tahitian vanilla, tiare flower and coconut water, this perfume is complex and sparkling. It works both as an energetic day fragrance I can even wear to work, or as a playful scent for going out.</div>
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The bottle is dazzling with a kaleidoscope of golds, corals and soft pinks. The bow-shaped topper is the perfect girly accent to top it all off. </div>
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I believe this perfume captures the playful, explorative, creative essence of Lolita fashion. It is also refined, sweet and classy. </div>
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Next on my list is "Miss Dior Cherie". Described as "Pure, Precious, Elegant", this is another fragrance that encapsulates the essence of Lolita, to me. </div>
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This fragrance has a heart of jasmine, with notes of mandarin and patchouli. The result is a sweet, innocent fragrance that is not too bold; much like delicate lace.</div>
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With the pale champagne complexion and dazzling silver ribbon topper, this would also look elegant on any Lolita's vanity.</div>
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My next selection is "Babydoll" by Yves Saint Laurent.</div>
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I first tried this perfume because of the musician Miyavi, who once stated in his profile that his perfumes of choice were "Dior Addict" and "YSL Babydoll". Novala also mentioned Babydoll in his article, "Let's Talk About Perfume". </div>
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With it's elegant, fresh, and youthful charm, it is not surprising that Babydoll is so popular. A flirty mixture of grapefruit, red currant and rose, with base notes of grenadine, cedar and peach, this perfume is complex and dynamic. </div>
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The sparkling bottle is made to resemble a spinning top, much like the ever-changing scents in the fragrance. </div>
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I feel this perfume captures my more adventurous side in Lolita- the side that wants to wear bold, unique colours, paint my nails in a new style, or try a new makeup trend. This perfume is stylish and elegant, yes, but also a little punky to me- as if made for a fashion trail blazer. </div>
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And with that, we round out my top three fragrances. As you can see, perfume cannot only encapsulate who you are as a person, but it can also be the perfect pick-me-up, or the cherry on top of your clothing. Whether you are an expert in the field of perfume or more new to it, like me, I encourage you to play with the scents next time you are at a Sephora or Department store. Close your eyes, and see which one speaks to you!</div>
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Xoxo,</div>
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Cherie</div>
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Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-38193178721587959082016-02-01T06:37:00.000-08:002016-02-01T06:51:47.655-08:00LLC: Plan a Valentine's Meet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Good morning from the snowy East Coast, darlings!<br />
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I haven't been doing a spectacular job of keeping up with Lace a la Mode's Lolita Lifestyle Challenge, but seeing as today is officially the first of February, today's topic seemed appropriate:<br />
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I've actually never attended a Valentines Day Meet, but I would love to attend or host one! Although Valentines Day is considered annoying and garish by many, it has always been one of my favourite holidays, as I'm a true sap and hopeless romantic at heart. I don't even mind the eyeball-searing colour scheme of pink and red (I actually rather fancy those colours together).<br />
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If I were to host a Valentines Day meet, I would do it in a number of different ways:<br />
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<li>Sweet and Simple: a Red, Pink and White meet</li>
<li>Match Made in Heaven! A Twinning meet</li>
<li>Simply Meant to Be: A Fairy Tale meet</li>
<li>I Want Candy: A Sweets themed meet</li>
<li>Roses are Red: A Floral themed meet</li>
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Aren't you already daydreaming of coords for the above? </div>
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For locations, I would consider somewhere with ample space for both socialising and a potluck:</div>
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<li>A Tea Room</li>
<li>Your Home</li>
<li>A Park or Garden (if it's not too cold where you live) </li>
<li>Your comm's favourite local cafe or restaurant</li>
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Any of these locations would be ideal, as I foresee a meet with Valentines themed festivities, games, and recipes. Of course if you are going to a restaurant or cafe instead of members contributing to a potluck, I would try and pick a location that served Valentines-esque food: for example, a shop with both savory and sweet crepes, a place for brunch, an ice cream parlour, or a local cafe/patisserie.</div>
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I would let myself get carried away with the decor! After all, what other holiday allows me to purchase the most loliable party decorations ever? Patterned Paper Straws, heart shaped plates, pink, red or white everything- it would be so much fun! Even if you are going to a restaurant, tea room or cafe, most establishments are okay with you bringing your own table embellishments.</div>
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One idea I have for a Valentine's Meet is "<b>Secret Valentine</b>". Like Secret Santa, I would ask the attendees to draw a random name of another guest for the meet. For that guest, they would be asked to make a handmade Valentine, and a gift of $5 or less- it could be a handmade accessory that goes with their style, handmade cookies or desserts, a custom drawing of them, etc. That way, everyone who comes will have a Valentine.</div>
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Another cute game could be "<b>Who Am I?</b>" (I played this version with my J-fashion Community in Hawaii last year.) </div>
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You will need one or two sheets of adhesive name-tags, blank. On each square, write a Lolita identity- it can be designer names, model names, brand names, or even genres such as Sweet or Gothic Lolita! Throw in other elements of J-fashion if you like, such as Mori Girl, Dolly Kei, Visual kei, etc.</div>
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One game leader will distribute the labels to guests, who must not see their own "name". Stick it somewhere like on the person's back where they will not be able to look. Guests can break up into groups of three participants each, if you are dealing with a big group. Each guest will have to ask a question to try and figure out who they are, and the other people in their group will answer to help them guess. </div>
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It's a lot of fun, especially if you get something way out of your element! It's quite entertaining seeing a Gothic Lolita find out she is "Maki" or "Asuka", or a Classic Lolita finding out she is "Visual Kei". </div>
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If you'd like a more challenging game, you can reverse the roles and play charades! It might be quite entertaining watching guests act out some unique personalities and styles, but may be more difficult as guests cannot talk. </div>
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Of course there are many other Valentines-specific games you can find online; a few I found were Bingo with candy hearts as markers, or relay races to see how many candy hearts you can pick up with chopsticks in a minute. There's plenty you can do to keep your guests entertained!</div>
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If you're hosting a potluck type meet, there are plenty of adorable things you can prepare for your guests, from simple heart shaped fruit kebabs, for beginners...</div>
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... To apple or potato rosettes, for the more seasoned cook.</div>
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It may also be a good idea to get a small chocolate fondue pot, with strawberries, gharam crackers and marshmallows. It seems like a fun activity for guests to enjoy together- although it might be dangerous for Lolitas, with that drippy chocolate!</div>
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Of course, as the meet is winding down, it is always fun to have a coordinate contest. The themes can be Valentines-tailored as well, including "Cutest Couple" (two coords that match well, intentionally or unintentionally), "Best Chocolate Coord", "Best Sweets Coord", "Best Floral Coord", etc. I think coordinate contests are a great way to encourage healthy competition, and to encourage everyone to put their best coord forward for meets. </div>
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I hope that these ideas help inspire you to have your own Valentines Meet in your comm! I am a little sad I won't be able to host one this year, as it falls on Katsucon anyways. But perhaps next year, I can! And in the meantime, many of these ideas can be recycled for a regular Lolita meet, anyways.</div>
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Any more ideas for a Valentines Meet, or stories from one you attended? I would love to hear about it, as I am always looking for new meet ideas!<br />
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For more tips on <b>how to host an at-home meet-up</b>, and for the Lolita game "<b>Lolita Scattergories</b>", please click <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2016/01/how-to-host-at-home-meet-up.html" target="_blank">here!</a></div>
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Xoxo,</div>
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Cherie</div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-22256842571668412822016-01-25T09:17:00.003-08:002016-01-25T09:19:25.411-08:00Review: Alice Fururun, and Where to Buy OnlineSince I started Lolita in 2007, it's become increasingly easier to purchase Lolita clothing online. Gone are the days where only Baby and Metamorphose shipped abroad, and most Lolitas on a budget had to sew clothing themselves or painstakingly search it out online. These days, there's a myriad of shopping choices out there for you to get your frill on; whether you want to order brand-direct, or bargain hunt from the second-hand shops.<br />
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Today I'll be focusing on Japanese second-hand shops, and the ones I normally frequent. All of them are good, but may have varying degrees of difficulty to navigate the site, communicate with staff, and place an order.<br />
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I'll start for my most recent order, from <a href="http://www.fururun.com/" target="_blank">Alice Fururun</a>.<br />
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<b>Ease of navigating site and ordering:</b> 3/5<br />
<b>Accepts Paypal?:</b> Yes<br />
<b>Staff Communication:</b> 3.5/5<br />
<b>Condition of items: </b>4/5<br />
<b>Shipping/Packaging: </b>5/5<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEY1o0xY-_zWc_oDL60khGzrqi1XNV82Awdmas0hQ2_fLT1yKqWfqm14v4LhGglwUKEM7YQmZjVHoYrNujRx2i7JuYJYeQ64pemDOXH7jUEGPtF8JrkjE5JuQcmqU4JbI-QAuXLSPHK6A/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-25+at+11.45.07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEY1o0xY-_zWc_oDL60khGzrqi1XNV82Awdmas0hQ2_fLT1yKqWfqm14v4LhGglwUKEM7YQmZjVHoYrNujRx2i7JuYJYeQ64pemDOXH7jUEGPtF8JrkjE5JuQcmqU4JbI-QAuXLSPHK6A/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-01-25+at+11.45.07.png" width="256" /></a></div>
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Alice Fururun has been around since I first started Lolita, and their site hasn't changed much over the years. Most if not all of it is in Japanese, with enough English pointers for you to scrape by and make an order. It helps to be able to read katakana, as most of the brand names are written in katakana. (Or, use Google Translate if you like.)</div>
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That being said, navigating the site can be a little difficult. One glitch I found was that when I shop, and am looking at several items, I like to open them in new tabs with the main search results still open. This is mostly because I am lazy and don't want to hit the back button a million times. However, I noticed when I added items into my cart in a new tab, then closed it and went back to the main search, it would empty my cart from that tab. So in other words, all of the items I added to my cart in a separate tab disappeared as soon as I closed that tab. Needless to say, I was very confused, but as soon as I figured out I'd need to do all of my shopping in one window, it was fine. </div>
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Ordering-<a href="http://www.fururun.com/index-e.html" target="_blank"><b>read their Overseas Order page here</b></a>. </div>
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I checked out using the shopping cart method, but if you don't speak/read Japanese, or don't feel like running it through a translator, you can also use an e-mail order method.</div>
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Personally, I prefer the shopping cart because it partially ensures that my items will not sell out (However, I can also read Japanese so it wasn't a setback for me to use it). As soon as I check out, the items were marked 'sold out' on the site. By using the e-mail order method, you will have to wait for staff to confirm your item is in stock and mark it 'out of stock' on the site for you. </div>
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It took a couple of days for staff to email me back to confirm my order. I had to send them an email to confirm my order and payment through and that everything was okay. But then again, I did place my order pretty close to New Year's holidays, so that could explain the delay.</div>
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My items were shipped by EMS (staff provided the tracking number) and arrived quickly. Everything was very well packaged. Boleros were separately wrapped in plastic, and my purse was stored in a cardboard box to prevent denting or damages.</div>
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Everything was in decent condition considering the awesome prices. There was a black hair on the pink cardigan I ordered, but that's not that big of a deal to me. There was a dent on the front of the heart enamel purse, but that was clearly pointed out on the site, so I was expecting that. (They are very good about noting all flaws in the item descriptions, so again, Google translate is your friend if you can't read Japanese.) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwayKRFS1SUuKPYcmXQYL0cQHiu4QX0op8jh6bkFt3jE6nmeU1j-jlCzTuUF3_5x9cNuUTiBqfuvo0o78hIgytbtPDrF-4ukhhibh5xedWlNB4kTCw7yKAS0py2_mZJMIrNSTrxX7KpXk/s1600/12509442_10204101208690043_3126927330522535774_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwayKRFS1SUuKPYcmXQYL0cQHiu4QX0op8jh6bkFt3jE6nmeU1j-jlCzTuUF3_5x9cNuUTiBqfuvo0o78hIgytbtPDrF-4ukhhibh5xedWlNB4kTCw7yKAS0py2_mZJMIrNSTrxX7KpXk/s200/12509442_10204101208690043_3126927330522535774_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGGm16GELOUNRb9JsukXyQADmBS8hMuaU5UGSlSUKoqG6zWnRkQ21bhE_RUn_HlnrOUdNWTQMiCcB_W_tzesBeiFADavWmSbGKFt0xofNvgy3F89bx7uyDhp9_1rJT7qTTkY5E1o6oh4/s1600/12549137_10204101209370060_2625739024511590634_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGGm16GELOUNRb9JsukXyQADmBS8hMuaU5UGSlSUKoqG6zWnRkQ21bhE_RUn_HlnrOUdNWTQMiCcB_W_tzesBeiFADavWmSbGKFt0xofNvgy3F89bx7uyDhp9_1rJT7qTTkY5E1o6oh4/s200/12549137_10204101209370060_2625739024511590634_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVEOYzVsikBqge0fykTvfALQK2J2VtAjLRgoo9HIIVVIlthtSk5GMDIhTcffrFc9WR6BS6s5ql_8KVbMMo5wzVej3VRYWXhAVp8klzAMDUBWstdJfXNXswzKw4LE5SNdFO6N4cbrQHo0c/s1600/12573775_10204101209330059_3237093722677437092_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVEOYzVsikBqge0fykTvfALQK2J2VtAjLRgoo9HIIVVIlthtSk5GMDIhTcffrFc9WR6BS6s5ql_8KVbMMo5wzVej3VRYWXhAVp8klzAMDUBWstdJfXNXswzKw4LE5SNdFO6N4cbrQHo0c/s200/12573775_10204101209330059_3237093722677437092_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-cE5fqz_fffKlZ6QH6k2_li-X7PKGGo8pw9kpbxC-7KB85wR-bzUEmpnbV4HwqexgmwcjobaUhy7BBXW46qQ9LWcxUaSchrQkh_ufxiyfZ4FBV5LAdRj8t_Uo0Sh_YeCKFJ8mSi7Gwg/s1600/12572945_10204101208850047_1221159461845441725_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-cE5fqz_fffKlZ6QH6k2_li-X7PKGGo8pw9kpbxC-7KB85wR-bzUEmpnbV4HwqexgmwcjobaUhy7BBXW46qQ9LWcxUaSchrQkh_ufxiyfZ4FBV5LAdRj8t_Uo0Sh_YeCKFJ8mSi7Gwg/s320/12572945_10204101208850047_1221159461845441725_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The price was awesome for everything I got. The cardigans were 1,500 and 2,500 yen, I got a Baby plastic headband for 1,000 yen, and the heart enamel purse with strap was only 3,000 yen. Including shipping, all four items were right around $100. </div>
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So that was my first experience with Alice Fururun, and I was fairly pleased! </div>
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There are plenty of other places to shop online and get a great bargain, though. Out of the Japanese online retailers, these are some of my favourite to buy from:</div>
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<li><a href="http://www.wunderwelt.jp/" target="_blank">Wunderwelt</a> (review coming soon!)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.fairy-angel.net/" target="_blank">Fairy-Angel</a> (review coming soon!)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.closetchildonlineshop.com/" target="_blank">Closet Child</a> (If you're reading this, you probably don't need a review, you know they're legit and easy to use.)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.rakuten.co.jp/tokyoalice/" target="_blank">Tokyo-Alice</a></li>
<li><a href="http://usagiyouhinten.ocnk.net/" target="_blank">Usagi Youhinten</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.maidenclothing.net/index.php" target="_blank">Maiden Clothing</a></li>
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I have orders coming in from Wunderwelt and Fairy-Angel, so maybe when they come in I will write up a joint review similar to this one. This was my first time ordering from Wunderwelt and I like them so far; as for Fairy-Angel, they've been around about as long as Alice Fururun and I have ordered from them before. They were very sweet and great to work with, and I am expecting the same this time around.</div>
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Well I hope that this was useful, and now you have two shiny new reviews to look forward to! If you have any questions about navigating Alice Fururun or the above sites, leave me a comment and I'll try to help you out.</div>
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Xoxo,</div>
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Cherie</div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-48327763343379023352016-01-17T11:38:00.000-08:002016-01-17T11:44:57.137-08:00Darkly Darling at Kawaiikon 2015<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSuoNc3b2HH4Oq7ok7imFL9A6zAv5lXzien-jsdoVIFprD_EqfT0wobV6u7W1VocJ9cF95eUSEsmIOeF8xiigVRiveLepb7Um1rjB5ht1YM8iPaH5BL1QyvmD3fjh5dWQOfCWwgvtW3c/s1600/10312407_943585819025213_393059706660532588_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSuoNc3b2HH4Oq7ok7imFL9A6zAv5lXzien-jsdoVIFprD_EqfT0wobV6u7W1VocJ9cF95eUSEsmIOeF8xiigVRiveLepb7Um1rjB5ht1YM8iPaH5BL1QyvmD3fjh5dWQOfCWwgvtW3c/s320/10312407_943585819025213_393059706660532588_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting outside to meet Akira!</td></tr>
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To me, Sundays are "me" time- a time to cook a nice meal, catch up on work, do some exercise, and maybe even take a nice, relaxing bath. After a fulfilling Sunday of reflection and relaxation, I feel refreshed, grounded and ready to face the next week ahead.<br />
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When it comes to my blog, I would like to keep that feeling, and also use it as my day to write about events that passed- after all, I missed coverage of many events when I took a hiatus from my blog, last year!<br />
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For today's reflection, I would like to share my experience at <a href="http://kawaiikon.com/" target="_blank">Kawaiikon</a> last year, 2015. I ran two panels at this Kawaiikon: An informative J-fashion panel on Shironuri, as well as an independent fashion show for my own aspiring Lolita brand, Darkly Darling.<br />
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The convention began on a hectic note, and did not set a good tone for the rest of the weekend. We rushed to our hotel with our room mates as soon as I got home from work, Friday. I knew that the next morning, I would have to wake up at 4am to rush to the windward side of Oahu, in order to run an event for work, so I was already in a stressed-out mood.<br />
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The next morning went exactly as you'd expect, trying desperately not to awake my husband and room mates as I got ready for work. I knew that as soon as I left work, I'd have to rush in order to make the Akira tea party, so I did everything I could before hand- I even applied most of my Lolita makeup, including contacts, at 4 am.<br />
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I was very tired at work, and felt silly in such extreme makeup. On top of that, it was raining on the windward side, like it always does, so my false lashes were starting to come off and my hair was a wreck!<br />
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Finally, when the event started to wind down, I was allowed to leave- only to run head-on into horrible traffic trying to get into town! I had paid a lot of extra money in order to attend the Akira tea party, and was scared I wouldn't make it at all.<br />
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I finally made it back to my hotel room, with barely thirty minutes to spare. I threw on my outfit and wig, and ran across the street to the convention center. I looked barely put together, incredibly tired, and most of my foundation had worn away already, but I was just happy to make it to the tea party.<br />
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At least the tea party was a pleasure! Akira sat at each table, making pleasant conversation and making everyone smile. She even noticed that not everyone could reach the food in the middle of the tables, so she helped to serve girls who were far away or had bell sleeves and couldn't reach! We played games too, and many of us got to take selfies with Akira.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0GDg8gs1j1m9jo6RDqBjfLMT0QLTIKaxMqrrNEs5kbV4CWM7iNHppWgPEzgWvqTs_ZLGTvVR2xp6u66EPh4pyqVr7ZQSaX-uiytuq6oL18IZYeviLikSSxnjIJ3dzn7ILGpwuLYz2XAA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-17+at+14.29.36.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0GDg8gs1j1m9jo6RDqBjfLMT0QLTIKaxMqrrNEs5kbV4CWM7iNHppWgPEzgWvqTs_ZLGTvVR2xp6u66EPh4pyqVr7ZQSaX-uiytuq6oL18IZYeviLikSSxnjIJ3dzn7ILGpwuLYz2XAA/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-01-17+at+14.29.36.png" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqDMtTDI7_YVZdYNSWqnEKddHxYYaGSeVZ5IR0zL_N8L1UYotTtcSvn0P10FvZYc_Bpwe56oF7eAJksj2drp6uyuC4vUHaThhUriwd7DArkMjSYwrtfm7ihS-QDNnAlVfM5okw710RiCo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-17+at+14.30.07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqDMtTDI7_YVZdYNSWqnEKddHxYYaGSeVZ5IR0zL_N8L1UYotTtcSvn0P10FvZYc_Bpwe56oF7eAJksj2drp6uyuC4vUHaThhUriwd7DArkMjSYwrtfm7ihS-QDNnAlVfM5okw710RiCo/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-01-17+at+14.30.07.png" width="256" /></a></div>
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At the end of the teaparty, she gave out autographed photos, cheki, and small pieces of sakura incense to each guest. I was walking on clouds, I was so happy that I actually made it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmCRb7VAdxTKM-O-tK2wvcbCfdZJVMm6CSFYBmFxU77qIo0bwiUWpUqCPZFOljgEgzvlWMhuIzTGKqYLRqT9o-pTV_5Ty5GNCVGCbs9SQoAJvNg9MCp6j3w5jSigbmtBB0KIKMYsq6R0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-17+at+14.00.33.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmCRb7VAdxTKM-O-tK2wvcbCfdZJVMm6CSFYBmFxU77qIo0bwiUWpUqCPZFOljgEgzvlWMhuIzTGKqYLRqT9o-pTV_5Ty5GNCVGCbs9SQoAJvNg9MCp6j3w5jSigbmtBB0KIKMYsq6R0/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-01-17+at+14.00.33.png" width="319" /></a></div>
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But come Saturday evening, I cloud-walked right back into another rough patch.<br />
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I was scheduled to host a Shironuri panel, which I had been spending all of my free-time on for months! I put hours of work into the presentation, spending my lunch breaks at work working on it, and staying late after work to wait out traffic working on it. But it was late at night for a panel, almost midnight; and a rather obscure topic at that, so I was expecting barely a couple of friends to show up. I wasn't that worried.<br />
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So I was shocked to see so many people in attendance!<br />
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I had everything set to go- a detailed power-point on the history of Shironuri, different sub-styles of it and related media, and pictures donated from Shironuri practitioners around the world.<br />
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As part of my day job, I did presentations for a living; I had also organized events in these convention rooms the year before. That being said, I wasn't expecting any surprises with the presentation, or the technology. So of course, I was mortified to set up my laptop, and found that my entire Powerpoint was corrupted!! I couldn't even open it, from my laptop or my external hard drive!<br />
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I had my crack tech friend come up and help me, trying to retrieve or backup the Powerpoint, but nothing was working.<br />
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I was absolutely panicked, since I also had a room full of people in front of me, expecting a presentation. I picked up the microphone, and explained what had happened- I also told the guests that since Shironuri is such a visual and abstract style, it would be really difficult to explain without the accompanying images. I decided to call off the panel.<br />
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A lot of the attendees were rather angry, and asked, why don't I just pull up some pictures and talk about it? I was already about to cry, and the frustrated voices were making me panic more. I told them I had a very detailed history and lots of notes in my presentation, and it would be hard to do without it. Not to mention, the convention center did not have free Wifi, so just googling images and pulling up different blogs would have been another hurdle! But I didn't mention that.<br />
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Of course, I was sick to my stomach after this had happened. I basically apologized, and walked off stage. A few of my friends comforted me as people started to leave.<br />
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At least as people were trickling out, a mother and daughter came up to me and said they wanted to thank me for hosting a fashion-related late night panel. They said that there is usually not a lot of family-friendly content offered later at night, and the fashion was interesting, so they were looking forward to it.<br />
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They asked about the makeup I use, so I took out my supplies and showed them the basics of applying a white foundation, and setting it. By then, a small crowd had formed, and I was very comfortable just talking with them on the side.<br />
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If I could re-do that night, I would have checked my presentation earlier in my hotel room. (I would have taken a nap in the room, too!) Given, it had been a very long day for me, but even so, I should have been more professional about my panel and double-checked the presentation.<br />
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Even if I had checked it, and it had been corrupted, I would have had time to whip up something, or contact the panel coordinator so the guests wouldn't have been so upset.<br />
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Or even if I hadn't done all that- I wish I had the bravery to stand up on stage and just talk about the fashion I loved! I was dressed in it, make up done and all- why was I so upset, that I couldn't just wing it?<br />
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After all, giving presentations was part of what I did for a living. But I think it is different, when you give the same presentation every day for your job, instead of one long, intense presentation about something you love. But even so, I wish I could re-do that panel.<br />
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Hopefully, at another convention in the future, I could take a crack at this panel again. I learned a lot from that night, and feel like I could do an even better presentation this time around!<br />
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When I had that smaller crowd watching me demonstrate makeup application, I told them about my fashion show panel the next day- where I would be showing fashions for my aspiring Lolita brand, Darkly Darling. I told them which conference room it was in, and the time, and they all said they would come!<br />
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The next morning, unfortunately, was off to a rough start as well. (I couldn't catch a break at all!) I had a bad feeling since the Shironuri panel last night, and on top of that, one of my models called out sick. I got to the convention center, only to find that neither my hair nor makeup artists had showed up! I called and called and called them, and messaged them on Facebook, with no response.<br />
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Panicked again, I called my husband and asked him to bring over all of my wigs and makeup from the hotel room. I was going to make this work, no matter what. Not only did I dress my models, set up my audio equipment, and do a sound check with staff- I also did all of their hair and makeup, in about an hour!<br />
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There were still issues- my boy style model couldn't have his hair done, since I was counting on a hair stylist to work with his long, red hair. I also forgot to grab pants and accessories for him, in my hurry to get all of my outfits and do makeup. With models who didn't show up, I had to rearrange and re-prioritize my looks, which clashed with what some models brought to wear.<br />
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However, at that point in the final minutes before the show, doing a quick walk-through, I was just happy to have mostly everyone there, dressed, and ready to go.<br />
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I received a text from the event coordinator saying, "I don't want to make you nervous- but you have a line outside the conference room!" One of my friends came in and said the line was really long. I couldn't believe it!<br />
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I texted the coordinator the okay, saying we were ready and the doors could be opened. I waited back stage, watching the room fill to near capacity- and looked with awe and gratitude at my models.<br />
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The music started, and the show began!</div>
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Even Deadpools were watching on in the audience.</div>
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After the show, we received a round of applause! We stayed on stage for a very long Q&A, with all kinds of questions from the audience! I had my models stay on stage too, so they could be part of the Q&A.<br />
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Overall, it was a very long, stressful weekend, which taught me anything that can go wrong, will go wrong. But it also taught me to rely on myself, and not rely too heavily on others. Though of course, there are many wonderful people out there, like my models, not everyone is reliable.<br />
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It also taught me responsibility. I should have had the foresight to check my presentation in the hours before the panel. If I had noticed sooner, that the entire presentation was inaccessible, it might have been easier to minimize damage or come up with something on the spot.<br />
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Last but not least, that weekend taught me to look for silver linings. The world was all but falling apart, when I stood up on stage by myself and announced that I couldn't do the Shironuri panel. But when I spoke with the mother and daughter about the makeup after, they were so kind and supportive, and interested in what I had to say, so I feel like I can try that panel again in the future.<br />
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And yes, I did have to work, and dash around the island desperately in order to juggle work and my passions- but I still got to meet one of my idols, Akira.<br />
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And sure, I had models and makeup and hair artists become no-shows: but instead of panicking like the night before, I worked with the wonderful people who did come, and we used everything at our disposal to deliver a show.<br />
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I had done smaller fashion shows at bars before, where people didn't really understand or appreciate Lolita- but I think I am most proud of the Kawaiikon Fashion Show. If I could choose a benchmark from where I really started to grow and understand, it was that show. I count it as my first real fashion show!<br />
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All in all, Kawaiikon 2015 was more stress for me than anything. Much of it had to do with overbooking myself, especially since I had to work all morning on Saturday. It taught me a lot though, and helped me grow as a person. After this, I had a bit of a hiatus from sewing, and being involved in the event circuit. But now in 2016, I feel ready to move forward again, and strive to be even better!<br />
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Just remember, readers, if you ever encounter something similar, there is nothing you cannot handle; and even if you think you cannot fix it, there is always plenty to be learned. I hope that sharing this experience either helps you in the future, or maybe you've gone through something similar!<br />
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I'd actually love to know if you've ever had a Con Catastrophe like this, and what you did to handle it. Feel free to let me know in the comments- which should be much easier to use, since I switched back to the Blogger commenting system!<br />
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Happy Sunday!<br />
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CherieEricahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-50951984772852579042016-01-15T00:00:00.000-08:002016-01-15T11:15:52.110-08:00LBC: Predict 5 Trends for 2016Hello, Darlings! Here, you join me on another exciting installment of Lolita Blog Carnival!<br />
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In this exciting episode, we will review "Trend Predictions for 2016". Not to toot my own horn, but in the past when I've written about <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2011/07/5-prints-that-should-happen-right-now.html" target="_blank">Prints I'd Like to See</a> (again <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2012/10/lbc-3-prints-id-like-to-see.html" target="_blank">here</a>), or <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2013/03/lbc-spring-lolita-fashion-forecast.html" target="_blank">Trends I'd like to See</a>, I saw quite a few blip on the radar. I'm not saying I'm psychic or anything, but I like to believe my predictions are pretty well based!<br />
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So without further ado, here are the trends I see continuing or growing in 2016.<br />
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<b>1. Old School Revival</b><br />
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Be it "maxipad" rectangular headdresses, solid black and white coords, chunky platforms and RHS, or repetitive, understated sweet prints, I think this trend is on it's way back in. In the past few months I have seen a lot more blogs dedicated to the "Oldschool" aesthetic, and have seen a number of coords popping up on Coordinate Communities as well.<br />
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It is true that recently, I've been drawn back to the Oldschool aesthetic myself; so it's hard to say if the trend has really increased or if I've just noticed it more. But either way, I enjoy the understated elegance of "traditional" Lolita looks, and wouldn't mind if it made a comeback.<br />
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If you think about it logically, religious themes were very big in 2015, and many "new" dresses drew inspiration from old ones, such as lace cross appliques. It wouldn't be too much of a stretch to backpedal further into the trends that set the tone for the rest of the world over a decade ago.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlGlxuupDZp3OnHWXsW51FlylrnLvWNOJwUAu9xM54ddaxyDW8v3C9zlgEeQCUUZEZKNoqdvRcZrZaZ63vifN2kYG3G0U-KLBiGcoT6YLPa-_CIE8Gf3QHaxYHJCiXjNTCAUl8WKmDKMg/s1600/97b02c6421fc76a6221a2723752c1174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlGlxuupDZp3OnHWXsW51FlylrnLvWNOJwUAu9xM54ddaxyDW8v3C9zlgEeQCUUZEZKNoqdvRcZrZaZ63vifN2kYG3G0U-KLBiGcoT6YLPa-_CIE8Gf3QHaxYHJCiXjNTCAUl8WKmDKMg/s320/97b02c6421fc76a6221a2723752c1174.jpg" width="149" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6p4tl2Qdfw3-cHjShb7AZYvBRiRhLI0tMK9_aoND24YlfylfBa09YBUapysTdAiZaLEjojnjnvh6RAy9WIb8Yy6iaxGj3jX06QZV_kd5byKeqNe9-U8WHTntvxcOjdgQJgleVrs9A54o/s1600/oldschoolsweet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6p4tl2Qdfw3-cHjShb7AZYvBRiRhLI0tMK9_aoND24YlfylfBa09YBUapysTdAiZaLEjojnjnvh6RAy9WIb8Yy6iaxGj3jX06QZV_kd5byKeqNe9-U8WHTntvxcOjdgQJgleVrs9A54o/s320/oldschoolsweet.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>
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<b>2. Punk Lolita </b><br />
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This goes hand-in-hand with the prediction above. At about the same time "Oldschool Lolita" was just Lolita, Punk Lolita had begun to get very popular through publications such as Kera. Musicians such as Nana Kitade and Moon Kana wore a lot of Punk Lolita, in music videos, to lives, and also modelling for Kera and the Gothic Lolita Bible.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtuWlkSOAFpnMFpPBDFdeSLs012SbVwOveoSULNuitNv2XUalBTCxBgZf_Fqv__sfbGsFZEgNX5blQUVEtqRpxAochYq4zB5iVEJgpeDgsMKIuzzHenNs8bMIz1Iaw9fjAoTv-POYneRY/s1600/Nana-Kitade-nana-kitade-25490247-328-512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtuWlkSOAFpnMFpPBDFdeSLs012SbVwOveoSULNuitNv2XUalBTCxBgZf_Fqv__sfbGsFZEgNX5blQUVEtqRpxAochYq4zB5iVEJgpeDgsMKIuzzHenNs8bMIz1Iaw9fjAoTv-POYneRY/s320/Nana-Kitade-nana-kitade-25490247-328-512.jpg" width="205" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsoCSeEAecCJcNj1tUFJSU1hXjzHI3-X_ngpr90vVveD4r4GotOtHJhk8lIbEzz5S_j6z3GsMNVQzxAsbpJ9d-T8qjAFz77T0So6lqF090dPTg3FEKfwrF4owJftIjMXvXRp-iXaiYaE/s1600/tumblr_lwmvauOyZq1r7t3ogo1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsoCSeEAecCJcNj1tUFJSU1hXjzHI3-X_ngpr90vVveD4r4GotOtHJhk8lIbEzz5S_j6z3GsMNVQzxAsbpJ9d-T8qjAFz77T0So6lqF090dPTg3FEKfwrF4owJftIjMXvXRp-iXaiYaE/s320/tumblr_lwmvauOyZq1r7t3ogo1_500.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Talking to some other Lolitas who have been in the fashion as long as me, I hear many say, "<b>I love Punk Loli, but I feel like it's so hard to pull off!</b>" Or, they couldn't afford the brand items "back then", or the brands who manufactured them were inaccessible.<br />
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Now that brands like Putumayo, Hellcat Punks and SexPot Revenge are well known and easy to buy, and the interest has survived, I think it'd be neat to see these Lolis act on their word and bring Punk Lolita back. I think the appeal is there, since the items are easy to wear, and the accessories are easy to buy in the US- but all we need are a few more individuals ready to face the dreaded "concrit" of CoF. Maybe in the future, I'll write a post about Punk Lolita, and some ideas to style it correctly.<br />
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<b>3. Bonnets</b><br />
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2015 was the year of religiously-inspired veils and head circlets. But throughout all this, I saw an increasingly large fan base for one of my favourite designers, Triple Fortune; particularly their gorgeous bonnets.<br />
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This may be because of their convention circuits over the years, which has made their brand more accessible than ever before. Triple Fortune used to be a pain and a half to order from, but these days the brand has come to Lolitas all over the world. Where I used to see a lot of Lolitas scoff at bonnets, I'm happy to see an increasingly large group of people wearing them. I think it's well-earned, because so many hard brimmed bonnets are beautifully crafted with excruciating detail!<br />
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Other brands began producing more over-the-top bonnets as well, such as Innocent World's collaboration with Ali project vocalist, Arika Takarano. Could it be 2016 would be the year of the bonnet? I certainly hope so, as I am a die-hard fan!<br />
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<b>4. Handmade and Indie Items</b><br />
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As a designer myself (albeit one just trying to get serious recently), I'm happy to report that the popularity and quality of handmade items has spiked in the West. There are many designers vying for notoriety, including accessory designers such as Voodoo Dolly, Moss Marchen and Moss Badger, to seamstresses such as I Do Declare (I have been a long-time fan!).<br />
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I believe this spike in popularity in recent years is largely accredited to Rufflecon, which has helped get Indie Lolita designer names out there, and put them on the same scale as visiting Eastern brands such as Haneuli.<br />
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The appeal of handmade items is that they are one of a kind; not just any Lolita has them. They are truly unique, and made with a labor of love. I foresee handmade and Indie brand items continuing to grow in 2016.<br />
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<b>5. Unusual colours- </b>such as Grey, Green, Light Brown, Tiffany Blue, Coral, etc.<br />
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<a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/fcr/?season=spring&year=2016&pid=11" target="_blank">Pantone has predicted that the on-trend colours for 2016</a> will be rather unusual, describing their forecast as "A Transporting and Transformative Canvas; Colors this season transcend cultural and gender norms. Vivid brights give way to excitement and optimism, though quiet stability prevails in this season’s palette." In other words, there are a lot of dusty rose-pinks, greys, and neutrals, along side unusual brights such as yellow, coral, green, and ultramarine.<br />
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I dare say that Lolita, like any fashion, is ready for a breath of fresh air come new season- and these colours are rather underplayed in the realm of Lolita products. A couple years ago, I wrote about some of these colours as <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2012/12/lbc-most-underrated-colours-in-lolita.html" target="_blank">"The Most Underrated Colours in Lolita"</a>. I would love to see these unusual colours rise up and give us something new to ogle in the fashion!<br />
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It is fascinating to study how fashions shift and change over the years, don't you think? I am sure that no matter what 2016 has in store, there will certainly be movers, shakers, and trend-setters who emerge from the wood work, and forge a new path for others to follow. I am enthralled to be a part of this fashion and watch it evolve, year after year.<br />
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Without further ado, let us go under the tent and examine other Lolita's predictions for 2016!<br />
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<a href="http://gravelvet.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/lbc-5-trends-for-2016.html" target="_blank">Gravelvet</a></div>
<br />Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-86748117417951052532016-01-12T14:44:00.004-08:002016-01-12T15:02:05.067-08:00How to Host an At-Home Meet-up <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xjhRFriZsteVuMSAe1wk9Z0_CBP_goXOJIGgAhfwX2kxP9E9nblixlmfJZE7V2T4af4n9JUNPs5n-ZKrQZBGtIoGTan9i5AN615d5TqRGUj5V_NpmUUXrFnj6lyVboWtlzqz8y4tbjg/s1600/11921707_10203437708662957_83889991384482560_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xjhRFriZsteVuMSAe1wk9Z0_CBP_goXOJIGgAhfwX2kxP9E9nblixlmfJZE7V2T4af4n9JUNPs5n-ZKrQZBGtIoGTan9i5AN615d5TqRGUj5V_NpmUUXrFnj6lyVboWtlzqz8y4tbjg/s320/11921707_10203437708662957_83889991384482560_n.jpg" width="176" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An intimate Lolita Dinner meet my friend hosted at their home.</td></tr>
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Most Lolitas will agree that Meet-ups are an important part of Lolita culture. Whether you're a lifestyle Lolita who dresses up every day, or someone who just enjoys it among other hobbies, all Lolitas like to dress up in their best coord to "meet up" with friends.<br />
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However, if you're part of an active comm, meet-ups can start to get expensive between museum trips, fancy tea or dinners, tickets to local events or fairs, or other miscellaneous outings. </div>
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That's why I've been thinking, wouldn't it be nice to have a low-key meet-up at home once in a while?</div>
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The only thing about having meet-ups in your own home, is that not everyone is willing to open their home to the comm. Of course everyone will have varying viewpoints on that- perhaps they live in an apartment with limited space and parking, or with relatives, or on a college campus, and it's just not doable. </div>
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If this is the case, you can always consider looking for the following cheap or free locations for a DIY meet-up:</div>
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<li>Community Center, sometimes found in neighbourhoods or apartment clusters</li>
<li>A local park, with a covered seating area</li>
<li>If you attend a church, perhaps they have a room that can be used for 'meetings'</li>
<li>I even attended a potluck party in a karate dojo, which the owner let us use after hours!</li>
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So, do you have a location in mind, if not your own abode? Then without further ado, let's check out some pointers about hosting your own "at-home" meet-up.</div>
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<b>1. Decide your theme, possible time frame, and menu. </b>These are all necessary before inviting others over. Will it be potluck-style? Afternoon tea? Will it be an evening event, with alcohol? All of these things will effect the wording of your invitations, and preparations you will need to make.</div>
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<b>2. Invitations. </b>They do not have to be physical snail mail invitations, but if you have the time and inspiration, it wouldn't hurt! Of course, most comms are connected on Facebook these days, and creating a simple event page would do. I would think of a date in advance, and check with your local mods to make sure it doesn't conflict with an event they are planning. </div>
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You can also ask your mods' help in creating the event page for you; they may be able to set it up so only members of your Facebook group can view the event. Doing this can ensure privacy, especially while holding a meet at your own home or nearby. </div>
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You don't necessarily need to release your address on the event page. At a recent potluck meet, a mod required that you RSVP and state what you'd be bringing, in order to receive her address in a private message. </div>
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<b>3. Shopping.</b> Once I have an idea for a meet in my head, I start casually shopping up to two months in advance. That way, if I see something cute and cheap for decorations or favours, I just pick it up! </div>
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I'm currently planning an at-home meet myself; and now that Valentine's Day is around the corner, there's tons of cute cellophane bags, decorations, and little favours on sale for as little as $1 right now. And I am sure there will be plenty of cute things left over on clearance, after Valentine's Day! So what a better time to save these things, instead of scrambling when I need them?</div>
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While shopping for food, keep in mind any information garnered from your RSVPs. Does anyone have food allergies? If doing a pot-luck, what things have people already said they're bringing? </div>
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Don't forget the essentials, if having people over at your house- paper towels, TP, hand soap, anything you would normally need to have! </div>
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<b>4. If you're doing a tea party, brush up on tea etiquette.</b> This isn't necessarily a need-to-know thing, but it may inspire you for a trivia game (more on that later), give you ideas on how to set the table and what dishes you need, and even aid you in which kinds of foods should be served when.</div>
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<b>5. Day-of Prepations.</b> Be sure to do these things the morning of, or night before:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Prep any food items you can, to help save time.</li>
<li>Make a little extra room in the fridge, in case a guest brings something they must keep chilled.</li>
<li>Be prepared to welcome people into your home. I like to pretend they will be there for the first time- make sure the space is tidy, clutter is put away, and the kitchen and bathrooms are stocked with all essentials.</li>
<li>Make your home easy to get around- no large obstacles or things blocking the way. Try placing chairs against the wall instead of crowding them all around a table. Creating a "flow" through your home will also make the space seem larger, even if there's several people coming over. </li>
<li>If you have any valuables or personal items, such as jewelry, medications, or portable electronics, move them to your bedroom or private space. </li>
<li>Decorate, if necessary. Even a simple tablecloth can go a long way to dress up a table! </li>
<li>It may also be a good idea to prepare a side room or front closet for coats and bags, in case your guests need to set anything down. </li>
<li>Don't forget to check your event page in the hours before your event! People may be lost, running late, asking if you need anything, or cancel at the last minute. </li>
</ul>
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<b>6. Once your guests start arriving...</b></div>
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<ul>
<li>Have light music playing in the background. I recommend using Pandora to create a custom music station ahead of time. Some ideas for a Lolita station can be Classical and Malice Mizer; Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, Hatsune Miku, and K-pop; or even Disney and other movie soundtracks, if that strikes your fancy.</li>
<li>Have something for guests to do right away. Maybe have a finger food available for snacking and socializing, or a DIY photo booth. Stock a photo booth with a selfie stick or Polaroid camera, and any funny props you like!</li>
<li>Be prepared to help people park if necessary; know your street and surrounding areas in case you need overflow parking. </li>
</ul>
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<b>7. To keep parties from getting stale, or to break the ice, it might be good to have some games in mind.</b> You can have board games available, a video game console set-up, or, prepare your own Lolita-themed game for when all of your guests arrive!</div>
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Some Lolitas have created their own versions of popular games, such as "Lolitas Against Humanity" (based on "Cards Against Humanity", of course.) It is pretty easy to get creative and come up with your own Lolita versions of popular games, such as, "Never Ever Have I Ever", Charades, Pictionary, or "Who am I?"</div>
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While trying to think of some games, I made up my own Lolita version of <b>"Scattergories"</b>. I created a few, and decided to share with you for your own use! <i>(If you think of more Scattergories, I would love to hear them in the comments!)</i></div>
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And this one may be a little more difficult, but I tried to make a Gothic-Specific one as well:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-R4S2ghuZ5GisPLznJvEvV9IJO_7O124b8ITbtB3LNqx33XNe5RoUEUzMjRZImHWiYdM80aYRVCYxmGEijIDZWIFQHjZ44e8IE3pnYfTA30f1VdcvX42jCT8AVXSd1kL2kz3JE_EyTU/s1600/GLscattergories1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-R4S2ghuZ5GisPLznJvEvV9IJO_7O124b8ITbtB3LNqx33XNe5RoUEUzMjRZImHWiYdM80aYRVCYxmGEijIDZWIFQHjZ44e8IE3pnYfTA30f1VdcvX42jCT8AVXSd1kL2kz3JE_EyTU/s320/GLscattergories1.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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Scattergories is a great game for a bigger group, because people can play by teams as well as individually. Plus, it's a pretty off-the-top-of-your-head game, so people are bound to get laughing and having a good time with the responses!<br />
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Also, if you found some interesting information while researching tea etiquette, it might be fun to play Tea Trivia! Look up different tea practices from around the world, and interesting facts about different teas. </div>
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Feel free to come up with your own games as well! Do you have a favourite you like to play at meets?</div>
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<b>8. Before your guests leave, </b>thank them for coming! Offer up left overs to anyone who would like to take them home. If you prepared party favours, make sure you don't forget them, and that everyone gets one on their way out. </div>
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And of course, everything after that is easy! If you make sure to pick up trash throughout the meet as you see it, clean up should not be too difficult at all.</div>
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Have you ever hosted a meet-up in your home before? What did you do, and how did it go? I would love to hear all about it! </div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-56634278941390760722016-01-11T08:45:00.000-08:002016-01-11T09:11:45.166-08:00How to Have a Lolita Wedding<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhySdg7MmWJZrPlWBq8Y-4V911H4qEOwjgE0EWVxDEPh635nwbV-vac7HotWL5d3nARdlAIkrm5zXVj8I6ZdiMkA-7tHgX1Tr4LcfQXxVUxRIhITvl8yHwd80lRtGYzouK7JyGsQ_gK7WQ/s1600/b1e54b14ffc2e62bdaf8f589f776a013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhySdg7MmWJZrPlWBq8Y-4V911H4qEOwjgE0EWVxDEPh635nwbV-vac7HotWL5d3nARdlAIkrm5zXVj8I6ZdiMkA-7tHgX1Tr4LcfQXxVUxRIhITvl8yHwd80lRtGYzouK7JyGsQ_gK7WQ/s320/b1e54b14ffc2e62bdaf8f589f776a013.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.my-lolita-dress.com/rose-cat-lolita-a-fairytale-wedding-lolita-jumper-dress-and-long-hime-sleeves-op-dress-rcl-2" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
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Every once in a blue moon, you'll see a post about a Lolita-styled wedding. It comes in all shapes and forms, from intimate backyard garden affairs, to grand convention ballrooms packed with friends and fans of Lolita fashion alike.<br />
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When I got married a year ago, I was planning to have a Lolita wedding. However, my family personally disagreed with it. "You'll have a wedding-themed wedding!" my parents protested; and I can see where they were coming from. A Lolita themed wedding could potentially alienate and put off respected family members, or maybe even look tacky a few years later.<br />
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Last month however, I flew to San Antonio, Texas to attend my brother in law's wedding; which was pretty heavily Lolita themed. The bride wore a Lolita wedding dress from Atelier Pierrot, the tables were decorated with just a hint of EGA flair, the groomsmen wore swallow-tailed jackets, and Lolitas from their home comm of San Antonio were invited to join in on the festivities.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyKi2BS6QQuLVNN-0zeb5J0bC0s7KUbe6THQzoaa0wYrQ46hj5wB-sdqWYcebVpedJDMtziXjS7iH8t9VBePzgdBQEy9oMGIrAZC9SLeiZ9QPZ9fnFWMXmD765IeDyFEKqfA5zv3ba6I/s1600/12347950_10203895868636670_2998890853029713239_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyKi2BS6QQuLVNN-0zeb5J0bC0s7KUbe6THQzoaa0wYrQ46hj5wB-sdqWYcebVpedJDMtziXjS7iH8t9VBePzgdBQEy9oMGIrAZC9SLeiZ9QPZ9fnFWMXmD765IeDyFEKqfA5zv3ba6I/s320/12347950_10203895868636670_2998890853029713239_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I helped style that arch!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlv0DV2O9o5SzGaM7MCLoIdoBa008UoYZKdeIaLEhgbebirITMVod9WV3LnMiP8J1Wuwc8clTnf7O10yJUkIo4ANtR2dI_oCgWmGOVnrX1T4ic9VmIEqrEqrzM5GDblH_nCJegbGvdDI/s1600/12347670_10203895869996704_849998126394912252_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlv0DV2O9o5SzGaM7MCLoIdoBa008UoYZKdeIaLEhgbebirITMVod9WV3LnMiP8J1Wuwc8clTnf7O10yJUkIo4ANtR2dI_oCgWmGOVnrX1T4ic9VmIEqrEqrzM5GDblH_nCJegbGvdDI/s320/12347670_10203895869996704_849998126394912252_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Possibly the cutest cake I've ever seen.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bride and groom during their first dance.</td></tr>
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Attending this wedding got me thinking about all the stress I went through trying to plan my own wedding, trying to crowd please everyone while still keeping a bit of me and my husband's personality. Both my brother-in-law, as well as my husband (obviously) married Lolitas, yet our weddings were completely different!<br />
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I thought to help through the confusion for brides and husbands to be, it would be nice to write a guide for creating your own dream wedding, which you can do on any budget- whether your family is more accepting of Lolita or not.<br />
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<b>Route A: The Ideal Scenario</b><br />
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For all intents and purposes, let's assume that you are lucky enough to throw a Lolita themed wedding fete. You can wear Lolita, guests can wear Lolita and J-fashion, and you have full creative reign with the decorations, festivities, etc.<br />
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<b>Step One: Confirmation.</b> If family members will be attending your wedding, it is important to talk to them and ask if they are comfortable with the theme- whether you are paying for your own wedding or not. Regardless of who is footing the bill, I feel weddings are more about relationships with your family and friends, old and new- and if they feel out of place or uncomfortable, it may be better to have a pre-wedding Mini Meet or Bridal Shower with your comm, instead.<br />
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However, if your most respected attendees don't have a problem with it, then that's a definite green light to get creative! Remember, it may be important to double check with your significant other as well, if he/she is not a Lolita!<br />
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<b>Step Two: Venue, venue, venue.</b> Before you go crazy at the craft stores and ordering three white brand dresses to try, make sure your venue is booked! Sit down with your significant other and choose your three "ideal" dates. Keep in mind, Fridays and Saturdays are usually the busiest days for most venues, and may be booked well in advance- so if you're going for one of those days, be prepared to be flexible.<br />
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Catering goes hand in hand with this one as well, as the two are often booked together, if your reception and ceremony are at the same place. So while initially booking your big day, it may be good to have a list about Catering questions as well.<br />
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Some location ideas for full-on Lolita wedding:<br />
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<ul>
<li>A botanical garden, with an outdoor ceremony and reception</li>
<li>A winery</li>
<li>A local historical site, with period-appropriate backdrops for photos</li>
<li>A historical church, with a reception nearby at your favourite restaurant</li>
<li>A hotel which offers afternoon tea service for the reception</li>
<li>... or somewhere else important to you. My brother in law (and new sister!) got married at the hotel where they first met!</li>
</ul>
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<b>Step Three: Pinning!</b> For everything from wedding favours to decorations, Pinterest can be a cornucopia of inspiration. <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/cheriechannel/a-very-important-date/" target="_blank"><b>I created a board for my own wedding</b></a>, where I pinned colour schemes I liked, dress cuts, DIY centrepiece ideas, and even infographics about wedding processions, wedding etiquette, and ideas for vow-writing. </div>
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Some ideas for Lolita Decorating DIY:</div>
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<a data-pin-board-width="400" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="200" data-pin-scale-width="80" href="https://www.pinterest.com/cheriechannel/lolita-wedding-diy/"> Follow Erica's board Lolita Wedding DIY on Pinterest.</a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
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<b>Step Four: Cake!</b> A Lolita's favourite thing, right?<br />
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Cakes are probably the most fun for a Lolita wedding, because whether you are ordering one or making it yourself, you can't go wrong. Either you can talk to your cake maker and come up with a design together, or you can make the cake yourself at home, and decorate it with fresh roses. There is no wrong way to do cake!<br />
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Some things to keep in mind:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Your reception venue may have an additional cost to bring in cake from the outside (or any other outside catering company). Be sure to ask if they do. </li>
<li>If using a Patisserie or Cake Maker, be sure to call ahead and schedule an appointment for cake tasting. There is normally a small fee for the cake, but it's quite insightful and valuable to speak with the person who will be designing your cake for you. </li>
<li>If using a Patisserie or Cake Maker, you might also want to look into mini-cupcakes or macarons as favours for your guests! </li>
<li>Remember, you don't have to go too big! This is your own special wedding, after all. Even if you are hosting a cute wedding in your backyard with a garden backdrop, handmade mug cakes in cute tea cups served with tea would be absolutely charming for your guests. </li>
</ul>
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<b>Step Five: Flowers. </b>Some Lolitas take an interest in the "language of flowers", and what their meanings are, so to speak. The Gothic Lolita Bible even devoted an issue to this topic, including floral recipes, Flower Fairies Illustrations, and more:<br />
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So if that strikes your interest, it might be a good time to be inspired by flowers and let that lead you in your choices. (It also seems like a lifestyle-friendly hobby.) </div>
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Or, maybe you would just like to pick certain flowers because they look pretty, or the colours match the colour palette for your wedding. But aside from the obvious roses, what are some more creative choices?</div>
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You may want to to try:</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Peonies</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Snow Drop / Lily of the Valley</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Ranunculus</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Gebera Daisy</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Snap Dragon</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Calla Lily</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Delphimium</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Hydrangea </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Tulip</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Dahlia </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Iris</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Poppy</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Anemone </li>
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And of course, each of these has its own prime season, and sometimes of the year it is "cheaper" than others. I had a smaller budget, and saved myself a bit of money by choosing cheaper flowers, such as vibrant Daisies, berries, roses and greens. I also bought and provided the florist with my own ribbons to cut further cost.</div>
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Since I made my own table runners, chair sashes, as well as centrepieces out of picture frames and glittered wine bottles, I decided not to get flowers for every table. I focused on my own bouquet, bouquets for my bridesmaids, and corsages for the family and groomsmen. I'll be honest and say not a single person asked why there were no flowers on the table; and it saved so much money!</div>
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<b><br /></b><b>Step Six: Shop!</b> But it's not like I need to twist your arm to do that, right?<br />
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Now is a time to:<br />
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<li>Shop for craft supplies. Schedule a night with your wedding party to get together and work on decorations and such. Make it fun- make it a pot-luck, or a movie night!</li>
<li>Shop around for your wedding dress. Since shopping for Lolita is, dare I say, easier than shopping for a wedding dress, you can start scouring the Internet for your dream piece. Be sure to allow enough time for shipping, and possibly alteration, if you plan to have that done. But the great thing about Lolita is, it's plenty extravagant for a wedding, and the measurements are usually straight-forward enough you'll know if it fits or not.</li>
<li>Your bridesmaids can start shopping for outfits as well. If they are already Lolitas, then they may have a fancy dress they can wear already, or maybe they'd like to shop with you for your approval. Or if they've never worn Lolita before, it may be your chance to help them discover the style. Make sure you get started early so you can bargain hunt, since not all newbies will want to fully invest in the fashion.</li>
<li>For grooms and groomsmen, Ouji, Aristocrat, and Dandy is usually acceptable. But if your groomsmen aren't ready to don "Pumpkin Pants", most tuxedo rental companies offer something EGA-able, such as swallow tailed tuxedo jackets. </li>
<li>Check out ideas for party favours, whether you can buy them in bulk, or make them yourself.</li>
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The rest of the wedding planning process can include whatever steps or formalities you like; you can have a Wedding Shower or Bachelorette Party, a rehearsal dinner, or even a laid-back Afternoon tea with your local comm to celebrate. </div>
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Some extra thoughts for a Lolita-themed wedding:<br />
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<li>If you expect the guests to wear Lolita, provide a brief primer, or even a couple of places to shop. For my brother's wedding, they included a blurb about Lolita Fashion and where to shop for it on their Facebook Event Page.</li>
<li>If you are on a tight budget, this is the perfect community to pull off a great event at a lower cost. There's many makeup artists, photographers, and videographers in the fashion. Maybe ask that instead of a gift, friends with such talents would like to donate their help instead. For my wedding, I didn't have to pay for a photographer, DJ, or videographer- my friends came forward and volunteered to help. Of course, you can always provide a hashtag for your wedding, and ask friends to share photos, too!</li>
<li>Just like your favourite brand dresses, the beauty is in the details. Try to add a bit of you and your partner's style and personality into everything. For my brother's wedding, they included rabbits on the programs, menus, and even on their cake- in honour of their pet white Dwarf rabbit, who was also in attendance.</li>
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Of course, everyone plans events in their own logic and fashion, but that was the logical order I took when preparing from my own wedding. It helps me to categorize things and take it step-by-step, so I hope it helps create a map for you as well!</div>
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Now that we've covered the basics, I would like to add a few pointers for those who do not have the blessing for a Lolita wedding, but would like to incorporate their own flair anyway:</div>
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<li>Add little hints of your fashion sense everywhere, from details on the cake, in the decorations, and even your shoes. if you are wearing a more traditional long dress, no one will see your shoes anyway- so maybe wear a beautiful pair from your favourite brand, or go DIY and OTT them out! Paint something Loli on the sole or bling it out; or decorate the tops of your shoes with Hime-gyaru roses. </li>
<li>If you were asked to wear a traditional wedding dress or suit, ask if you could change into Lolita for the reception. If not, then pick something traditional, with the same romantic elements you love- lace, an a-line skirt with a fit and flare waist, maybe even a 50s style tea-length dress would be mutually agreeable. </li>
<li>Making decorations yourself allows more flexibility to add in your own taste. </li>
<li>Even if you cannot wear Lolita to your wedding, there are plenty of ways to have that atmosphere. Pick a romantic or aesthetically pleasing location. Include something Loli-esque as favours, such as macarons, a handmade item, etc. I gave away tumblers with a custom monogram, topped with a bow tied to the straw; my brother gave away little soaps with roses set inside. </li>
<li>Try not to stress. This is your day, and basically, a party! If it is not Lolita, it will not affect the rest of your life together with your new partner. What matters is celebrating with those closest to you. And trust me, considering all of the planning that I put into my wedding, it sure went by in the blink of an eye!</li>
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I feel like this is a very short guide, and could be made much more comprehensive and precise, but for now, those are the basic pointers that I have. There's so many ways you can make your wedding your own; there is no set cookie-cutter way to do it!</div>
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I hope that you enjoyed this little blurb, and as always, feel free to ask questions- about my own Kate Spade inspired wedding, my brother's Lolita wedding, or advice in general.</div>
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Good luck to you, and happy planning! </div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-32460958791342469442016-01-09T08:01:00.000-08:002016-01-09T08:01:03.987-08:00Winter ILD 2015- Frills and Film RecapHello, Darlings!<br />
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As promised, I wanted to write about my first meet-up I attended in Maryland, for Winter International Lolita Day 2015.<br />
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As some of you may know, there are two ILD's held each year- one in Summer, and one in Winter. On International Lolita Day, the local communities usually come together for one big meet, doing something typically Lolita- for example, having high tea, visiting a museum, or even just getting together at a host's house. Even if someone is usually too busy to attend meets regularly, most Lolitas will make an extra effort to attend International Lolita Day- that is how important the day is to our culture.<br />
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In Summer 2015, I hosted the Hawaii Lolitas meetup at a local tea room, with a lot of help from some of my friends. It was Disney themed, and there were lots of really cute coords!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3kuszl6zzcmRMpE-QGwHu9A6RGKagxCeobkO6k5rtjMVzvMfo2w1E-hCqOeTMQukLQvtPwjxZydBmy-9wQNKcXPQjvNgZGN6_uvuIi2Z6T1MJC2tG6Vk3LGCsPgGSYeVwcVagSthqN6s/s1600/11230589_983589671691494_29850072415395314_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3kuszl6zzcmRMpE-QGwHu9A6RGKagxCeobkO6k5rtjMVzvMfo2w1E-hCqOeTMQukLQvtPwjxZydBmy-9wQNKcXPQjvNgZGN6_uvuIi2Z6T1MJC2tG6Vk3LGCsPgGSYeVwcVagSthqN6s/s320/11230589_983589671691494_29850072415395314_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me as Lolita Ursula, with Ariel and Bambi at my table.</td></tr>
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But that was a different, and much smaller comm! In total, we had about 10 attendees.<br />
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So imagine going from a small comm, to almost one hundred Lolitas all in one place! That was Frills and Film, for me.<br />
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Frills and Film, I believe was hosted by the Charm City (Baltimore) Lolitas moderators. The group rented out a theatre near the airport, which was easily accessible by bus, train, and car. Lolitas from all over flocked to the theatre for an exclusive screening of our "cult classic", "Kamikaze Girls".</div>
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Kamikaze Girls, based on the novel by Novala Takemoto, tells the story of two unlikely teenage girls who become friends- one a hard core Lifestyle Lolita, and one a "bosuzoku" motor bike yanki who rides with a girl gang. The two are social outcasts in their own right, in their back-water, "chou-inaka" town of Shimotsuma. While these girls independently waltz/stomp around in frills/embroidered motorcycle jackets, the rest of the town lives in complacency with normal clothes from Jusco; a Japanese equivalent of Walmart. </div>
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The movie caters to Lolitas, because of the heavy references to iconic Lolita brand Baby, the Stars Shine Bright. But aside from the frilly eye candy, it's a funny film with a warm message of friendship. </div>
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And what a better movie to watch, for my first meet with my new comm?</div>
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To be honest, I was incredibly nervous and almost didn't go- but the $37 ticket, promise of raffle prizes and goodie bags tempted me otherwise.</div>
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There were several categories for the coordinate contest, for which I assembled a pretty humble holiday coord using my Charlotte Baniran Jsk. I also made myself a feathered headpiece, just to add more flair, and a holly brooch, to bring in a more holly-day (hah) feel.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd585rL65CjeGIAprUnr1bXojFcWVBDkUqye7SqsO_byxJcMkA1RlioTYuc0wFldAqd8eKqrgshXXcGRwv_U0R_M8KUJZ9JscCA1HJZdlFtqVEuhjz_drLuBSNvwkKOp8TZpFr6y87jLA/s1600/12339407_10203866991594762_1672395792822279206_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd585rL65CjeGIAprUnr1bXojFcWVBDkUqye7SqsO_byxJcMkA1RlioTYuc0wFldAqd8eKqrgshXXcGRwv_U0R_M8KUJZ9JscCA1HJZdlFtqVEuhjz_drLuBSNvwkKOp8TZpFr6y87jLA/s320/12339407_10203866991594762_1672395792822279206_o.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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The theatre was surprisingly quiet outside; but when I walked in, the theatre lobby was packed with petticoats! Being as shy as I am, I stayed off to the side, until a couple of girls complimented me on my headdress. I joined their cluster, and we ended up being friends and sitting together for the day.<br />
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There was a photo booth inside the theatre, with Kamikaze Girls themed props. After everyone trickled in, we all got in line for confections, including all kinds of candy, home made pink candied kettle corn, vegetables with dip, and more.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting in line for snacks!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The line for the photo booth. </td></tr>
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After, it was time for the film to start rolling. It was amazing watching the movie with so many other Lolitas- everyone was laughing with me at the funny parts, and I had a feeling we cried together at the sad parts, too. It was far different from the first time I watched the movie, years ago in high school- alone, in my room on my laptop. It made me think how great it was, that the Lolita community has grown.<br />
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There was a raffle shortly after, in which I won a drawing from Kate Leopold Art! I can hardly wait to frame it, and hang it in my sewing room.<br />
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There were also goodie bags passed out, with business cards from local artisans, a pair of tights from We Love Colors, and an adorable handmade button, featuring the cabbage from Kamikaze Girls.</div>
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I was also very surprised to win one of the categories for the outfit contest! Although I didn't win the "Elegant Holiday" category I was going for, I ended up winning Judge's Choice. I got an adorable gift box with a copy of the original Kamikaze Girls novel, and an embroidery loop, so I can be like the main Lolita character, Momoko. </div>
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Not only did I leave the meet with a lot of swag, but I had a great time, and ended up making a great new friend too. Since this meet, I've hung out with new friends singing karaoke, playing games at their house, or meeting up at the mall and grabbing dinner. It was a great gateway into the new community!<br />
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I know it is only January, but I can hardly wait for Summer International Lolita Day 2016!<br />
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The next big meetup for the Charm City Community will probably be next month's Katsucon. They are hosting a Lolita Luncheon at one of the nearby restaurants. There will supposedly be Lolita-related panels as well, but at this time, I heard the panels had not been announced yet.<br />
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What are some of your favourite ILD memories? Did your comm do anything special for this past one? Feel free to leave me a comment, or a link to your blog post!Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-82931366966866032942016-01-08T06:43:00.001-08:002016-01-08T10:21:10.585-08:00Community; 365 LLC- Favourite Lolita Haunts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzcxqFDI-gWH_M_DUFCebDLZ1hn4I1wiM-DFskTgLAcFseg4dWC5tT6yQUqb5JyhKBEp1_DzVUZ_15P79NaccBoQehF_2zqINxsVtufiv14Ah16hqxOKySZ6zKwtk2Rrk8FhCDDEKzrA/s1600/10154350_10200807862998459_1622436262_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzcxqFDI-gWH_M_DUFCebDLZ1hn4I1wiM-DFskTgLAcFseg4dWC5tT6yQUqb5JyhKBEp1_DzVUZ_15P79NaccBoQehF_2zqINxsVtufiv14Ah16hqxOKySZ6zKwtk2Rrk8FhCDDEKzrA/s320/10154350_10200807862998459_1622436262_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hello, Darlings!<br />
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One of the biggest changes of 2015 was leaving my home in Hawaii, and moving to the Baltimore area of Maryland with my husband. At least as a Navy brat, this was nothing new to me; I am used to transplanting myself every few years.<br />
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Though I'm a veteran when it comes to moving, this move was especially hard for me, and mainly because of how close I was to my Hawaii comm.<br />
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Though I started Lolita in 2007, I was living in Connecticut, still in high school, and never went to meets. I mainly stuck to handmade things sewn by me, In the Starlight, a cheap find or two from egl_comm_sales, or Bodyline. Most of my interaction with Lolitas was done online, either on Live Journal or Vivcore Forums (hello nostalgia!).<br />
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Fast-forward to 2009. I graduated high school, and moved back to my home state of Hawaii for university. With the freedom of public transportation, and some semblance of adult responsibility, it became easier to attend meets and get connected with the comm. At the time, they only had an LJ group, where they posted their next meet. (<i>You kids who grew up with Facebook will never know the anxiety of attending your first meet, and you only know people by their LJ names, haha!</i>)<br />
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From that point on, a lot happened. Over my next six years there (one spent abroad in Japan), I became so close to the ladies and gentlemen I met through this hobby. Some introduced me to other hobbies, like cosplay, photo shoots, makeup artistry, tea appreciation, wine tasting... before long, a lot of that group felt like my family. Some of the girls were even bridesmaids at my wedding!<br />
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I did have a going away party though, for one last hurrah with my closest friends.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqHuq2XjMbbagQFtZJtYzrFN_-3PWyvQgqqIghisH7dmDQwJ0EWhKYy4xoYeSzkvCgVbJ8G5L3a-2-1LK32_-aBJ7Y2XL3EDq8_3sdEl_n38k4_Qx42TO9bLG-cON8ramon8g6U8LXMXg/s1600/11217520_10208108050641565_2739401765584045410_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqHuq2XjMbbagQFtZJtYzrFN_-3PWyvQgqqIghisH7dmDQwJ0EWhKYy4xoYeSzkvCgVbJ8G5L3a-2-1LK32_-aBJ7Y2XL3EDq8_3sdEl_n38k4_Qx42TO9bLG-cON8ramon8g6U8LXMXg/s400/11217520_10208108050641565_2739401765584045410_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFYv-V9N8S5K6gHGyZsRhIW1ackUMCbndrI-nCflqFi70kRP91trsM2B1-Jodiqy5UvyuZAsaxoTnqLu_iPK09lp3bMAeBQ3tdIgpiDKZp_9eXNohoM1bKdh11E_l35H-6sfMzH_xiNk/s1600/12115599_10100299948592691_2535292325941052302_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFYv-V9N8S5K6gHGyZsRhIW1ackUMCbndrI-nCflqFi70kRP91trsM2B1-Jodiqy5UvyuZAsaxoTnqLu_iPK09lp3bMAeBQ3tdIgpiDKZp_9eXNohoM1bKdh11E_l35H-6sfMzH_xiNk/s400/12115599_10100299948592691_2535292325941052302_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Kahua Cafe, in Namea Books- an amazing, locally sourced cafe owned by my friend.</td></tr>
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And then, it was time to get on a plane and say good-bye.<br />
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I'm used to packing up my life and putting down new roots wherever I go. But I had some pretty deep roots in Hawaii that were difficult to pull up.<br />
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But luckily, the Lolita community has changed online. Many Lolita comms started making their own groups on Facebook, through which people can RSVP to events, discuss local topics, organize local sales, and so on. Thus, it was much easier to find and connect with my comm, this time around.<br />
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Being in a new comm is very exciting! My first meet in Maryland was Winter International Lolita Day 2015: Frills and Film. I have a post queued up on that later, but it was more Lolitas than I had ever seen in one place all my life! Everyone was quite nice and welcoming, and I have a very good feeling about this comm.<br />
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This comm is very active it seems, with at least one meet-up a month. Since I organized a few meets back in Hawaii, I have been scouring around on Yelp for new meet-up ideas, and bookmarking them each time I find something promising. After all, I think the most exciting part of moving somewhere new, is to discover your new favourite places!<br />
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So when I saw today's Lifestyle Lolita Challenge topic, I felt it was quite relevant:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5nW_9DC6H861luKi6_HMq_YV9rTNUN86vNwuj7nWbWb7wt0GBWu0ktNr19eXIbENZzm5qiX54lvjXppxbp6twuF6IY2R7DHvqn5feLh51BfbsPI6TspOWUS7iDRqGWFCKktdnfI9fNg/s1600/1937065_1512336932396444_6425737409107648455_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5nW_9DC6H861luKi6_HMq_YV9rTNUN86vNwuj7nWbWb7wt0GBWu0ktNr19eXIbENZzm5qiX54lvjXppxbp6twuF6IY2R7DHvqn5feLh51BfbsPI6TspOWUS7iDRqGWFCKktdnfI9fNg/s320/1937065_1512336932396444_6425737409107648455_n.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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I haven't checked all of these out yet, but here are some awesome places I discovered locally!<br />
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(I am addicted to Yelp, so any other Lolita Yelpers out there, <a href="http://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=iZXkHzeHafEu3uDO3NMAsA" target="_blank">please add me</a>!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh05f9imzVJ5_jVb53IwOgyNFpQFP5n29sRvD3e5nWf_0VILdTn2hvtZimZr-NHaXKO7U8-2etpVtLSDCJhMUgvnJJ_aejItBmXrLd-4sm7_R6qKp2lJgM3QvbHSzpSXyAtN_7pXjJVmd0/s1600/10246489_10202437706183520_5828184554536660835_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh05f9imzVJ5_jVb53IwOgyNFpQFP5n29sRvD3e5nWf_0VILdTn2hvtZimZr-NHaXKO7U8-2etpVtLSDCJhMUgvnJJ_aejItBmXrLd-4sm7_R6qKp2lJgM3QvbHSzpSXyAtN_7pXjJVmd0/s320/10246489_10202437706183520_5828184554536660835_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Tea Rooms:</b></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/sweet-simplici-tea-sykesville" target="_blank">Sweet Simplici-tea</a> - Skyesville, MD</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/tea-by-two-bel-air" target="_blank">Tea by Two</a> - Bel Air, MD</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/tea-on-the-tiber-ellicott-city" target="_blank">Tea on the Tiber</a> - Ellicott City, MD</li>
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<b>Cafes:</b></div>
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<li><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/caffe-bene-ellicott-city" target="_blank">Caffe Bene</a>- Ellicott City, MD</li>
<li><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/la-madeleine-french-bakery-and-cafe-columbia" target="_blank">La Madeleine French Cuisine and Cafe</a>- Columbia, MD. Apparently our comm has dinner meets here quite often, but I haven't made it to one yet!</li>
<li><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/matcha-time-cafe-ellicott-city" target="_blank">Matcha Time Cafe</a>- Ellicott City, MD</li>
<li><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/snow-cafe-ellicott-city" target="_blank">Snow Cafe</a>- Ellicott City, MD. I just visited here yesterday, and they have the best Boba tea I've had since I left Hawaii! It really lifted a bit of my homesickness, especially since the milk-snow was pretty big in Hawaii. The interior has an adorable chalk-paint wall, a set-up like the outside of a French Cafe, and tons of tiny polaroids on the walls. I can see myself hanging out here with Lolita friends, while my husband plays cards at the card shop next door!</li>
<li><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/sweet-hearts-patisserie-annapolis" target="_blank">Sweet Hearts Patisserie</a>- Annapolis, MD. Rumoured to have amazing macarons and Petit-Fours!</li>
<li><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-white-rabbit-odenton" target="_blank">The White Rabbit</a>- Odenton, MD. Though this place doesn't look that fancy, the pictures of playing-card shaped menus and the name intrigue me! The White Rabbit is my favourite character from Alice in Wonderland, so I must make it a point to go.</li>
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I hope to work through the list above, and maybe add to it slowly. Hopefully there will be lots of colorful meet-up posts to share with you all!<br />
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And <b><u>BONUS</u></b>: If you're still in Hawaii running amok in frilly glory, well you're in luck. I've been compiling a list of Lolita-friendly places in Hawaii since before I moved.<b> <a href="http://www.yelp.com/list/lolita-friendly-hawaii-honolulu" target="_blank">Check it out here</a></b>! </div>
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Oh, what's that? It's a colorful meet-up post hot out of the oven and queued up for you! Stay tuned for a recap of ILD 2015!</div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-11078668151597613482016-01-08T00:00:00.000-08:002016-01-12T21:13:22.446-08:00LBC- One Main Piece, Four SeasonsHello Darlings!<br />
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It's been many moons since I last participated in the Lolita circle project, "Lolita Blog Carnival". As I'm sure many of you are aware now, LBC is a webring project in which each week, a Lolita related prompt is given, and we have until Friday of that week to post our response. We also link to other Lolitas at the end of the post, so that we can check out eachother's blogs, and maybe discover new favourites!<br />
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This week's theme was "One Main Piece, Four Seasons". It sounded like an interesting challenge for me, since I just came from Hawaii, where there is ONE season, and moved to Maryland, where I have already experienced several seasons in full force- in the span of two months.<br />
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For this challenge, I decided to use my new favourite Jsk, "Charlotte Baniran" by BTSSB.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Qty8GxKiEaEUe-GiHdRUMMNOPWfNNx0YhBAIyrFS2itHhHz4XcCRZSTYWuRp8y3A69t8a6z8b2_F2rIMf_gHg2hRsp9aEi2q8_or-0sjVfl4koWA3n6IM0GbuG_zUAoYJscfvAEaHn0/s1600/aa1d447ff81947361cff4479569b3488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Qty8GxKiEaEUe-GiHdRUMMNOPWfNNx0YhBAIyrFS2itHhHz4XcCRZSTYWuRp8y3A69t8a6z8b2_F2rIMf_gHg2hRsp9aEi2q8_or-0sjVfl4koWA3n6IM0GbuG_zUAoYJscfvAEaHn0/s320/aa1d447ff81947361cff4479569b3488.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Simple though it may be, it took me forever to hunt down this beauty, especially in this rich red colourway. It quickly shot to the top of my list for this challenge, for it's versatility. It is not only versatile in cut, but the weight of the fabric is good for many seasons as well, and as I learned, it can adapt to many different colours!</div>
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Without further ado...</div>
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<b>Spring </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2E_rU6Mo1Vr7LymvMqvCqophzQwd9WSjgdbo5dQ_sHWPWuf0AyUgH8y8RShG0-Wk7ITbIefufIXNSL4AKsq644PNB0UEqUN_Paa71BjUuVECuJX7IJu1tqcgxlVVLv6y4ijif0MZEqc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-06+at+09.03.12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2E_rU6Mo1Vr7LymvMqvCqophzQwd9WSjgdbo5dQ_sHWPWuf0AyUgH8y8RShG0-Wk7ITbIefufIXNSL4AKsq644PNB0UEqUN_Paa71BjUuVECuJX7IJu1tqcgxlVVLv6y4ijif0MZEqc/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-01-06+at+09.03.12.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Being a hopeless romantic, Valentine's Day is one of my favourite holidays, and that was the driving force behind this coord. I chose pieces with brisk Spring weather in mind, selecting thicker pink socks, and a rose-detailed bolero for extra warmth. </div>
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Bonus points: Apparently here in the Maryland/DC area, there is a Cherry Blossom Festival each spring. Perhaps with a thicker pink jacket, this would be a great outfit to wear. </div>
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<b>Summer</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvaA-gwOo1n6J2EQa8ZzsMvKWJF-m8Oj_sgGRAYCa2nQv6iUO-S1YDCTeKOJWlV1ZupBfgIvOfZFdAOT1RB2FtZWdr0dcYqdEQSZTtKyp99VvJVvBg5_HbbavwZFa96Zztlu_GXBuCGw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-06+at+09.04.11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvaA-gwOo1n6J2EQa8ZzsMvKWJF-m8Oj_sgGRAYCa2nQv6iUO-S1YDCTeKOJWlV1ZupBfgIvOfZFdAOT1RB2FtZWdr0dcYqdEQSZTtKyp99VvJVvBg5_HbbavwZFa96Zztlu_GXBuCGw/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-01-06+at+09.04.11.png" width="306" /></a></div>
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Being from Hawaii, when I think "Summer" I think hot, humid, and sticky. That being said, I wanted to create a coord that I could survive in outside- just long enough to walk to an air conditioned tea room, library, or interesting museum, haha. </div>
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I selected a light weight heart-detailed bolero, seasonally appropriate straw hat and purse, and short bloomers- since chances are, I wouldnt be wearing tall, thick socks or tights with this coord, but rather, shorter ankle socks. But Polyvore did not have a good sampling of ankle socks, so voila, you have standard white OTKs from Baby thrown in. Perhaps I'll slip them on upon arriving at my air conditioned <strike>paradise</strike> destination.</div>
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<b>Autumn</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmT-b9Zgwee2OfyDfLteoYK41WQvOCUgPqMg_OeesusQYDY1S-_ikD0tjUzJPA2VHGhyphenhyphenOGE2b4RCsGNiywTmWy-BvHzkUU_CYuXWB4Zgj3O9m0Bl8z_PRsTBYDnrhJNG7kJ4BimHHWdPY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-06+at+09.03.53.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmT-b9Zgwee2OfyDfLteoYK41WQvOCUgPqMg_OeesusQYDY1S-_ikD0tjUzJPA2VHGhyphenhyphenOGE2b4RCsGNiywTmWy-BvHzkUU_CYuXWB4Zgj3O9m0Bl8z_PRsTBYDnrhJNG7kJ4BimHHWdPY/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-01-06+at+09.03.53.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Autumn is my favourite of all the seasons- not too hot, not too cold, a time for comfy sweaters and warm drinks, gorgeous colours painting the leaves outside... those colours and feelings were the inspiration behind this coord with plenty of chocolate brown. I would wear this to a cozy cafe with friends or for leaf... gazing (?) outside.<br />
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<b>Winter</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMbKgyRhGO7egCI-gbTYx1L9RIH2viRZevSk5EolwX5Va5yxG5vHm-ADCFaopfPIQrulBggJwHwXKq9cn2M2tXqdWmtw97nUARN9e3ZeGC4ZdjdQUUFP7ZOvC2-vzE2iIv-jND80O6hCg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-06+at+09.03.31.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMbKgyRhGO7egCI-gbTYx1L9RIH2viRZevSk5EolwX5Va5yxG5vHm-ADCFaopfPIQrulBggJwHwXKq9cn2M2tXqdWmtw97nUARN9e3ZeGC4ZdjdQUUFP7ZOvC2-vzE2iIv-jND80O6hCg/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-01-06+at+09.03.31.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Not going to lie, I am not a huge fan of winter, and maybe that's why this set was difficult for me. It feels plainer than the others, but then again, it does have a touch of an oldschool sweet Lolita aesthetic with the demure accessories, knitted turtleneck and hime-inspired details. I would also try coording this with black boots, purses and longer jackets for winter.</div>
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Well, wasn't that fun! Do you all have a favourite season, for Lolita or otherwise? How would you style yourself for each season? Feel free to write me in the comments!</div>
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One reason I liked this challenge, is that it helped me plan for my Lolita wardrobe goal of this year, to flesh out my wardrobe staples (such as boleros, socks, shoes, and accessories) rather than just main pieces. Though I own about half of the "extras" I used in these sets, it was good to see a bunch of sample stock photos, and help plan what I'd actually like to save for this year! It was a good exercise in seeing all the things that could work with the pieces I have already, instead of always looking for the next new dress. </div>
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All sets were created using <a href="http://cherielavendre.polyvore.com/" target="_blank">Polyvore</a>. For more sets please see my profile.</div>
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For more LBC Posts, please check out the blogs below!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjf5o1soiw5ElZGB6wYNqtbSJWzJ3tmJPa0ea8hOddXIWnLV_HfeSQrP2HmKmAiXgmvaHn4rjjdZIlb4wmLMDtig1TPBi-X2IwiEG5zoL9mG_nBdDyzOSnpt7SiWnKMFXiKNp6TUmyF8/s1600/601617_3690648265659_1018986360_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjf5o1soiw5ElZGB6wYNqtbSJWzJ3tmJPa0ea8hOddXIWnLV_HfeSQrP2HmKmAiXgmvaHn4rjjdZIlb4wmLMDtig1TPBi-X2IwiEG5zoL9mG_nBdDyzOSnpt7SiWnKMFXiKNp6TUmyF8/s1600/601617_3690648265659_1018986360_n.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://pasteljellybeans.blogspot.com.br/2016/01/one-skirt-four-seasons.html" target="_blank">Pastel Jelly Beans</a> ♡ <a href="http://pastelpeggy.blogspot.com/2016/01/lbc-1-main-piece-4-seasons-with-angelic.html" target="_blank">Pastel Peggy</a> ♡ <a href="http://gravelvet.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/lbc-one-main-piece-four-seasons.html" target="_blank">Gravelvet</a> ♡ <a href="http://thebloodyteaparty.blogspot.com/2016/01/lbc-1-main-piece-4-seasons_8.html" target="_blank">The Bloody Tea Party</a> ♡ <a href="http://itsvanillabear.blogspot.com/2016/01/lolita-blog-carnival-one-main-piece.html" target="_blank">Vanilla Bear</a></div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-67950475175121685892016-01-04T09:33:00.002-08:002016-01-04T09:34:49.249-08:00365 Lifestyle Lolita ChallengeOne thing I've seen a lot of buzz about in the Lolita circle is <a href="http://lacealamode.com/2015/12/365-lifestyle-lolita-challenge/" target="_blank">Lace a la Mode's "365 Lifestyle Lolita" Challenge</a>.<br />
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Since one of my goals was to be more active in blogging about Lolita and Lolita prompts, I wanted to give it a try. Of course, I am also pretty busy, and can't always blog every day, so I decided to pick and choose a few that stood out to me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8KznYIAhZMYAZEucoxahh9KZyT0HiXHr-ed9vjTmqs8ABoU18fmwymUxdyXE7buHSa8KCSY5b7A5tfe1YcSC14NzR9RlsL0R2zD5rUNbBYRgtL1F7kPNeY2bkqlVUmB_6dhiYOSMaOc/s1600/1909972_1510662935897177_6621584688353163969_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8KznYIAhZMYAZEucoxahh9KZyT0HiXHr-ed9vjTmqs8ABoU18fmwymUxdyXE7buHSa8KCSY5b7A5tfe1YcSC14NzR9RlsL0R2zD5rUNbBYRgtL1F7kPNeY2bkqlVUmB_6dhiYOSMaOc/s320/1909972_1510662935897177_6621584688353163969_n.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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As I said in my previous post, I would like very much to improve my wardrobe this year. For the longest time I focused on collecting main pieces, such as OPs and JSKs. However my blouses, accessories, legwear, and bag collection are severely lacking, or worse, non-existent.<br />
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In the late part of 2015, I got to travel and meet many different Lolitas in the San Antonio, TX comm as well as here in my new home, Maryland. While hanging out with new friends at their homes, I got to see a couple of closets, and was greatly inspired by them. Though the girls of course had different tastes and preferences, the way their closets were assembled was amazing! They had organizers for their bows and headgear, cute hanging organizers for shoes, many different tops and boleros, adorable methods of hanging and organizing jewelry, and of course purses and parasols in many different hues.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaq2n7XIAX7Bj2wpDeVafiIodR2pc172sGk32VAH_eCFzYo23Y68iKNpmZ5nneTWxzXDQbZVJqetJFXj8EInWHVLHIewksEEbEFjYu0ZUfqEg6yOhGHXyJ00QC5xosko7h8OXv7spJwvw/s1600/tumblr_kxgvgcERFs1qzmrjzo1_400+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaq2n7XIAX7Bj2wpDeVafiIodR2pc172sGk32VAH_eCFzYo23Y68iKNpmZ5nneTWxzXDQbZVJqetJFXj8EInWHVLHIewksEEbEFjYu0ZUfqEg6yOhGHXyJ00QC5xosko7h8OXv7spJwvw/s320/tumblr_kxgvgcERFs1qzmrjzo1_400+%25281%2529.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closet Goals! Source: <a href="http://www.parfaitdoll.com/2010/02/its-your-castles-closet.html" target="_blank">Parfait Doll</a>. </td></tr>
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It made me think of my own Lolita collection, abused and balled up in my suitcase. Even back in my old house, I did hang my Lolita fashion in it's own closet, but I would be ashamed to show it to anyone who came over.<br />
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So with this in mind, here are my goals for my wardrobe:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Create an imaginative, organized and calming space to store my Lolita collection</li>
<li>Build/decorate my sewing room around that theme to create a safe place for my hobbies</li>
<li>Expand my wardrobe by investing in less OPs/JSKs, and more purses, accessories, bags, etc. I believe by doing this, I will improve the versatility of what I already have, and I will not always feel like I have to buy new dresses.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgts9vFYNie333VgWNJ1LF1Z4YevuhLjIYeK9vLO0PC9skYtnUg7oTr-HrrExK0s6WG1LNoIgPY2gMpzUGSwj4VqOgzeKF4lQHdIQpJ5zlN7vugJ8t3TtelQ1okK0nANibFNDdUKftKf6c/s1600/1918049_1510913035872167_7392800553476545049_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgts9vFYNie333VgWNJ1LF1Z4YevuhLjIYeK9vLO0PC9skYtnUg7oTr-HrrExK0s6WG1LNoIgPY2gMpzUGSwj4VqOgzeKF4lQHdIQpJ5zlN7vugJ8t3TtelQ1okK0nANibFNDdUKftKf6c/s320/1918049_1510913035872167_7392800553476545049_n.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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This prompt is actually quite useful for me, since I just moved here! I was excited to find quite a few museums in my area that are relevant to my interests, and would be great for hosting a meet-up.</div>
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<a href="http://www.borail.org/" target="_blank">The B&O Railroad Museum</a>- It is said Edgar Allan Poe himself used to catch the train here, to go visit his friends in nearby cities! Plus I love trains; especially the nostalgic feel of railroads.</div>
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<a href="http://www.poeinbaltimore.org/poe-house/" target="_blank">Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum</a>- one of Edgar Allan Poe's homes, where he penned a couple of eerie short stories and poems. </div>
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<a href="http://www.geppismuseum.com/Home/7/1/52/500" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.geppismuseum.com/Home/7/1/52/500" target="_blank">Geppi's Entertainment Museum</a>- an establishment housing retro comic books and more regarding American Pop Culture History. Since comics and "nerd" culture sometimes overlap with Lolita interests, I think this would be a fun place to visit with people who share a mutual love for comics. </div>
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And of course, the area I am in boasts multiple historical sites, such as the house where the American Flag was sewn, many small colonial historical towns, and we are very close to Washington DC and the Smithsonian Institutions. I think there will be many interesting and unique places to visit, here!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabVhTZKYT5fMLaHX0VOJlSchG3_q2r9hxtjOCfYsnG7dAZcxcYWCsLsy8prh0-BqxoMYRec_luf-i9D3AWgr5XphW7aBswp_o_iF4Xzb4cS2t1eco9HD6-EDY3QM2ebOxxNiKJHtnR6k/s1600/947073_1511344855828985_1311654011167666543_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabVhTZKYT5fMLaHX0VOJlSchG3_q2r9hxtjOCfYsnG7dAZcxcYWCsLsy8prh0-BqxoMYRec_luf-i9D3AWgr5XphW7aBswp_o_iF4Xzb4cS2t1eco9HD6-EDY3QM2ebOxxNiKJHtnR6k/s320/947073_1511344855828985_1311654011167666543_n.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am the sort of person who almost never uses my real hair in Lolita- I usually wear wigs, from my favourite brands such as Lockshop and Dreamholic. However, it would be nice to learn an easy style to do with my real hair.<br />
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So I set out on a search, to find something low-maintenance, super-cute, and easy to use for my Lolita aesthetic. That's when I saw this adorable mini-bun look, with a chunky bang.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDA4emsHmvDeNxvOkOQUT0T6IJKxnIwigY-V5wto1tiRrCxWnXv-ZmJE4D2OwQEWwp1coPyy4qIzkPUgtsobmrknoTv-zsTldfMWjv_BJW050eVKRVtli6mG7LAPneo4n9eJRd-k2lZsA/s1600/1e0007eb196a82034d7031cb36859c75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDA4emsHmvDeNxvOkOQUT0T6IJKxnIwigY-V5wto1tiRrCxWnXv-ZmJE4D2OwQEWwp1coPyy4qIzkPUgtsobmrknoTv-zsTldfMWjv_BJW050eVKRVtli6mG7LAPneo4n9eJRd-k2lZsA/s320/1e0007eb196a82034d7031cb36859c75.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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So cute! And it can be accessorized-up with either small bows in each bun, or they could probably fit behind a full headbow. Maybe even pom pom hair ties would be cute on each bun!</div>
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I found a pretty straight-forward and easy to follow tutorial <a href="http://www.violetlebeaux.com/2014/08/mini-bun-hair-style-tutorial/" target="_blank">here, from Violet LeBeaux</a>. </div>
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Are you going to do the #365LLC? Will you update it diligently every day, or just in your free time?</div>
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I look forward to reading everyone's posts!</div>
<br />Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-40214012910473147972016-01-04T08:35:00.003-08:002016-01-04T09:47:07.393-08:002016: Year of the LolitaAfter a very long absence, hello darlings, and happy new year!<br />
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I find it embarrassing that my last post was on March of 2015. Last year was very busy for me, with a dynamic professional life, moving across the Pacific and the mainland, and making my way through my first year of married life. It's been an emotional roller coaster, but I am glad to be on the doorstep of 2016.</div>
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In case you were wondering, it was a pleasure to meet Akira at Kawaiikon 2015. She is by far one of the most engaging J-fashion guests I have met. I posted about it on instagram, which was my platform of choice for my hectic year if you would like to catch up.</div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/8W10gVJ3oM/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">#FlashbackFriday to the time I met #Akira (@disacode) at a #Kawaiikon #teaparty! I forgot ALL of my Japanese when I saw her, because I was so nervous. But she was so funny and sweet! I gave her a present... a small bottle of Crown Royal that said "Drink Me", and a box of Hawaiian chocolates that said "Eat Me". 🍶🍫 Much to my surprise, she loved the whiskey!! 😂 She said it was her "energy!" Haha~☆ that was a great day. And she said I have a pretty face 😢💗 Marry me now, Akira-sama...👰💒💍💐 #lolitafashion #happy #eglcommunity #aliceandthepirates #aatp #kera #ouji #love #disacode</a></div>
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A photo posted by エリカ / Erica (@lycaon_lycoris) on <time datetime="2015-10-03T01:24:15+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Oct 2, 2015 at 6:24pm PDT</time></div>
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At least, I did get to wear a lot of Lolita in the past year. It was probably my friliest year so far, since there were more than enough meet-ups to go to! Here are a few which I remembered to grab pictures of:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMar09_6XVcXbNh93bj2zgaiYzhdR7kJ6BxJrzK4EBf_DHaWhe1Xm3yrsdT2cQCR0xQx_1mqUa7piA-ZoQmaKZ8dpAInoWKDE7MkvffIXno6CaB6cwiGUNA03k6hpQKBmqhyphenhyphenLbvvIzM-0/s1600/tumblr_o03jjakG7p1ujf7v2o1_500.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMar09_6XVcXbNh93bj2zgaiYzhdR7kJ6BxJrzK4EBf_DHaWhe1Xm3yrsdT2cQCR0xQx_1mqUa7piA-ZoQmaKZ8dpAInoWKDE7MkvffIXno6CaB6cwiGUNA03k6hpQKBmqhyphenhyphenLbvvIzM-0/s320/tumblr_o03jjakG7p1ujf7v2o1_500.png" width="318" /></a></div>
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But as I sit here on the 4th of January, there is one thing I am sure of: 2016 will be the "Year of Lolita" for me.<br />
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This year I want to:<br />
<ul>
<li>Improve my wardrobe</li>
<li>Be more active in the community online, and in-person</li>
<li>Improve my blog by sharing reviews, event reports, coordinate posts, crafting/sewing posts, Lolita themed writing prompts, and more</li>
<li>Attend more meet-ups</li>
<li>Maybe host or help plan a meet-up</li>
<li>Travel and visit different comms, to meet all different kinds of Lolitas</li>
</ul>
In addition to the above, I've set another goal to host a fashion show for Darkly Darling at Rufflecon 2016. I have never attended Rufflecon, but I always fawn over the photos and dream of showing a collection there someday. So now that I have moved to the East Coast, why not go for it?<br />
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Of course, that means that as soon as I move in to my new home, I will have to set up my sewing machine and hit the ground running. I want to improve my skills, and only put my best work forward. <br />
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This year is already shaping up to be quite busy, with Katsucon right around the corner. This will be my first big mainland convention I've attended since I was about 12. So far a Lolita Luncheon has been announced, called "Star Crossed". I am already dreaming up a constellation-themed coordinate for the event!<br />
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I did not order any lucky-packs for new years, so don't have any new exciting purchases to show off. However, I did amass a lot of dream pieces to my collection in the past year, so I hope to have a "2015 Wardrobe Post" up by the end of the month.<br />
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I hope to share many more meet-up pictures this year, so please look forward to it!<br />
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I am also cleaning up my blog layout for something less busy, and easier to read and navigate. I hope that this will help keep my old readers as well as bring in new ones.<br />
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To all of you, Happy New Year!<br />
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Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-50714858502370134702015-03-12T20:30:00.000-07:002016-01-04T09:35:56.205-08:00Darkly Darling at Kawaiikon 2015Aloha, Darlings!<br />
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I apologize for the lack of updates since New Year, but life, as always, has been incredibly crazy.<br />
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I do want to post a quick update regarding this year's Kawaiikon, though!<br />
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First off, what is Kawaii Kon?<br />
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It is Oahu's original and so far, dominant anime convention. Other cons have come and gone, such as HEXXP and Oni-con, but Kawaiikon has reigned supreme and been around for over a decade.<br />
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You can read some more about Kawaiikon <a href="http://www.metrohnl.com/kawaii-kon/" target="_blank">here, in a recent article called "Defend Kawaii"</a>. (It is a spoof on the popular local "Defend Hawaii" propaganda. The logo is usually displayed as a big window decal with an AK-47, on pick-up trucks with reggae flags flying off the back. Almost exclusively.)<br />
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As for this year's Kawaiikon, there are a few note worthy events local J-fashion enthusiasts should be aware of, some of which I am teaching or hosting myself!<br />
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First and foremost, is the Kawaiikon-hosted "An Afternoon with Akira". (For more information, see Kkon's page <a href="http://kawaiikon.com/events/lolita-tea-party" target="_blank">here</a>.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuPiE4dknbbY7DlEIWd4Mvn_0G6SxnXRmA2Ns9qWyhJohk9sWtgJyj3dU1uy_nEHRJT-dj7DUVeaQ3jSjCOrg5fojpgO_ylC_uFFGRuRbsllPog_WNQ2t8jS0ypxhT5zC5avjZqA9XXvs/s1600/1505130_931595163531782_5020178240945936559_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuPiE4dknbbY7DlEIWd4Mvn_0G6SxnXRmA2Ns9qWyhJohk9sWtgJyj3dU1uy_nEHRJT-dj7DUVeaQ3jSjCOrg5fojpgO_ylC_uFFGRuRbsllPog_WNQ2t8jS0ypxhT5zC5avjZqA9XXvs/s1600/1505130_931595163531782_5020178240945936559_n.png" width="228" /></a></div>
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Akira is a female Japanese model I have adored for many years. She has an enchantingly androgynous look, and a rock-star style all her own. She is an accomplished model in the Japanese alternative style circuit and the talented vocalist of her own band, DISACODE.<br />
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Kawaiikon will be hosting a full catered tea party, including a meet-and-greet and photo with Akira. Each guest will also receive a special gift.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrwmC15eaAT9A85ypSZZNOXC8CSQbD_aJtwtUDFmIlpzMZD0vYwXbFpEedTGQrRf08YzfAqBO967_leVfh0s33JX6q2Nnk_TrG_iIA8UOR8doMj2vk3NcqmbWTD-4il9DPwbzXktN2DQ/s1600/Aatp_Akira.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrwmC15eaAT9A85ypSZZNOXC8CSQbD_aJtwtUDFmIlpzMZD0vYwXbFpEedTGQrRf08YzfAqBO967_leVfh0s33JX6q2Nnk_TrG_iIA8UOR8doMj2vk3NcqmbWTD-4il9DPwbzXktN2DQ/s1600/Aatp_Akira.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gorgeous Akira, modelling Alice and the Pirates.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The growing <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JfashionHI" target="_blank">J-fashion Hawaii</a> community will also be hosting a panel on Saturday, titled "J-fashion Social". More details will be announced later.<br />
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It is the first event of its kind for J-fashion Hawaii, a locally-geared fashion community with a focus on Japanese street fashions and alternative styles. J-fashion Hawaii is currently the supporting force for the local Hawaii Harajuku Fashion Walk, which just celebrated its 9th meet-up at the Honolulu Festival last weekend (more on that later).<br />
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Later on Saturday Night, I am teaching a panel on Shironuri Fashion, titled "<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/330306890492441/" target="_blank">Shironuri Wonderland: A J-fashion Panel</a>".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc3csMlu9rIKjvnkS_hhoJndarE-Wd0lOVKkFRsXDmQ44Sf-qko2Ek8eQrlzPPRxecmdEUija8ylqmgKpNn7Igg5NyCdtG_T4AhWWkgmYG-BedFXKpX03jO8Sxs5wGSeovnJqooOO2lbg/s1600/10991118_10202519050057066_1129801311604664309_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc3csMlu9rIKjvnkS_hhoJndarE-Wd0lOVKkFRsXDmQ44Sf-qko2Ek8eQrlzPPRxecmdEUija8ylqmgKpNn7Igg5NyCdtG_T4AhWWkgmYG-BedFXKpX03jO8Sxs5wGSeovnJqooOO2lbg/s1600/10991118_10202519050057066_1129801311604664309_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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As a practitioner of Shironuri for about three years now, I thought it'd be nice to clear up some misconceptions and stigmas of the style, explaining its past and history, and showing the amazing directions it's gone in internationally.<br />
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Some topics I'll be covering include:<br />
-Introduction to Shironuri<br />
-History of Shironuri Fashion<br />
-Shironuri around the world<br />
-Shironuri Music, Manga, and other Pop Culture<br />
-Makeup materials and application tutorial, possibly with a volunteer model.<br />
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Shironuri fans and Shironuri curious alike are welcome to attend.<br />
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Last but not least, on Sunday I am hosting my own fashion show.<br />
(RSVP here, at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/334089300122300/" target="_blank">Darkly Darling: A Very Important Date</a>.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrgGw6poOOZccU6K-XxOJqKBZme7kAplTQEfvA2dIIR7T84rmVb5AwFKc6R7qa6vTNFDvGmBN3jP72Nrfb9VrdC0P4m0rw8ZEvgEGCkPlNba1SBvYW_ASZ9on2PleL2CG4e6AcAOvc1s/s1600/10363842_436062363209741_3467757969593631395_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrgGw6poOOZccU6K-XxOJqKBZme7kAplTQEfvA2dIIR7T84rmVb5AwFKc6R7qa6vTNFDvGmBN3jP72Nrfb9VrdC0P4m0rw8ZEvgEGCkPlNba1SBvYW_ASZ9on2PleL2CG4e6AcAOvc1s/s1600/10363842_436062363209741_3467757969593631395_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have been working tirelessly on my own original Lolita designs, since my first fashion show at the Hawaii Horror Ball last August, and RAW Honolulu last September. I decided it was about time I take my designs to an audience that understands them, and Kawaiikon seemed like the perfect place to do it.<br />
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The theme, of course is Lolita and Aristocratic fashions, with an Alice in Wonderland production theme.<br />
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There will be a Q&A afterward. You are welcome to come whether you dress in Lolita or not.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirTjgPDxTynwH2ko-OfryEy_tqJSAkIcBUhZ00VevbyeNYtOt6UndGe8kEaFfBPLgrZe-1pJ6H9oJarRm57F6uAa6AQbisfJeImW7E9PzXSd8cK5ebxXcN_MHN596dcYGUW9iuKGgS7T8/s1600/10952269_10202382877572839_1684270887361153893_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirTjgPDxTynwH2ko-OfryEy_tqJSAkIcBUhZ00VevbyeNYtOt6UndGe8kEaFfBPLgrZe-1pJ6H9oJarRm57F6uAa6AQbisfJeImW7E9PzXSd8cK5ebxXcN_MHN596dcYGUW9iuKGgS7T8/s1600/10952269_10202382877572839_1684270887361153893_n.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my models, wearing my designs. Photo by QPJ Photography.</td></tr>
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Of course, to attend any of these panels you must purchase a Kawaiikon pass, either for the entire weekend or the day of the panel you wish to attend. Con badges can be purchased <a href="http://www.kawaii-kon.org/information/attendee/registration/" target="_blank">here</a>, or at the door.<br />
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Kawaiikon takes place from Friday, March 27- Sunday, March 29 this year.<br />
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Well, that's certainly enough news to shake a stick at! But what have I been up to lately?<br />
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I'll make it short and sweet!<br />
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As I mentioned before, I attended the 9th Hawaii Harajuku Fashion Walk at the Honolulu Festival. There were only 4 J-fashion Hawaii members present besides myself, but it was still fun to enjoy the festival with friends.<br />
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HFW attendance has been on the decline lately! I hope we meet new fans at Kawaiikon this year or more of our older members can come back.<br />
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Anywhoo, I thought it was a great opportunity to try out my new Innocent World "Antique Tartan" Jsk.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBX_HyN27NZkFRbEN5THUs-Q8ktgXQ_V1kqEComm3DVBI_JO_cHnoDgHPRPu8enxqgU9ZRfXd-nzxFfkWLafxqr8fW1hfX7v0xJQpoUWh6mx0KVUjIp9HLTxGC787_bPJOkweR9kaKUdg/s1600/11044627_10202576642816849_8577923839020941882_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBX_HyN27NZkFRbEN5THUs-Q8ktgXQ_V1kqEComm3DVBI_JO_cHnoDgHPRPu8enxqgU9ZRfXd-nzxFfkWLafxqr8fW1hfX7v0xJQpoUWh6mx0KVUjIp9HLTxGC787_bPJOkweR9kaKUdg/s1600/11044627_10202576642816849_8577923839020941882_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">JSK: Innocent World<br />
Blouse, Shoes, Accessories: Offbrand<br />
Jewellery: Kate Spade, Juicy Couture<br />
Wig: GLW "Gamine"</td></tr>
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I also dressed up for "Hina Matsuri / Girl's Day" earlier this month. Though it is not as widely celebrated in the mainland US, it is certainly observed here in Hawaii because of the large Japanese community.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpP53wj5jfWWBH3ACKXM9o2_jSswTZY0gXRE9MBRZs5iEmc2fOhBGoz5TwiI-5Xg7Hk3kk4W86NqO7DRWGBuAukxnH0uCHLIADSPu7fxFWaQiLMhyphenhyphencPgPX6TfW1NPgwGTOmoTAGLdHDM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-03+at+14.51.59.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpP53wj5jfWWBH3ACKXM9o2_jSswTZY0gXRE9MBRZs5iEmc2fOhBGoz5TwiI-5Xg7Hk3kk4W86NqO7DRWGBuAukxnH0uCHLIADSPu7fxFWaQiLMhyphenhyphencPgPX6TfW1NPgwGTOmoTAGLdHDM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-03-03+at+14.51.59.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">OP: Handmade<br />
Bonnet: Handmade<br />
Blouse: Offbrand<br />
Wig: GLW "Heartbreaker"</td></tr>
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<br />Other than that, I have been very busy working, haha. When I am not physically at work I am sewing my butt off at home! But I enjoy every minute of it... I suppose.</div>
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Well, until the next far-too-long-awaited blog post! Thank you to the supporters and new readers who stick around!</div>
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Xoxo,</div>
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Cherie<br />
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Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-55829401630608305182014-12-31T22:53:00.005-08:002015-03-12T22:15:25.582-07:00Happy New Year! 2014 Wardrobe Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy New Year, Bonne année et bonne santé, and 明けましておめでとう, Darlings!</div>
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Thank you for all of your support in 2014, with my first two fashion shows at the Hawaii Horror Ball and RAW: natural born artists Honolulu! I hope to improve very much this year, make very many commissions, work on my time management and have many more creative shows for you!<br />
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今年もよろしく!</div>
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There is one Lolita meme I enjoy doing every year, and that is to post my wardrobe. It has changed very much over the past few years I've done it. The first year I did it, I kept my photos on Photobucket, but they are all gone now. That year was the year I studied abroad in Japan, and I had quite a few bright Angelic Pretty prints, leopard print accessories and bright pink motorcycle jackets.</div>
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The year after became a bit more muted and slightly mature, with still a few sweet elements. (Check it out here, <a href="http://darklydarling.blogspot.com/2013/02/wardrobe-post-2013.html" target="_blank">Wardrobe Post 2013</a>!)</div>
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This past year, 2014 was really when I started forming my personal style, and collecting pieces that truly reflect my personality and taste. As you'll see, I definitely became fond of Atelier Pierrot, and there's barely a trace of sweet Lolita to be found. I am very happy with my collection, which reflects classic themes, military and uniform influences, and lots of jewel tones!</div>
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Without further ado, and with firecrackers popping overhead as I write, my main wardrobe pieces of 2014.</div>
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<b>Alice and the Pirates</b></div>
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St. Helena Jsk<br />
(Pin: Miho Matsuda; Blouse: offbrand)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiobPI5CjYBXPMiaRnaRztj6PcRVOkQerjKUDRkyUXkZHXas-7JJW53mV_mg5_31XyrpEMgZe8eVbcet3cA8xDfzOyaltETIJLl7wR3GpCeRo_Tk4uieQA1Mx-lxIS2G-21PAtoA4UA09A/s1600/11046427_10202582344759394_5821287010425694205_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiobPI5CjYBXPMiaRnaRztj6PcRVOkQerjKUDRkyUXkZHXas-7JJW53mV_mg5_31XyrpEMgZe8eVbcet3cA8xDfzOyaltETIJLl7wR3GpCeRo_Tk4uieQA1Mx-lxIS2G-21PAtoA4UA09A/s1600/11046427_10202582344759394_5821287010425694205_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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In comparison to last year, my collection of Alice and the Pirates has really thinned out. Still, I kept this Jsk, because it is one of my absolute favourites.</div>
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Firstly, navy blue is my favourite colour. It is so versatile, with the ability to compliment many different colour schemes and skin tones. I especially like wearing it with cream and gold accessories. I also adore uniform styles, so it is my go-to piece when I have no idea what to wear. I love it, because it can be styled classically, gothicly, or as a school uniform. I hope one day, to track down the matching capelet!<br />
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Cock Robin Jsk<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAP1BnQ-3Fa9LePfmDyW0n5sm96ryXh_KMJ-yGuCD7wSg1RVqM378LLF6HjyqJooOo4VE_CXyaknhXjF6CzHrAfEz4qEPwTP_xFsDMzsHR7vHbYOC4KQblTR0c6cmqpOjWHVyJV-4khuM/s1600/15_3_8_27_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAP1BnQ-3Fa9LePfmDyW0n5sm96ryXh_KMJ-yGuCD7wSg1RVqM378LLF6HjyqJooOo4VE_CXyaknhXjF6CzHrAfEz4qEPwTP_xFsDMzsHR7vHbYOC4KQblTR0c6cmqpOjWHVyJV-4khuM/s1600/15_3_8_27_1.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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I'll be honest. Though the design of this dress is very elegant, I mostly bought it because one of my favourite bands is called cocklobin, lol. I had the pleasure of watching them perform at Takadanobaba AREA just before they disbanded last year. Check them out, if you're into Nagoya-kei!<br />
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But back to the dress! As an avid collector of jewel tones, I appreciated the unique burgundy colour. I am also a fan of the ruffle on top of the bodice.<br />
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My latest purchase, still waiting for this one to come in from Closet Child.<br />
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<b>Angelic Pretty</b><br />
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Wrapping Ribbon Jsk<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKAUIK0H_pj19EpIPxUYvNAI57q_iaMJatSm_LSTS5tzMCIAiVnssYidaVZgFgLFClQwANMm5-NsC0vrS2ET3PGDoMRYGOvPjdsRygoGhIQQbuVyZu8AwymyB1g5oswTMn7KTggLBHcKw/s1600/11026135_10202582348519488_6079594803078937656_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKAUIK0H_pj19EpIPxUYvNAI57q_iaMJatSm_LSTS5tzMCIAiVnssYidaVZgFgLFClQwANMm5-NsC0vrS2ET3PGDoMRYGOvPjdsRygoGhIQQbuVyZu8AwymyB1g5oswTMn7KTggLBHcKw/s1600/11026135_10202582348519488_6079594803078937656_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I have long been skeptical of Angelic Pretty, because pastels just don't suit me. But I've wanted this particular print for a while, especially with the dark purple colour combination. On top of that, the chiffon is lovely, and the cut of the dress is quite comfortable. </div>
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<b>Atelier Pierrot</b></div>
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Halter Vest Jsk</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMfC_irKkW0uLfhQPMgkSgqcxn7bi7eOYIzU1TuJDMmofVj9qoJqgOz4hBugkcgA7BRud5WuCuGaXkdxHY6iZEZDktEnW8a-MHl1nPIP6rhUw4wGfZ3FPHNH9Ze08YNL_6duU11e2VB2I/s1600/10429446_10202582348759494_2863872907866878242_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMfC_irKkW0uLfhQPMgkSgqcxn7bi7eOYIzU1TuJDMmofVj9qoJqgOz4hBugkcgA7BRud5WuCuGaXkdxHY6iZEZDktEnW8a-MHl1nPIP6rhUw4wGfZ3FPHNH9Ze08YNL_6duU11e2VB2I/s1600/10429446_10202582348759494_2863872907866878242_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I always wanted an all-black Atelier Pierrot Jsk. When my friend happened to be selling hers, I couldn't resist! I got it for a steal, because the zipper had broken off the track, but my husband fixed it for me in a jiffy. I am looking forward to so many different looks with this Jsk!</div>
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Eden Jsk</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn5fxw23gsLlXWEVNNntchPHkjd0gC6GD13G4d-EmXS4h-pWVtteOHiFQ5-6YohmdmXevztCQt1_demdGcUBJ00fySX52GzdolkRq7Bfztwv_NdHFy2dO3YgP3nZABYVo2whMsA-F2RCQ/s1600/image%5B1%5D.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn5fxw23gsLlXWEVNNntchPHkjd0gC6GD13G4d-EmXS4h-pWVtteOHiFQ5-6YohmdmXevztCQt1_demdGcUBJ00fySX52GzdolkRq7Bfztwv_NdHFy2dO3YgP3nZABYVo2whMsA-F2RCQ/s1600/image%5B1%5D.jpeg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
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Definitely another one of my favourite Jsks. I bought it at Onicon Hawaii in 2012, the first year Atelier Pierrot came to Hawaii. I adored the green colour and had stalked it online for weeks, but it was sold out everywhere. I held on to my con savings with the faintest hope Atelier Pierrot might bring one for sale. As soon as the booth opened, I was there waiting, and watching... and there it was! I snagged it right away. I also modelled in the Atelier Pierrot fashion show that year, so this piece is also very sentimental to me. I don't think I'll ever get rid of it!</div>
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Cage Skirt</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4-p2SSWJ36z9KcKgTOj5cjGCvHQvJHfktS28LZAi6AGTBghmpnVCV71a31ar5UKcQDjl8gB_cAMgeu9LAuLRAWucT8Xz_TQgGo5i3fR4IlDRxu-o5fkfQzPUc1ByNyjql1RqGfFC2p0/s1600/image%5B2%5D.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4-p2SSWJ36z9KcKgTOj5cjGCvHQvJHfktS28LZAi6AGTBghmpnVCV71a31ar5UKcQDjl8gB_cAMgeu9LAuLRAWucT8Xz_TQgGo5i3fR4IlDRxu-o5fkfQzPUc1ByNyjql1RqGfFC2p0/s1600/image%5B2%5D.jpeg" height="400" width="235" /></a></div>
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For as long as I could remember, I wanted a black cage skirt! Imagine my surprise and excitement when I found one at Closet Child in January for only about 6,000 yen. Score! </div>
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Charcoal Capelet</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLu17bV_bt7nf3fqfA0mJoXEbzRmK7sIvm6O0OxQp3zbV7GVZg6tHKGTZX829L0DQ4df-eLImtT9xlrPFeRXijnWZxflUiq82mtKTYzzNpUEJZCFfFHXiIBhqujASGwuFvIJGx1sHb6CM/s1600/image%5B3%5D.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLu17bV_bt7nf3fqfA0mJoXEbzRmK7sIvm6O0OxQp3zbV7GVZg6tHKGTZX829L0DQ4df-eLImtT9xlrPFeRXijnWZxflUiq82mtKTYzzNpUEJZCFfFHXiIBhqujASGwuFvIJGx1sHb6CM/s1600/image%5B3%5D.jpeg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
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A versatile mantle/capelet with faint pinstripes. I sometimes decorate it with a broach, corsage, or military-like ribbons, depending on the look. I got it in an Atelier Pierrot lucky pack last January. I got to see Yuko in Harajuku again the day I bought the pack, and she remembered me from Onicon, which made me very surprised and happy. </div>
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Cream Pintuck Apron</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDDCWexTOGmDoC6U7Gue6TwIbMjlMSSn2CUna88L6vqfl2U8vQ-cwke4Zkdfk2sldRgPQWMYjRIBb8JfrAXO5McK8vDupTWWGI1G5OEwBe-eD3mu7kxHIKDDfhyPv3CzdGpy5azta5xY/s1600/182289-2404-2014-09-29551418_zpsc1201ff8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDDCWexTOGmDoC6U7Gue6TwIbMjlMSSn2CUna88L6vqfl2U8vQ-cwke4Zkdfk2sldRgPQWMYjRIBb8JfrAXO5McK8vDupTWWGI1G5OEwBe-eD3mu7kxHIKDDfhyPv3CzdGpy5azta5xY/s1600/182289-2404-2014-09-29551418_zpsc1201ff8.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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A versatile and classic apron with many delicate details. It can be coordinated in many different ways, which is why I love it. I also got this from my lucky pack last year. </div>
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White Jsk (I forget the name)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4j9jlmNJCmdYfdPK6Y8QAhaPSgg8Ao-RanlWQ30lItVyN_-8lhLoV2RRgDb_EBnZBUWjoPpO_sLYwd7-eHAVyvpyHtEOoQTrC_JXxiEHofc6PqHQQOc_Jdu4nxbiSW0teqhxgXEmvFjY/s1600/11022555_10202582349639516_1286757857593828895_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4j9jlmNJCmdYfdPK6Y8QAhaPSgg8Ao-RanlWQ30lItVyN_-8lhLoV2RRgDb_EBnZBUWjoPpO_sLYwd7-eHAVyvpyHtEOoQTrC_JXxiEHofc6PqHQQOc_Jdu4nxbiSW0teqhxgXEmvFjY/s1600/11022555_10202582349639516_1286757857593828895_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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My photo honestly doesn't do this dress justice right now. I am still working on a complete coordinate.</div>
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This was my dream dress for my wedding, or post-wedding party last year, but it was always out of my budget. When it finally went on sale a few weeks ago, I decided to snag it. You never know when you can do a romantic gothic photo shoot, or vow renewal. ;D</div>
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<b>Baby, the Stars Shine Bright</b></div>
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Ma Cherie Jsk</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixaUfqjHHjc_L4qB_CdmXAew4DnxE93yVIxvk8wrJ0Hod5A3bx9J2QoA_9oJwByiIOCkXc3-OpPovAsOHGKbSpxWI7JnDAc923UyO_75HqcubuIQuw9uAdoYHuCXv_JsD5uEKtuYmoCcY/s1600/image_zps09ef048c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixaUfqjHHjc_L4qB_CdmXAew4DnxE93yVIxvk8wrJ0Hod5A3bx9J2QoA_9oJwByiIOCkXc3-OpPovAsOHGKbSpxWI7JnDAc923UyO_75HqcubuIQuw9uAdoYHuCXv_JsD5uEKtuYmoCcY/s1600/image_zps09ef048c.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Although I've considered selling this a few times, I just can't let go of this adorable Jsk. Though normally I avoid pink, I am fond of Baby's special shade of "cherry" pink. Not to mention, I adore the heart embroidered eyelet lace on the bottom. On top of all that, it is called "Ma Cherie", almost as if it was made for me! Even though I prefer darker colours, I feel it is good to have at least one sweet Jsk in your wardrobe, just in case. </div>
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<b>Baroque</b></div>
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Missing Letter, Key and Rabbit Jsk</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6ayfZznFXfY1eRNX1zJ2MeZ6brN_X9-Eyzi7UnoAmAOpf-M4Cn0jxtuclp_FqyhV_EdaIbeGrU2WnGW2JLB57nzL_NF4jbU3TnajEevJaOhMnguVikuCPKtYZAbVI5znxoMJPu9oOSU/s1600/image%5B5%5D.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6ayfZznFXfY1eRNX1zJ2MeZ6brN_X9-Eyzi7UnoAmAOpf-M4Cn0jxtuclp_FqyhV_EdaIbeGrU2WnGW2JLB57nzL_NF4jbU3TnajEevJaOhMnguVikuCPKtYZAbVI5znxoMJPu9oOSU/s1600/image%5B5%5D.jpeg" height="400" width="241" /></a></div>
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I am not usually big into prints, but I adore the colours used in this print. It is a beautiful balance! I recently wore this out on a holiday shopping outing with my new chocolate brown mary janes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWpVZTWQYnAqAff5Jt57IX-YcFJivoxqYZJY9SFbfWMN0d1B_cQsdidQNyMntytDcvUvIZps39Mz2viGKHESOGZiTEdkWFK7aHEzeZ7DIvpsFZFMBk4X8nu5_MOvfF1hx6wWp7MsGtno/s1600/10427312_10202205398375970_992818719598781408_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWpVZTWQYnAqAff5Jt57IX-YcFJivoxqYZJY9SFbfWMN0d1B_cQsdidQNyMntytDcvUvIZps39Mz2viGKHESOGZiTEdkWFK7aHEzeZ7DIvpsFZFMBk4X8nu5_MOvfF1hx6wWp7MsGtno/s1600/10427312_10202205398375970_992818719598781408_n.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Darkly Darling (my home-made items)</b></div>
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Enchanted Forest Jsk</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifB6fdkgSS88MpnbBn4p7O29nrc2Q1pU-W0JVJEbQ9ryawolnEakoMtE3oH4qxd7t_cE9bhMRQ9WsS37UFjG0CHXP8G_dyarLCqmY_BCfEehyBuE24Sskj1fIP3ob2ReW-JqBdePyouC4/s1600/10425117_327103760772269_3390613691926948285_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifB6fdkgSS88MpnbBn4p7O29nrc2Q1pU-W0JVJEbQ9ryawolnEakoMtE3oH4qxd7t_cE9bhMRQ9WsS37UFjG0CHXP8G_dyarLCqmY_BCfEehyBuE24Sskj1fIP3ob2ReW-JqBdePyouC4/s1600/10425117_327103760772269_3390613691926948285_n.png" height="320" width="318" /></a></div>
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A half-shirred Jsk with delicate pink tones and warm chocolate brown. I made it for a forest themed meet-up.</div>
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Rosemary Cream and Green Jsk and Bonnet</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVDW-vOF3DHNgEkJjenYvACjugGC8B3cH8j0q-WQO_lbV25eqMLEvpOIN9onmsY5UVCfwOTZqF48lMhhCKtD4L9IAI4V8DhNU_wRLXH1nzkghzVnju8VL4KQd4zrDUWZx2i9ddPD2CYs/s1600/10801998_10202119387665756_1039436581613307392_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVDW-vOF3DHNgEkJjenYvACjugGC8B3cH8j0q-WQO_lbV25eqMLEvpOIN9onmsY5UVCfwOTZqF48lMhhCKtD4L9IAI4V8DhNU_wRLXH1nzkghzVnju8VL4KQd4zrDUWZx2i9ddPD2CYs/s1600/10801998_10202119387665756_1039436581613307392_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvHm3N2Un1kPBj34rF6MDO5Ot61OmW5H9808BczU6aCw3ZhDKNV1eq0MQYXJO5hRqnkecGcWfwon3sc9W0pbl6WZ0Dj_aLcF87sBASOAg5HbmcewwOV2-fEuBhmunKrZDUizQshyJZsc/s1600/150175_10202119391985864_2526696540637399203_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvHm3N2Un1kPBj34rF6MDO5Ot61OmW5H9808BczU6aCw3ZhDKNV1eq0MQYXJO5hRqnkecGcWfwon3sc9W0pbl6WZ0Dj_aLcF87sBASOAg5HbmcewwOV2-fEuBhmunKrZDUizQshyJZsc/s1600/150175_10202119391985864_2526696540637399203_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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One of the first outfits I made when I got back into my sewing kick this year. I adore chiffon, it's my favourite material to work with! This was also my first successful bonnet that I made for myself.</div>
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Blue Lace Overlay Jsk</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5f2el6IKyQg__PtroSouXb9DQJGnY0LJXxPkljUA01Fr3vl2HL0RjjKlljsASUr1hGiqpCIL95gGPCwAhnO-rHDn6g2azEUW-FC2YulRltN1mXVu2_VhD0-s45wQGLZnvnRlajohuNU/s1600/10849890_10202119387945763_6550930001577211790_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5f2el6IKyQg__PtroSouXb9DQJGnY0LJXxPkljUA01Fr3vl2HL0RjjKlljsASUr1hGiqpCIL95gGPCwAhnO-rHDn6g2azEUW-FC2YulRltN1mXVu2_VhD0-s45wQGLZnvnRlajohuNU/s1600/10849890_10202119387945763_6550930001577211790_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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A fully shirred OP made of blue tafetta, fully lined with black lace overlay. It was one of my first experiments with fully shirred OPs. I wanted to make something in a bold sapphire blue colour, originally inspired by Beauty and the Beast, but it took a turn towards Moi-Meme-Moitie. </div>
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I made a lot more items this year, but I think those are my favourites.</div>
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<b>Excentrique</b></div>
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Green Halter Jsk</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77unvJwaAqbOgeKiKyEg21ApYmzjEYHY_be2ghyF_sXkLyllcaCERHbSWVCxBmZ9YG9HF-LgAPg4RyM8VqB0xri7mi62v7Fkv-4t1Hg2QKNHPZi3CeCoKtHQ7fJuf9psGoYuQzSLiIqA/s1600/11046612_10202582350959549_5923066066376658402_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77unvJwaAqbOgeKiKyEg21ApYmzjEYHY_be2ghyF_sXkLyllcaCERHbSWVCxBmZ9YG9HF-LgAPg4RyM8VqB0xri7mi62v7Fkv-4t1Hg2QKNHPZi3CeCoKtHQ7fJuf9psGoYuQzSLiIqA/s1600/11046612_10202582350959549_5923066066376658402_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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This was another dream dress, I dug it up at Closet Child for only 6,000 yen! I couldn't believe my eyes! I positively love Excentrique as a brand, and hope to collect more odds and ends from them in the coming year. I'd especially love one of their military styled jackets. </div>
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<b>Innocent World</b></div>
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Dot Shantung Jsk</div>
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I actually didn't get this in an oddment pack, I bought it by choice! As I said before, I love navy, and I also love polkadots, so this Jsk was just right for me. Not to mention, I prefer IW's longer hemlines. </div>
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Antique Playing Cards Jsk</div>
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I love the metallic gold print, and how the pops of red surprisingly compliment the brown! The ribbon high on the bodice is also a cute touch.</div>
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Antique Cutlery Jsk</div>
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I love the reds and blues in the print. Though I am not usually a fan of prints, recently I have been coveting those from Innocent World.</div>
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Antique Tartan Jsk</div>
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Innocent World be like ANTIQUE ALL THE THINGS!</div>
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Obviously, I have become quite the fan of Innocent World, lol. I also enjoy collecting pieces with unique colours. Surprisingly enough this can be coordinated for either a Spring ot Autumn look.</div>
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<b>Putumayo</b></div>
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Bear eared Jacket</div>
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One of the things I bought when it was freezing cold in Tokyo. It kept me surprisingly warm! I love the bear ears!</div>
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And last, but not least, some random accessory eye candy.</div>
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Welp, those are the main things I've added to my wardrobe in 2014! I feel it is a lot more cohesive this way, and reflects my personal style. It also shows how my taste has matured, and even fringed on gothic this past year. I am very satisfied with it!</div>
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Of course, I have some odds and ends such as Q-pot rings, brand necklaces given to me by friends, and one or two branded head pieces, but they're really not impressive enough to show off, haha. </div>
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In 2015, I'd like to collect a Triple Fortune Bonnet, more Atelier Pierrot Jewel Tone Jsks, military items from Metamorphose and Excentrique, Innocent World's Rose Panel Jsk, and Btssb's Charlotte Baniran Jsk in red. Maybe I'll make a more extensive wishlist post later this week, for the Lolita Blog Carnival! </div>
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I hope you enjoyed peeking inside my closet, and hopefully this time next year, I'll have more than twice as many handmade outfits by Darkly Darling to show you!</div>
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Xoxo, Cherie</div>
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Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1480419999370247537.post-61141780361480209492014-12-02T17:13:00.001-08:002014-12-02T17:14:35.767-08:0030 Days of Loli: 10 Songs That Inspire My Inner LolitaHi there, Darlings!<br />
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How is everyone doing? Can you believe that it is December all ready? I am so excited to start coordinating Holiday outfits, and hopefully party a little with some Lolita friends. I think we're organizing a Secret Santa this year, so that is something to look forward to!<br />
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As usual, I'm trying to knock out this '30 Days of Loli' Challenge.<br />
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When I first saw the list of topics, there were definitely a handful that stood out, and I wanted to dive right into them. Today's was definitely one of those topics, as I love music more than... well, most things!<br />
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Today's topic is... 10 Songs That Inspire Your Inner Lolita!<br />
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The most difficult thing was narrowing down songs that are strictly "Lolita" in theme or feeling. For example, I love many visual kei bands, and some times rock out to Industrial music while driving to a meet-up or event. I have a strange mix-mash of music in my head, haha.<br />
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That being said, let's get on to my picks for songs, and why I chose them! Maybe they'll get you dancing, make you want to dress up, or inspire and outfit too!<br />
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1. "Suna no Oshiro"- Kanon Wakeshima<br />
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I used this song for my first-ever fashion show at the Hawaii Horror Ball. I loved how the ghostly vocals and deep cello brought out the gothic side in my outfits. For gothic Lolitas or Classic Lolitas who want to imagine a darker, more dramatic coordinate, this is a great song.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/mp5kHDpCRSE" width="420"></iframe><br />
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2. "We Are All Mad", Circus Contraption<br />
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I used this song for my second fashion show, at Raw Honolulu Presents: Scope.<br />
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It's a funny story, how I 'discovered' Circus Contraption. One of my friends, Lisa works with the Cherry Blossom Cabaret, a burlesque and performing arts group in Honolulu that puts on numerous colourful shows. I asked her and her friend, Michelle if they'd be interested in choreographing and performing something 'circus and 'ballet' inspired, to open for my Raw fashion show.<br />
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As we discussed music for the choreography and the rest of the show, one of them mentioned that Armitage Shanks from Circus Contraption would be at one of their Circus themed events the same month. They said that if I happened to find a song I liked, then I could probably do a fashion show at their event to show to Armitage.<br />
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Thus, I discovered Circus Contraption. The opening choreography was a mechanical-doll themed dance, and the main show was to this song, "We Are All Mad".<br />
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I love the whimsical feeling. I would definitely use this in another show, probably for a menswear line.<br />
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(PS: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_37P33j1mw" target="_blank">You can view my RAW Fashion show, here!</a>)<br />
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3. "The Phantom of the Opera", Harajuku Remix<br />
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I want to use this in a fashion show someday!! (Are you sensing a theme? Haha.)<br />
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It inspires a more updated classic-gothic look, maybe with a few quirky and artistic accessories... and a venetian or opera mask.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/FLSUGvt__3w?list=PLHRi_f_bxqtNyWNroutpeqkuCPR-z1bwz" width="560"></iframe><br />
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4. "Cupid", Olivia Lufkin<br />
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Another one I wanted to use for a fashion show... :P<br />
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I've loved this song for many years. Olivia's vocals are hauntingly beautiful.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/c_icwOOWINg?list=PLHRi_f_bxqtNyWNroutpeqkuCPR-z1bwz" width="560"></iframe><br />
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5. "私の楽団 / My Orchestra", Kokusyoku Sumire<br />
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I remember the first time I heard Kokusyoku Sumire.<br />
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I was like, "What the heck am I listening to?" But then it started to sink in, how intricate the melody was, how theatrical, and how the style of their world made the song come to life. I believe Kokusyoku Sumire embodies the spirit of Lolita- to express your own artistic world, even if it's not catering to a mainstream palette.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/V4Lhjmow6wI?list=PLHRi_f_bxqtNyWNroutpeqkuCPR-z1bwz" width="560"></iframe><br />
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6. "The Love from a Dead Orchestra", Versailles<br />
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And we're back to fashion shows.<br />
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Actually, in high school, I wanted to go to school for fashion so badly, but knew I could never afford it. I fantasized about having a full ten-minute runway debut to this song, telling a story with the outfits. To this day the melody inspires me.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/9_SVIE31zoE?list=PLHRi_f_bxqtNyWNroutpeqkuCPR-z1bwz" width="560"></iframe><br />
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7. "Feed", Rose Noire<br />
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I find Rose Noire sometimes catchy, sometimes not. Their catchy songs fit the aesthetic of Lolita, and embody that ghostly, gothic, slightly melancholy sound I crave.<br />
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8. "Beast of Blood", Malice Mizer<br />
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I feel Malice Mizer was a mandatory mention.<br />
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In truth, I like Beat Blood, but it's not my favourite. My favourite is probably "Au Revoir" or "Gekka no Yasoukyoku". I'm a Gackt woman, what can I say?<br />
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Fun fact: The DJ played "Gekka no..." at my wedding. It was kind of an inside joke between me, my groom and my best friends.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/F143kJea2tw?list=PLHRi_f_bxqtObYqVJIwnusZUDOZk1bi6w" width="560"></iframe><br />
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9. "The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy", Nutcracker Suite<br />
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I've been into this song lately, and electronic mixes of classical songs. This melody is very Lolita to me. I heard it in a dream... that I dreamed about a fashion show. (I think I have a problem.)<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/chOtemRAYNc" width="560"></iframe><br />
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10. "Gothic Party", Dolly<br />
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I love Dolly. I love this song. That is all.<br />
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There you have it! The songs that make my petticoats fluff and my Loli contacts sparkle. I kind of want to change out of this striped sweater and dress up right now, don't you?<br />
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But I should actually go sew. I have about 50 fantasy fashion shows to do.<br />
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Xoxo, Your one-track-mind-many-track-iPod-seamstress, CherieEricahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02371204542287083604noreply@blogger.com0