Kyla Robinson, a senior anthropology major, became interested in Lolita while being a member of the anime club and reading manga in high school. Learning about Japanese culture through her hobbies led Robinson to Lolita. A friend of hers was a part of the community at the time, which also inspired Robinson to research.
Lolita is a fashion subculture that originated in Japan in the 70s that is dedicated to Victorian-era clothing.
The subculture, which has gained popularity in the U.S. since the 90s, consists of petticoats, bloomers, cupcake shaped skirt silhouettes, frills, intricately made patterned fabric, high collars, bonnets and parasols.
“I just saw them and thought to myself, ‘I want to be like them.’ And in August of 2010, I put together my first outfit,” Robinson said.
Some Lolitas come together at anime conventions, which is where Robinson had her first meet-up.
Robinson said that Lolita is closely associated with Cosplay, a hobby or form of artistic expression where the participant creates and wears costumes of specific characters. But there is a distinction between Cosplayers and Lolitas.
“A thing to be stressed is that Lolita is not Cosplay,” Robinson said. “A lot of people think it is. Lolita is an actual fashion where Cosplay is a well-crafted costume for an event.”
Cosplayers emulate a very specific character, while Lolitas focus more on personal style.
Robinson said that one of the reasons people participate in Lolita is for escapism. But getting the attention of passerby is something she has to deal with when participating in Lolita.
“I’ve gotten lots of comments,” Robinson said. “I’ve gotten everything from ‘oh, Little Bo Peep.’ I’ve gotten stares.”
“When I’m wearing Lolita, I’m a lot more conscience of what I’m doing. I’ll actively tell myself not to trip, because I’m already being looked at.”
Robinson explained that she used to wear Lolita fashion casually to work, but due to hot Georgia weather, she has stopped.
There are different types of Lolita styles, but three of the most popular include Sweet Lolita, Classic Lolita and Gothic Lolita. Men also participate, and that style is generally referred to as Ōji Lolita, or Boystyle.
Robinson puts a lot of thought into her appearance as a Lolita, taking time to focus on each element of her style.
“I take the time to do my makeup, I pick out my clothes weeks in advance, figure out what colors go best, how to do my hair, you know stuff like that.”
But one of the most rewarding things about being a part of Lolita for Robinson is being aligned with a community that shares something special.
“We all go out together in this, and it’s having the sisterhood aspect that is the best,” Robinson said. “My friend has a phrase, ‘porcelain cup in a paper cup world.’ I feel like that. The fun of getting ready and embracing dressing up isn’t celebrated enough in today’s society.”
