The Lolita ‘Sub-Genres’

Ouji Lolita

Ouji, or “Prince” fashion is the masculine version of Lolita, worn by men and women alike. Ouji fashion typically features a vest or jacket over a blouse, worn with knee-length shorts and OTK (over-the-knee) socks. Hats of both the full-size and mini varieties are the typical headwear for ouji

Punk Lolita

A sub-genre of Lolita that most often starts with Sweet or Gothic as a base, it is exactly what it sounds like--a punk version of Lolita! DIY elements, plaids, and other hallmarks of classic Western punk looks incorporated in a Lolita outfit. As long as the silhouette and overall top-to-bottom aesthetic is Lolita, anything else goes!

Pirate Lolita

Pirate Lolita is a specific off-shoot of the fashion that features pirate and nautical themes. Pirate prints, jackets and vests, and of course, pirate hats are common. Any style can take a pirate theme, but Gothic and Ouji are the most common.

Model: Konekoanni

Sailor Lolita

Model: @Woomylumi (Instagram)

Shiro/Kuro Lolita

A common Lolita look that can be in any sub-style, but is characterized by being all white (shiro) or all black (kuro). Two wearers will often match each other, with one wearing black and the other white.

Model: Hoshiko

Wa-Lolita

This popular Lolita fashion substyle is inspired by the Taisho-era blending of Western and Japanese fashion, and is difficult for beginners to get correct. Many supposedly “wa-Lolita” outfits look a lot more like idol performance dresses than true Lolita fashion, so anyone interested in this substyle should enter with care. The Lolita silhouette must still be present, with a full knee-length skirt, appropriate headwear and leg covering, etc. A good way to accomplish this look is to wear a kimono top or haori with a high-waisted Lolita skirt and blouse.

Model: Copper Reverie
Photographer: Maison Hikari