gothic and lolita (goth-loli)

Color of Fashion Items

Gothic and Lolita became popular as Japan’s unique fashion style in Harajuku in the end of the 90’s. (However, it is said to be originated in Osaka, American Village). Back then, the visual kei bands such as Malice Mizer, Luna Sea, Glay, and Peniciline were at their best being at the top of charts. Out of these bands, a leader of Malice Mizer, Mana-sama’s original and unique perspectives of view and his drag queen fashion especially, gained popularity among fans. Then they started to dress up like him. His ideas were based on the 15^th ~19^th century European nobles which led him to dress in outfits that combined both elegance and dark mysterious aspects. Mana-sama commented on his own style that he always put an emphasis on elegance, gothic and lolita. Hence, the new fashion, Gothic and Lolita was created and spread among young people.

In addition, a magazine called KERA, which was originally called KEROUAC founded in 1998 to provide information and street snap pictures of girls dressed up in Harajuku area, established a new magazine, “Gothic and Lolita Bible.” It was an immediate hit and Gothic and Lolita (or shortened to Goth- Loli) became a popular word.

Goth-Loli fashion also came from comic books and Japan animation. However, we are going to introduce the basic Goth-Loli based on Mana-sama’s style.