I won a Lolita art giveaway!

One of my absolute favorite Lolita blogs on Tumblr is PeacefulWorld. This blog is run by the lovely Frederica1995. She always posts great Lolita releases, coordinates and other frilly content. In addition Frederica is an artist! Her Lolita inspired illustrations are absolutely charming. Over the summer she held a Lolita art giveaway to celebrate 500 followers. I could not resist and had to participate! Even the flicker of possibility was far too exciting to pass up.

Luckily I found myself the 2nd winner of her contest!

( You can view the original blog post here )

Now I only had to decide what character or coordinate I should send her. Finally I settled on my doughnut coordinate. In her style that print would be beyond sweet! 

I did not have to wait long for a response:

 This adorable sketch was well worth the wait for sure! 

​I cannot get over how lovely this piece is from just a simple coordinate photo.

 I cannot get over how positively adorable the details of this piece are! The classic style is charming and the intricacies of the print, frills, lace and bows help to create a completely sweet portrait. I am beyond flattered that I have been captured in such an adorable light. I will treasure this piece for years to come.

​I am still so ecstatic that I won! I strongly recommend that you follow PeacefulWorld. 

Who knows, you could be the next follower contest winner!

Stay Frilly,

My friends that I want to convert.

​I have met many new friends in the Lolita hobby. Lolita fashion has allowed me to meet and experience many beautiful people and things in life that I would have never been able to without it!

Since Lolita has brought me so much joy it is natural that I would want to share this happiness with others. There are four specific people in my life that I would absolutely love to convert to the fashion!

( You are able to view the original blog post here )

Aside from the fact I want to have my significant other wear the same fashion for selfish reasons, I think Nena would be an adorable Lolita. While I would love to see her adorned in Sweet, I believe she would fit best in a Classic Lolita style. Her classic beauty, height and calm demeanor would allow for her to be a lovely addition to the Lolita community.

I have wanted to twin with Guinevere ever since we were girls (we were the only kids I know of that wore school uniforms by choice). Guin is able to pull off any fashion with flare and confidence. With her love of 50's fashion I can envision Guin very easily in Classic Lolita. The ability to twin is a bonus!

 With his natural long blond hair and dashing good looks Andrew would be an exceptional candidate as a Dandy or an Ouji! He can pull off the airs required for such a sophisticated style with ease. When I watch DeerStalker's Ouji Accessory all I can see is Andrew every time!

Roxy would make the most adorable Lolita! While she tends to wear mostly cosplay at a convention I can easily see Roxy in everything from Gothic Lolita to Sweet Lolita. She has the perfect attitude and confidence to rock whatever she adorns!

And there you have it! Those are the four people I would love to convert to the fashion.

Have you converted friends? What are your tips? Let me know below!

Stay Frilly ~

How long will take for me to build a complete Loℓιтα wardrobe?

​This week's topic for the 52 Lolita Challenge is quite a handful, but one that many participants in this fashion ponder.

How long do I believe it will take me to build a complete Lolita wardrobe?

This prompt begs the question of what do I believe a complete Lolita wardrobe contains? In the start of my Lolita journey I would have considered a wardrobe with a few staple pieces so I would have some diversity when attending Lolita meets and conventions. Now that I am a bit more seasoned, I would consider a complete Lolita wardrobe to possess enough pieces so I would be able to wear Lolita on a daily basis. The ability to have enough pieces to accommodate a full month without outfit repeats would be an absolute dream! A health mix of blouses, bloomers, skirts, dresses and accessories is an expensive and tedious venue, but one I am absolutely determined to complete.

In order to decipher a realistic answer I will be using mathematics with my past rate and my anticipated rate to find a plausible, all be it possibly mortifying, answer!

(You can view my original blog post here!)

My track record for Lolita purchases is not exactly something I am proud of. Since I began wearing Lolita I obtain one large purchase piece a year, such as a dress or a skirt. I started to wear Lolita when I was in college, so money was a rarity. Now that I have a full-time job however I do not believe this will pose as much of a problem. I am able to do large purchases a few times a year which is a real treat!

Realistically, my wardrobe completion would most likely consist of:

20 Dresses

10 Pairs of Shoes

15 Blouses

5 Skirts

5 Bloomers

3 Petticoats

3 Sweaters

2 Boleros

2 Coats

+ 50 accessories ( socks, headpieces, wrist cuffs etc )

What a list! Now, let's associate values based on the estimated expense of the items.

+4

Coats

Dresses

+3

Blouses

Petticoats

Skirts

+2

Shoes

Boleros

Sweaters

+1

Bloomers

Accessories

I have estimated what I would spend on Lolita items with my allotted "allowance". I also factored in approximately how much of my allowance is used to the advancement of my other hobbies. With the weighed scale, this would amount to +20 points. Additionally I subtracted the items I currently possess from my total.

Coats = 8

Dresses = 68

​

Blouses = 39

Petticoats = 6

Skirts = 15

Shoes = 10

Boleros = 4

Sweaters = 6

Bloomers = 5

Accessories = 40

______________________________

201

201 points divided by the 20 points per year gives me the plausible timeline of 10.5.

This approximation of 10 years, while somewhat daunting, is helpful in my planning. Obviously there are variables that cannot be measured. Variables such as gifts, tax returns or the amount I spend on other hobbies were not factored and will help to lessen this time frame. Additionally there are opportunities to get less expensive items through second hand marketplaces. Still, this estimation is extremely helpful!

How long did it take, or will it take for you to build a complete Lolita wardrobe? Post your answer below!

​Stay frilly ~

Loℓιтα Fashion Book Review!

Misako Aoki released her Lolita Fashion Book in March of 2014. Unlike her previous book 'Sometimes cute revolution', this book promised to be more comprehensive. In this book Misako highlights Lolita styles, hair and make-up tutorials and coordinates in full color brilliance! Many Japanese brands are featured in this book such as Baby, the Stars Shine Bright, Angelic Pretty, Innocent World and metamorphose temps de fille.

​After months in search I finally was able to obtain my own copy!
(You can view my original post here!)

I made my purchase from one of my favorite online stores Tokyo Otaku Mode! This store always has goods from Japan to peek my interest. I ordered this book along with a few other goodies. My order arrived extremely quickly -- within five days in fact! Inside a carefully wrapped package I found my Lolita book.

The book cover is absolutely gorgeous. The cover is incredibly soft with a matte finish and is an excellent representation of what is inside. Misako is featured in the center adorned in her signature Sweet Lolita style. At her sides four name brand Lolita dresses can be seen. Additional Lolita accessories such as shoes are artfully distributed around her. Cascades of ribbon, frosted sweets, butterflies, birds and flowers frame the center image and further the feminine ideals of Lolita fashion. It truly is a great synopsis of what is to come! 

Inside I found 144 beautiful pages of full color Lolita splendor! Throughout the book Misako articulates the basics of Lolita fashion and goes through the main styles. I love how Misako illustrates the aspects of each particular style with plenty of examples. As you can see Misako is sure to pick a main dress piece and then explain how to coordinate the outfit with various accessories and additional clothing pieces. Each style has just as much attention to detail as the next. Whether you are a Classic Lolita or a Sweet Lolita you have a great base of examples to choose from!

Inside Misako gives step-by-step make up and hair tutorials. Numerous looks and styles are achieved and dictated in this book. I absolutely love the attention to detail in her tutorials! I also love how Misako is able to give examples and tips for each Lolita style. This just reiterates Misako's goal to have this collection be a comprehensive reference for Lolitas. With these how-to's you do not have to be concerned with your make-up or hair again!

Below you can view some additional examples of Misako's make up and hair tutorials. On the left you are able to see Misako's tutorial of how to make adorable pigtails. The fact she is holding her Pullip makes it even more charming! On the right you can see the beginning of ​a make-up tutorial for a Classic and Sweet look.

The coordinate guides even go as far to show suggestions for various weather conditions or times of the year. This particular page offers a coordinate examples for summer time, focused around an airy light coordinate and a example for the rainy season with the focus of a one-piece and kawaii sneakers.

​I love being able to sift through all the suggestions!

Each section of the book allows for the explanation of a specific style or sub-style of Lolita. I was extremely interested in my discovery of "soft lolita". I believe that this style is very similar to the "otome kei" street fashion. The goal is to make a feminine everyday style and incorporate elements of the Lolita aesthetic. As a Lolita who works full-time in a office setting, the exploration of a more casual style completely captivated my interest. ​I cannot wait to implement some of her suggestions!

I cannot be happier with my purchase. This book is beyond charming, informative, vibrant and affordable. This book would be an excellent addition to any Lolita or aspiring Lolita. I highly recommend this book!

Rating ~ 10 / 10

Stay Frilly ~

My first real Loℓιтα piece (thoughts)

The anticipation coercing through my body caused my fingertips to pound randomly atop the plastic package. Soon the protective white sleeve gave way to a pink and red striped package. From the transparent heart window I could see a glimpse of my future fashion. A momentary distraction ensued as my eyes fell to the branded letters once more. Bodyline. A swift movement re positioned the sealed goods for an easy entry and within seconds a clear parcel slid onto my vacant lap. Folded neatly within the parcel I could easily spot my the front and bow of my jumperskirt.

Once freed of it's containment I allowed my hands to caress the soft and sturdy pastel pink fabric. My fingers curled along the white patterned lace before I playfully pulled at the grosgrain ribbon. The quality in compassion to the faux-Lolita styled clothes was beyond compare. The weight of the fabric, the even stitching and the soft pink intricacies of the ribbon only expedited my transition. Secured in my frills and armed with the essentials my transformation into a true Lolita was complete! 

And there are some of my initial thoughts when I received my first Lolita piece! Topic number 35 of the Lolita challenge is now complete! This marks week 8 of the challenge and I am still going strong.

What were your thoughts when you received your first real Lolita piece?

​I would love to hear your experiences below! 

As always, stay frilly!

Maxicimam "Lovely Size" Review!

(You can view the original post here)

It is finally here -- my MAXICIMAM review!

MAXICIMAM is a fashion brand from Tokyo, Japan that offers punk and Lolita style clothes. I discovered this brand a few years ago in a Gothic & Lolita Bible and decided to investigate. I found that MAXICIMAM offered larger sizes they called "lovely size" which was a particular interest to me as a plus-sized Lolita. I awaited in anticipation for the opportunity to order a few in-stock items that would accommodate my measurements.

​Halloween presented the perfect chance to put "lovely size" to the test!

October 3rdOctober 7th

MAXICIMAM does not ship overseas. They do however recommend a few Japanese market sites that sell their products. I purchased a total of two MAXICIMAM items from cdjapan.

​✓ Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse ( White )

✓ Excellent Lovely Drawers ( White )

My order was sent with FedEx International Priority shipping. The items took 2 business days to arrive for a total of 6 days if you include placement date and I could no be happier with the turn around time! The package was extremely well secured. All of my items were individually wrapped and then packaged together in a bubble mailer. 

On top lay two order freebies!

MAXICIMAM Halloween postcard and sticker freebies.

Gab. Music Network magazine volume 77 freebie.

cdjapan sent along the most recent copy of Gab Music Network. Inside there were articles about various popular bands in and around Japan. It was really cool to learn about new bands! Along with the magazine were some MAXICIMAM specific goodies. I was especially touched that the staff of cdjapan had sent items from the brand I had purchased from and even made sure it was October themed. The postcard and stickers were simply too cute! I cannot wait to use them.

And now for my order!

The first item I discovered was the Excellent Lovely Drawers.

Stock image of the MAXICIMAM Excellent Lovely Drawers

As expected the stock photo of this piece vastly understated the details. The bloomers are constructed of a soft but sturdy cotton material. The waistband is made with a thin elastic but it is extremely stretchy. I can see now how this brand is able to accommodate a wide range of sizes! 

MAXICIMAM Lovely Excellent Drawers in White (Front)

The elastic band around the legs is very secure, but not enough to cause discomfort. Ribbons are secured at the sides with excellent stitching along sides which truly adds a charmed touch. 

MAXICIMAM Lovely Excellent Drawers in White (Back)

MAXICIMAM Lovely Excellent Drawers in White (Tag)

The MAXICIMAM brand tag can be found secured to the back of the bloomers.

Their logo is so pretty with the prominent crown encased by a intricate frame. Additionally I love the silver color they chose!

MAXICIMAM Lovely Excellent Drawers in White bottom details

The lace along the bottom of the bloomers is of an excellent quality and is soft and tightly constructed. The bloomers are short enough so I do not have to worry about the bottom lace being exposed from under a skirt or a dress when worn. ​

Final Thoughts

​The entire piece when worn is beyond charming! It truly is a delight to be able to purchase a pair of bloomers that I know are made of high quality materials and that fit.

​Rating ~ 9 / 10

And now for​ the Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse!

MAXICIMAM Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse within the plastic (Front)

My Toujours Ensemble Rose blouse arrived with it's own hanger and protective plastic cover. Even though the coated plastic the detail displayed on this blouse was unbelievable! I was especially taken with the numerous rose details expressed on the lace and rose shaped buttons.

MAXICIMAM Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse within the plastic (Back)

The entire piece contained high quality lace of multiple types and often features the rose motif. I have never seen a piece utilize multiple types of lace to create such a beautiful result before! The detail lace along the front of the blouse is particularly soft and all of the various pieces of lace are incredibly detailed. The cotton the blouse is constructed of is soft enough to be comfortable, but sturdy enough to maintain it's shape. The stitches are straight and aid the flattering shape of the blouse. The open ruffled part adds an enchanted feel and looks especially nice when paired with a skirt.

MAXICIMAM Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse Collar

MAXICIMAM Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse Collar

MAXICIMAM Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse Sleeve Details

MAXICIMAM Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse Buttons

Out of the protective plastic is when I could really appreciate the splendor of this blouse. In these detail shorts you can truly see the impressive lengths MAXICIMAM made to make this piece spectacular. These shots display the removable collar, the detail of the sleeve and the front of the Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse​. The rose details on the lace, the gentle accent of ribbons and additional lace and the sweet ivory rose buttons make this blouse too perfect for words!​

MAX Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse with the collar

MAX Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse without the collar

I can honestly say that I love the blouse with and without the collar equally. The first style is very sweet and traditional, while the second is more of a princess style. As I was to be Rapunzel it was the second style I used to aid my Halloween outfit. The collar is secured to the blouse with a simple clear button which is simple to attach. Both sleeves are adjustable which means the blouse can be long sleeved or short sleeved depending on preference and each style is lovely. With these options I can get four looks from one blouse.

​I just love how versatile this piece is!

MAX Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse without collar, tag

MAX Toujours Ensemble Rose Blouse without the collar, tag

​With the collar removed the tag is now easily spotted. I love the Alice silhouette -- it is just too adorable! I loved the style so much that I made sure to keep the tag. On the back of the tag houses the MAXICIMAM contact information, the product information and the original price. Secured to the back of the blouse is where I found the MAXICIMAM Lovely tag. I love how large the tags are as they are extremely easy to locate!

​From the back you can see the expert shirred displayed. The amount of material gathered within the shirring is quite impressive. A ribbon with a seamed edge allows the back to be laced for necessary fit adjustments and allows for a various range of sizes. The blouse offers waist ties as well, secured by the same gorgeous ivory rose buttons as in the front. I love that the waist ties are removable based on preference.

Final Thoughts

I am completely blown away by the details of this blouse! The entire piece is flawless. I am absolutely overwhelmed by the high quality materials and the enchanting overall design. The versatility of this piece beyond impressive. I will be sure to order another blouse from this brand soon!

​Rating ~ 10 / 10

Shipping

5 / 5

The shipping for this order was overseas however my order arrived in lightning fast time. cdjapan really put any other shipping experience, domestic or international, to shame! As always my items arrived quickly, safely and well packaged. Additionally I love the time and attention the staff took to include freebies that complimented my order and brand.

Product Quality

5 / 5

All of the products purchased were extremely well constructed and were of an exceptional quality! The extraordinary design of such essential Lolita basics, coupled with the ability to purchase these pieces in a larger size, is well worth the expense! I cannot stress how wonderful it is to have such a high quality brand produce Lolita pieces in a wide variety of sizes. I am truly blown away!

Communication

5 / 5

cdjapan has excellent customer service. The transaction was extremely easy to do and I even earned points towards another purchase. Hooray!

Do I plan to order additional items from the MAXICIMAM brand? You better believe it! I hope to order an additional blouse, bloomers and a winter coat from this brand soon!

~ Stay Frilly