Why Is Visible Representation Important In Lolita Fashion?
It may mean more than you think!
We are a diverse community of people who love the same thing. Today, I'm going to share why visible representation is important in our niche fashion!
It Shows That the Community Is Inclusive
As a fashion community, we encourage new people to try our favorite frilly style. Our community includes people with different backgrounds, ages, races, sizes, sex, gender identities, abilities, and more. While it is one thing to reassure people that anyone can wear this style, it is even better to show them!
When we use tags that people are looking for on our fashion content (some of mine being #plussizelolita, #blacklolita, #brownlolita), the stronger our belief will be and reach those who need to hear it. As an inclusive group, our actions need to match our words!
Photo by ©Mooshuu
Let's People Be Themselves
As a niche fashion, we stand against the norms of society. It takes courage to wear and share our alternative fashion. The last thing someone may want is to feel is that they are the only Lolita out there like them.
While we are individuals, our preferred clothing makes us a part of a larger group. While we may have to hide this passion from our family and outside friends, our lolita community should be the one place we don't have to conform to what society thinks we should wear.
Photo by ©Mooshuu
To new and veteran Lolitas alike, I'd like to encourage you to find people that you can identify with! There are some days that I need an extra boost of confidence, and knowing that some of my favorite Lolitas have similar struggles I do, helps! Additionally, find and follow people in the community who are different from you. The more we can experience and respect one another, the stronger our groups will be.
Spreads Inspiration
Representation broadens horizons. I always look for tips on how to wear my natural hair, what cuts will fit best for my plus-size body, and what makeup colors will flatter my complexion. Instagram has been immensely helpful in this regard! As much as I love the Gothic & Lolita Bible fashion magazines, I gain much more from other Lolitas that share my attributes.
Fellow Instagram Lolitas have helped me discover new brands, find new and comfortable clothes, accessorize my short natural hair, and given me the courage to try new makeup styles and colors. A lot of time, and money, has been saved thanks to visible representation!
Photo by ©Oliver Ayala
How have you seen representation change in the fashion? Do you feel that the community is a more welcoming place because of diverse representation? I'd love to read your thoughts!
Stay Frilly~
“Hear hear! Excellent post. Representation is immensely important. If it weren’t for lolitas like you and Asami Moon, I would never have thought that I’d be capable of lolita fashion like this. I’ve always made it a point to follow people who are different from me and I hope to continue in the future. :)”