Chronic Illness and Lolita Fashion (Part 2)

​I really love lolita fashion, but...

Lolita fashion is a beautiful and extravagant. When you have an illness, the act of getting dressed can be a challenge. An additional challenge that Lolitas may face is that of lolita meet ups. These events are a great way to connect with other fans of this fashion style! Meet ups can be an additional challenge. After all, you often need to be in the fashion for a long period of time at these events.

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Here are my tips on how to wear and enjoy lolita fashion at fashion meets despite your illness!

1. Know Your Limitations

Before you investigate the requirements of the meet up, it is important to know your limitations. As much as you love lolita fashion, you will not be happy after you push yourself beyond its limits.​

When it comes to the meet ups I attend, and which ones I skip, a few factors come into play:

Agenda

What does the meet-up entail?
How long is the event?
Will there be a lot of walking or driving?
Is the event inside or outside?
Do I need to RSVP?
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The difference between a simple art exhibit in your hometown and extensive commute to a special tea house can be quite extensive. To know what the meetup requires for the event will help you plan adequate accommodations and the rest you will require after the event takes place.
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2. What does the meet-up entail

What is the agenda for this gathering? A high tea will present different considerations than a meet and shop event, for example. Many times, the organizer of the event will leave all the details about the meet online. If you have any questions, connect with the lolita who is running the meet.

A few examples of common concerns are listed below.
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Food

If the event requires food and drink, be sure to view the online menu. Thankfully, the vast majority of restaurants and cafes have this information posted. When you find some items that could work for you, call the restaurant or cafe to make sure the items fit your particular allergy considerations.

If there aren't any options for you, bring your own snacks! Other lolitas that I have conversed with have said that they pack a boxed lunch and bring it with them. Be sure to connect with the restaurant or cafe if outside food is allowed. If not, eat before or after you meet up with the other lolitas.

For  events where you can bring items to share, make sure you bring something you like and can eat!
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Sitting

Many lolita gatherings require you to be seated for most of the event. This event could be a musical performance, play or movie. If you find the requirement a challenge to sit for long periods of time, be sure to select the seat on the end of the row! This is the best seat in the house for you.

This way, you can come and leave the event when needed with minimal disturbance to the other patrons at the event. Once outside, you can stretch, use the restroom, or attend to other concerns. Of course, if this accommodation means that you will miss much of the event, perhaps it should be skipped. After all, there will be more fun meets with your lolita community!

Accessibility

For a lolita that has any mobility issues, it is important to know how accessible the event location is. If the meet is at a theater or another lolita's home, how accessible is it for you? Many businesses are accessible, or they have the means to be. Older locations, however, may have some limitations. In these cases, the stairs may be the only way to enter the space. It is important for you to remember your limitations. If you can handle a few flights of stairs for example but no more, keep that in mind.

As always, reach out to the host of the event. Additionally, be sure to connect with the location directly with your inquiries. In my experience, the staff at these places are understand your concerns.

3. How Long is the Event?

What time of the day is the lolita event?
How long will the event physically last?
How long will it take to get to the meet-up and to drive back?
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What time of the day is the lolita event?

Time is a very important factor when it comes to chronic illness and lolita meet-ups. If you are like me, there can be a specific time of the day where my illness is less severe. When are you the most vulnerable? Would you be more comfortable at an event in the early afternoon, or later in the evening? This evaluation may help you to reduce the impact of your illness, particularly for events.
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How long will the event physically last perhaps?

Is the plan to take an extended drive to an out of town location? How about a meet up that involves dinner and karaoke? For this meet, will it be a long day of a museum visit, shopping and a meal? It is always important to have an idea of how long the fun filled day will be. This way, you can assess whether it may be a good meet-up to attend and leave when needed or to skip it for the next one.

To minimize the length of the event, you can always go and leave early if you need do. Additionally, you could always meet up with your lolita friends later during that event. Perhaps to miss the shopping spree, but you can meet them for dinner and drinks afterwards. Access what you can do.
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How long will it take to get to the meet-up and to drive back?

If the event is located locally to you, this could be a very reasonable time frame. A local event that will take you thirty minutes to get to is vastly different from another that can take over an hour. You should have an idea how long it will take for you to get to the event and back from the event.

The beauty of your own transportation, is that you can come and go as you please. If it is a long drive, or if you have mobility issues, carpooling with a friend for the event works too! The energy that you don't need to spend driving can be saved for energy used for the actual event and afterwards.

4. Will there be a lot of walking or driving?

Events with lots of movement, such as a tour or shopping, can be very fun but tiring. As stated before, you can always do what you can and bow out when you need to. It is important to know if there will be a lot of travel involved so that you can plan accordingly. Wear your most sensible shoes for walks. If you have a long drive, maybe you don't need that extra petticoat and your full bonnet.

If you require mobility and balance aids, be sure to bring them with you to the event! These will help you get around. If you do not need the device right away, you can always keep it in the car for later.
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5. Is the event inside or outside?

Inside events can cause concerns such as crowds and layouts. When you enter, ask a staff member where the restrooms are. Even if you do not have to use the facilities yet, is useful to know. This is useful in case you need to use the restroom. It also provides as a place to, well, rest from crowds.

Indoor event spaces temperature may vary. Layers can help to regulate your body temperature. A simple bolero can save you from the cold or be taken of easily! This tip is also helpful in outside spaces as well. If you are sensitive to sunlight, be sure to bring a parasol to protect your skin

Those are my five considerations when it comes to lolita fashion meet-ups and chronic illness! Do you have any tips for me or other lolitas? I would love to read your suggestions!