Fall Outerwear

Hello again everyone!
Over the last few columns I've been talking a lot about fall fashion, but this time I'd like to move on to talking about outerwear for the fall season. During this time of year it's a bit too chilly for just throwing a knit cardigan or bolero around your shoulders; it's time to move on to a more orthodox style of outerwear. Unlike winter coats that usually play the lead part in cold weather attire, jackets and capes can maximize their usefulness for fall by being worn in many different ways. Once you find a favorite, match it with lots of different items and wear it often!

The Wide World of Jackets

Jackets are definitely the standard for all fall outerwear. There are a million different kinds of jackets, but tailored collar jackets are the norm. Unlike men's fashion with its straight cut lines, Lolita fashion arranges details like rounded collars, frills and ribbons, and shapely waist lines to create a Lolita-like atmosphere. Usually, jackets are sold as a set with a matching dress or skirt; but if you're going for a jacket that can be mixed and matched with the rest of your wardrobe, try and choose a more basic pattern when you buy. A jacket with a short waist will make your torso appear smaller. Also, if the shoulders or sleeves are too big, your outfit won't look so nice, so be sure you purchase a size that fits you well. You can coordinate an item of the same color with a printed skirt or jumper dress, to give a dress suit look, or depending on the design, a school girl look. Letting the collar of your blouse, jabot or bowtie show over your jacket will help make your face appear livelier. To match the neat look that is particular to jackets; top your hairdo with a mini-hat, girly toque or beret. For people who don't like the tight fit of jackets, try a more cape-like item instead. A soft, billowy silhouette gives the wearer a sweet and darling atmosphere. Along with the whole length, the length of the sleeves is cut short around the elbow, but this is where you can show off the sleeve of your blouse or knit top and enjoy different ways of accessorizing. Instead of just casual Lolita, you can match luxurious materials for a sweet Lolita look.

Capes - 100% Feminine

Coats with a cape on the back are a standard of winter style, but why not try just wearing a cape by itself? Here too, some capes are made with matching skirts or dresses, and some are made as separates. Depending on the material and design, their image can vary greatly from classic or princess-like to cute or naughty. Whichever one you choose, simply donning a cape alone makes an impact and creates a particularly adorable image indicative of Lolita fashion. Although the choices are more limited than a jacket, coordinating a cape with your favorite skirt or dress is perfect for girls who love puffy princess sleeves since they don't get in the way.
Capes also match nicely with high-waist skirts. You can wear a bonnet for a doll-like image or match with similar colors for a totally coordinated outfit. There are a lot of possibilities, so try out different combinations. A one-colored cape is simple and easy for the beginner to coordinate with, but a cape with a pattern works well as an accent for anyone with a lot of simple clothes. There are also many capes made from lace, and while these are very dressy, if you want something to ward off the cold, it is best to choose a heavier material.

A Good Match for Casual Lolita?

For those who want to enjoy a more casual style, how about wearing a motorcycle jacket or suka-jan (a letterman jacket made from satin or velveteen with embroidery)? Of course, you'll want to choose something with a softer and more feminine design rather than anything hardcore; for example, a jacket with a gentle color or made of soft material. These items stray a bit off the beaten path for general Lolita fare, but are a longtime staple of street fashion. They also make a very charming option for anyone who likes Rock style. While not a typical type of Lolita clothing, matching this look with the right items will make a casual image that will help you blend in rather than stand out. Try matching with a sweet looking mini skirt for a cute and lively look.

This ends the introduction to the majority of outerwear. While the price range can be a bit higher than a simple cardigan, if you choose a good quality outer with a basic design, then you ought to be able to wear it many times, so be sure to take care when deciding on which item to get.

Benefit from a Beautiful Posture

On a final note, are you minding your posture? Maintaining good posture is not just about health; it can also bring extraordinary results in helping you show off your style. Yesterday I saw a girl (in Lolita fashion, of course) with her chin raised high and a straight back looking so elegant as she walked by with her parasol opened. Her perfect posture made her graceful flowery dress look all the more refined. Even if they were wearing the same dress, someone stomping and slouching around and someone with a straight figure like a ballerina would make a very different impression. Wearing high heels can also cause your knees to bend, your neck stick out in front and your tush to stick out behind (actually, that's how I ended up), so try to stand straight as much as you can for a more elegant look. This is, quite often, the finishing touch in fashion. When you are out in your Lolita finery, remember to watch your posture when walking or taking pictures so you can look all the more lovely. That's all for now. Until next time!