In Japan, Lolita fashion reinterprets this famous nymphette. According to Wikipedia, the trend started in the 70’s, but resurged in the 90’s and continues to have a loyal following today. And while there are similarities between the Western and Eastern interpretations - namely, the infantilization of a woman - there are also some stark differences. In fact, it is generally accepted that the name “Lolita” fashion (in Japanese - Rorīta fasshon, roughly) doesn’t actually refer to Nobakov’s pubescent protagonist.
Interestingly enough, the aim of Japanese Lolita fashion isn’t to be sexy at all. Instead, Lolitas dress like Victorian children or dolls in order to look “cute” or “beautiful”. According to the article, it can be considered a counter-trend to more mainstream fashion trends:
“The name is ironic since the fashion was created to fight the growing exposure of the body and skin in today’s society, specifically in regard to young women. Lolita fashion can be even considered a movement where girls ranging from pre-teens to late 20s fight the current fashion with modesty. It allows a girl to feel young, cute, beautiful or off-limits, depending on which type of Lolita a girl chooses to be.” (Visual references here.)
Fascinating that “Lolita” can be viewed in entirely different ways depending on the cultural lens through which you are looking.
(Mini aside - Again, a pick up post for you today. A build of sorts off the last Lolita post. Bear with me (I'm always tempted to write bare with me), but final projects are due for our course on Friday. One final push and then I'm due back in LA on Saturday!)
0 comments:
Post a Comment