'Gosu-rori' girls get all dolled up

LIVINGJSTYLEFASHION

Described as innocent yet provocative, Gothic Lolita is one of the world's best-known Japanese fashion trends. The look, known in Japan as "gosu-rori", has evolved over the past decade into its own fashion subculture.

Popular among teenagers and young women, Gothic Lolita is heavily inspired by Victorian fashion and the porcelain dolls from that era - but also incorporates punk, gothic and cute influences.

Outfits are typically black with minimal white accents. Petticoats and underskirts create an ultra-feminine silhouette, while high necklines and lace trimmings are simultaneously sexy and demure. Elegant skirts and frilly dresses are teamed with stockings or long socks, "rocking horse" shoes (ballet flats with a platform heel), elaborate head-dresses and an array of accessories that range from purses to crucifixes and even teddy bears! Pale skin and black eyeliner complete the look - romantic, feminine fashion with an edge.

Combining elegance and a childlike mood in a totally unique way, Gothic Lolita is one of the most fascinating facets of Japanese fashion. And with an ever-increasing international following, "gosu-rori" is now more stylish than ever.