Chronic Illness and Lolita Fashion (Part 1)
Lolita fashion is extravagant, especially when compared to mainstream everyday fashion. The energy it takes to physically get dress in this alternative fashion can be a lot. By the time you have finished getting dressed, you still need accessories, often a wig, and jewelry to complete the lovely look.
Here are my tips on how to wear and enjoy lolita fashion despite your chronic illness.
When planning a lolita coordinate, It is important to know your limitations. As much as you love lolita fashion, you, nor your body, will not be happy after you push yourself beyond its limits.
1. Plan Your Coordinate
If you can, plan your outfit the day before! That way, you can save that energy getting ready tomorrow. A dress form, or even a made bed, is a great place to work on your lolita coordinate. The time that you save with this task can be used towards the important activities for the next day!
2. Make Lolita Work for You!
Upset Stomach
If you suffer from digestion issues, I find that a dress rather than a skirt, particularly a high waist style dress, gives you versatility. If you have bloating or discomfort from the digestion issues, the dress allows you to minimize the extent of the volume your body experiences and stay rather comfortable.
Tech Support
If you require tubing or other small machines that are attached to your body, a one-piece dress or a jumperskirt are a great way to counsel these items. While you are able to cover these things with a skirt and a blouse, I find that a dress is better. A free-flowing dress allows for added security.
Concealment
I find that a sensitivity to the sun, or undesired skin condition, can be easily be hidden with layers. A long blouse, a sweater, and tights are an easy way to keep your skin covered. Additional items, such as gloves, hats, parasols, and socks, can be added as a way to cover your skin.
Balance
Balance is always important. If you are prone to off-balance tendencies, it may be beneficial to wear flat boots or shoes. Tea party styled shoes are my favorite for times I need to feel a bit more grounded than usual. If you require additional support to walk, such as the need to use a cane, try to find a style that fits into the Victorian aspect of lolita fashion. If you use a walker or wheelchair, feel free to let loose! Cover your required tools with ribbons, flowers or fluffy cute stuffed animals!
Not only will you walk with confidence, but you will also have a bonus prop for you coordinate!
3. Remember to Have Fun!
The main reason you wear lolita fashion is because you enjoy it. I truly believe that anyone is able to wear and enjoy lolita fashion. This means that a disability or illness should not stop you or someone you care about from wearing lolita fashion. Lolita should empower you, no matter what.
Have fun and wear your frills proudly! There is no shame in the creation of a balance between fashion and your illness. Trust your instincts and your body. Rest and dress up when you can!
Those are my tips, tricks, and considerations when it comes to lolita fashion and illness. I hope this post was helpful for you. I would love to hear your suggestions as well!