La Vida Lolita

Lavender Short bread Cookies

2012-02-28T18:08:00.000-08:00

Here's a quick, yummy and very buttery recipe for lavender shortbread cookies ♥

These were a hit at my school!

Ingredients:
2 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup sugar
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 or 1 1/2 tbsp. dried culinary lavender

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Line 2-3 cookie sheets with parchment paper (un-greased).

2. Beat the butter and sugar on medium speed for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy.

3. Fold in the flour by hand. The dough will be soft and a bit crumbly. You can pack the dough together when you cut out your cookies.

4. Place a handful of the dough at a time on a lightly floured work surface. Use a floured rolling pin to press out the dough to about 3/8 inch thick. Do not use a lot of flour or your cookies will be tough and very crumbly. Short breads are known for being light and fluffy ♥

5. Cut out the short bread using any shape cookie cutter you like. With a spatula, transfer them to the prepared pans, spacing them about 1 1/2 inches apart (they will not spread, but they do puff a little).

6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are just a very pale golden color. Slide the papers from the pans onto wire racks. Store the cooled cookies between sheets of parchment or wax paper in an air-tight container.

7. Brew up a mug of tea and enjoy your treats! The flavor may not be very intense, but provides a floral aftertaste. You may want to consider grinding up the florets next time if you want to experiment with the intensity of the lavender.

Circus Pouch

2012-02-28T17:59:00.003-08:00

One of my favorite/dream prints has always been Innocent World's Dot Jacquard Circus print. I've scouring sales communities for years (and almost got it once, but the owner decided to sell it to her friend last minute last November :c ). Recently though, I was able to make a teeny tiny compromise. I found a square of fabric approximately 10x10" for $3.50 shipped on an old EGL sales post! I decided there wasn't much to loose and bought the fabric scrap. Well, the point of this post is to show off the but pouch I made with it today! I's about 8" long and has a pink satin lining. Not bad work for being rusty on the sewing machine (we have a nice one at school I get to use now) :)

Needs a little ironing and lint-rolling but I'm quite satisfied with it :) Maybe I can store my brand tags and small goodies in here ♪

Status Update!

2012-02-28T17:52:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone, I offer a mandatory apology for my lack of posting. In hopes that you will forgive me, I'd like to share a few things that have been going on in my life.

Firstly, I got accepted to a few colleges and universities! Five to be precise. I applied to:

The Cleveland Institute of Art (my top choice for Biomedical art)
Maryland Institute College of Art
St. Edward's University
The University of Texas at Austin
Texas State University at San Marcos
Kansas City Art Institute
Rhode Island School of Design (my reach)

Phew! I've heard back from the first five and currently maintain a spotless acceptance record :) I should hear back from KCAI and RISD sometime in March. Oh, and I'm also pretty ecstatic that I got a big juicy scholarship from Cleveland T___T Thank you Cleveland, college is within my reach!

While I sent all of my applications before Thanksgiving, I've been busy with follow up activities, financial aid stuff and sitting back waiting for letter c:

Speaking of all these art schools, I keep my Flickr pretty current, mostly with pieces for my AP Drawing portfolio for this year. Please check it out! I'm pretty excited that my painting is going to state UIL competition this year ♪ Wohoo!

In other news, in case you missed the earlier post, my label/online shop Milk Thistle is now in business! I plan to add more items soon ♥

Also, look forward very shortly for a yummy lavender shortbread cookie recipe and some crafting and shopping updates ♫

Also, would anyone be interested in any new types of posts, such as photo inspiration or brand spotlights? Are there any post series that I've neglected? I would really appreciate your input!

Stay tunes for more ♪

Loliweeks Blog Feature

2012-02-15T18:07:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! Several days ago I was flattered with a request from the lovely Delano of http://loliweeks.blogspot.com. She asked me to be featured in one of her "Blogs of Notice" series ^o^ I really enjoyed completing the interview and just wanted to say thank you again to her for featuring me!

Anyways, you can read her post here~

In other news the Milk Thistle shop is finally up! Yippee!

Lolita Love

2012-02-08T17:47:00.000-08:00

Imai Kira

♥ This post will cover a few Valentine's Day ideas that you can do either with a partner or by yourself ♥

For the lone Lolita:

Submit a Valentine about one of your favorite Lolita to Lolita Valentines ♥
Decorate your space with freshly cut flower - make your own arrangement by purchasing several types of flowers and mix and match until you find something you like! Try even incorporating fluffy feathers, bows, lace or sparkly accent pieces
Cook a Valentine's Day breakfast with heart-shaped "looney eggs" (use a heart shaped cookie cutter on a piece of bread and fill the hole with an egg and fry it up), pink lemonade, heart-cut strawberries and rose hip jelly c:
Have a conversation heart (or candy in general) themed photo shoot with your favorite Lolita pals
Make a garland out of vintage Valentines - you can usually find them seasonally at antique stores
Visit your local drug store or super market and buy one of those big fancy candy samplers you know you've always had your eye on ♪
Make Valentine's Day goodies bags full of candy for your friends or co-workers

For the +1 Lolita

Create a romantic date look with fresh pink blush, luxurious false lashes and a cute subtle pink manicure
Have a classic picnic in the park - don't forget your parasol and a bubbly drink
If you can't meet in person, have a fancy Skype date! Order in tasty food, dress to the nines and place a vase of flowers in the shot
If your loved one is away, send them a care package! Fill it with cutesy Valentines and confetti as well as goodies (my boyfriend is in college so his package currently consists of power bars, a box of Thin Mint cookies and 2 mix CD's, haha)
Have a dinner at a fancy restaurant - dress much richer than you are, make reservations under false names and if you're not married pretend that you are!
Start an old-fashioned scrap book - include ticket stubs, cute letters or notes and even dried flower petals
Plan a romantic train ride to the country side - dress in vintage styled clothing and pack a picnic lunch in a cute straw basket and remember to take plenty of pictures!

Here's to a wonderful Valentine's Day!

♥♥♥

February Lifestyle Ideas

2012-02-07T17:13:00.000-08:00

Start an indoor collection of seedlings to plant in the spring - try strawberry plants, sweet peas, pansies or herbs ♥
Winter isn't over yet! Don't forget to treat your skin right and drink plenty of water and tea
Pearls are great accessories, why not add them to your beret, cardigan or scarf? Sew-on pearl beads and inexpensive and easy to use.
Add some fung shui to your life~ Open windows, de-clutter and opt for natural materials like wicker baskets and light cotton.
Take a nice warm bubble bath with fragrant salts, candle light and nice music. It's your time to relax after the hustle and bustle of the last few months.
(Shameless self-plug ahead) stay on the lookout for my new shop! I will be adding items soon ♥
Check out Kyary's silly karaoke videos.
Sit down and draw your meal. Watercolors and pens work beautifully.
Visit a cute bakery or cafe and take photos of the food and decor. Film and Instax-style cameras work especially nice.
Check out this cute (and translated!) daily make-up tutorial

EGL Wardrobe Post

2012-01-21T17:01:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone. This month's EGL theme is wardrobe posts and I decided to make one this year. It's small, but cute. That should explain why my blog isn't filled with outfit posts ^_^ ; Anyways, I hope you like my room and wardrobe and I would love to see anyone's as well ♥ I absolutely love looking at rooms and wardrobes for some reason. Probably because I'm always looking for ideas for myself hehe...

Click here ♥

Edit: due to bandwidth issues, photos are avaliable here

Unusual Brand Item #9

2012-01-21T15:05:00.000-08:00

This edition's unusual brand item comes from the gorgeous jewelry and Victorian inspired item brand Schwarz Schmetterling. This item isn't a clothing piece, but was listed under their "art" category. And by art, I do mean "art". Why? because it's a finger in a jar.

Yup, that's right. But wait, they're more

It's removable! Just what I wanted!

This is quite strange to find from a strictly classic brand. I wouldn't even expect this from Moitie! This lovely little appendage (porcelain, I hope) can be yours for the reasonable price tag of 8,000 yen, or $103.92. Wut?

January Lifestyle Ideas

2012-01-11T16:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! I apologize for almost forgetting about my monthly posts, but here they are ♫ Also, please excuse all of the tutorial tips, I've been rather obsessed with Pinterest lately ^_^;

Experiment with colors like creams, cool pinks, ice blues and beiges if you never have before.
Try this yummy lavender shortbread cookie recipe ♥
Have a half-used eyeshadow you don't want to throw out but never use? Turn it into matte nail polish
Already experiencing warm weather? Try these shorts for a casual look. Accent with lace or pastel accents for a more pop-kei look
I'm not sure if this counts as a tip, but Innocent World is having their new years sale! I don't think I'm going to be able to resist u__u
Many Japanese girls have little pouches for just about every electronic or collection of pens, candies or make up supplies they one. They not only keep everything organized, but also protect your items from marks and scratches ~
Puffy eyes or dark under-eye circles? Michelle Phan has a new video using frozen cucumber pads
Fabric stickers are a cute way to dress up a planner, phone, photo frame, flower pot or anything else for that matter!
There is an interesting video series featuring Misako Aoki & Kaya (who I'm not familiar with, but I think is a performer/brolita?) via Kawaii Girl Japan
Want luscious pastel locks without a wig or bleach? Try dying (which may include a bit of bleaching) the tips of your hair. That way you can test out the color, let it grow out and cut it off if you don't like it and add a bit of pop to your outfit without damaging your hair nearly as much or waiting years for it to grow out again!

Christmas and New Years Update/Haul

2012-01-05T19:20:00.000-08:00

Hi again everyone! hopefully you haven't forgotten about me u__u

My winter "break" has been so busy!

I'd like to start off by saying how thankful I am the holidays are over.

(I have more fun after the holidays during break than during them, too stressful and too many dishes)!

I'd like to show you some of my favorite things I got/bought/picked out for myself for Christmas ♪

Not exactly a Christmas gift, but something adorable I bought ♥ I put my keys in here so they're easy to find in my purse.

My new "everyday" bag ♫

Omnomnom

Candy Sugar ribbon + free candy c:

DSLR camera strap from Etsy

Strap for my Instax camera

Ta-da!

Photo albums for my Japan photos and Instax photos

Inside! (The left one is full now)

Small letter organizer and scrap book from Omoi Zakka

Cath Kidston mug and Calico Critter mouse family ♥

A crop shirt from Cotton On to go over my maxi dress c:

Bad photo of a very cute peter pan collar dress from Cotton On

Collar of a cute sailor sweatshirt from Forever 21

Lace headband and polka dot usakimi from Claire's

They had a buy 1 get one half off on hair accessories

Little did i know the brooch/pin/hair thing was actually on clearance for $2 from $12!

Wonderful fawn jacket from my boyfriend ♥♥♥ (From Forever 21)

In addition to Christmas activities, I also volunteered and participated in a Japanese street fashion show at my local Anime convention.

Everything is vintage, off-brand and handmade

I made a Fur Fur inspired hair piece for my outfit

Photo by Keith Goode

I represented a (slightly couture) style of Mori girl during the fashion show and wore Lolita while I wasn't on Duty. Sadly I don't think I got any photos of those coords, but they aren't that different from anything I've worn before. I was surprised to see the amount of Lolitas there! Most of them ended up being in the fashion show too ^_^ I did spot a fair number of girls in Bodyline coords too. Speaking of that, the ATX Lolitas also hosted a Lolita 101 panel, which went spectacularly! The lovely Virginia (first row in the blue VM dress) provided wonderful handmade prizes for the audience ♫

More info, photos and possibly a video of the panel can be found here.

I saw some great cosplay too! I really loved this girl's original outfit based off of Sentimental Circus ♪

I also helped make an impressive Jenga tower at the Maid Cafe.

Of course, I got some swag too!

Ahhh arpakasso !!!

Chi's Sweet Home, Shaymin and Tofu-kun key chains c:

I make this face quite often

And this one after a large meal

Hi there!

Tofu-kun ♥

Happy Happy Clover shitajiki. Such a cute manga!

G&LB vol 40 ♥

I may or may not buy magazines for stickers...

BTSSB will be at Anime Matsuri!!! I want to go so bad D:

Wheh! Thank you if you stayed with my through all of that! It's been a hectic two weeks c:

Last Minute Gift Wrapping Ideas

2011-12-22T13:29:00.000-08:00

I love gift wrapping and I wanted to share a few (last minute, I supposed) wrapping ideas and inspiration photos. My Christmas wrapping tends to be a bit more Mori than Lolita, to suit everyone. Hopefully it'll make it look like you spend a lot of time on wrapping your gifts ^o^

Firstly, here are a few things I did this year. I always wrap my stuff in kraft paper (unless it's impossible to wrap, then that's what gift bags are for). A more muted paper base makes it easily for decorations like berry sprigs or rich satin bows to stand out. Plus it gives gifts that nostalgic "brown paper packages" feel.

For name tags, I cut out rounded rectangles from paper shopping bags (so they wouldn't curl) and stamped a pine cone spring in white ink, then wrote names on top with a thin ink pen. The string was twisted red and white thread that I got this a box of vintage ribbon and lace. If you're lucky, you may be able to find Christmas themed doilies (the ones I used have poinsettias printed on them)

Decoration ideas:

Satin ribbons
Lace
Ric-rac
Silk poinsettia flowers
Velvet ribbon
Yarn
Vintage hard candies (wrapped)
Pom-poms
Tiny bells
Sheet music
Red gingham paper or fabric
Draw designs with paint pen or ink pen (like bows and tree sprigs)
Fake berry, pine cone or evergreen (or even real evergreen) sprigs
Red & white "candy cane" twine
Paper doilies
Deco/washi tape
Tiny paper triangle garlands
Small glittery ornaments

I hope this was helpful. Happy wrapping!

Angelic Pretty SF Review

2011-12-20T18:53:00.000-08:00

For the past few months, I had been drooling over this lovely Petit Beurre Angelic Pretty pass case. I thought that it was an inexpensive and useful alternative to many of the other items from the series (basically I couldn't afford or justify buying any of the other items) :c

I saw that the colorway I wanted was sold out on the San Francisco website and effectively gave up because I didn't want to pay exorbitant shipping costs from using the Japanese site. With a bit of hope, I contacted Japanese English shop asking if the San Fran shop possibly had anymore light brown versions in store (as directed to by an EGL member). They replied that I should contact the San Fran shop directly (which I forgot to do....oops). Anyways, to my surprise, about a week later, the San Fran shop called me and informed me that the Japanese shop told them that I was interested in the light brown colorway and that they had received one in their most recent shipment! Firstly, I cannot express how grateful I was that they remembered me ;A; how thoughtful! While I was on the phone, the San Fran staff member informed me that she was adding the colorway to the San Fran shop website as we spoke. Still moderately surprises and very gracious, I thanked her and purchased it the next day!

Long story short, I have it not and it's amazing. Thank you Japanese and San Fran shop staff for being so thoughtful and helpful. This was my first direct Angelic Pretty purchase and it will certainly not be my last!

Shipping was $13, a little steep in my opinion for such a tiny item but I believe they only use flat rate shipping (along with a tracking number and non-optional $1 insurance).

The store shipped the day after I payed and it arrived in about 3 days (not including Sunday).

The shop included a small flyer from the store (the paper card was in the pass case)

The pass case is a good size and has a study & long chain with an easy to use lobster claps. There are two card slots and a small zipper pouch, but it should get the job done. I think this is much cuter that the Vera Bradley pass case/pouches that are popular in America right now.

Overall:

Customer services: 6/5

Shipping: 4.5/5

Product: 5/5

Thank you again AP!

First Lolita Meet-up

2011-12-20T18:39:00.000-08:00

I recently attended my first Lolita meet-up! It was a little strange to meet so many girls who liked Lolita fashion and I could talk to without worrying that they would not understand xD

We had a wonderful little Christmas party including lots of yummy food, silly games and fun gift exchanges ♥

I wasn't able to get an outfit shot of myself, but I wore my Innocent World puppy jsk with a beret/bow, black cardigan and brown boots. (I'm in the back row on the far right).

There were two gift exchanges; one was a Secret Santa and the other was a small "White Elephant" exchange where participants are allowed to steal others' gits.

My Secret Santa liked roses, dark colors and anything vintage ♥ I got her a make-up pouch, tiny rose note cards/envelopes, orange ginger soap and a rose & pearl choker.

I recieved a cute lace headband and mori-style owl hair pin from my Secret Santa c:


Hoot!

For the stealing gift swap, I (stole) a pair of handmade pearl earrings and cute Korean stickers. I originally got a lovely handmade crocheted flower headdress, but that was stolen twice around the group! My gift was a large antiqued skeleton key key-chain, which was stolen by a Gothic Lolita.

So cute ♪

I had a lot of fun and I can't wait till our fashion show and Lolita panel during an upcoming anime convention! I think I will be walking in some form of couture Mori-girl : >

Christmas Card Exchange

2011-12-20T18:27:00.000-08:00

This December, EGL hosted a handmade Christmas/Holiday card exchange. While I was silly and forgot to take a photo of mine before I sent it, here is the lovey card I received.

Thanks Madam Neko ♪

December Lifestyle Ideas

2011-12-03T19:10:00.000-08:00

From We ♥ It

Make a cute holly or winter berry brooch and pin it to a warm scarf or lapel
Deep reds, chocolates, forest greens and creams are the most wonderful colors for winter
Buy a pair of cheap mittens or earmuffs and lolify them with cute little bows, faux fur trim, lace or even tiny bells
Make a list for the month of December of something you are grateful for every day
Coordinate an outfit based off a holiday story or character, such as The Nutcracker, The Little Drummer Boy or Rudolph
Make festive peppermint tea! Brew peppermint tea and use a candy cane as a stirring stick
Keep a watch out for Lolita brand novelties on the sales comm, they can make great gifts!
Need a dish for a holiday gathering or potluck? Why not make a dessert based off a brand print? Try Triple Tart (AP), Memorial Cake (AP), cookies from Wonder Cookie (AP), a tart from Chelsea Rabbit (IW) or cupcakes from Merry Making Party (AP). There are so many possibilities!
Stuck inside with nothing to do? I recommend watching Pan Am (avaliable on Hulu). Although it's not Lolita, it's got plenty of vintage glamorous goodness~
It's a busy time or year, but try your best to send cards or letters to friends and family members. Even if they aren't holiday cards, its nice to hear from others during the season (and who doesn't love mail?)

Happy Winter International Lolita Day!

2011-12-03T10:17:00.000-08:00

Isn't this a cute Christmas coordinate?

Happy Winter ILD everyone!!

Do you have any special plans? (Sadly, mine are cleaning and homework D:)

I have one question though, what have you learned this year (or since the last ILD) about Lolita? Whether it be a styling tip, history about the fashion, a new skill, meet-up tips or experiences wearing Lolita in public, I would love to know!

I guess I'll answer this too ^_^

I've learned to look elsewhere (besides Lolita coordinates) to find inspiration for outfits. It's useful to look at street snaps and blogs outside of Lolita fashion. Even "mainstream" fashion blogs are useful too. They are useful to incorporating new fashion trends into Lolita, such as military-style jackets and berets♥

Introducing Milk Thistle

2011-12-01T19:17:00.001-08:00

Designing my own accessory and art line has always been a dream for me. The idea of selling my handmade items and art has always stayed in the back of my mind. Well, I don't think I want to wait any longer!

I am officially introducing my line of art and accessories: Milk Thistle.

This is not going to be a very large scale endeavor, I plan to just sell online and maybe at anime conventions (along with actual anime/manga inspired art). I'm really looking forward to setting up and decorating a cute little booth table and talking to customers ♫

My art will incorporate various aspects and aesthetics of Lolita, Mori and Dolly-kei styles.

I hope to make and sell the following types of items:

Berry key chains
Deer puff keychains
Biscuit and French-themed items
Dolly-kei inspired hair pins and brooches
Different types of fruit, flower and food brooches
Deer puff and bow berets
Various styles of hair bows and brooches
Lace bows and pins
Small pouches
Button hair ties
Peter pan, fur and lace scrap collars
Vintage Odd Fellows collars
Mini stuffed and clay animal brooches
Furry headbands and earmuffs
Tassel necklaces
Prints, tote bags, buttons, key chains, stickers and stationary of my original art
And who knows what else!

As of now, I have several extra items avaliable for sale. I may later devote a separate page or blog specifically for sales, but for now I will post them on this blog. I am by no means a professional, but I try my best to make durable and well-crafted items. I usually keep one version of an item for myself to use and then sell multiples of that item.

Terms of Sales:

I use PayPal. The buyer is responsible for the fee.
The buyer pays shipping, I am willing to ship internationally, but it's often expensive
Please ask for a shipping quote.
If you would like to see my feedback links, I have Ebay and EGL comm sales avaliable
All items come from a smoke-free home.
Once I ship an item, it is beyond my responsibility (though you make purchase insurance or tracking).
Commissioned items my slightly differ in appearance.
I try my best to construct items well, but being handmade means they are somewhat fragile.
Feel free to ask any questions or make requests.

The items below are avaliable for direct sale (I am able to make more deer puffs and maybe one or two more berry key chains, I need to check my supplies)

Sweet Berry key chains - $5 each

Bambi puffs (small or large) - $4 each

Natural Fawn puffs (slightly differ in size) - $5 each

Cute Acorn hair clip set (acorns are glued to fabric) - $2 each or $7 for set

Petit Beurre barrette set - $5

The items below are avaliable for commission (actual items may slightly vary)

French Cafe brooch series - $5 each or $12 for set

Felt Chocolate brooch - $4

Cute Biscuit brooch series - $4 each or $10 for set

Rose brooch - $4, Dolly-kei brooch - $3

Sweet Strawberry brooch - $5

Cream bow brooch - $4

Puffy Velvet 2-way bow - $6

I especially would appreciate funds for Christmas shopping right now ;__;

Wouldn't these make cute gifts? ;)

Thank you for looking and please support me!

Unusual Brand Item #8

2011-11-20T17:46:00.000-08:00

This edition's unusual brand item is brought yo you by Angelic Pretty.

The item itself does no appear to be that unusual, just an unassuming fur tippet.

It's acutally the name of the tippet that is the real gem; "Dramatic Fur Tippet"!

In other words, you don't want to know where the fur is from...

Oh Deery, Me

2011-11-20T17:36:00.000-08:00

I've been bitten by the crafting bug again ^o^

Mostly to make deer things. Oh how I love deer things.

My first hand-made collar was pretty lopsided, so I scraped it.

I made cute pom-poms out of it.

Three key chains pom-poms and one pin for my beret (which is is the mail) c:

(I got the idea for that from Fawn & Doll, a Mori girl blog)

I added loops and buttons to my cuffs and deconstructed my earmuffs.

They hurt my ears, so I decided I would buy an earmuff base and customize it.

(Confession, the earmuff inspiration was from BTSSB, see below)

Don't do this to me, BABY!

Small collar

What's left of the earmuffs

Finished cuffs

Underside of the beret pom-pom

Top of pom-pom

Pom poms keychains!

While I was wearing my new collar, one of the sides of the ribbon detached :'c

I tried my best to re-sew it, but it was a rather awkward angle.

It still looks fine, I think

I also ordered new "fabric"

This one was rather cheap.

(^This jacket is still for sale^)

This design pops up once in a while, so I wanted to grab it while I could!

This one was not cheap (relativity)

Well, compared to the scarcity of fabric, $50 wasn't bad, I guess.

I have a long list of items I want to make when the jackets arrive.

Most of the designs are of item I want but cannot afford u_u

My list of items to make includes:

1. A vest (this will take up the majority of the large jacket)

2. A head band with a bow and pearls (from the large jacket)

3. My beret (I already made the pom-pom from my left over fabric)

4. A furry 2-way bow (from the large jacket)

5. A hat (from the small jacket)

6. More pom-pom key chains with a bow and pearl chain (from both jackets)

7. Earmuffs (from the small and large jackets, hopefully)

8. A new collar (from the small jacket)

9./10. This was just finishing the small collar and cuffs

Besides dear things, I also got some other crafting materials

I want to make this button into a hair accessory.

This is going to be for Dolly-style accessories

Ribbon and pearls for brooches and key chains

And a bunny stamp! :3

♦ Thanks for reading! ♦

Fawn Collar + IW Blouse

2011-11-08T18:53:00.000-08:00

I recently did a bit of shopping on EGL (what's new?)

Anyways, I got a pretty hand-made fawn fur collar and my very first brand blouse ♥

I have been waiting so long to find the perfect blouse c:

It seems that in Lolita fashion you can choose between cuteness, a proper fit and affordability, but you can only pick two. (I chose cuteness and a proper fit u_u;)

Anyways, I thought it would be worth it since it came with detachable sleeves - two blouse in one!

(Though they do come up a tiny bit short on my arms)

It also came with a pretty ribbon and waist ties too. Onto pictures!

The fur is more of a grey tone, but still very nice

Thanks for reading ♥

Halloween Outfit

2011-11-08T18:38:00.001-08:00

This Halloween, I dressed up as a deer ♫

I really have fun doing my makeup ♥

I made my own antlers and accessories also

Most of my outfit wasn't too exciting (all brown) so here are some make-up shots

My friend was a teddy bear!

Bonus "deer in the headlights" silly face

November Lifestyle Ideas

2011-11-02T17:33:00.000-07:00

It's not to late for pumpkin everything (tastes, scents, colors, you name it!)
Fawn prints, fawn prints, fawn prints, am I right?
Spice up an outfit with an inexpensive, versatile beret and dress it up with detachable bows and pins
Try making your own matching accessories to your favorite outfits. There is no need to pay $30+ for AP's biscuit hair barrettes when you can buy clay cabachons and make them yourself
Sheer blouses are a great way to dress for fall in almost any climate.
Adhesive lace is a cute and easy way to decorate stationary, gifts, photo frames and more!
Cozy up with a hot glass of tea. Opt for warmer flavors including honey and fall spices
Create a Lolita scrap book - include outfit and meet-up shots, brand tags, stickers, magazine clippings flyers and other cute Lolita treasures. If you don't want to paste your items down, paste a cute envelope in the book and stick your items inside. (I will be making one soon!)
Slowing start incorporating plaids and tartans (via scarves or skirts) to get you in the mood for winter
A large black velvet bow is a practical way to make your daily outfits a little bit more Lolita

School Girl Style

2011-10-19T18:25:00.000-07:00

Just a quick outfit update♫

I need to prepare for the next meme day challenge

I love fukus♥ I think I'm going to buy a Candy Sugar ribbon!

I miss my Japanese uniform :c

Rundown:

Blouse: Lespim Lowry's Larm

Cardigan: Old Navy

Pin: Paris Kids

Skirt: Good Will

Socks: Old Navy

(I wore brown oxfords with this)

Bonus~ This was my uniform

Bye bye!

Quick Sales ♫

2011-10-05T17:57:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! This is a quick shameless self- promotion of my sales. I'm selling an off brand black Peter Pan blouse, Blue Bear items, a Mori-style apron and a Wonder Rocket cardigan plus other goodies here.

Buy Me Please

For sale at link above!

October Lifestyle Ideas

2011-10-03T19:00:00.001-07:00

As the weather becomes cooler, consider volunteering your time to those who will be the most effected (such as the homeless or the animal shelter)
Make a festive door wreath out of autumn leaves and acorns
Start thinking of your Hallowe'en costume! (I'll post an inspiration list soon)
Two words: Pumpkin. Everything. (i.e. pie, tea, spice, ice cream, basically anything and everything)
Decorate your room with small decorative pumpkins and gourds of different colors and textures
Since autumn is basically the season of food, why not theme an outfit around your favorite? Think not only of motifs, but colors and textures as well~
Get lost in an old fashion corn maze
Scarves, scarves scarves!
Munch on traditional Hallowe'en/autumn candies like candy apples, caramels and rice crispies
Try making your own jam from scratch. The simplest way is to much up fruit, add sugar and wait till it comes to a boil. I'm not very skilled yet, so look up sealing and important things like that ^_^ (We just started a jam club at my school, that's why I'm so enthusiastic)

Lolita Meme Day Seven

2011-09-24T12:20:00.000-07:00

Day 7 – 10 people who inspire your lolita style.

Not in any particular order~

I didn't write much about each person, but I hope this is still a bit interesting! It's more fun to explore for yourself than to read what someone else thinks anyways in my opinion.

Herajika
Shelby
This Innocent World muse
Imai Kira
The author of Alice Syndrome
Oli
Innocent World designers/stylists
Zeruda
Random people on DL!
I know this is cheesy, but my readers! Who else would give me inspiration to experiment with my style? ;)

Cupcakes and Crafts

2011-09-24T11:59:00.000-07:00

Hi there ^_^ I just wanted to share a few treats ♪

Firstly, I got a delivery of yummy red velvet cupcakes from my boyfriend for our 5th anniversary ♥♥

Mmmmm ♫

I also did a bit more crafting. I sewed beads onto some cookies I already made from felt and sewed a velvet (pin and hair) bow from a thrift store dress and made a cream bow pin.

I also ordered some cute cookie charms from Etsy to make hair clips (a la Angelic Pretty).

How does everything look?

P.S. I was also thinking of doing a video room tour. Yay/nay?

Extension Accounts

2011-09-14T17:43:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone ♪ Just a few quick notes! I wanted y'all to know that I respond to comments! So if you comment, check back for a response, because I don't think y'all get any alerts when I comment...

Also, as I'm not to savvy with my blog layout yet and can't find a way to properly link to these, here are a few outside profiles/accounts of mine you may be interested in~

Tumblr: It's a mix of Lolita, Mori, Dolly-kei and silly cute things
Flickr: I use this for my film photography and AP art portfolio
Listography: I'm a list-o-holic ♥
Livejournal: I mostly just post on EGL/Mori Girls, but I sometimes sell things on my journal
Look Book: Not used a whole lot, but might as well

That''s all the big ones I can think of for now ☺

Lolita Meme Day Six

2011-09-14T15:56:00.000-07:00

Day 6 – 10 things you can’t live without in lolita.

Not quite sure how to respond to this one, so I did a mix of actual items I have, things I like and things I use often. I'll keep it short and sweet ♥

Modesty
Lauretta Rose
Lucky pack posts
EGL sales_comm
Overseas shipping
Granny boots
Innocent World in general
Misako Aoki
Biscuit motifs
Lifestyle ideas!

Paris Kids Lucky Pack

2011-09-10T13:13:00.000-07:00

I recently bought a Paris Kids lucky pack off a seller from a lj comm. This is actually my first lucky pack! The staples on the bag were opened, so I assume the previous owner did not like everything and decided to sell it or somethings. I got it for $26 shipped plus I got to choose a free Metamorphose LP wash cloth. Was this a good deal?

My (large) hand for sizing. This wash cloth is actually very large!

Free! ♥

It came with the six items below:

Two scrunchies (I love the right one, going to sell/trade the other)

I'm happy because I really wanted a scrunchy ♪

♥ Cell phone strap

Another cute strap

Going to sell/trade this (not much into feathers)

Cute tiny purple rose + pearls & crystals

I love when sellers include notes ☺

Thanks for looking!

Getting Crafty

2011-09-05T17:22:00.001-07:00

Why yes, I am a crafty girl ♪

Haha, anyways, I recently made a sketchbook of all of the crafts I want to make (well, accessory wise). Most of theme are based of brand items I've seen (and can make much cheaper). You can probably notice the ETC and Angelic-Pretty look-alikes.

I sort of want to have an artist's ally table at a convention ^_^

Here's what I've done in the last two days:

Some supplies (I had a bunch of other supplies but these were my favs)

Berry branches for 20 cents each! *A*


French ribbon and "pom pom lace"

Onto the goodies (mostly brooches)~

I plan on buying cabachons and making different versions of the cookie/chocolate ones as well

Omnomnom biscuits <3

Yummy raspberries ♫

\(^3^)/

Cell phone straps

Earrings

Dolly-kei/cult party hair clips

Matching pin

I plan on making many more once I get more supplies!

I can wait to wear these with scarves once the weather gets cooler

Birthday Bliss

2011-09-05T16:20:00.000-07:00

Saturday the 3rd was my Birthday \(^_^)/ I spent it with my family.

We went out to eat at a very nice French Bistro and enjoyed a chocolate x blood orange cake at home.

My Dad repainted my bike from scratched bubble gum pink to mint!

My new Fujifilm Instax 7s (since the stopped making old Polaroid film)

I need to practice on the exposure settings... :/

A lovely gold lapel pin from Alaska!

As far as personal shopping, I just bought (too much) mori clothing to try to build up my wardrobe. It was relatively cheap, but with conversion rates still ended up being $85... T_T

September Lifestyle Ideas

2011-09-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

September is my favorite month! Why because it's the beginning of Autumn and my birth month!

Load up on cheap colorful socks (summer clearance) before it gets cold and experiments with layering
Give your outfits a slightly nerdy, school-esque look with a uniform ribbon
Go all-out nerdy with cute braids, large-rimmed glasses and drawn-on freckles!
Be on the lookout for flavors like pumpkin and apple cinnamon. My grocery store even carries pumpkin ice cream!
Make biscuit-themed accessories, like hair clips and brooches (I really want to do this)!
Do some end of summer cleaning and organizing! use a shoe rack to store your socks and small accessories
Use a vintage leather book bag to add vintage style to your outfits
Sew a cute sleeping mask with ribbons and lace
Add dark greens, chocolates, burgundies and plaids into your wardrobe for a warmer look
DIY an easy cut-sew by adding small ribbons to the collar of a scoop-neck shirt

This is the sleeping mask idea~

Lolita Meme Day Five

2011-09-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

Day 5 - Ten items on your wish list (no particular order)

Angelic Pretty biscuit items (especially the bag!)

BTSSB Operetta Jjk

A fawn collar (preferable this one)

IW Circus jsk

IW Rose Panel jsk

IW Antique Rose jsk (long)

IW Chelsea Rabbit skirt (I need to loose a few inches!)

Meta Apron OP set

Meta Old Emblem jsk

Lief Berry Rabbit jsk (actual name?)

Oh, I have too many wishes u_u

Quick Update ♪ French Cafe

2011-08-26T17:09:00.000-07:00

As I stated in an earlier post, I like to combat my lack of funds to buy lolita by buying smaller, inexpensive pieces. Case and point: This cute French Cafe (bento?) bag. I beleive it was given out at an Angelic Pretty tea party but I bought it off the egl_comm sales. I really love the print, and this bag allows my to have a piece of the series (it's actually my third piece... I also have the postcard and necklace) for less than 10% the cost of the dress.

I'm glad there is a full print of this biscuit, my favorite part of the print!

I also bought two cute San-X watches for daily wear ♪ (I'm too worried about damaging my Innocent World watch to wear it daily and I like digital watches because I'm lazy ^_^; )

Yay for Berry Puppy and Sentimental Circus!

I also bought this cute Bunka doll clip/brooch from LemonTree11.
Her online picture did not do it justice!

I love cute notes ♥

Thanks for looking!

Outfit Post + Food

2011-08-20T18:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my boyfriend and I spent our last day together before he goes to college and my birthday a bit early at a cute historic cafe. I wore my favorite dress ♪ I also got a haircut and changed the shape of my eyebrows a bit. How does it look?

Rundown

Jsk: Innocent World

Cardigan: Offbrand

Socks/Shoes: Target (Xhilleration)

Jewelry: Pearls and my IW Ribbon watch

Yummy watermelon lemonade

My squash and pesto pizza :)

I am going to miss him so much! >.<

Lolita Meme Day Four

2011-08-20T07:42:00.000-07:00

Day 4 – 10 different kinds of food you like.

Carrot cake

Eggs

Bread and butter

Cucumber sandwiches

Ice cream (& fruit of any sort)

Pasta

Melon

Eclairs

Kinoko no yama candy (Japanese chocolate mushrooms)

Here is a special egg trick!

I have a tragic sweet tooth u__u (images from We Heart It)

Vacation

2011-08-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting, I've been on vacation ♪ Many nice things happened though!

☆I held a star fish ☆

New shoes!

Right around sunset

Curiosities

I love seahorses ♥

This little puffer really wanted his photo taken ~

Sea turtle rescue center

Pelicans!


I fed the gulls many times ^_^ ;

I also did a bit of shopping! ☆

I had many packages waiting for me in the mail when I got back.

It's like Christmas ;A;

A friend in Japan helped me order these!!

I got the St. Canary and Moon Girl sets plus the new years print.

There was also a flier for her art show

I wish I could go ♪

Next package: I am a stationary fiend

This came in the mail just today! I am so happy ♥

The girl who sold me the necklace also included the stamp card and flier she got from the AP San Francisco store~ I also got a white Bodyline blouse (in the wash now) and I'm still waiting on a French Cafe bento bag and Lowry's blouse.

That's all for now :)

Lolita Meme Day Three

2011-08-14T09:48:00.000-07:00

Day 3 – 10 things you hate about lolita.

I hope not to offend anyone, these are just my personal tastes u_u;;

Head fascinators (sp), the ones with giant feathers and flowers, I think they look silly and out of place.
A-symmetrical clothing designs, not for me.
Leopards prints (that's just clothing in general though)
The body image and self esteem problems that come with not having a 65 cm waist or 90 cm bust.
How expensive petticoats are, I mean, it's invisible fluff!
Black and white coordinates. They are very hard to pull off without going all-out old school.
Bright or overly busy colors and prints.
Teeny, tiny shoes (I've seen just one pair of shoes in my size for sale on the egl_comm - I wear a US 11 T_T )
Little hats.
Character prints. Not a fan of Star Wars and My Little Pony prints.

Scrapbooking Practice

2011-08-06T17:49:00.001-07:00

I took some advice I recieved on what to do with my small collection of postage stamps and started a small scrapbook! I thought it was a good way to put small trinkets and scraps of paper that I had been holding onto to good use. I purchased the book at a home goods store (blank craft paper). I took advantage of my small stamp collection, as well as ribbons, deco tape, doilies, stickers, coins, polaroids, lace and other pretty bits (oh and a bit of doodling, I can draw better than this I swear, I just wanted it to look a bit whimsical). Here is what I have done so far. I think it has a nice vintage feel ♪♫♪

Bonus: a cute handmade chick strap I bought at a Thai restaurant. Cheep~

Thanks for looking~

Lolita Meme Day Two

2011-08-06T10:37:00.000-07:00

Day 2 – 10 things you love about lolita (not in any order)

Modesty - it's nice when you don't have to always try to be sexy.
Floral prints - vintage and charming.
Bonnets - cute and very under-utilized in my opinion.
Lace-up boots - rough, tough and durable - adventure shoes!
Art (Specifically Imai Kira's and Maki's illustrations) - absolute love (I collect their post cards)
Fawn collars & mufflers - cute and fuzzy, reminds me of the forest.
Peter pan collars - sweet, soft and lacy, work outside of Lolita as well.
Rabbit prints - must I say more?
Biscuit motifs - a recent favorite, I'm very much in love with the French Cafe series.
Laid-out coordinates - eye candy ♪

August Lifestyle Ideas

2011-08-05T14:41:00.000-07:00

Cool off with a floral bath - spread rose and violet petals in the water and add essential oils like lavender and mint to relax
Make a cool treat by topping off yummy chocolate ice cream with raspberries, mint leaves and almond slivers
Coordinate your next outfit like Herajika and strictly set to a palette of two or three colors
Throw an Aqua Princess pool party - coordinate decorations in pastel pink and blue and sprinkle sparkly sea shells. Provide treats like cotton candy and pretty rocky candy on a stick. Use cute floats and beach balls and bask like mermaid princesses!
Loose, shear bow blouses are a comfortable way to add a blouse to your summer outfit
Use cute vintage tea and cookie tins to store small hair accessories, jewelry and school supplies
Kawaii.i is a You Tube channel that follow Jelly model Mana's journey through trendy shops including Angelic Pretty ♪ the short videos update often and are very fun to watch!
Spend the day (and night) at a beach-side carnival and take vintage-style photos of merry-go-rounds and ornate food stands
Send a surprise package to a friend that you talk to often - they will not expect to find a cute package for them in the mail! Include a cute stationary note, hard candy, small toys and other sweet things ♪
If the heat is scaring your away from your Lolita clothes, add a hem of lave onto pastel denim shorts for a cute touch - and wear them with bright tights when the weather cools off

Lolita Meme Day One

2011-08-05T14:15:00.000-07:00

Long time no post ^_^; Anyways, I'm having a lot of fun completing this meme on my other blog, so I thought I would try the Lolita version ♪ Anyways, here is the complete list of days, please join me in completing it!

Day 1 – 10 things about your lolita bubble.

Day 2 – 10 things you love about lolita.

Day 3 – 10 things you hate about lolita.

Day 4 – 10 different kinds of food you like.

Day 5 – 10 items on your wishlist.

Day 6 – 10 things you can’t live without in lolita.

Day 7 – 10 people who inspire your lolita style.

Day 8 – 10 songs that inspire your inner lolita.

Day 9 – 10 things you will never do in lolita.

Day 10 – What’s in your lolita bag?

Day 11 – A day in your lolita life in pictures.

Day 12 – A picture of yourself before lolita came in to your life.

Day 13 – A picture of your favorite sweets.

Day 14 – A picture of your dream item.

Day 15 – A picture of your last lolita purchase.

Day 16 – Your outfit for the day.

Day 17 – What do you want more then anything right now?

Day 18 – A picture of your favorite lolita style.

Day 19 – What’s in your make-up bag?

Day 20 – A picture of a lolita friend.

Day 21 – Your favorite fictitious lolita.

Day 22 – A picture of your room.

Day 23 – A picture of your handwriting.

Day 24 – A picture of you from a meet.

Day 25 – Your favorite lolita themed artwork.

Day 26 – Your Facebook profile picture.

Day 27 – A song that fits your favorite lolita style.

Day 28 – A picture of the perfect lolita location.

Day 29 – A picture of a lolita you would love to meet for real.

Day 30 – A photo of yourself taken today and 3 good things that have happened over the last 30 days.

Anyways, onto day one!

Day 1 – 10 things about your lolita bubble.

I was first introduced to Lolita when my friend brought me back a KERA magazine from Germany
My favorite style is Classic and my favorite brand is Innocent World
My family is fine with me wearing Lolita (my dad teases me that I look like Sofie from Howl's Moving Castle when I wear my brown lace-up boots and boater hat u.u;;)
My first brand item was a tiny zipper pouch from Metamorphose
I have never been to a meet-up but I would very much like to attend one!
I wear my frills (toned-down) to school
I have obtained my dream dress: Innocent World's Lauretta Rose long JSK
I desperately want a Lolita pen-pal T_T
I have been lucky enough to have visited Innocent World, Metamorphose, BTSSB and Angelic Pretty in Kyoto while on a home-stay in Japan last summer >.< The shop attendants are out of this world~
I try my best to live as a lifestyle lolita, but my taste is also influenced by other styles including mori, dolly-kei and cult party-kei

Hello New Friend! + Shopping

2011-07-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry if most of my posts end up being shopping hauls u__u;; I'm trying to save money a bit I don't have many outfits to post, so I buy many smaller items. One item is the BTSSB Sophie bear charm ♪

So cute -- and pose-able!

*blush*

Small embroidered logo on her foot


I think she fits well on my bag :)

I also picked up this little pochette at the Sanrio store <3 I'm in love with the entire school-themed Chococat series, I wanted everything. It has an adjustable leather strap suitable for wearing across the chest. I've been finding myself wanting a small, easy daily bag that's still cute and I think this one fits the bill!

That's my phone peeking out~

Holds my phone, keys, rose salve and IW ribbon wallet easily.


I wanted to try this out! I thought it would be like a balm, but it's more of a goo >.<

Lastly I wanted to share my cute biscuit calculator from Chocolate Circle (only $7.95 + free shipping!!)

Quarter for size comparison

I love it! It's much clearer to real in person

I saved the stamps from the package (it came from China)...

...to add to my tiny collection. What should I do with them?

Thank you for reading!

Morning Glory Haul & Review

2011-07-14T11:15:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone, it's one of my favorite times of year ♪ my annual Morning Glory school supply haul. I already bought enough folders at a local anime convention so I mainly bought notebooks. They are currently having a 20% off sale so I took this opportunity to get all of my shopping done. I was able to buy 21 items for about $50 plus shipping. Anyways, enough jabbering and onto the review.

The invoice stated that one of the journals was out of stock and they replaced it for me.

2-way pen/pencil + eraser set, how small and cute!

Can you see the pen and pencil inside? Twisting it switches between them

Cute small notepad. Has a nice texture.

Fairy tale themed sticky note pack (only the smaller ones are sticky).

Cute designs and a great value for under $2

Not sticky but still very cute


Cute glitter frog stickers I used on my school planner

Very cute large letter set, not given justice on website

Even has glitter!

More glitter!

Rilakkuma envelope folder with velcro closure (front)

(back)

Cute tin pencil case

Such cute detail!

I will probably use this for my art supplies at school

Cute kraft notebooks

The inside paper matches the background

This was the replacement journal I received. About the same size as the other one.

Detail shots. I can picture myself reading the cover while board in class XD

Map ring notebook, nice texture as well.

Inside.


4 color/section notebook.

Close-up of design

Can you see the different colored sections?

Smaller bound notebooks

Inside front cover


The rest of the pages

I love the whale design!

The website didn't do justice for this illustration either :)

A cute candy striper design

Oh, they know me well.

The largest of the notebooks, wonderful texture (for all my AP economics notes, eek!)

This shows the different section tabs pretty well.

I am in love with this giant letter pad, 72 pages and 36 designs!!

One of the adorable designs

Aww :3

Yes, yes I will.

And next, the all important planner! It has an elastic band for security

Contents (not show on website)

I'm glad it has a spiral spine.

Inside page (yay pockets!)

Moo~

Yearly plan

Monthly plan (you fill in the months/days/years yourself)

Weekly plans. Filling all the days in is a little tedious but this way I can buy it for any year.

Close-up

Additional memo pages

There are also blank and grid pages

The last pages lets you record your contact info

Wheh! Congrats to anyone who finished that! Overall I am extremely happy (as normal) with Morning Glory. The package itself arrived in 5 days (they only ship within the US). Everything was much better in person than on the website. The notebooks have wonderful texture and are of high quality. I was also very satisfied with my planner. It's ridiculous the amount of time I spend looking for the perfect one and I'm glad this one worked out nicely (I saved on shipping and it was only $11, on sale). I'm also very glad I decided to buy the (slightly pricier than my other items at $4) letter pad. It's quality and designs are beautiful! I really like Morning Glory again because their motifs are usually aimed at a more natural/mori-esque aesthetic and are generally cheaper than Japanese products. These school supplies actually make me sort of excited for back to school... in the middle of summer!

Candy and... Pomeranians?

2011-07-14T11:14:00.001-07:00

Hi there! I just wanted to quickly show off my new 3DS! I love it so much :3 I've been playing Nintendogs + Cats religiously and I am the proud owner of a biscuit-colored Pomeranian pup named Potato ♪ and a cute red kitten named Ginger★

I ordered a (rip-off) Monokuro Boo skin off Ebay. I acutally chose the Cosmic black color for that purpose!

So cute!

Inside

Back side

Why yes, that is a happy little poop keychain... it's the only matching one I had!

Bonus: my game cartridge case!

I also visited a Japanese import grocery store and picked up some candy and melon soda (which I drank before I took the picture)

yumyum ♪

July Lifestyle Ideas

2011-07-03T16:16:00.000-07:00

If the weather permits, plan a strawberry picking outing. Use a straw basket and a wear a soft, cotton apron
Innocent world has a wonderful jsk to match!
It's never too early to plan for school! I have a year of high school yet but I'm already looking at interior design books and websites for dorm ideas (Japanese apartments and dorms are about the same size, aren't they?)
This Japanese furniture website has a gallery of bedroom idea, both simple/natural and sweet
Here's a simple craft to try: make simple bow brooches using different colors and textures of ribbon and lace and sew/glue on a pin. Wear them on blouses, hats and bags. Experiment with layers of fabric too.
Try unusual accessories like big-rimmed granny glasses or cow boy booties
Make small handy pouches with vintage fabric from thrift store bedding or clothing
Nothing makes a more perfect summer bag than a straw basket or small picnic case with a doily attached to it
Tokyo Jam has a selection of cute Japanese craft and embroidery tutorial mook scans
Wondering how to add a sweet touch to the ever-necessary summer shorts? Add eyelet lace trim to the leg hole or add patches of lace around the legs and pockets

Aoki Misako's Shopping Reports

2011-06-20T17:04:00.000-07:00

Baby the Stars Shine Bright
I can't stop listening to the BABY staff's voice. *A*

Angelic Pretty

Metamorphose

Bunnies, Bears and Sweets...Oh My!

2011-06-18T08:44:00.000-07:00

It arrived!! Yippee : ) This isn't a very important post - I'm just expressing my silly joy for stationary. This batch was an order from Kawaii Ya. The Hawai'i based online store offers an array of letter sets, sticker, memo pads and other items for pretty nice prices - plus shipping is a measly $4.50 no matter the weight :) Anyways they had a nice selection of rabbit themed items so I went ahead and made an order. My total was around $30 with shipping (I wanted to spend at least $25 to receive the free sticker flake sacks). I cant wait to use these <3

It's here!

Bunny veggis?

Baby bunnies and air mail - my favorite themes! :D

Stickers >3<

More cute bunnies <3

Mini memo love <3

New character stickers!

Isn't she cute?

Chou-fleur (little flower?) Very mori-eqsue

D'awwww

The sticker sacks on the left and right were free!

These were free as well :)

Cute beat sweets deco tape


And baby bear memos!

Sanrio Goodies

2011-06-15T13:45:00.000-07:00

I feel so lucky that a Sanrio store opened it my town <3 Though it is quite expensive and has Hello Kitty items geared primarily towards Americans I still love it! The first time I went there was actually their grand opening - what a happy accidental visit! Yesterday I picked up the tiny memo pad there for a whopping 85 cents and the Keroppi stationary at Target for $1 each. I also picked up a volume of the Kitchen Princess manga (so cute)! The biscuit cookie strap is from the egl sales comm and arrived in a cute candy-shaped pouch!

A gift I received at the grand opening :)

Angelic Pretty USA Video Update

2011-06-06T08:28:00.001-07:00

How cute is she? ^__^

June Lifestyle Ideas

2011-06-04T16:48:00.000-07:00

If you find yourself board inside, watching people open lucky packs is much more interesting than you would think.
Try a sweet "Pink Lady" soda I tried at a vintage candy shop - Mix (your preference) of 7-up, Orange Sunkist, a hint of raspberry flavor and top off with Italian cream
Coordinate outfits with soft tulle and gauze instead of lace for a unique look
Practice making "Zakka" pouches - they are a simple sewing expenditure! - Here are some cute fabrics and zippers
Have a yummy breakfast of waffles topped with fresh strawberries, whipped cream and powdered sugar - so sugary and delicious!
Take a visit to your local botanical center to enjoy wildflowers and wildlife
Bring a sketch book or camera along with you to record the beautiful life you observe there!
Make your own brooches/pins to match your favorite coordinates. I'm thinking of making a removable brooch like the one on AP's French Cafe bolero
Try sewing cute felt cakes and sweets
Collect dainty vintage decorative tins to store your accessories

Thread Fair Fashion Show

2011-06-04T15:50:00.000-07:00

Hi again! A while ago I mentioned that I was busy with a student charity fashion show. Luckily I was able to locate some pretty nice photos and I thought I would share them! The designs are loosely Lolita-inspired, but that's because everything I do is loosely Lolita-inspired! >.< I am by no means a proper or experienced seamstress or designed. I wanted to participate one for the charity and two to attempt to create images or outfits that had been stuck in my head for some time. All of the dresses are hand-sewn and the heart/lungs dress is all hand-embroidered (it's also my favorite dress). The faux fawn accessories and flower clips are hand-made as well. I hope you enjoy the outfits, they are fun to make!

All the models except the far right are in my designs

Heart embroidery dress (my fav!)

Fawn dress

I really like this shot for some reason

Rose dress


Heidi Dress (not to happy with the fit of this one)

One last walk! (That's me on the left haha)

P.S. the photos were taken by one of my friend/her father - not me! I was too busy backstage to even see my looks! DX

International Lolita Day Summer 2011

2011-06-04T15:42:00.000-07:00

Go! Go Lolita-chan!

Hello there :) I wanted to keep Lolita Day short and sweet this year (I was taking the SAT all morning T_T). To me, this year is all about inspiration, so I've complied a short list of Lolita quotes that inspire me to in cooperate the fashion into my everyday life.

Shelbycloud inspires me a lot as a Lolita~

"I am a special maiden.” It’s okay for you to think that, you know. Even if there are strangers who look away and snicker at you because your skirt is too poufy, or because the ribbon adorning your hair is too big, you don’t have to let it bother you. Sure it’s aggravating that there still are some confused people who see Gothic and Lolita as unemotional, cheap cosplay, but you should just remain confident and stand tall.
-Arika Takarano; Gothic and Lolita Bible, vol27

"Please jump like a rabbit at some point" - Misako Aoki from Australia's NTM

"I wear these clothes because I want to remember my girlish spirit. I don't want to grow up. My friend calls it a combat uniform against daily life. It gives us confidence, it helps us feel stronger. People do look at us coldly, but we fight back." -Jane Marple enthusiast

"The brand name Innocent World brings to mind a simple world without dirt or blemish. We made this name to reflect the pure and innocent hearts of young women everywhere, at any age." - from Innocent World Concept

Take a moment to stop and thin about what or who inspired you to persue Lolita fashion or a Loli-fabulous lifestyle!

Unusual Brand Item #7

2011-05-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

Sneeze in style my friends...

Ever experienced a situation where you thought "dang it, my snotty tissue case is just not rori enough" ? Well, if so, this lovely "tissue case" from Moi-meme-Moitie is the answer to your worries! For just 2100 yen (approximately the price of 30 mini tissue packs) you could be the proud owner of a gothic tissue cover. And who ever questioned that Lolita wasn't a lifestyle choice?

Quick Update + Fashion Show

2011-05-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! It's been a while since I've posted, please forgive me. I have been up to something though, I've completed four outfits for a student-run charity fashion show. All hand sewn dresses guys, yup. DX The show is tonight and hopefully someone will take some good shots (I'll be too busy running around backstage to take photos). Wish me luck everyone! Photos will follow soon though, I promise!

Also, I designed a flyer for the event and I thought it'd share it.

May Lifestyle Ideas

2011-05-04T19:28:00.000-07:00

Pastels aren't done yet! Switch from Easter lavender and pink to summery blue and yellow!
Mix spring and summer (and pastels) with pastel sailor collar blouses. Angelic Pretty and Meta make a number of sailor-style tops
Four spring sweet/country looks, add a white, frilly half apron (a la old school Angelic Pretty)
One thing I love to see (mostly with Japanese Lolitas) is themed outfits - not like a particular color or print but a theme like "Antique Doll", "European Student" or "Aristocratic Maiden". Try to coordinate outfits with a specific scenario or lifestyle in mind
For more spring outfit inspiration watch the Marie Antoinette cottage field movie scene (where she is in the garden with her friends and garden). Not only does it have amazing outfits, but cute sheep too!
Make Daisy chains with a best friend
Plan a lazy pic-nic by yourself (read books, cloud gaze) or relax with friends
Spring clean your room, office, closet or entire house to make way for fresh spring air (and new spring dresses, of course). Bring in a fresh bouquet of fragrant flowers to refresh the room.
Visit an exhibit or research about antique and historical spring clothing styles from different eras for outfit inspiration
Look into a new skill to learn - I'm currently looking on roller skating (not going to hot)... but I've also been interested in learning to play the accordion as a result of Imai Kira's beautiful St. Canary prints!

Lauretta Rose Outfit

2011-05-04T18:56:00.000-07:00

I was finally able to wear my new (dream) dress today. I was very happy when the boots that I ordered came two days early as well! It was a little chilly, so I decided on a light cardigan. Plus I am also currently looking for a nice antique blouse to pair with it. As you saw in the last post, I think this dress has a lot of coordination options. I do regret forgetting my straw boater hat though! Oh well, that's just an excuse for another outfit :)

Rundown:
JSK: Innocent World
(Lauretta Rose long version in ecru)
Scarf: Rue 21
Cardigan: Gift (C'est Chic?)
Bag & Watch: Innocent World
Shoes: Xhilaration (Target)

The Story of a Dream Dress

2011-04-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

Finally, the long hours of running around and coming home smelling like onion rings have payed off. Just recently I was able to purchase my dream dress - IW's Lauretta rose (the long version, in ecru). While it cost a pretty penny, even second hand (my mother is not happy, but I earned it on my own!) I am so happy to own it. Not only that, my job also jump started a bit of weight loss and I fit in the dress fine. I don't know about you, but that's an accomplishment for me (a 5'8" girl without a Japanese frame). So between earning and acquiring my dream dress on my own, a bit of weight loss and a multitude of coordination options, I'm overjoyed! Speaking of coordinates... I already experimented A bit :) I'm waiting on a pair of boots in the mail (see below), so I'm going to wait on posting worn pics until I have the full outfit ready.

After months of searching for brown lace-ups in my size (US 11) to to avail, my jaw literally dropped when I saw these beauties...in my size...for $30! Oh yes, I am a happy camper!

Onto the coordinates! I would appreciate any c&c for these, especially the one with the black blouse. I was just throwing it out there to see if it would work (I don't own a cream or off white blouse currently). I don't think a blouse will be necessary due to the warm weather though (how scandalous!)

I know there aren't many differences between the outfits, but I would like to choose the best option :)

Accessory detail shots

IW watch

Lace boater hat


IW Alice & rabbit earrings

Thank you for reading! Which coordinate do you like best?

Spring Prints

2011-04-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I hope you're enjoying this season's new spring prints! I think that Angelic Pretty's lamb print turned out rather cute. I must admit I've been anxious to see their new Easter print due to the cuteness of Happy Garden last year. While the dress is adorable, I think the strawberries on the lamb bag's hat turned out a little goofy. What do you think? Do you like AP's Easter/spring prints?Any predictions for next year's animal or theme?

AP's new lamb print

Someone dropped strawberries on this poor fella's head!

While I was browsing Innocent World's website, I discovered that an adorable new print is up for reservation! Their "Strawberry Jam" reminds me a bit of Chelsea rabbit. Maybe its a better "grown up" option? I was this close to buying the Chelsea Rabbit OP but was worried that it looked too little kid-ish for the direction my style was going. (Does anyone know if there is a skirt version or a pouch or something else with the print avaliable)? Anyways, Strawberry Jam looks like a fine option for the berry jam-loving lolita that is too worried she might look too juvenile. It is also avaliable in a long and halter version for a more grown-up look. (Perfect for summer, too)!

Long halter version

Short jsk version'

Also on the topic of spring, the internet shop Lolitadesu (based in Denmark) is holding a spring coordinate photo contest on Facebook. The contest is planned to last until late May or early June and the prize is a lucky pack of goodies! I plan to enter once a pair of shoes I just purchased arrives :)

In other news, I got a post card for AP's French cafe print. For the past few months I've been utterly attracted to French and Air Mail motifs. Since I don't hope to own the dress (maybe a brooch if I'm lucky), owning the postcard allows me to feel like I own a piece of the collection (and admire Imai Kira's work). I also did a similar thing and bought the IW Chelsea Rabbit postcard!

I hope everyone else is enjoying spring!

Innocent World Golden Week

2011-04-20T17:03:00.000-07:00

Really Innocent World? Come on here, this is down right silly!

In honor of Golden Week, Innocent World is including a "free" hanger with the purchase of ￥15,750 or more. Laaaame. If I spend over $150, I would expect something cuter or more wearable than a hanger. Usually their fair items are much better, like a limited edition calender, scarves, hair bands etc. Is a hair pin or head bow too much to ask? Or a sale?

***UPDATE***

Now you can choose a blouse hanger and a skirt hanger! Yippee!

St. Canary Calender

2011-04-13T17:12:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I just wanted to share this adorable Imai Kira "St. Canary" series calender I recently purchased. It makes me so happy to look at it <3 It wasn't as expensive as the print set and also includes 2 paper dolls and a stand. Isn't it just adorable?


It even includes a stand and little paper dolls

The March/April close-up

And the cute "St. Canary" seal

I still have a few Imai Kira items on their way in the mail too <3

April Lifestyle Ideas

2011-04-03T19:23:00.000-07:00

Pastels! Pastels! Pastels! - and mix-n-match colors like this outfit by Shelbycloud
Incorporate bunnies, lambs and baby chick motifs into your outfits (don't own Happy Garden? Try cute pins, brooches and other jewelry)
It's not too late to start a small flower or vegetable garden, beans and carrots are easy to grow. (Or better yet - grow the seedlings indoors in egg shells)
Egg shells also make cute tiny flower vases or planters
Dye your own eggs or decorate some vintage beauties with lace, decoupage or even cross-stitching
Make a cute carrot cake in the honor or baby bunnies!
Start pressing spring flowers before summer withers them up. Use them to make cards or decorate a diary
Break out your sandals and parasols - and maybe rock your jsk without a blouse -oh my! (an excuse for a pastel pedicure? I think so!)
Create a spring Lolita resolution with how you would like to "grow and blossom" this spring
If you're looking for a new friend, consider adopting a bunny from your human society. Many baby bunnies are given to children during Easter and then grow bored and abandon them. The same applies to chicks and ducklings!

Ponchatoula

2011-04-03T18:01:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Please forgive my absence, I was out of town the past few days in Louisiana. I was able to visit a cute little town called Ponchatoula. It means "hair that hangs" (referring to the Spanish moss) in Choctaw. The town is also famous for it's delicious strawberries! There were cute strawberries everywhere!

A cute old train

They served strawberry margaritas here

There were also several antique stores that I was excited to explore, but they turned out to be very disappointing and I left empty handed. There was acute old sewing machine with a crank handle! I wasn't sure if it would work so I didn't gamble taking it home. How cute is it though?

How cute are they?

We also visited family friends with an adorable old home. There were wildflowers and clovers everywhere.

A butterfly with a damaged wing

My current obsession - pansies!

She had a cute garden

We found a four-leaf clover, how lucky!

Her lovely 28 year old horse

Overall it was a long, sad trip (we attended a funeral) but I was able to escape with a few pretty memories.

Innocent World Tsunami Charity Event

2011-03-28T15:50:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. I just wanted to inform that Innocent World has released their lucky packs, with 5% of the proceeds benefiting victims of the Tohoku earthquake (via Japanese Red Cross). I know it doesn't appear to be much to donate, but Innocent World was originally planning this lucky pack event before the disaster and chose to alter the event for charity.

Their website states: "At first, we thought about canceling the Golden Week Set and the Tea Party.
But we discussed what Innocent World can do, and what we should do for the disaster areas, and came to a conclusion. We decided to change the contents of the event."

In addition to the lucky packs, from Thursday, March 17th to Sunday, April 10th, Innocent World will be setting up donation boxes at their shops.

The packs are avaliable in two styles, Set A and Set B. There are several color choices but only sizes M and L. The A set includes "spring and summer skirts and a blouse or a bolero ＋ little goods", while the B set includes "spring and summer jumperskirt and a blouse or a bolero ＋ little goods". I don't think I'm going to buy one though because I can't take chances with the sizing. Anyways, this would be a great opportunity for IW fans who are looking to help out those effected by the tsunami.

May All Be Safe

2011-03-13T09:51:00.000-07:00

My condolences and wishes go out to all who's friends or loved ones were effected by the disaster in Japan . I feel extremely lucky that my host parents and Japanese friends live on the West Coast and were not effected. You can get through this, Japan. The world is at your side.

Who You Calling a Pansy?

2011-03-01T16:09:00.000-08:00

In honor of this spring's freshest trend, I wanted to make a post all about pansy flowers and different was to enjoy them!

Pansies 101

The name pansy is from the French word pensie, meaning thought or remembrance
They are delicate flowers that look like they have a "face"
Pansies are both fragrant and edible!
Both the flowers and leaves are high in vitamins A & C
Their genus; viola; also includes violets
The yellow or blue pansy flowers seem to have the strongest scent
Plants in the genus viola were cultivated by the Greeks for herbal medicinal use
In William Shakespeare's play A Midsummer Night's Dream, the juice of a pansy blossom ("before, milk-white, now purple with love's wound, and maidens call it love-in-idleness") is a love potion
Pansies are the flower of Osaka, Japan

Ways you can use and enjoy pansies:

Both the leaves and flowers can be used as a garnish for salads
The flowers can be used as garnish on cold fruit or cream soups
The flowers are also useful as a dye
Plant a variety of colors in pots or a garden
Choward's mints make a violet-flavored variety
Snatch up AP's new print ("Sugar Pansy") or search for IW's older pansy print

AP's Sugar Pansy print

IW's Antique Pansy print

Source

March Lifestyle Ideas

2011-03-01T15:36:00.000-08:00

This season's hot trend is pansies! (a la AP's new print, but IW also has a cute older print)
Pansies remind me of violets - and Choward's Violet Mints!
Start incorporating spring pastels into your outfits
Speaking of pastels, enter spring with a bang with pastel nail polish!
Always wanted a flower or small vegetable garden but couldn't find the space or good soil? Why not a container garden? Choose fun pots or unusual containers - don't forget little garden critters!
Straw hats are cute, but why not try a full brimmed straw sunhat - both stiff and floppy styles
Try making new, adventurous desserts like Strawberry Mille-feuille, rose brownies or lavender macaroons
The band The Album Leaf creates some soft, sweet music perfect for spring
Try to take a small walk as often as you can. I recently discovered how exciting it is to watch birds chirp to other birds
Speaking of birds, try attracting them with a yummy blend of fresh seeds in a cute feeder. If you don't have a backyard, try a park or preserve to spot wild birds

Lifestyle Lolitas Video

2011-02-23T18:50:00.000-08:00

This is a cute video about the lives of several successful lifestyle lolitas (why are so many of them such talented artists!?) It was really nice to listen to their views on fashion and lifestyle and it also provided the ever-needed confidence boost to sport lolita (or just your personal style in general) daily. I'm not very good at captioning videos, so watch it for yourself!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T16:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day and thank you to all of my wonderful readers!

Valentines Day Cookies Brooches + Other Crafts

2011-02-07T16:44:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! Today I'd like to share a few quick and cute biscuit/cookies brooches I made. The materials were just felt, fluffing, pins and lace. I thought they would look cute on a scarf or collar for Valentines Day <3

Heart biscuit with lace bow

Heart, circle and rectangle biscuits

I also did a little bit more crafting~

Left-over lace sewn onto my backpack

More left-over lace on a cookie key chain


I didn't make this, but I re-glued the pin and thought it was too cute not to share! *

My favorite item - a vintage velvet rose brooch with lace/velvet/pompom strings

I thought it would look cute on a bag or outfit for both mori and classic lolita

That was some pretty fun crafting!

* This is the artist who made the bunny brooch!

February Lifestyle Ideas

2011-02-04T08:43:00.000-08:00

I almost forgot them this month, sorry!

For Valentines day, your own valentines. Try using vintage imagery, pressed flowers, stickers, paper doilies and plenty of lace
Make this yummy rose cake (recepice by agewa) I know I'm going to try it!
Coordinate creams and white with soft pink for a lighter look
Make more Valentines treats like rose brownies or lavender macaroon
Accessorize with mini silk or fabric roses - add them to your hair, scarves, jacket, wherever!
Bring a miniature rose home with you
A simple lace or crochet collar adds a sweet touch to a coordinate
Make a heart themed meal for a friend or significant other
Scour vintage and antique shops for old valentines, love letters, delicate lace and whimsical stuffed animals
If you have the time and space, why not adopt a small friend as your valentine?

The Lolita Under the Weather

2011-02-03T16:01:00.000-08:00

Achoo! Due to the massive cold weather invasion, the flu has hit my school hard (luckily I've avoided it), but the mass of absences and sniffles have inspired me to make a post for sick Lolitas. Here are a few ideas to make being sick a little less miserable.

Wear your cutest pair of warm lolita-esque pajamas, including slippers and a night cap
Curl up with a stuffed animal and tote them around your house
If you must go to work or school, sneak a tiny friend to comfort you in your purse
Get your medicine flavored - my local pharmacy will add fruit flavors to most liquid medicines
Make a fort of comfy pillows and blankets to curl up in while watching a good movie
Speaking of movies, (since you finally have the time to watch them), why not a princess movie or Miyazaki marathon?
Painting your nails is a low-energy way to add a bit of enjoyment to your runny nose misery
Use a cute tissue box cover or choose paper ones with cute designs - you will be seeing it a lot
If you're running a fever, use a cute animal-shaped ice pack
If you nose becomes too try, use lightly scented lotion to ease the tenderness
Experiment with different blends and fragrances of tea to sooth your throat and your nose
For your soup fix, try classic alphabet soup or ones with characters or animals
Drink plenty of fluids, through cute swirly straws and cups!

I hope this makes any sick Lolis out there feel a little better... P.S. There is a 70% chance of (about an inch of) snow tomorrow, how exciting! Hopefully that also means school will be canceled and no Physics quiz tomorrow :D

First Pair of Brand Socks!

2011-01-30T08:30:00.000-08:00

Yippee! I finally purchased my first pair of brand socks, how exciting!

These knee-highs match my Nicholas Fruits skirt, I am so happy!

I was worried with my large feet that they would not fit, let along reach my knees, but I was pleasantly surprised! I know some people tend not to buy brand socks because of their price and the fact that they wear out just as quickly as any other socks. I guess since they are black they won't show as much wear as say white socks would. What do you think about using brand socks?

Since they are my first pair, I'm still a little nervous if the print looks too stretched. I know stretched brand prints are always a point of concern in the Lolita community. What are your opinions on this? Is a little stretching ok? Is it unavoidable or should be completely avoided at all costs?

What's in My Bag?

2011-01-19T19:33:00.000-08:00

I'm always really interested in seeing "what's in my bag" type photos and posts, I guess that's a little creepy... Or maybe my OCD just enjoys seeing items evenly spaced. Anyways, I thought I'd try one! My style is a cross between classic lolita, and mori-girl/natural kei aesthetics, so my bag contents tend to reflect that. This was fun to make ^_^

My actual bag (bag from Japan, lace collar from EGL comm)

Contents

Innocent World ribbon wallet (my pride and joy) + Capybara-san cookie key chain
Sanrio 2011 date-mate (got from the Sanrio fashion show)
"Catch-all" journal for miscellaneous thoughts
New vintage home economic guidebook
Black glove for chilly weather
Ipod Nano + Deary Lou case
Bert's Bees Honey chap stick
Choward's Violet mints (they taste like flowers!)
My Keys
My LG Optimus phone + HK/Lawson screen cleaner

So what's in your bags? Do you have a bag post (yet)? If so, link away!

Innocent World Post Card Set

2011-01-19T19:08:00.000-08:00

I'd like to share a little treasure I found on the EGl sales comm! It's Innocent World's special postcard set from this year's lucky packs. I wanted it not only to decorate my room and provide coordiante inspiration, but the prints included pieces that I will not likely ever own because of their sizes restrictions. :( This way I feel like I still have something from the particular coordinates I love (especially the Chelsea and Band of Forest Animals prints)!

The envelope on the right is from a different pc set

All of the post cards

Chelsea Rabbit print

Cute hat!

Band of Forest Animals~

I love brand and art post cards <3