Japanese urban tribes I: Lolita style

Bewildered by the huge number of Japanese-influenced youth groups that have invaded the streets of Chile, we are beginning the daunting task of identifying and differentiating them. Oshare Keis, Otakus, Eroguros and Gothic Lolitas are just a few of the major movements, which have their own influences, styles of dress and ways of interacting with society at large. We invite you to learn about all of them here at the BCN’s Asia-Pacific portal. Get the latest on the newest urban tribes now living among us. After all, chances are you have one in the family.

Lolita Style: High fashion

Girls dressed for the catwalk in Milan, which from time to time are seen in the heart of Santiago and at Anime events... only in rare cases but because they are usually at home. Because being a Lolita not only implies being elegantly dressed, it is a lifestyle.

For starters, there is no alcohol or cigarettes in this group of ladies. Elegance dictates these are definite no-no’s. Neither do they dance to reggaeton. They usually prefer a "tea party" with friends. The first Lolitas, Japanese of course, brought back into vogue Victorian period dress: truly top of the heap, as far as elegance goes. Each garment must be thick, filled with lace and accompanied by a parasol, handbag or stuffed animal. The icing on cake is usually a ribbon in their hair.

Lolitas are among the more reserved (and least present on the Net) of the urban tribes, both in Japan and Chilean. It is also the most subdivided, in terms of costume. In terms of elegance, in any of their subgroups, they are second to none. If you’re planning to read these aloud, take a deep breath.

Gothic Lolita: The most prolific style in Chile. Inspired by the mourning of the Middle Ages, dominated by black, which is combined with dark red and white, using different symbols such as crosses, yet always discreet. With regard to makeup, this type of Lolita often uses white to make up her face, along with brown or pink lipstick.

Sweet Lolita: the first type of Lolita. Prefer pastel colors like blue and pink. Lots of bobbles and a friendly, sweet disposition are among their most revered accoutrements.

Horror Lolita: The least elegant of them all, yet gaining in popularity. They cannot leave the house without makeup simulating blood on their faces and bodies. Torn up dresses complete their haunting look.

Punk Lolita: The new fashion among the Lolitas chilensis group. Checkered skirts and striped socks scratched make up their wardrobe, which are topped off by berets.

While these are the most popular styles Chile, there are many variations on the Lolita theme. The Lolita Community in Chile is similar across all Latin America. There are twenty subsets. There are even tutorials: how to to do Loltia make up, a directory of basic apparel for every style ... they’ll even tell you what Lolita Interior Design is all about (this will remain a mystery for now). If you are only now realizing your daughter is a Lolita, good for you: things couldn’t be better in terms of domestic tranquility.