Lolitas Of Amsterdam | Style Out There | Refinery29

You undoubtedly know of Lolita, the controversial 1955 novel by Vladimir Nabokov that tells the story of an adult man's relationship with a sexually provocative 12-year-old "nymphet." You're also likely familiar with the Tokyo-born style subculture of the same name that consists of ruffled petticoats, lace hair bows, and pink parasols. And, if you're not part of that scene, you've probably conflated the two. Despite the little-girl attire and coquettish sensibilities, Lolita the style and Lolita the book come from completely different places.

Originating in Japan in the '70s, Lolita fashion was a reaction to the contemporary trend of showcasing a woman's body through formfitting clothing. For women who didn't want to show off their bodies, this was a way to set their own rules about getting dressed, engaging with their clothing, and what was considered a "good" outfit. Small communities grew throughout Tokyo, an industry sprouted up to accommodate demand, and pretty soon, Lolita fashion became renowned beyond the streets of Harajuku.

So, when we found a group of young women in Amsterdam who get together to dress up in Lolita gear, we weren't all that surprised. What did throw us for a loop, though, was how empowering they found it, as more than an activity but an identity and a community. A style subculture created by women, to dress women, and to be admired by women, it's one of very few that remove men from the equation entirely. Our host Asha Leo visits a group of women in The Netherlands who've come across a newfound confidence in a style that's traveled halfway around the world to find them.

[LollyRaiinbow]

"I am a really shy person - this is probably the loudest I'll ever be"
I really like how she phrased that.

[wigglebiggle]

This reporter is very good. She asks questions very politely and in a way to help the audience understand. It's really nice to see her very involved in what she reporting on. The information they gathered is good as well. I'm personally not a Lolita wearer but it always irks me when people assume that the fashion is based on the Lolita book or is part of some fetish because it really is such a beautiful style.

[kikesemore]

Almost cried at the high fashion Lolita style in the end. I need of those outfits immediately.

[rosaleanacordellia]

Why do people laugh at them? I think it's a beautiful style.

[annakang]

Once again, I think you guys make the best documentaries without being biased on YouTube. Thanks for the video!

[dearxsera]

I adore this series, it's so incredible. It really puts into perspective why people dress in a certain way.

[laneyhexx]

I was watching this with my roommate Eevee (yes it's a nickname) and while I was watching this every few seconds I would hear a shriek beside me "Oh my gosh her shoes are so cute!" or "Oh my god I have to have her dress!" I have a Harajuku fanatic, a lolita fanatic, a cyber goth fanatic, and a victorian goth & steampunk fanatic (me) living in the house my three friends and I share. All hours of the day you hear "Hey has anyone seen my green goggles?!" "Where's my tea party skirt?!" "Where are my Hello Kitty high tops?!" "Val have you seen my red bustle skirt?!" It's never boring at our house lol.

[udoncooks]

Please don't ever stop with this series.

[xJProductionsx]

The girl from Belgium is so right. I wore my hair two buns once and people just kept staring like I had a dead animal on my head or something. Weird country...

[beatricem.]

this designer dresses are so amazing I love it

[juliareut]

How could anyone not think this is adorable

[emmelinesb]

i personally would not wear this style but i love the confidence and colour this gives these young ladies! i applaud them for their boldness.

[jeilyortega]

This is the best/underrated series on youtube you guys deserve more views for your hard work! Also the host has such a lovely accent :) keep it up guys 💖

[hsheinloo]

I REALLY liked the Linda Friesen dress the host was wearing. I would definitly wear that :D

[southamericanmama]

Wow this series has blown me away again. Great series and hope to see many many more.

[amnesianbro]

"I find it really beautiful and it makes me feel good about myself" that was very touching! You girls are very inspiring!

[HeyCosby]

Seriously one of my favorite series on YouTube.

[lindseyluna]

"Why not just dress more modest?" she says. That's not what it's about! Unique styles and subcultures are about self expression. I wish the world wasn't so serious. I would loved to wear whatever I want whenever I want and have no one bat an eye.

[cecilsol]

THOSE HIGHFASHION LOLITA DRESS THINGIES ARE FUCKING BEAUTIFUL, that woman is seriously talented

[ZZumaTV]

I have seen one or two girls walking around dressed like this in my school. I think it's adorable but I could never be bothered to dress like that myself