Contrary to their name, Gothic Lolitas do not see themselves as erotic wind-up dolls, but actually as a counter-movement to the permissiveness of other Japanese subcultures. Gothic Lolitas, who are also called Sweet Lolitas or Classic Lolitas, prefer to appear elegant or cute and therefore, with their pale made-up complexions, are reminiscent of porcelain dolls from Victorian England, or even Alice in Wonderland. In fact, every Gothic Lolita would fit perfectly into a fairy tale, so dreamy and playful is her style.
They wear large and voluminous skirts that are often printed with motifs from fairy tales. Often there are also prints with colourful patterns, flowers or even animals, some of which are elaborately embroidered. Decorated stockings, blouses trimmed with lace and open platform shoes with fine straps are worn with them. The hair is usually worn with a fringe and decorated with plenty of hair ornaments. Lace ribbons, bonnets, bows, flowers or even mini hats tucked into the hair complete the hairstyle.
Gothic Lolitas - in contrast to their "Sweet" or "Classic" offshoots - reach for the black garments and are thus actually more likely to belong to the Gothic scene. The typical Gothic Lolitas, however, are less concerned with subculture or music, but merely with style. In this country, a mixture with the gothic scene actually takes place, because followers of the local subculture copy this style for themselves and bring it into the "western" scene. Here it is often associated with an erotic component, but this does not apply in Japan.