HOW TO ... Afford LOLITA

But I have limited income. 

I can't afford my dream dress. 

I don't know how to shop. 

But I'm in college and trying to lolita on a budget.

You guys are so pretty. I wish I could afford ...

LOLITA.

This list goes on and on. I am sure we have all been in this boat about something and Lolita, being a luxury fashion, is no different. So here are some tips and how-to's for letting go of excuses and getting into Lolita.

Brand vs. Off-Brand

Everyone wants to look like a doll baby and sometimes you just don't have doll baby prices. Personally, I just don't commit to shopping that often and enjoy quick fixes in bulk. Whatever your reason, off brand is a great way to get started. Just because it's generally labeled off-brand doesn't always mean cheap quality. However, it can mean kinder prices.

A great go-to for some off-brand experimentation is Bodyline. I am proud to say, as an in real life (IRL) Lolita, about 85% of my closet is Bodyline and I absolutely love it. It affords me time and money to experiment with my Lolita, become more expressive, and find what styles I would enjoy investing in, further, brand-wise.

In the years that I have been shopping Bodyline, I must say that there quality is on a come up to compete with brand. However, a fair warning is that their panniers and petticoats aren't great at all. They just aren't fluffy enough and die within minutes of wearing them. So if you're looking for that inexpensive perfect poof, they are NOT the way to go. In sizing, sometimes, Bodyline can be trial and error. You'll probably find that mostly in shoes but no fear! All Lolis need shoes, so they are generally easy to resell within communities (pending style and size, of course) so that you can re-up and get what you need.

For petticoats, I would suggest Fan Plus Friend. While you're there, you may find some nifty replica styles and other do-dads for Lolita styles. They are especially great if you are into Gothic and old-school Lolita. But if you're sweet you may be in for a hunt to find some items. A fair warning about their items, hwoever, would be that some of there items do look costume-y and can become very ita very fast. So, easy doest it and take time planning coords with Fan Plus Friend.

Buying Replicas and Second-hand

Eventually, brand is inevitable. It's not a bad thing. In fact, in all of my years, I am recently opening up to acquire a bit of burando myself. Some prints are simply pleasing to my eye so I have to suck it up and join the masses. To be kinder to my pockets, though, the Live Journal EGL Sales Community has become my friend.

With overseas shopping always on my mind, I am starting to become more familiar with shopping services to navigate places like Taobao and Closet Child. Then there's Oo Jia for some replica customizing goodness.

Unfortunately, I have yet to shop these suggestions. So I don't have much input ... YET! But give me time and I'll be sure to share my experience. However, these suggestions come highly recommended so I'm positive I'm not steering you wrong.

No matter which way you rock in Lolita, though, hands down, you HAVE TO SAVE! I really cannot stress that enough. Pennies and other change count, too. So grab a jar, start a Lolita fund, and hit up your nearest Coinstar to change your change into bills before shopping. But there's absolutely no way around that fact.

The Dollar vs. The Yen

The dollar is stronger now. Why is that great you ask? Easy! Easier conversions and less dollars spent. No matter where you shop, if there is an option to pay in JPY over USD, you'd better choose JPY. If you don't believe me, do the math! You may not be saving a great deal on orders, but if you 'bout dat life, every little bit counts!

Until next time
~je t'adore!

So Far in J-Fashion UPDATE!

It's been a while since we have just chatted about all around J-Fashion. I think it's time to get back to our roots. Don't worry though! It will definitely be sprinkled with a bit (okay a LOT!) of Lolita fashion.

So for the better part of March, this is what I have been obsessed within J-Fashion. Even the shared Lilttle Lolita Moment

TOKYO GIRLS COLLECTION

Tokyo Girls Collection Spring/Summer 2013 was held in Tokyo this week. Over 30,000 young Japanese women converged on Harajuku for the 16th edition of Japan’s most famous one-day fashion event. Where traditional fashion shows focus on what’s coming to stores next season, next year, or never, Tokyo Girls Collection presents exactly what’s trendy on the Japanese street today, and allows attendees to instantly buy most everything they see on the runway. In addition to the fashion, TGC features celebrity appearances, performances by top Japanese musical groups, and more. Countless similar events have followed in their footsteps over the years, but there is still only one Japanese fashion show that is a do-not-miss for young trendy women all over Japan – Tokyo Girls Collection! (source: Tokyo Fashion)

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HARAJUKU FASHION WALK
A great time seemed to have been had during Harajuku Fashion Walk #15. Check out the video & more! by part contributor, part participant, The Rainbowholic. 

Gonna be in Tokyo in March? Make sue you head to HFW #16, March 31. 

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TOKYO FASHION WEEK

Japan Fashion Week is taking over Tokyo next week. The capital city will host countless fashion shows, some of them open to the public, and the increasingly popular Shibuya Fashion Festival. (source: Japanese Streets) 

I am elated to share some of what designers have presented to the Japanese fashion market. Hopefully one day, this will be off my bucket list and I'll be attending in real life!

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LITTLE LOLITA MOMENTS
iOS Game: Line PLAY (Apple/ Android)

O-M-G!!!!! This game is everything a Lolita could play and more! I've literally been playing it with friends, fans, lolitas, people from Tumblr ... my gosh! EVERYONE!

Though I've shared some screen shots of my own, check out Milk White Girl's review of something so Lolita ... sooooo KAWAII!

If you decide to play, add us! (Usernames: ipukekawaii & milkwhitegirl)

My room ... before a full kawaii transformation!

 

Visiting friends & having imrpomtu sleep overs *a kee kee kee*

Next month's post will happen sooner than you think! So until then, thanks for being you & be sure to paint your days bright! >^.*<

~je t'adore!

Katsucon 19 x Lolita

February was a SUPER short & SUPER busy month! I've been able to attend Katsucon, co-host a Lolita meet-up, and cover a Lolita fashion show. Not to mention one of my kawaii and ruffly friends was surprised with an official engagement proposal from her beau!

Here's a quick overview of what Lolitas were like at Katsucon (from the meet-up to the fashion show), and I mean we were full blast! 

 

    

 

Check out Nikkia Redd for more Lolita photos from Katsucon 19.

For cosplay/ fandom photos and see what happened around the floor, visit Katsucon Tumblr.

LITTLE LOLITA MOMENTS

Of course, no Katsucon would be complete without showing a bit of love!

**Congratulations to friends Monica & Tom on their engagement**

  

More J-fashion blog posts & Little Lolita Moments coming for March/ April. So please stay tuned!

~je t'adore!

Long Time ... But Let's LOLITA On!

My apologies that I haven't posted in forever! However, I've been extremely active on our Tumblr, OtakuTime, with otaku related and Lolita reposts and shares. So I guess I should update you guys since this is our first time getting together since 2013 happened. I do believe I shared my あけおめ(Happy New Year's) vlogs via Facebook, but in case I didn't ...I'd like to personally wish you a Happy New Year. I truly hope January has been kind to you!



English (above)
日本語（下）



So! Though I've been away a bit, I still have time to make things better I hope. My 2013 intentions, here, on Otakus and Geeks are to not bore you too much with my Lolita rants BUT to share more art and fashion. Of course, Lolita will come up often, but let's get into some other J-fashions and trends. Also, some Lolita art has my life! Not that it's anything new that art is my obsession, but I'm definitely excited to doing my Lolita inspired art. With all of that said, I have no real excuse to not be with you at least once a month. Let's choose the 15th ... because the 1st & the 15th are dear to my life!

My two lifestyle obsessions (tattoo/ art & Lolita) are recently taking to liking each other. I've been fortunate to meet so many kind Lolita's. Some from every walk of Lolita life (Classic, Sweet, Country, Alternative) and made a few friends. Since I've been introducing myself in communities, I've taken care to share that I am an artistic Lolita with my trade being tattooing. It's my hope that I reach Lolita's of alternative career lifestyle and business oriented. I've found that these lovely ladies (& gentlemen) inspire me to grow in Lolita.

As such, my first IRL (in real life) ambitious effort was to organize my first meet-up. I did it at Pinz-N-Needlez Tattoo, my place of INKPLAY in Washington, DC. Our friends from The Sovereign Space stopped by for a bit to take some video and flicks, but being the beauties we are, there were plenty cameras on deck.

*MY CO-ORD*
...was SUPER party girl busy! I received my Bodyline shipment and was excited to have a dress that I'm utterly in love with. Reminiscent of Emily Temple Cute, a brand that I've been considering obsessing over, I have been awestruck by this dress. I assume it's because it's far away from my usual dresses that are easy to lend themselves to a bittersweet type of styling. At any rate, this dress and I have a love/ hate relationship, but the minute I've styled it to my liking I'll be sure to share!
For now, here are a few flicks of my coordinates, all Bodyline and topped of with a Minty Mix split wig, of which I also have to learn to style better as I move into learning how to abuse the use of wigs during the winter.

*The MEET-UP*

... was a make-up and tattoo play date, scheduled for late January, where we could all take over Pinz in our cutest ruffles and bows and talk tattoo while others got quick make-overs, compliments of Kelly Crown, special effects make-up artist and piercer apprentice. I planned/ created the event, as the brainchild of myself and Kelly, back in November and only a few people responded. So I was more than thrilled and excited at the turn out. non-Loli's and dudes came, too! With everyone comfortable, thoroughly down for the cause, and enjoying themselves, I'd rate this event SUPER DOPE!

             

There would be too many introductions to give, but it wouldn't be fair to share that each of these guests are amazing in their own rite. From bakers, to military, seamstresses, photographers, etc. Told yah I'm pretty fortunate to be acquainted with beautiful folks! ^^

*I Scream ... You Scream ... WE ALL SCREAM*
... for RAMEN! at DC's newest ramen spot which isn't too far from the shop, by the way. So what better way to conclude Lolita life for the day than breaking bread with friends at Adam's Morgan's own, Sakura Ramen. I think this part of our meet was a bit more personal, so I'll end here and simply say ... if you want to know, you should plan to come to our next meet-up. ^^ OH! And that Sakura's pan fried gyoza is oisssssshhhiiiiiiiiiii (delicious ;-D)

Hopefully I'll be back sooner than later, but if nothing else ... the 15th of March is all you, BOO! 'Til then, though, I'll miss you bunches, but will be ready to share some more MISS-Adventures!

Remember to paint your days bright!
~je t'adore!

Lolita Crisis!

So I've been away, and even Tumblr hasn't been tumbling but so much. However, I'm a loli with a cause as of late, so my absence hasn't been in vain. In fact, I've been on a mission to connect with more lolita's.

My little Loli sis and I are embarking on an adventure to make the DC Lolita scene a bit more visual. This came into play during the Hello Kitty for President campaign and pop-up shop that was hosted here in DC. At some point, a few nights before Halloween, I started receiving texts and tweets asking where my Lolita friends were and such. I had to respond that there are about 4 Lolita's in the area that I knew of (and we're all friends LOL) ad that most others only dressed for conventions and such.

SO! Needless to say, we're not too pleased with having to share news like that. But instead of pouting about it ... we're trying to make things happen! As such, we've decided to do more meet-ups (at least once a moth) and lined up some road trips and Lolita good times (in the making!)

Here are some pics from our last two bouts around the city. Two weekends back to back and somehow, I found time to start my Live Journal to share my looks. I've also started creating the MISS-Adventures of Indian Pussy short manga (of couuuuurse it's Lolita inspired!). So stay tuned! But ... read what's after the pics and let's see if we can make this happen. K!

 

All of this post was to say LET's KEEP in TOUCH! If you're a Lolita ... or even into Japanese sub-culture fashion (ALL are welcome), please send your info my way! Regardless of location, the more the merrier, right?!

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Just a FEW quickies ... 

Be sure to join us on our new Otaku Time Tumblr, for quick geeky & fashion posts. You can submit & share ANYTHING you'd like with the Otakus & Geeks crew!

If there's EVER anything you'd like to see covered, fashion or art related ... or if you just want to send a kind note, be sure to shoot me an email at imani@otakusandgeeks.com >^.*<

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'Til next time, you know what it is ...

~je t'adore!

<3 IKB

Lolita- a Lifestyle, Not JUST a Fashion

Oh how I ALWAYS yell Sundays are for Lolitas!!!!! And it never fails that they certainly are. But today is Monday, right?! Well! I'm getting you a jump start on the weekend. I have SUPER sweet stuff to share before we continue to the last (starting) Everyday Lolita post. 

It took forever to sift through pics from NYCC, but I'd rather start your week of with a cavity or two and diabetes in a blog post! Enjoy some Lolita looks from around comicon while I go check out Hello Kitty for President! *giggle*

             

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Just a FEW quickies ... 

Be sure to join us on our new Otaku Time Tumblr, for quick geeky & fashion posts. You can submit & share ANYTHING you'd like with the Otakus & Geeks crew!

If there's EVER anything you'd like to see covered, fashion or art related ... or if you just want to send a kind note, be sure to shoot me an email at imani@otakusandgeeks.com >^.*<

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'Til next time, you know what it is ...

~je t'adore!

<3 IKB

NYCC: Japan America Presents DANNY CHOO

In case you're not too familiar with Danny Choo, oh boy let me be the first to introduce you! 

Serving as a great inspiration for Otaku everywhere for creating a direct portal to Japanese culture through his passion to live and work in Japan. Invited the Japan Foundation,  Danny Choo gave some helpful tips on how to persue your passion if living and working in Japan is a life goal of yours. 

It is for me, since I want to tattoo and give back to the art community there, so knowing that these tips were helpful for me, I'm happy to pass them along knowing that they'll also help some of our fellow Otaku!

Here's a (semi) short video on all that Danny Choo gets into as we experience Culture Japan.

While Otakus & Culture Japan directly relates to Japanese language and culture, the tips Danny Choo gives on language immersion can work for ANY language and goals to work in another country. 

• Reading & writing are important so be sure to do so as much as you can
• Set goals and discipline for yourself, the JPLT is a good way
• Seek a part-time relating to Japanese (or the language of your choice)
• Make friends with similar hobbies/ interests
• Further business study of Japanese is encouraged (to NOT have a translator)

I say we try and it and give Danny Choo a run for his money. I think he'd be rather pleased that his tips helped! 

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Got questions about my NYCC coverage or want to see more of something? Feel free to email me at imani@otakusandgeeks.com

More images and NYCC coverage is also available on our Tumblr, Otaku Time.

My recap, in both English and Japanese will be available Wednesday at www.jetadoreipbrand.com

~je t'adore

Around NYCC: The My Little Pony Project

I'm SOOOO happy that THIS was the highlight of New York Comicon. Well at least for me and a few other Ponies and Bronies. It's the MY LITTLE PONY Project! 

When this amazing project started, I could only experience it online since the main events were in LA. Unfortunately, due to technical difficulties, I'll have to share the My Little Pony Project pictures via my site, Indian Pussy Brand.  But that just means double the sweetness! So be sure to mozy on over for more pics from such an awesome display and event.

I didn't leave you guys hanging though! Check out the video from my few minutes in MyLittle Pony heaven. 

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Got questions about my NYCC coverage or want to see more of something? Feel free to email me at imani@otakusandgeeks.com

More images and NYCC coverage is also available on our Tumblr, Otaku Time.

My recap, in both English and Japanese will be available Wednesday at www.jetadoreipbrand.com

~je t'adore!

TATTOO TUESDAY!!!! :: Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is a Fashion Monster

So, playing around on You Tube the other day, I found that I was slipping in knowing wassup in the world of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu ... and the world of fashion, for that matter! LOL

Of course, when I found it I was gearing up for a INKPLAY tattoo portfolio photoshoot and asked that this be the song be the feature. OF COURSE!!! It dropped on Tattoo Tuesday so I'm happy to take a pause for the cause to share a bit of inkplay and Kyary J-Pop goodness with you all!

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu for GU Japan

Be sure to visit their Look Book! It's amazing!

The Candy Escape, The Art of Camilla D'Errico

Some of the best t things about NYCC, sometimes aren't physically at NYCC. Usually there are tons of parties, kick-offs, welcome & leaving events ... you get the point.

Tonight's goodness was time well spent celebrating the recent works and opening night of artist, Camilla D'Errico's Candy Escape. If you aren't familiar with her, check out my NYCC 2011 interviews with manager/ sister Ada'Pia D'Errico about Camilla's current (at that time) projects.

Not expecting a one on one with Camilla, we arrived at a crowded Cotton Candy Factory, gallery and shop owned by artist Tara McPherson. After a few "excuse me"s and being offered a cold PBR by a gallery employee turned bartender, I arrive at the wall that IS Camilla D'Errico. In awe, since I've been interweb stalking the work's progress online, I didn't even realize Camilla was next to me. Somehow we just kinda noticed each other and gave warm hug greetings and hello's. In a moment of congratulations, however, Camilla took time to give me a bit of insight to the pieces that are celebrated in the show's title "Candy Escape".

See. I met Camilla 2 years ago at New York Comicon and was a total fangirl. Somehow we got to talk art and kept in touch. Continuing with my fandom, I noticed the projects she was doing, but never saw a lot about gallery exhibits. Aside from it being none of my business, I also never gave it a second thought since all artists don't choose to show in galleries. In fact, though, Camilla explained that she hadn't done any since our initial meeting because it became to overwhelming so she took a break. Continuing on, she shared further that somehow in a break, she was inspired.

 

                                 Artist, Camilla D'Errico                                    Fangirl: Imani K. Brown

The name "Candy Escape" is just that. She needed to escape and release. Welp folks, SCORE! These beautifully crafted ladies (drawn in black ink) start melting into colorful gooey goodness. Somehow the simplicity, color, and overall spirit of them all makes me want to join them in this escape.

 

  

Though a formal congratulations was given, I can't share ENOUGH! And once again, a HUGE CONGRATS to Camilla on such a brilliant (& SUPER kawaii) show!

Be sure to visit Camilla D'Errico for awesome updates and pricing 

 

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Got questions about my NYCC coverage or want to see more of something? Feel free to email me at imani@otakusandgeeks.com

More images and NYCC coverage is also available on our Tumblr, Otaku Time.

My recap, in both English and Japanese will be available Wednesday at www.jetadoreipbrand.com

~je t'adore!

NYCC: HIP HOP CANDY & It Was ONLY Day One!

It's only day one t New York Comicon and I'm ready to snoop. I came with one thingn on my mind (aside from art, that is). Of course, that was finding Lolita & kawaii goods.

Unfortunately, this year wasn't the best and I had to look hard. And then I found Hip Hop Candy. This small, quaint, hobby turned lifestyle brand, was just what the doctor ordered to break the ice! I was able to score a quick interview with the hobby turned lifestyle brand, Olivia, to talk about what Hip Hop Candy is and what it had to offer.

INTERVIEW
Me: I usually don't stop to spend money during my first time on the floor, but it's soooooo cute! >< I can't wait to spend here, but first, can you tell us who you are and what you do.

HH Candy: Yes!!! I', Olivia and the propieter of Hip Hop Candy. It was a fun hobby and I started a small business of it in 2008. It combines Japanese fashion sense and kawaii style with super bright colors and is just stuff that I'd like to wear, personally. So far we've done ver well. In fact, we went full time this year and it's been pretty successful thus far *giggle*

 

Me: What are your top FOUR selling goods? 

HH Candy: Well, I started making these lip balms after learning to make soap and doing some successful candles. (YES! most of what Hip Hop Candy offers is handmade. SUPER cool, hunh?!)

-There's this one, Vampire's Kiss that tastes like red raspberry and pomegranate. 

-Our Debuneko plushie that we recently released. Hopefully we'll be doing more. I'm sure we will, but he's loved!

-People love the bunny butt! So almost anything with him is a best seller.

-And of course the bacon candle. I dunno ... people love  stuff that smells like bacon, i guess. 

 

Me: You've worked hard and now living your dream. What tips would you give any dreamers?
HH Candy: I'd say that if you're really passionate about something and put out consistent goods and updates, you're probably going to succeed. So hop to it *giggle*

 

The interview and spending time (and money) at Hip Hop Candy was super fun. Olivia is such a doll! I'd encourage any and EVRYONE to support her efforts! Three cheers for HIP HOP CANDY!

my personal pulls at Hip Hop Candy

Be sure to check out her Deviant Art page and website. Both SUPER CUTE & SUPER FUN! You'll Want to buy!

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Got questions about my NYCC coverage or want to see more of something? Feel free to email me at imani@otakusandgeeks.com

More images and NYCC coverage is also available on our Tumblr, Otaku Time.

My recap, in both English and Japanese will be available Wednesday at www.jetadoreipbrand.com

~je t'adore!

Necomimi ... The HOT Item at NYCC

 At least a year ago, I got a Facebook message from my bestie saying he wished he could buy me moving cat ears. Then, about 2 to 3 months ago, I previewed a J-Pop video that featured them.

Little did I know, silly silly Lolita, that things got REAL! and Necomimi was only seconds from making a splash in the States.

Of course, I get to NYCC and some of the first photos I snap are of the Maid Cafe with their ears all moving. I think "... Sweet! They're showing off the goods". But then evvvveryone has them on. I quickly realize that THIS is the hot item for this year's NYCC.

We got to visit one of the retailers and demo them. Check out the video of Dana as we're joshing around in Necomimis.

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Got questions about my NYCC coverage or want to see more of something? Feel free to email me at imani@otakusandgeeks.com

More images and NYCC coverage is also available on our Tumblr, Otaku Time.
My recap, in both English and Japanese will be available Wednesday at www.jetadoreipbrand.com

~je t'adore!

Everyday Lolita ... in the Workplace

There's a ton of places where we an start with Lolita and this posting is kinda backwards. Or at least, it seems that for any readers who are just getting into Lolita. Don't worry though! Backwards and all, it'll all make sense. Take what you can and use it as you actively enter the world of a Lolita or as you transition into an Everyday Lolita. I think there's a bit of something here for everyone. And if not ... just holla and I'l be happy to make it happen! That being said, let's get busy!

So the all time question of "How can I wear Lolita to work" is a plausible one when you're not in a creative or expressive industry. In fact, most times, if you try and go all in initially, regardless of how super cute and well put together your coordinate is, it may still be frowned upon.


That being said, some tried and true tips to wearing Lolita in the workplace are these:

-Ease people into your fashion choice: Lolita, for unassuming people, can be a lot to take in .. you know, with all the ruffles and bows, oversized skirts and such. So be sure to gradually change your wardrobe a bit.

1. Swap out your slacks for skirts with a low volume petticoat. 
2. Rock a smart blazer or blouse with some super feminine aspects like puff sleeves, big bow collars, or lace. 
3. Express yourself with socks, tights, and accessories (bow headbands, hairclips, small charms, etc.) since those things aren't so "in your face. Slowly people will start to notice your Loli swag though.
4. Some kick around mary janes, flat or otherwise, are always a plus. And while you're at it, cute flats with bows or updating your exisiting footwear with bows can work too.

*Working within a specific dress code could get tricky so keep some common Loli elements around like charms, a deco phone case ... you get the point. But things that tickle your kawaii Lolita senses will come in handy in such cases.

  

-Know what styles are suitable for the workplace: Usually, the easiest styles to work with are classic, aristocrat, and toned down goth. With these coordinate style types, somber colors, low volume petticoats, discreet hairbows, reserved embellishments, and limited accessories are definitely encouraged. Everything Lolita doesn't always have to be so OTT!

**Some people include old school sweet or sweet Lolita in these, but that can get tricky. That particular Lolita style is usually associated with lots of pinks and blues or pastel-type colors which could go either way in the work place, given your personal Lolita style. However, you could make a huge statement on days you may want to feel a bit "fancier" than others.

-Pay attention to color: As a Lolita you'll already stick out, so you don't have to work very hard at that. Know your surroundings and seek to gracefully enhance them, not just draw all the attention to yourself. In fact, the goal here, is NOT to stick out like a sore thumb. Most corrdinates can be muted, but you and only you know your work place and what others tend to wear, so color coordinate accordingly. 


-Know your limits: While every Lolita wants to be able to coordinate to suit our little kawaii Lolita hearts, the fact of the matter is, there's a place and a time for everything. Find those moments where you can let your Lolita star shine to it's fullest potential. And until then, use the tips above to create your small slice of Lolita heaven at the workplace.

Want to read more? Check this out, The Definitive Guide to Wearing Lolita at Work

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Just a FEW quickies ... 

Lolita posts and follow-ups to the Everyday Lolita series will NOT be posted during our NYCC coverage. (but there WILL be some Lolita posts related to NYCC)

Be sure to join us on our new Otaku Time Tumblr, for quick geeky & fashion posts. You can submit & share ANYTHING you'd like with the Otakus & Geeks crew!

If there's EVER anything you'd like to see covered, fashion or art related ... or if you just want to send a kind note, be sure to shoot me an email at imani@otakusandgeeks.com >^.*<

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'Til next time, you know what it is ...

~je t'adore!
<3 IKB

Everyday Lolita ... This is JUST the Intro!

As we all know, I am a Lolita to the core! Well, minus the cursing, grills, tattoos ... look! You get the point. My favorite style of fashion is Lolita, hands down. As such, I travel and tattoo Lolita and get asked about the style & fashion a lot.

Recently, I've met a hand full of loli's explaining that they'd love to dress everyday or at least most days. However, the top cocerns are
A). dressing Lolita for the workplace
B). dressing on a budget

Here is my responses to that ...
there's NO EXCUSE! If you want to dress Lolita, there's moooore than enough ways!

Sometimes this gets concerning to me because what girl would limit themselves from playing dress up in an otherwise semi-drab society, right?!

What's your take on dressing Lolita ... or ANY subculture style, for that matter? How often do you dress and would you wear it to work? Is it budget saavy or a "I gotta plan my life" sort-a-thing?

This post is JUST the beginning. I've been doing hella research and trying different looks and snapping many many pictures to give sufficient example of what can happen when it comes to being an everyday Lolita.

 For now, enjoy some of my FAVORITE Lolita warnings ... & next week, let's get to work! We'll be sure to take a thorough look at Exhibit A: dressing Lolita for the workplace.

  

    

and of course, Oscar Wilde has some FAMOUS words to live by!

Just a FEW quickies ... 

Lolita posts and follow-ups to the Everyday Lolita series will NOT be posted during our NYCC coverage. (but there WILL be some Lolita posts related to NYCC)

Be sure to join us on our new Otaku Time Tumblr, for quick geeky & fashion posts. You can submit & share ANYTHING you'd like with the Otakus & Geeks crew!

If there's EVER anything you'd like to see covered, fashion or art related ... or if you just want to send a kind note, be sure to shoot me an email at imani@otakusandgeeks.com >^.*<

Til next time ...
~je t'adore!
<3 IKB

Airport Art: GLOBAL PUPPPETRY

One thing I LOVE about traveling to international airports is the Airport Art. Most airports offer something cultural from from their area that has some type of global trend.

As I breezed through the "i got the hook up" line of airport security, the exit was down what seemed to be a quite long, boring, & white wall >.< And the BAM!!! Airport Art. Before I could even read what's going on, I see American mariontettes and ornate Asian hand puppets ... (I LOVE marionettes & so hope to tattoo one -or a few, for that matter, SOON!)

With that said, what's the point of geeking out alone?! So here's a few things that I TOTALLY enjoyed from this little eye candy quickie ^.^
~je t'adore!

*Dearest LOLITA's I'm so sorry that I got sidetracked, but those tips are coming THIS WEEK! Then, we can build from there. Pinky Swear it! ;-D*

 

 

 

  

 

Andy Warhol's Art of Soup

I've been hella sick this weekend. So yesterday, weak eyes and all, I was able to watch people post where they're scouring their hoods for the Art of Soup cans.

What's that you ask and by who? Well, it's Campbell's soup saute to Andy Warhol's 50th year of canned soup art. If you don't know who Andy Warhol is or what he's had to offer the arts community, including the half tone dot matrix art style we all know and love in comics, now is a GREAT time to get your weight up.

Be sure to read more about the project at A Bullseye View: Behind the Scenes at Target and be sure to run out and pick up a few canned goods! (all pun intended)

Here are some first hand peeks at the product.

 

    

 Hope you enjoyed!
~je t'adore!

Olympics 2012 Fashions

My my my Otakus & Geeks! I have truly missed my fam during this break. But what better way to come back than to talk the hits & misses of this year's Olympics fashions.

From Team Japan to the ever controversial Team USA, I'll be spending the next few Sundays during the 2012 Olympics to see what we can gather about these hits & misses and how to do some everyday wear with any of these looks to make them complete HITS! ... who knows?! Some of these looks could definitely show up in Lolita.

So far, here are my basic hits & misses ... join in & let me know yours since we'll be digging into this yumminess and all of the geeky fashion ways it may have brought with it!

                                                           Undecided         HIT 

                                                                       HIT        HIT

                                                                       HIT        Undecided

                                                                             Miss         Miss

                                                            Undecided         HIT

                                                     Undecided         Undecided

                                                 Undecided         Undecided

Of course HITS are what they are ... and nothing's gonna change my mind. Misses can be changed, some are growing on me the more I look at them, but it could just be because I have to keep looking at them. These undecided picks can definitely go either way, so I'll probably watch those a bit closer in action to make any final decisions.

What's your fashionable thoughts? Email me at imani@otakusandgeeks.com

Until next week

~je t'adore!

Fashioning Japanese Subcultures

Since I usually blog about Japanese subculture fashion, I couldn't wait to share this bit of news! One lovely day messing around on twitter, I started following author, Yuniya Kawamura. As she tweeted most subculture fashion interests leading to the release of her book, one day I was brave enough to say something inquiring about her magazine releases in New York. Eventually we started touching base and keeping in contact. In fact, recently we were able to meet and I really hope that won't be the last/ only time

So! I am so happy to share that Yumiya's fourth published book, Fashioning Japanese Subcultures. Today is a great day for this authors work since it has officially released in the UK. Don't worry! The states gets a copy too so we aren't left out. You either hold out until the release date (Aug. 7) or pre-order it at Amazon.com. 

If you are into ANY Japanese subculture fashion, this book is a DEFINITE must! I won't give any spoilers, but if you would like to read more about this work and the author, please visit Berg Publishers. 

Be sure to follow Yuniya's twitter for the latest. I'm pretty sure her future published works are just as colorful, great, ad insightful. I ca almost promise you that!

Util next time!

~je t'adore
"paint your day bright"

Spidey Kid Customs

 

What better way to celebrate Spidey's big week than with some Adidas x Indian Pussy Brand custom kicks. This kid's DEFINITELY planning to wear his new customs & kick his feet up while playing the new The Amazing Spider-Man. Enjoy & see you soon lovelies. ~jet'adore

 

Dearest Otakus & Geeks

Dearest Otakus and Geeks,

It's been far tooooo long and I miss every last one of you cool ninjas & pirates! As always, I was away with good reason, since it IS any artists busiest time of year. But I'm not returning without goodies. As of late, I have been working on my brand, Indian Pussy Brand, complete with a new site, store, and tons of goodies. Though my last iPukeKAWAiI installation, was just a bit over a month ago now, there's still tons to do in the next month.

In short, I'll be back with goodies in art, fashion, and now ... MUSIC! Otakus and Geeks is also letting me grow here as an artist, so I'll also be a bit more visual in my sharing and some other future treats for the blog I love calling home. All of this will begin August 1, right in time for some of the East Coast's dopest anime & comic conventions!

Don't worry! I'll still be posting until then, but in the mean time, let's hear from you. If there's any fan art, music, news or cool what have you's that you'd like me to consider covering ... reach out! Let's build.

Sun, August 5 @ 1pm
(& every Sunday thereafter)
This Week in ... ! <3 IKB



Until then ... iPukeKAWAiI
~je t'adore!