What is otome-kei?
>Japanese for 'maiden'
>Focuses on a feminine and quirky look
>No set rules
>Outfits often use colour popping, interesting print combinations, and contrasting materials
>Generally has a kitsch or twee vibe
>Sometimes overlaps with casual lolita but is still a separate style
Main otome brands:
>Emily Temple Cute/Shirley Temple Cute
>Jane Marple
>Leur Getter
>MILK
Other Suitable Brands*:
>Amavel
>Ank Rogue
>Axes Femme
>Bortsprungt
>Candy Stripper
>Excentrique
>Fint
>Franche Lippee
>Grimoire
>Lois Crayon
>Lolita brands (accessories, legwear, bags, mini skirts, cardigans/boleros)
>Melantrick Hemlighet
>Merlot Camp
>Q-pot
>Wonder Rocket
Suitable Non-Japanese Brands*:
>Alannah Hill
>Cath Kidston
>Dangerfield
>Hello Bones Jones (Indie)
>Miss Patina
>Modcloth
>Mulberry Chronicles (Indie)
>Peppermint Fox (Indie)
Non-japanese Socks/Shoes*:
>Sock Dreams, Teja Jamilla
>Melissa Shoes, Bait Footwear, Dkode Shoes, Neosen, Fleuvog
*NB: these brands are not all specifically otome, but sometimes produce suitable items
>>8869640
Appreciation Blogs:
>http://axesfemme.tumblr.com/
>http://emikyuforever.tumblr.com/
>http://emilytemplecute.tumblr.com/
>http://fuckyeahotomekei.tumblr.com/
>http://otomeclub.tumblr.com/
>http://otomecoords.tumblr.com/
>http://otomestyle.tumblr.com/
Individual Blogs**:
http://altered-imagery.tumblr.com
http://angiiichan.tumblr.com
http://aralunanim.tumblr.com
http://classicaltyrianjubilee.tumblr.com
http://cling123.tumblr.com
http://endless8.tumblr.com
http://fannyrosie.tumblr.com
http://grandma-kei.tumblr.com
http://herajika.tumblr.com
http://infiniteneeya.tumblr.com/
http://kairii.tumblr.com
http://kaya-kueh.tumblr.com
http://lilythdark.tumblr.com
http://mademoiselle-iona.tumblr.com
http://onlyeasy.tumblr.com
http://pinkstrawberrytea.tumblr.com
http://rm-marionette.tumblr.com
http://sakuraimayura.tumblr.com
http://sapphira-doll.tumblr.com
http://sinneddonuts.tumblr.com
http://strawberrymelody.tumblr.com
http://vysanthe.tumblr.com
http://whimsicalmori.tumblr.com
http://xylia-x.tumblr.com
**NB: Many of these blogs dabble in both lolita and otome or exist in the grey area between the two. There's also varying experience levels.
Sorry to start out the thread so negatively, but is anyone else losing interest in Mulberry Chronicles? It started out really promising, and I still want that mushroom dress, but the new preview pictures of the fox dress show the exact same cut AGAIN. Though that would be forgivable if the prints weren't growing increasingly "blah".
Even this new brooch looks really awkward and uninspired, like if a student was practicing drawing from life and decided to stick one of their sketches on a pin and sell it.
>>8869784
Sorry, dropped pic.
>>8869784
Yeah, I'm really disappointed with them. I bought the mushroom dress and was a little disappointed by the quality, but I forgave it because it was their first release. The fact that they keep releasing the same basic cut with no embellishments (the waist ribbon on the new fox dress looks cheap and tacky as fuck) is kind of pathetic. I also think the color choices have been a little off for the last two releases.
>>8869803
They really need to do something that's not white again. What about all the jewel tones that are so popular in otome? White is just hard to coordinate with things since it tends to look too overdone when worn with a white blouse but at the same time unbalanced with a darker blouse.
>>8869803
>>8869787
I'd say Peppermint Fox is the superior of the two Aussie ones, but both are kind of newish brands so I feel more forgiving. I'm really not feeling Fox in the Woods either, though. Something about the combo of the ribbon, print and cut strikes me as really normie and not otome at all. Still looking forward to what they come out with next, though.
>>8869803
All of their dress designs are like wallpaper patterns, meh.
Anyone who's inspired by vintage shoujo manga might enjoy this article. It's about ballet and shoujo culture, largely connected to fashion, motifs and the princess boom. The chapter on the democratic princess fantasy is particularly interesting to consider. Ties in well with the Jane Marple obsession with the Queen and the Lois Crayon High Style Family concept.
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Masafumi_Monden/publication/262584073_Layers_of_the_Ethereal_A_Cultural_Investigation_of_Beauty_Girlhood_and_Ballet_in_Japanese_Shjo_MangaI/links/55a6186a08ae00cf99c99bc1.pdf
>>8869784
>>8869787
Mulberry Chronicles is like a bad knockoff of Pepfox
Mulberry Chronicals has always been a blatant ripoff of Peppermint Fox though.
I mean, has anyone else noticed Chiffon Rose no longer stocks Peppermint Fox? There was only the one series that sold out and nothing since, yet Peppermint Fox has had loads of releases since. It's almost like they stocked them just to steal their customers and then told them to take a hike.
>>8871118
there's a reason for that
>>8871118
I remember mistaking Mulberry Chronicles for Peppermint Fox the first time I saw it. I don't mind that the branding and theme are similar, both with a whimsical-foresty-Beatrix-Potter feel, but I feel like the theme is broad enough that they shouldn't really have such overlaps..?
>>8871451
I'm surprised, but it did seem kind of odd. I always assumed they were friendly brands but wondered why Chiffon Rose no longer stocked Peppermint Fox.
>>8871462
Care to elaborate?
>>8871462
What is it? I always wondered why Aussie lolitas suddenly made such similar otome brands. Not that I'm complaining either, though.
>>8871118
iirc Mulberry Chronicles were the first to make book brooches
>>8869803
The colors for Puppy Rosette were especially bad. At least in this collection, the light blue looks cute because the orange foxes really pop on it, but the colors are pretty much the only good thing. It's so weird to me because I think the owner coords beautifully and seems to know how to play with color but it's not showing through in her designs.
>>8871118
Wasn't there someone who used to always bring this up and everyone just thought they had a vendetta? I thought they were just salty too t b h but it's really starting to seem more and more like it's true.
>>8869803
i felt sad that i can't afford this at the moment but then i remembered that i have a sewing pattern that's literally the exact same cut. 0/10 for originality or imagination, Mulberry Chronicles.
PF releases lots of things in the same cuts, don't see anyone complaining about it though, and neither of them have very good construction
I do think MC copied ideas from PF or at least tried to get in the same market, but items from both stores are so simple that I it's not worth boycotting one over the other
Does anyone else like the aesthetics of Otome, but not the damn prints?
Don't get me wrong, I love a good plaid, stripe, or gingham. I just don't like the OTT prints, which is what most of Otome seems to be..
>>8871736
PF moved to a professional seamstress from Tea Emblem onwards. Before it was all handmade I believe.
The construction quality has increased dramatically.
>>8871738
Otome is not mostly prints. Look at old threads, plenty of outfits posted have been nonprint.
>>8871704
that was so much a copy of the Iw puppy thou
>>8869803
I actually do like this series. I freaking love foxes and woodlands. But I do not $220 like it, particularly as I felt her other dress was not worth $200 either. Pass for now, maybe she can do a sale?
>>8871857
I wish I could coord like this.
It would also help to have unlimited supply of socks.
Tbh I think Pepfox are stagnating. They release the same dress in chiffon every time. I thought things would change with Tea Emblem but it was not worth the $250 I paid for it. The constuction and sizing is poor and the fabric catches too easily. I bought Mulberry Chronicles print as well with the hope that cotton might look better.
>>8872377
It's funny because tea emblem isn't chiffon? Do you even own it
>>8872381
That's why I bought it. Did you even read my comment?
>>8872386
Yes, it sounded like your were implying it was still delicate chiffon by the way it was phrased.
>>8872400
Not chiffon anon, but
>I thought things would change with Tea Emblem
Implies anon thought the TE fabric would be of a better quality since it wasn't chiffon, but it was still unfortunately poor.
>I bought Mulberry Chronicles print as well with the hope that cotton might look better
Implies maybe this cotton will be of a better quality than their chiffon or TE fabric.
>>8872430
Yeah I got that after I re-read it. It's not completely unbelievable that it could be taken both ways, but I was pretty tired.
>>8872430
Also i felt the TE fabric irl and it didn't seem to me like something that was snaggy or thin (which would he more like chiffon, in my mind).
>>8872377
I noticed that the sizing changed since they switched to a seamstress. They mention that TE is sized for fit and before it used to run a bit big and now it's pretty much the stated measurements. I think the quality of TE is better than their other dresses desu
I feel like mulberry chronicles would be worth it if you were paying USD due to the good conversion rate
>>8872706
I have TE and though the fabric is much thicker, it still snags and gets pulls very easily - more so than my chiffon pieces from brand and even taobao
>>8869803
I was actually hoping for jewel toned colours, since it was forest themed and all. Guess I'll be passing this series.
>>8869640
Is it possible for someone who is heavy-set to do otome? I'm going to start working for a lawyer, and I dress like shit. Greasy thrift-store clothes, one pair of jeans. I haven't worn makeup or cut my hair in years.
Now that I'm going to work, I want to look nice, but I'm fat. I've lost 90 pounds already, and I'm working on losing more. I like otomekei because I think it might be flattering, but I'm not sure. I'm also looking at mori, and I like it more than otome, but I don't know if a lawyer would go for that.
>>8873053
wear office clothes and dress like a dang professional. if you dress like shit already you're not going to have much success with otome.
>>8873113
Ew, no.
I know I can dress better, there's just no reason for me to. But now I'm getting a job, which brings us back to my first post.
>>8873053
As someone about to enter the professional world who also wears otome and mori, I would recommend against both. You /may/ be able to get away with darker jewel toned solids and things like what Fanny Rosie wears. Professional wear and jfashion are very different.
I'm not trying to be rude, but qualifications aside, how did you get the job in the first place if you looked awful in the interview? In my area, even if you're the best qualified applicant, if you aren't dressed super professionally, you don't have a chance.
>>8873127
Oh ho, the perks of living in an empoverished area, my fine-feathered friend. Being friendly with the temp agent helps too. And it's not like I look BAD or that I'm smelly, I just don't dress NICE.
And I understand no prints, I wasn't going for that anyways. More neutral colors and such, which is what I like. I like natural mori a lot.
I just don't look good in pants suits, or regular suits, so I figured dresses, which I do look nice in (depending on the cut).
>>8873138
Ah, I see. I admit, I'm jealous. Congrats on the job though.
I remember seeing some MILK and Jane Marple blazer/skirt and dress sets that looked office appropriate. They still had an otome vibe, so they weren't boring. I'll see if I can dig up some pictures.
I thought about it more, and I can see pussyfoot tie blouses working with solid otome-able pieces. Paired with some subtle tights and cute heels, it would definitely work.
>>8873153
Thank you, I'm pretty happy. Sorry if I seemed pushy, it's just that this lawyer cut me a lot of slack, so I want to at least not run customers away by looking like a schlub.
Thank you for your advice, I'll check that stuff out. I hope work goes well for you too!
>>8873120
>>8873138
your workplace will probably have some form of dress code, no one will take you seriously if you don't dress like a professional; there's a time and place for everything. something like pic related might work for you, but probably work on your attitude first.
>>8873190
Ayy, my attitude's what got me the job, really. Someone needs to be up front with the methheads.
Thanks for the picture though, that's exactly what I was thinking.
>>8871896
That's good to hear. I made the original list and it's nice that OPs keep using it for the otome threads.
>>8873053
you can try FINT as well, they do have some office appropriate clothing that are otomeish. Though it would probably be better to ask what is the dress code is first
>>8869803
The dog & fox print looked washed out and diluted. I hope Mulberry Chronicles will try to be braver with popping colors and jewel tones.
>>8873053
From one chubby office drone to another, anon: play it VERY safe until you have a good grasp of the office culture. Even something like this might be too much for your workplace - law offices tend to be very conservative with their dress codes.
Anyway, finger-wagging aside - this is how I adapt otome aesthetics to something work-appropriate. It's definitely not true otome, but it hits a lot of the same notes - jewel tones, vintage silhouette, quirky details. Otome's a difficult style to work for plus-size girls, but there are options: the dress here is from eShakti, which offers custom sizing and frequently has dresses in cute prints and A-line cuts. Cardigan's from Modcloth (yeah yeah blah blah overpriced, just wait for it to go on sale) and they carry a lot of plus-friendly items. ASOS Curve and Plumprimo occasionally have workable stuff.
>>8871462
What's the reason?
>>8873196
>methheads
If you're working in a meth clinic you're going to get the shit beaten out of you with that attitude
>>8874226
Man I worked in a super casual law office but even I would hesitate to wear those tights.
It's fine not to wear a suit, because you're not the lawyer and you're not the one going to court. On days I worked as a general rule of thumb, no short skirts, no unusual patterns and no weird/funky tights.
>>8874460
This. Those tights are definitely not appropriate. I wouldn't have worn those to the office job where I wore otome, and that office was a lot more relaxed than a law firm. My standard was if it was basically on par with the more twee stuff from Anthropologie (this was back when they did more cutesy stuff) I'd wear it to the office, and I would only have one cutesy piece. So a cute JSK would get paired with a normal cardigan, a simple skirt could go with a frillier/peter pan blouse, and I wouldn't wear something that was too childish or obviously not western, like an Alice in Wonderland or fluffy animal print. I stuck with solids, florals, plaids, and some more mature prints.
>>8874534
I have to agree with this. /cgl/'s typical response of "let me tell you about how I wear Jfashion to my tech job" always makes me feel uncomfortable because it gives people who haven't been in an office environment before the impression that they'll definitely get to dress cute in their industry (and no, dressing professionally is not self evident because this is the second post I've seen asking about wearing Jfashion to work in a law office). Doesn't always work that way, and making the wrong first impression can really follow you depending on your industry and how tight knit it is. Better to err on the side of caution when going into a non-tech career and at least do some recon beforehand.
Hell, I got shit from a client once for looking young in the face, and that was when I was actually dressed super formally in a plain black dress and makeup to age me up. Can't imagine how that would have gone if I'd been wearing otome.
>>8874226
>>8874600
I think the tights are fine for most places, but I definitely agree with how /cgl/ doesn't really understand what actually is appropriate for work sometimes.
I worked somewhere where I could have even worn neon tutus because of how supportive my coworkers were, but then I would have always second guessed how people behaving with me, and whether or not I was giving off an unprofessional vibe to guests. I could have worked otome, but actually I felt more capable in slacks.
>>8874639
>>8874600
>>8874534
>>8874460
>>8874226
I am both confused and honestly flattered that you guys think I'm working in some big law firm or office. In actuality, it's me, 3 other employees (2 aren't even in the reception area ever), and a divorce lawyer who could not give less shits, all in the most humble "office" you could imagine in little podunk meth-addled town.
I answer the phones, get Mr Lawyer his Pepsi, and, if needed, brandish the .45 that's taped to the bottom of the reception desk.
Anyways: there's really no dress code, he just said look nice. The other employees looked formal to semi-formal. Ya know, officey. Parks and Rec level. Nothing special.
I appreciate all of your guys' advice. I'll check all that stuff out, draw up some plans. Should be good to go.
Def no on those tights though. Not my style.
>>8874798
If you're looking for cute but polished, you should look up seiso (kei). I could see that working in a small office.
>>8871736
I see what you mean about them releasing the same cuts, but I feel like PF at least tries to have more variation. Not to mention that every illustration they've done is beautiful and printed on fabric in such a way that it doesn't look like cheap wallpaper. I have yet to see a release from PF that I didn't like.
When will this be released?
>>8875524
Holy shit, I need this. Is it from their upcoming collection?
>>8875524
It's cute but...it feels a bit like a bestseller-by-the-numbers, you know?
>>8875524
It's cute, but not 42000Y cute. JM needs to go back to their old pricing if they're going to keep producing the same simple articles in different prints.
>>8875536
It's an older release, it pops up every so often on yahoo jp and cc
>>8876091
gdi disregard that thought you were talking about the pic you posted not previous
>sage for useless
Anyone have any worn pics of this?
>>8875524
I really love it it but sax, navy and pink are literally the only colours that I hate. Why no ivory or black JM, WHY?
>>8876188
Oh and I think it's gonna be released soon, saw some Asian girl posting a pic of the bag recently.
>>8875524
I really hope it's not that popular (but it probably will be) so that I can pick it up secondhand without too much of a struggle. I am unemployed and sad at the moment.
>>8871643
Doesn't mean pepfox didn't have it in the works and she saw a preview and just got to it first.
I mean it happened with the bunting print, pepfox included a teaser at their tea party and then a few months later Mulberry has a bunting print. Coincident?
>>8876216
Know those feels. I'm not unemployed but with what's left after bills each week I might as well be *never follow your dreams kids*. Anyway, between this upcoming Jane Marple release and the store release of Leur Getter's Antique Card I'm completely heartbroken to be broke right now
>>8875524
I love the sweet look of this.. So nobody know when it will be released? I don't understand their website.
>>8869803
It's a nice cut and all, but it's about as bland as you can get.
The mushroom dress looked super shitty and shiny in some photos, I'm just really put off by their dresses for the price.
Can plus sized otome be done, and done well? Does anyone have any examples they could share?
>>8878147
Like any j-fashion, you don't have to be kawaii, but you need to be able to fake it. So fatty-chans like ourselves have to work harder at co-ording. Don't jump straight in. Study the look well before you purchase. Depending on how plus size you are, you'll have to learn to accept that many brands won't sit on you correctly. Personally I've found that full back shirred Nop's are the best option, specifically 'just waists' by Leur Getter as you can alter the straps easier and you don't get the princess line cutting across your chest. Blouses that aren't super frilly and fit are the most difficult and something I still struggle with. For cardigans my recommendation is get good quality cardigans and add brooches, ribbons, etc. Fit is important in otome so you're better off altering or adding brooches to a well fitted cardigan than trying to wear brand that fits a max 86cm bust. Finally, don't neglect your accessories such as patterned coats, hats and boot/Oxfords. Once you have that sorted, you should be ready to give it a go. And the most important tip of all is to be open to concrit. It can be difficult I know as you will get people saying you're shit simply because you're plus size, but if you filter through it there will be genuinely useful stuff in there too so try not to close yourself off to it. Good luck!
>>8871726
>i have a sewing pattern that's literally the exact same cut.
May I know the pattern number? I was looking to make a few otome like dresses for spring anyways. I'd have to make mine because I'm so tall at 6'0"
>>8878147
As long as you have a waist, it can be done with a few modifications.
>>8879500
I'm not a complete butterball, just plus sized by asian standards so I do have a waist haha.
>>8879054
Thanks anon! I think how I dress usually is pretty similar to otome as is, lots of kitschy printed dresses, cardigans, brooches and oxford. I'm just hesitant to call it otome because I can't quite get a handle it because it's not as clear cut rules-wise as lolita.
>>8879054
This is good advice. Also sometimes jm makes fully shirred items that will work on mildly chubby people, often with better results than lolita since stretching out the shirring won't affect the silhouette as much.
>>8880180
There didn't used to be clear rules for lolita either, we made them. I didn't read everything back but I think it was established that otome kei is pretty much made up by the west because of a mistranslation/misconception of general girly style? So I think cgl could easily make an otome kei handbook.
>>8880477
You'd be better off with something like Larme. A blog or magazine that lays out the aesthetic done by someone who really knows the style. Once you have the aesthetic, the rest comes naturally unless you're hopeless at fashion.
Also, I wouldn't necessarily say otome is just girly style. It looks really different from the other cute girly style tribes.
>>8880477
Maybe you could make a handbook per brand style?
My Peppermint Fox Tea Emblem order (dress in Milk Tea and Tea Rooms brooch in Lavender) Would anyone be interested in a review, worn pictures etc?
>>8881934
Yes very much so! I should be getting my dress soon as well (Also in Milk Tea, couldn't catch the Earl Grey.) I'm especially interested in knowing what colour the details are in so close up on the print would be great.
>>8880998
Yeah, simply describing otome as a "girly style" is useless and doesn't say shit (that goes for larme also) Especially since a lot of it is so obviously "grandma" rather than "girly", and not all that feminine compared to other jfashions.
So, here's a worn picture of it first, I'll post a picture of some close up details in a min! Please excuse the bad quality of my phone camera and the murky English weather! The dress is a really nice colour, pinker than it seems. The details are in grey, with really sweet purple bits, hopefully that'll show up in the next picture!
I really, really like this dress! It's so pretty, and the print is absolutely gorgeous, I adore it. Every detail of the print was obviously well thought out, even the near-impossible to see dates on the "Pine Tea" label. (It says est 1932) The level of detail also extends to the brooch, the only problem I have is that the brooch is more purple than the dress, so it doesn't match entirely.
The fabric is really nice, very satiny but has a tendency to snag very easily. Also, the bodice feels a little boxy and awkwardly cut, the collar bunches up at the top and the straps ride up, which can be a little awkward to wear. Finally, I have short arms, which means it was a chore to get the zip done and undone, but that might not be a problem for other people!
All in all, I love this dress and I think it's really well done for an independent brand. The print detail is better than some big name brands I've seen! The price might have been a problem for some, but this was a christmas gift from my mum, and honestly I don't know if I'd be willing to pay that much for the dress myself, but I'm a pretty frugal person. I will be posting more pictures in a sec!
Here's a print detail close up, they've put a lot of work into making each tea box different, which is a really nice thing to see! It really feels like they're committed to the theme of the series, not just copy-pasting one picture to make a whole print.
I've been messing around with the light and the dress, and hopefully this shows the purple details on the tea labels better!
>>8880998
I didn't mean to say it's just girly style. I know there is a certain aesthetic here but what we call otome kei is not the same in Japan. Whatever you want to call this aesthetic, girly style/otome kei are different words for a feminine style depending on what's popular. At least that's what I learned from talking to people who live there and reading these threads.
>tfw when I missed all the PF library collection brooches because I saw no updates on them anywhere
>the only thing I saw related to the library collection was the picture from yesterday showing the orders being prepared to ship out
>today, see info on their new collection of brooches being posted everywhere
>none of them really fit in my wardrobe
I'm a little bummed out t b h.
>>8883084
I'm way more upset about missing out on their bread/bakery collection a few months back.
>>8883102
Those bread brooches were gorgeous but I wished they'd been a little more saturated/had a higher contrast.
>>8871113
This is fascinating, thank you for posting it kind anon.
>>8873493
I really liked the colours because they were light and would look better in warmer seasons.
>>8883084
Library's getting a restock, I'm guessing once all the preorder are out
Is it true that Hello Bones Jones is ripping off PepFox?
>>8885189
Didn't you know? Everyone in Australia is ripping off PepFox.
>>8885189
It's like a replica at this point, someone should call them out
>>8885193
This makes me uncomfortable. I thought HelloBonesJones had more sense than that. Doesn't she go here too? Since you'll probably read this, please don't do this. This kind of thing makes me want to support PepFox exclusively.
>>8885193
Nobody would have noticed or cared it weren't for the fox.
>But we all know that PepFox has a monopoly on animals amirite.
>>8885227
Do you have eyes? They're blatant knockoffs in art style. The tiny beady black eyes, the white "eyebrows" on the fox, the legs, the coloring, etc. It doesn't help that PepFox is much better looking.
>>8885193
I'm so disappointed, I was going to buy from HBJ but it's so obvious that they're copying PepFox almost directly.
>>8885193
The foxes don't look the same, idk what your problem is.
>>8885237
Agreed
The style is similar but that's it
you can't copyright an art style
Now if it were at least dressed in extremely similar clothing then I'd say sure, she shouldn't do that, but she's not
>>8885189
>>8885226
>>8885232
Aw geez. I heard something about this this morning but wasn't really paying attention.
It's kind of interesting that it took almost a month after showing these items for people to take issue.
I've already publicly (that is to say, on multiple /cgl/ threads) spoken about my dislike of these designs. I'm not happy with these designs because they were rushed, lazy and are just not 'my jam.' They're obviously dissimilar in style to my other pieces.
To cut things short:
I initially designed the cat and bunny brooches by request. Upon showing the WIP pieces, I had requests to make a fox and a badger specifically. At this point I was running low on stock and about to leave for two weeks, so my first reaction was "Sweet, I'll make a few of each and they can be filler stock!"
I'm not going to apologize for anything other than laziness in my work, because there was never ANY intention of mimicking Peppermint Foxes designs to any degree. I have a great deal of respect for PepFox. She/they have grown an indie business and found success in creating works in their own style which they love and enjoy creating. I want to do the same thing - Not copy somebody else.
>>8876891
Yeah but the thing is, there's no actual way to prove something like that happened. This may come as a shock but sometimes people come up with similar designs/ideas.
>>8885240
I'm a fan of your work I really am and really good on you for taking the plunge in starting your own business. I think I was one of the anons who requested a bunny and cat, I'm really sorry I havn't bought them I have been a bit strapped for cash lately.
>>8885229
this art style is really common especially for things like this
>>8885240
Heard you've been deleting comments on your fb without answering.
Has anyone still got the Target shoes that were going around a couple of months back? My thirst for JM 4-strap lookalikes has reached new heights. Or links to similar ones would be appreciated.
>>8885193
The style looks similar, but Pepfox's style is hardly unusual or original. It's like people think everyone who does anything similar is knocking them off just because they were there first.
They do look a little sloppy, but that's unrelated.
Im pretty new to otome, but I am wondering, is it possible to make good offbrand coords? Or is otome brands a must? I have some Axes femme and lolita pieces, but would love to experiment with offbrand pieces asswell.
>>8885193
oh_tralala detected
>>8885811
Cath Kidston have some nice dresses now and then, but they're still on the pricey side. I'm pretty sure you could find cute dresses in vintage-style stores, and if you're unsure you could look through magazine scans or coord photos for inspiration or a better idea of what you'd be looking for without breaking too far away from the otome aesthetic.
>>8885811
It's harder but it can be done. Fashion is going for quirky right now, so you'll be able to find things that work if you know what to look for as that all filters down. Not necessarily what I'd recommend for a beginner, but if you feel like you've got a good handle on things it's worth a try.
It's definitely easier in some countries like the UK, which has cuter high street fashion.
>>8885193
>tfw generic beatrix potter style is now apparently (c) peppermint fox
Why must everything nice be ruined.
>>8885193
Alex stop trying to fuck up HBJ.
>>8885613
http://www.fint-shop.com/products/detail8203.html just bought these Anon. You are out of luck if you have big feet though.
>>8886022
Thanks for trying, Anon, but I'd like at least one more strap.
>>8886130
Another anon jumps in to say Roman Three Straps http://www.viviennewestwood.com/shop/accessories/shoes/roman-three-straps-black Just because I can't resist ogling them.
>>8886000
Those foxes look nothing like Potter's, but they do look a whole lot like each other.
>>8885613
http://page7.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/jp/auction/g171531515
There's a pair from Queen Bee currently on Y!J for a reasonable price, if your feet can fit a Japanese size small.
>would buy but have huge feet
>>8886541
I could never figure out this sizing system. What European/US sizes correspond to small/medium/large? It's so weird to me that there would only be three options too.
>>8885193
So the foxes face looks similar? As others have said this isn't in any way shape or form a new art style, the clothing is completely different and she had many designs with this silhouette that are very unique. She even explained in this thread why those were even included. There's two anons calling you a vendetta and I'm getting that vibe too, especially since the issue was addressed. This just rubbed me the wrong way becuase I saw the initial thread where her flower girls took off, she's super pleasant and doesn't deserve the shitty witch hunt attitude
>>8885694
I have to agree with this. Pepfox's designs also bear strong resemblance to Teagan White's popular fox illustrations.
>>8886566
S/M/L varies by brand. In Queen Bee's case, I believe it's S / 22.5cm, M / 23.5cm, L / 24.5cm
I have Queen Bee shoes in size L and generally go for 24 or 24.5cm shoes from Japanese brands.
>>8886705
Ah I see. Thanks for explaining. Looks like I'm a size M so sadly I'll have to pass on that auction.
>>8887117
Anon, sorry to get your hopes up. To make up for it, here's a link to some 3 strap shoes that I have. Pic related.
http://www.shoemetro.com/p-387198-rodger.aspx?color=Black&material=Man-Made&utm_source=Google&utm_medium=PLA
I got them off MyHabit, but it looks like they don't have them anymore. They're pretty comfortable. I've walked long distances wearing these and my feet didn't want to kill me for the most part. But YMMV.
>>8887305
Actually I think they have them again, anon
>>8870625
What's on everyone's otome-kei wishlist/ to buy list right now?
I'm after a nice pussy bow blouse, a black leather satchel, and a pair of riding boots.
>>8892087
A book print, don't care which, I just want one! I also want some more casual blouses to wear under JSKs during the hot months.
>>8887305
Not the OP, but I ordered these. Thought they were long sold out, thanks so much!
>tfw you have loads of multi strap shoes now..
But I really like that brown. I love the JM ones, but they're not suitable for all coordinates since they're a little clunky.
>>8892087
I've been buying too many main pieces. I really need to fill up on just about everything else because I'm finding myself coording all my dresses in the same way.
- Simple, but dainty blouses. Preferably chiffon.
- Jackets, missed out on Emmanuel Jacket ;_;
- Always more socks
- Colorful cardigans
>>8892147
I love Leur Getter's Book Wonderland, but you can't go past the JM book prints.
Do you own any Amavel blouses? Their short sleeved ones aren't too bad.
>>8892519
Nice socks and cardigans can be hard to find so I feel the pain. I managed to get a black Emmanuel Jacket and I hope you're able to find one as well. It really is nice for coording.
I love the cut of Jane Marple op's and I want to sew something similar but I don't know what type/weight fabric they use, can anyone please share?
>>8894367
Lolibrary will tell you what material they use for different dresses. They don't use the same material for every item. I'm not sure, but think your pic is made from cutsew material.
>>8881934
I want this dress really badly. Found out about it a day late. Hopefully, I can find it in the second hand market soon
>>8897166
I want it, too. I didn't see it until preorders closed.
I found this jsk on Aliexpress right now, it has bunnies!But i don't understand if the dress is navy blue or black. Wish i could find more otome stuff like this on AE. The length is a tad short.
>>8897846
>http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/kawaii-Girls-Rabbit-sweet-Spaghetti-strap-dress-mori-girl-Spring-summer/319522_32619612869.html
Saw this posted in an otome fb group. Am I right to think that this just doesn't look otome? I mean she's wearing brand but it doesn't feel right. I think the gold shoes and bag are really ruining it
How do you draw the line between normie vintage stuff and otome? Is it the mismatching? The legwear?
I'm a lolita who'd like to start wearing otome and I'm scared of being too matchy-matchy
>>8899498
I wanted to post this too anon.
I'm not feeling this coord at all, the gold star bag is too cutesy and just doesn't go with the classy feel of the dress.
Just shows that burando does not a good coord make.
Did Milky Fawn drop off the internet for good? I loved her otome.
>>8900979
That's a hard one because opinions vary and there's always things that are outside the box or that blur the line. And 'vintage' is a really broad term - I think of both the classy Review style as well as the mishmash casual stuff you get at Dangerfield.
But here's a lot of generalizations:
>Vintage is safer and matchier than otome
Obvious exceptions are normies who give zero shits, some JM stuff, and lolitas who are new to otome.
>More experimental hair in lolita
In classier vintage outfits you get more historical styles like victory rolls, and in casual vintage you see messy/unstyled looks. I feel like otome girls have more free reign but they keep it fairly polished. Hair length varies but otome wearers generally have long hair or long bobs. Short hair like choppy bobs and pixie cuts are more common in vintage.
>Softer makeup in otome
The Review style vintage uses strong lips and bold brows but otome girls generally go for a minimal look. Again you see exceptions with things like blush but it's often the traditional J-fashion style where it's heavily applied just below the eyes. Normies wearing Dangerfield vintage do wear less makeup but I find that it's even more minimal and not as polished as otome.
These are really broad generalizations and I know that people get caught up in labeling and pinpointing what style an outfit is. Whilst I agree that some categorization is necessary, it often goes too far and becomes quite limiting.
But overall I think otome coords should have that maiden feel, be polished, and be at least slightly offbeat.
As a lolita going into otome I have this advice for you:
>don't be afraid of offbrand, but learn the ropes before you use too much
>don't force lolita items into a coord
>feel free to go quirky, but you don't have to go all out
>keep your hair and makeup polished. It doesn't have to be OTT, but Western girls like myself tend to neglect it.
I'm a little feverish atm so I hope that makes sense.
>>8902149
Who knows. She may return in the future and I'm sure she has friend only accounts out there, but for the time being she obviously wants to stay quite. I hope she's happy and having a better life.
>>8902149
I like MilkyFawn but her otome coords were meh. Miss her in lolita though.
>>8892515
Anon, would you take some photos? I really like them but I am not sure about the colour.
Started out in the coord help thread, decided to try here too.
How's this for a first attempt? Any advice?
>>8903437
i like the one of the right. i like the black shoes better, so you dont go OTT red. but thats just me.
>>8903437
They lean towards the normal side of otome but they look good. Have you thought about accessories?
I'd go for a brooch on the cardigan or beret, a long length necklace, or some rings.
>>8903791
i need to know where that snail ring is from, i NEED to know
>>8903822
It's a Yuko Higuchi x DECOvienya collab.
It's brass and costs ¥ 32,400.
>>8902830
what i feel strongly is that the potential pitfall of vintage clothes is they're just not quirky enough to have that otome vibe.
>>8903437
love this. i prefer the right coord because the colors of the hat and the cardigan look delicious together. ideally imo this outfit had shoes with more detail though, preferably in a color not already used.
>>8904209
There was actually a trend in the 1950s for novelty skirts. You should check out the prints. Also, knitwear from that era is definitely of interest, particularly the embellished cardigans.
>>8902832
Did something happen to her?
I'm new to otome from lolita and I'm hoping to get on the right track. I've recently bought these dresses from ETC and Leur Getter. Do you have any suggestions for coording these?
>>8905128
I would play up the blues in all of these, to be sure. For the one on the left, it would look cute paired with yellow accessories. For the one on the top right, try playing up the brown or add a pop of red.
This necklace would look adorable with the top right dress.
https://www.katespade.com/products/take-a-bow-scatter-necklace/098686585249.html
>>8905442
>>8905444
I remember reading some comments in a few threads ago that JM's quality has generally dropped. Has anyone bought some of their more recent releases, like their spring releases?
>>8897846
Not sure if you care, but this is a franche lippe replica
http://shop.franchelippee.com/?pid=96612339
>>8905446
Can I get an ID of the dress? And is that a book necklace?! Where would I get that from?!
>>8905728
Dress is JM British Library and I think necklace is Lief, be warned that is the holy grail dress for JM..
>>8905918
Oh darn - thank you for helping anon! I'm obsessed with book prints and this is beautiful
What sort of petticoat would be good for otome? I'm looking for something that doesn't have too much poof/is suitable for daily wear. Probably an A-line shape.
>>8906178
you just answered your own question...
Leur Getter has really been making me excited lately. Pic related is drab colors done well, I feel like.
>>8906500
There's no print, but I really love this.
>>8906218
Sorry, what I meant is I'm looking for recommendations for a specific shop/brand
>>8905151
Thanks for the recommendation anon! I instantly bought this because I loved it so much!
>>8906500
Oh no. I'm going to need this.
>>8906500
I need this oh my god
>>8873120
Actually dressing well takes time to master. Since you've not been practicing this skill, it will take you a long time to get it right.
>>8905701
>http://shop.franchelippee.com/?pid=96612339
Oh shit, i thought that was just a generic bunny fabric instead it's a replica. Well, i will buy the replica to see if this dress cut fit me, because there are also ETC items with a similar cut.
>>8905446
where to find otome friends?
>>8910092
>tfw you will never own British library
>>8910095
>>8910096
>tfw you sold this dress because you didn't have a clue on how to coord it ;_;
>>8910097
>>8910100
>>8910102
>>8910110
>>8910112
>>8910100
What dress is this? omggg so many books I love
>>8910204
Peppermint Fox's Hidden Library. It was their first dress realease.
>>8910100
sauce on brooch?
>>8910260
Old school ETC coord
>>8910261
I fucking love this dress. My inner cat lady needs it.
>>8910260
oh my god these tights
I must know what they're called
>>8911574
They look like Abilletage to me.
>>8910095
I can link you to the skirt if you fancy paying ¥30,000+ ?
>>8910092
Lolita comm is a good start.
>>8910262
This looks way more lolita than otome to me
>>8905918
Is Brisith Library really the holy grail of JM dresses? I've been out of the loop a little bit but I thought it popped up often, especially compared to stained glass and theme angel
>>8905577
I don't think the quality has dropped if I compare my pieces from last year to my pieces from 5-10 years ago. But I think the price has become higher, not sure when and how much higher. And I wish they would release more gobelin stuff next winter.
>>8873190
I want a wife who would dress like this everyday :(
Where do you gulls get otome secondhand? I know of mainly lolita second-hand sites/FB groups, where otome occasionally pops up. I know j!a is a big one, but I don't know what search terms to use.
I really want to work up a full otome wardrobe!
>>8912728
When it does pop up, Stained Glass doesn't sell for more than 40000 yen, the last British library dress sold for almost 200000 yen though. Langue de Chat also sells for insane amounts on japanese auctions, but I think it's not that popular in the west.
>>8917515
I asked this a few threads back, and one useful one was girly-cute.com! The rest was just brand resellers that I knew of like wunderwelt, takoyakico, closetchild, mbok, and y!a. For y!a, I have been taking the japanese kanji from the mbok tags for jane marple ジェーンマープル and emily temple cute エミリーテンプルキュート Hope this helps
>>8917613
Fril.jp also has decent offerings at times.
Btw I'm always hunting older ETC pieces and " エミリーテンプ" (Emily Temple) returns the most/best options、 in my opinion. Speaking of which, I'm waiting on 3 ETC dresses and 1 Leur Getter dress right now...
>>8917613
Holy shit anon thank you so much for mentioning girly-cute, this is a game changer
anyone know of any otome kei youtube channels and actual blogs? (no tumblrs)
>>8918502
I don't know of any blogs or YT channels that only focus on otome but here are two channels that mix otome and Lolita.
https://www.youtube.com/user/dodotheextinctsworld/
https://www.youtube.com/user/girlonsunday
>>8886187
Ouch, that price. I've got multiple pairs of Fluevogs and those were cheap compared to this.
>>8918985
I must have missed this then. The last two OP's I've seen on auctions went for 17000 yen and 35000 yen each.
>>8919156
Which style OPs did you see? There's never much interest in the one with the print on the bodice, but the gathered OP gets up there in price as well. Like most older JM pieces the issue is rarity rather than price though - cost is irrelevant if no one is selling.
>>8903437
Both look good imo, the beret coord looks more going out whilst the boater one is a bit more casual.
I love that dress, where is it from?
>>8919196
It was the OP with the waist ribbon with the print at the bottom I think. There was also another cut of the OP with longer sleeves listed on lacemarket for pretty cheaps but nobody bought it. It's really strange to see such hugs gaps on the selling price.
I think the otome community in the west is still pretty small so when a rare piece pops up fewer girls notice it and will fight for it. The stained glass print isn't very popular in Japan, so when there is no bidding war between two western girls the auction most likely ends with a pretty low price.
>>8919480
The one with the longer sleeves is a cutsew
>>8910260
My wants are so mighty for this dress but I know even if I got it it would never fit my bust. Feelsbadman.jpg I've never come across another book dress in this style and rough colouring either.
On a cheerier note, I got this same dress in a trade from a girl in my comm the other day. Thinking of using it for otome as it's not really long enough for a petti. Any suggestions? So far my plan is to combine it with an olive green cardigan from cath kidston and maybe some white tights, but I'm not too sure how to add that otome style to it.
>>8921299
I had that in blue ages ago but gave it away. Should be cute but I strongly suggest ripping off the arm cuff lace, it's the shittiest raschel and will fuck up your skin.
>>8917537
Last British Library, more recent than this?
http://page22.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/jp/auction/l341132413
>>8906500
I heard this sold out super fast. Does anyone know if Leur Getter does restocks?
I know the house slippers are just for selfie purposes in doors. But I still think it's cute, haha.
>>8925603
>>8925604
>>8925606
>>8925609
Wish I could justify these cost of these napoleon cardigans ;_;
>>8925612
>>8925615
>>8925618
>>8925620
I like the coord enough, but I feel like this girl normally looks cuter. Somehow the makeup isn't flattering or something.
>>8925623
>>8925628
>>8925631
>>8928267
>>8928268
Apologies if this is something that has been asked, but are there any taboabo stores that are good for otome?
>>8928868
For dresses? Not really. There was cats broom, but it seems like they are veering off into lolita territory.
>>8902926
Sorry, just saw this now and I'm away for the weekend.
I'll try to take a pic when I get back, but I say the stock photo is really true to color.
Not sure if anyone has heard about or Jam or Pains, I have been after one of her brooches for almost a year, and have been so far unlucky. But it looks as if she is doing a MTO of 2pieces per person max, shop opening March 26 12pm JST. You will need an SS.
pic related
>>8928908
Yeah I wanted to find some skirts and dresses with cute prints.
I put most of my finances in lolita so can't afford a lot of otome brand unfortunately! I was hoping for other options.
>>8928982
That sad looking lion is amazing.
>>8928868
Maybe something from this store will help. They have lolita, mori, and otome.
https://shop35050876.world.taobao.com/?spm=a312a.7728556.2015080705.4.mNeN06
>>8929428
>>8929430
any maybe this one depending on how you style it.
>>8910102
I really want those pants. Brand name? Looks a bit like Jane Marple, but I had no idea they had cute pants.
Any clue how to find gingham OP/JSKs on Aliexpress?I would like so bad a red gingham item but i can't find anything otome-able (too short or long or low quality soft sister items). With "mori dress" i can find some items but not in red, also navy gingham would be ok.
>>8925628
This looks so nice but I wonder how this dress fits her so perfectly. She looks as tiny as me but whenever I bought Jane Maple dresses like this they were like 15cm too big around the waist and looked like a tent on me. Do you guys think she got it altered?
>>8932212
That's really difficult to tell without asking. It seems hard to alter without messing up the pleats pattern. Also JM sizes can be all over the place lately.
>>8932237
I see. I won't risk buying Jane Marple anymore though, 90% of their stuff is so ill fitted on me. Just admiring all the skinny girls who can pull it off.
>>8932212
I think the way she is posing is making her seem more petite than she is (leaning back, arms are back and hidden, weight on the back leg and hidden by elongated front leg, etc). She also looks like she may be taller than average which would lend herself to having larger measurements than a shorter person while looking just as thin if that makes sense. I could be wrong but that's my just guess.
The dress itself looks like it ties in the back or may even have back corseting so it can be cinched more than a dress that only has a separate waist ribbon.
JM has done a lot of different style dresses outside of their regular OP/square necklined JSKs so I'm sure you can find items that will fit you better.
