Style
Qi lolita
Qi lolita combines the lolita silhouette with elements of Chinese dress, and Chinese brands make it better than anyone.
ZhijinyuanMisty Rain Celadon Qi Lolita JSK$95Signature
ZhijinyuanMorning Dew Gold-Woven Qi Lolita JSK$52What qi lolita is
Qi lolita (sometimes written qi-lolita) takes the full skirt and petticoat of lolita and adds details from Chinese clothing, especially the qipao or cheongsam. The name comes from that garment.
Signature details
- Mandarin (stand) collars and diagonal front openings.
- Frog buttons (pankou): knotted fabric fastenings.
- Embroidery or prints of cranes, peonies, lotus, clouds, koi and other traditional motifs.
- Jacquard and brocade fabrics with woven patterns.
- Colours: red and gold, jade green, ink black, porcelain blue and white.
Wearing qi lolita
A qi OP or JSK can be worn with a plain blouse, a petticoat suited to the skirt shape, and accessories such as hairpins, tassels or a small fan. Many people wear qi lolita for Lunar New Year, weddings and cultural events. Anyone can wear it; wearing it with care for the details is what makes it look right.
Why buy it from Chinese brands
Qi lolita is a style that Chinese indie brands have developed deeply, with embroidery and fabrics that are hard to find elsewhere. If you love the look, compare it with wa lolita, its Japanese-inspired counterpart.