Bonnets: not just for Sweet Lolitas

I've recently found myself oogling over bonnets. I never really thought they were for me, they just seemed too toddler-ish, or at the very least, reserved specifically for Sweet and Classic Lolitas. Which were styles I never could quite get into. But I've been discovering more and more bonnets that cater to the Gothic Lolita. Who knows, one day I might actually work up the nerve to wear one! But until then, I'll just continue window shopping for the perfect bonnet for me.

Above is the Versailles Rose Bonnet, from Alice and the Pirates. Currently Baby sells a few other bonnets, most of them the same style as the one pictured above, the exception being the Mary Rose Bonnet, a beautiful straw bonnet that has a very Victorian feel to it. It would be perfect for these late summer days. The bonnets for sale at Baby are the most traditionally Lolita bonnets. They can work easily for Classic or even Sweet Lolita in black, but might too ruffly for Aristocrat and would definitely look a bit off with the more gothicky Gothic Lolita styles.

Bodyline is currently stocking a very lovely bonnet for a very reasonable price. While the cheap price ($22!!) is very tempting, according to people who have bought this, it is a bit difficult to get to lay on your head as it is shown in the stock photos. It will either require a lot of pins or a small hair comb sewn onto it to get it to stay as perky as it looks in the photos. But I think if you don't mind a bit of work, this could be a perfect Gothic Lolita bonnet.

Antique Beast sells this gorgeous bonnet. Which, now that I look at it, looks like the inspiration for the Bodyline bonnet. Of course, this one is going to be much harder to get your hands on outside of Japan, and will cost you about $130.

Triple Fortune, another indies brand that might be very difficult to get a hold of outside of Japan, sells a variety of beautiful and extravagant bonnets that boarder on hat.

If you would prefer something historically correct, and are willing to spend at or above brand prices, there are many places out there where you can buy a very lovely bonnet. Or, if you're very craft, you can make your own bonnet. This might be a very fun project for when you just can't find your dream bonnet.

A few times I have seen vintage Victorian pieces worn with Gothic Lolita. They have always lead to very unique and beautiful coordinates. I think a Victorian era bonnet would be the perfect finishing touch to a Gothic Lolita outfit. If you can manage to find a vintage piece in good condition, and for a reasonable price, there's really no reason not to try it out! Personally I've seen Victorian era head pieces for sale for as little as $20. Keep your eye out at tag sales, antique stores, or eBay for bonnets that would put even Triple Fortune to shame!