The intersection between fashion and tennis has been a long and storied one. Consider Serena Williams in a periwinkle tulle skirt at the 2018 US Open or Coco Gauff in an iridescent tennis skirt at the 2022 Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic. But in her long-awaited return to the US Open, Naomi Osaka unveiled a custom Nike look that pulls elements from the infamous ‘Lolita’ goth trend out of the archive and onto the tennis court, for what is perhaps the sport’s most unique tennis outfit yet – or at least it’s most romantic.
ICYMI: for the 2024 US Open,
In conversation with
“She sent me a few looks of this ‘Lolita’ goth thing she was really vibing at that moment. They go out and wear pink, frills, bows, lace. It’s about really owning the cutesy-ness and the girly-hood,” Ahn said, describing the basis of the aesthetic.
What Is Goth Lolita?
According to CNN, Lolita fashion – which grew to mainstream popularity in Japan throughout the ’90s and early 2000s – is “informed by the Victorian era and ornate Rococo art movement.” The fashion aesthetic is “unabashedly feminine,” and comprised of styles like elaborate skirts, petticoats, lace blouses, and ankle socks. Darker colors like black and purple are prominent, and many Lolitas – i.e. those who participate in the fashion subcategory – will often opt for wigs and bonnets to further cosplay their look.
How to Shop the Goth Lolita Trend
Osaka’s goth Lolita tennis outfit might be custom made, but the vibe of her look is surprisingly easy to replicate within your own wardrobe or beauty cabinet – especially if you know where to shop. Ahead, we curated a guide to the best products inspired by goth Lolita fashion, including a goth Lolita skirt that’s endlessly romantic and a deep purple lipstick that plays into the style’s moodier color palette. Shop our picks ahead.
