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[UsakoLuna]

I need tips on how to stay warm while wearing lolita. I live in new england, Massachusetts to be specific, it get pretty chilly here in the winter.
I know that arm warmers aren't lolita, but are simple, solid colored arm warmers layered over gloves acceptable as outdoor wear? (armwarmers like these - http://www.sockdreams.com/products/a...ku-arm-warmers ) or are they still a huge no-no? Also, what's a good style of warm hat that won't ruin my hair when I take it off? And how do I keep my legs warm? I usually layer socks over tights, but that would look weird with lolita.

Thank you!
(I don't have a specific event in mind, but I want to be prepared)

[Meiki]

I think that layering armwarmers would be alright, it's not like they're going to show too much with a coat anyway! Some of those are really pretty colors that I think could work well with lolita too, I love the violet ones. I also think that opera-length winter gloves are a good alternative for something like armwarmers, they're long but a little more fancy.

As for hats I have no idea. I've yet to find a winter hat that doesn't make my hair frizzy. What I do when I really need something on my head is wear a beret that goes with my outfit, and just use it as my hair accessory that day.

Leg warmth is something I can help a little more with. I loooove flannel bloomers, which helps with keeping thighs warm. I layer socks and tights too actually. I think in lolita it works best when the tights are a neutral, like white or black, and the knee socks add a pop of color. Or if they're both the same color for that matter, it makes it less noticeable. I'd also suggest looking at tights in animal fibers, like wool or angora. They retain a lot more heat than cotton or nylon.

[lolita*neko]

If you need to layer socks and tights, I say try wearing stockings/tights with some thick over the knee or thigh high socks. That way you can't really see the tops of your socks like you would with knee highs and it won't look as awkward if that bothers you.

With the head wear, I'd second Meiki on a beret, and although I've never worn one (yet!) I would imagine a full bonnet would be warm as well

I don't really have an opinion on the armwarmers, but I feel that if it looks right with your coordinate and your comfortable and warm why not?

[Eleksin]

I think if you were to layer the arm warmers with gloves of the same color it would be ok. If it gets too contrast-y then it might look off. A bonnet will probably keep you warm unless it's windy. If it's windy, I feel like it would just gather all that wind to your face. XD If you are trying for winter hats, find some (or make) that would match your outfits and are super cute. That way you don't have to worry about taking it off and it will make a great head accessory.

[Ororo Howlett]

Try some earmuffs instead of a hat! Some brands carry them. Or you could try looking for a hooded capelet.

[Eleksin]

Gah why didn't I think of earmuffs! That would be a great choice too! Earmuffs would totally work for a situation like this.

[UsakoLuna]

Thanks for all the good ideas! Especially the earmuffs!

[thewolfelord]

might i suggest looking nto the past .... say 1920's 30's that had very cute warm hats
http://www.fashion-era.com/hats-hair..._1920_1930.htm

[UsakoLuna]

Ooh, cute!
I love longer gloves, but I have teeny hands (I wear child sized gloves) that it's hard to find any that fit my hands, which is why I layer my arm warmers.