Animal ears get a bad rep in the world of lolita. Generally, they are considered a bit too "cosplay". Certain animals keep popping up frequently in lolita though. We have seen brands releasing animal ears in the past, especially BABY. But just because brands do something, it doesn't automatically mean that everybody is going to be a fan of them. I find that animal ears tend to divide opinion in the lolita community. Animal ears are not something I have considered wearing much anyway, but I do admire the way that fashion has come up with different ways of using animal ears but without resorting to just sticking a pair of fluffy ears on our heads. Here are just a few alternatives to wearing animal ears.
Something I recently discovered was cat ear bowler hats. I think the bowler hat is usually quite a classy kind of hat, and the cat ears on this one adds a little touch of cute. This is a very subtle take on cat ears. I have seen some classic lolitas who love bowler hats, and I think this interesting new take on the bowler would be very interesting to see in an outfit. The hat in the picture is from www.chemjoy.com
Bear hats like this one from Minty Mix (sold out, I am afraid!) are generally well-liked within the lolita community. They are soft and easy to wear. Also, they are adorable! With all the bear prints out there, it is not too difficult to find photos of lolitas wearing these (especially AP's Little Bears Cafe!).
These pearl cat ear hair bands were quite popular last year. It gives the shape of cat ears, but it is more subtle. I think this is a very pretty idea and very easy to wear. The pearls give it a more grown up look, but is still cute. The great thing is, that because of their popularity, they are easy to find and usually at a decent price. The one in the picture is from www.asos.com
Do people still wear usamimis? You don't seem to see them as much now. This hair accessory was popular in the gyaru communtity a while back, but I always thought they could be worn in a casual lolita outfit. Usamimis are meant to look like rabbit ears. But the great thing is, they are easy to shape so you can get your desired style. It is very casual looking, so easy to wear without drawing much attention. Usamimis are affordable or very easy to make.
Of course, you could always just get a hoody with animal ears attached. These are very common and brands release these on a frequent basis. A quick browse on the Japanese Angelic Pretty site, and I found about 5 hooded tops with animal ears. Animal ear hoodies don't seem to get as much hate as just wearing a pair of animal ears. I guess having ears on a casual top is seen as more acceptable.
I am sure there are many other ideas out there. It is good to see that there are many options. I would just like to say that I am not hating on anybody who does wear actual animal ears with lolita. Although it is not really my style, I have nothing against people who choose to wear ears. In fact, there are times where animal ears can work very well (for example, an Alice in Wonderland style outfit based around the White Rabbit). But I do know that some people out there dislike the use of animal ears. It is just good to know there are options out there for those who like animal ears, but are looking for a more wearable alternative.
