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The intersection of fashion and tennis is a long and storied one — think Serena Williams in a periwinkle tulle skirt at the 2018 US Open or Coco Gauff in a rainbow tennis skirt at the 2022 Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic. But for her long-awaited return to the US Open, Naomi Osaka brought elements of the infamous “Lolita” goth trend from the archives to the tennis court with a custom Nike look that’s perhaps the most unique, or at least the most romantic, piece of tenniswear in the world.
In case you missed it: For the 2024 US Open, Osaka teamed up with designer Yoon Ahn to create a custom competition look for Nike that was inspired by Japanese anime (a nod to her roots) and a goth-Lolita aesthetic. The outfit features several unique design details, including a striking white bow on the back of her black bomber jacket, a white ribbon accent at the waist of her black tennis dress and a tiered, ruffled skirt with a voluminous silhouette.
Speaking to The New York Times, Ahn explained that Osaka wanted to incorporate a Lolita-esque accent into the collaboration.
“She sent me some of these ‘Lolita’ goth styles that she was really into at the time – going out in pink, ruffles, bows and lace – really capturing cuteness and girliness,” Ann said, explaining the underlying aesthetic.
What is Gothic Lolita?
Lolita fashion rose to mainstream popularity in Japan in the ’90s and early 2000s, and is “influenced by the Victorian era and the flamboyant Rococo art movement,” according to CNN. The fashion aesthetic is “overtly feminine,” consisting of styles like elaborate skirts, petticoats, lacy blouses, and ankle socks. Dark colors like black and purple dominate, and many Lolitas (meaning those who participate in the fashion subcategory) often opt for wigs and bonnets to further enhance their cosplay-inspired look.
How to Shop the Gothic Lolita Trend
Naomi Osaka’s gothic lolita tennis outfit may be custom-made, but her vibe is surprisingly easy to recreate in your own wardrobe and beauty shelf, especially if you know where to shop. Ahead, we’ve put together a guide to the best gothic lolita fashion-inspired products, including an endlessly romantic gothic lolita skirt and a deep purple lipstick that matches the style’s moody color palette. Shop our picks now.
