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Hello all heart

I recently ordered a dress in the classic style; however, it does not have sleeves. Rather, it has thick 1'1/2" straps and two decorative ribbons that cross high on the chest and around the neck. It shows *no* cleavage at all (wouldn't wear it if it did and it would not be style specific). It came with a cute, long sleeve over jacket (to the waist).
But my main concern was this:
Is it appropriate, considering Classic, to wear it without the jacket in extremely hot weather?
I did research to prove that I have seen this done before. And here are the links to example of similar dresses. (uploaded to my own server as not to steal any bandwidth.)
Example 1

Example 2

Example 3


Despite this, I wanted the opinions of other Lolita-chan as to reduce any scrutiny I may face for this. I have also seen Classic and Country style brand photos with the models wearing nice open-toe heels sporting their ankles, yet still wearing hose. So I'd also like to ask everyones opinion on that as well ... redface Here is a reference to something similar: Example A
And Example #2 from Above shows the open toe: Example 2

So, please, no flaming - because I genuinely wish to know if it would still make for a presentable outfit. If not, I'll wear an appropriate blouse or cover myself with the included jacket. Thank you for any advice ~! heart

CREDIT: The photos are from the Lolita Handbook on LiveJournal: Located Here

Thank you so much~! heart They were questions that bad been on my mind for a while. As for your photos ~ Everyone looks so lovely! I especially like the cute Bunny with pink eyes sitting at the table with you. And thank you for the no-flame promise! 3nodding

As Annai has already pointed out-- with this style dress, it is all right to wear without a blouse underneath. Though the general rule of Lolita is to wear a blouse with your jumpers, there are some dresses that are exceptions. Most often, those with neck ties are a good example of this.

I have this:

And my favorite way to wear it is without a blouse, using either the ties, or an elaborate necklace, a simple but elegant bracelet, off white tights and brown maryjanes with a heel to them. Because my shoulders are bare and my hair is naturally long and straight, I often curl it to make it frame my shoulders more fully, and use a very simple circular headdress or hair corsage.

As for the shoes-- Again, closed toes is a general rule. So long as they're something that flatters you and the outfit (such as how they are better suited to a sundress than something from, say, Moi meme Moitie), and so long as you wear hose that also suit you, I think it's fine.

The biggest key to Lolita is accessorizing. Once you that down, you'll learn that a lot of rules can be bent. 3nodding If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to ask, and don't worry about being judged for them. Questions are the best way to learn, and we're here to help as much as we can.

You're very welcome! We all could use kindness and a boost of confidence sometimes. smile
I look foward to seeing pictures, if you manage to get some.

I absolutely adore the red dress! heart And as for the picture of the loli coterie at the top, I believe you all are just doll! heart Nyuu!