Ouji fashion, also known as Ouji Lolita or prince fashion, is a Japanese street style inspired by the look of royal princes from European history. Instead of the big skirts and frills of classic Lolita, Ouji style leans more androgynous—mixing ruffled shirts, tailored shorts, vests, and knee-high socks for a bold yet elegant look.
The name “Ouji” literally means “prince” in Japanese, and the goal is to look refined, confident, and a little dramatic—almost like stepping out of a fairytale or a music video. Think of it as what Prince wore during his Purple Rain era—sharp silhouettes, ruffle shirts, and that touch of royal badness.
This look isn’t about following rules. It’s about channeling confidence, creativity, and a sense of play. Whether you’re styling yourself for a photoshoot, music awards-inspired outfit, or just to stand out, Ouji fashion gives you permission to be both fabulous and fearless.
How to Dress for Ouji Style (Step-by-Step Guide)
Dressing in ouji fashion is all about finding the balance between elegance and individuality. Whether you’re new to the style or looking to refine your prince-inspired wardrobe, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the essentials—from choosing your base pieces to adding the finishing touches that make your outfit truly royal.
Step 1: Start with the Basics
Begin with fitted shorts or breeches that stop above the knee. Pair them with opaque tights or tall socks—classic black, navy, or even bold patterns like polka dots.
Step 2: Choose a Ruffle Shirt
A crisp ruffle shirt is essential for Ouji style. Go for white, cream, or jewel tones. If you’re feeling inspired by Prince at the Fabulous Forum or Choice Awards, look for lace cuffs or layered ruffles that give that “Diamonds and Pearls” drama.
Step 3: Add Layers
Layer with a tailored vest, waistcoat, or military-style jacket. These pieces create the royal structure that defines prince fashion. Look for ornate buttons or velvet textures—something that says luxury without feeling costume-y.
Step 4: Pick the Right Shoes
Finish your outfit with sleek high heels, loafers, or boots. Heeled shoes add height and elegance, echoing how Prince made even the boldest looks work effortlessly on stage.
Step 5: Accessorize Like Royalty
Use accessories to add flair—think small crowns, pocket watches, lace gloves, or statement jewelry. The key is balance: every piece should feel intentional and fit your personal version of royal badness.
Step 6: Add Your Signature Touch
To truly embody Ouji Lolita, play with your look. Mix textures like velvet, lace, and satin. Try a purple accent (a nod to Purple Rain) or even add custom embroidery. Warner Bros archives and Getty Images photos of Prince are great for inspiration—his confidence and creativity perfectly capture the spirit of Ouji fashion.
Types of Ouji Fashion
Ouji fashion isn’t one-size-fits-all—there are dreamy variations to match every mood and vibe. Whether you’re feeling sweet and whimsical, dark and dramatic, or effortlessly cool, there’s a style of ouji for you. Let’s take a look at the different types!
Sweet Ouji Fashion
Sweet Ouji Fashion is a subcategory of ouji fashion characterized by its whimsical and romantic aesthetic. It often features pastel colors, cute motifs such as bows and ribbons, and delicate lace details. Sweet ouji outfits may include frilly blouses, puffy shorts or knee-length trousers, and accessories adorned with playful embellishments. This style evokes a sense of innocence and charm, drawing inspiration from fairy tales and fantasy themes.
Gothic Ouji Fashion
Gothic Ouji Fashion is a darker and more dramatic interpretation of ouji fashion, influenced by Gothic and Victorian aesthetics. It typically incorporates darker colors such as black, deep red, and navy blue, as well as rich fabrics like velvet and brocade. Gothic ouji outfits may feature elaborate detailing such as ornate embroidery, lace-up corsets, and dramatic capes or coats. Accessories like top hats, chokers, and cross jewelry are common, adding to the overall Gothic-inspired look.
Casual Ouji Fashion
Casual Ouji Fashion offers a more relaxed and everyday approach to ouji style, suitable for casual outings or daily wear. It often involves mixing ouji elements with contemporary streetwear or casual clothing pieces. Casual ouji outfits may include simple blouses or t-shirts paired with knee-length shorts or trousers, along with sneakers or boots for a comfortable yet stylish look. Accessories are typically minimal, with emphasis on practicality and comfort.
Each type of ouji fashion offers its own unique interpretation of the classic ouji aesthetic, catering to different tastes and preferences within the ouji community. Whether you prefer the whimsical sweetness of Sweet Ouji Fashion, the dark allure of Gothic Ouji Fashion, or the laid-back vibe of Casual Ouji Fashion, there’s a style to suit every personality and occasion.
Ouji Fashion Brands
1. Atelier Boz
Atelier Boz is known for its elegant and sophisticated designs that often incorporate historical and Victorian-inspired elements. Their clothing features intricate detailing, luxurious fabrics, and a timeless aesthetic.
2. Alice and the Pirates
A sub-brand of the Lolita fashion label Baby, the Stars Shine Bright, Alice and the Pirates specializes in Gothic and pirate-themed ouji fashion. Their designs often include dark colors, rich fabrics, and elaborate prints with a whimsical twist.
3. Moi-même-Moitié
Founded by Gothic Lolita icon Mana, Moi-même-Moitié is renowned for its Gothic-inspired clothing and accessories, including ouji fashion pieces. Their collections feature elegant silhouettes, intricate lacework, and a darkly romantic aesthetic.
4. Atelier Pierrot
Atelier Pierrot offers a mix of Gothic and Classic Lolita fashion along with ouji pieces, characterized by their refined elegance and Victorian-inspired designs. Their clothing often features luxurious fabrics, intricate lace, and ornate details.
5. Putumayo
Putumayo specializes in alternative fashion styles including Gothic, punk, and ouji fashion. Their designs are known for their playful yet edgy aesthetic, featuring bold prints, unique cuts, and a youthful vibe.
6. Victorian Maiden
While primarily focused on Classic Lolita fashion, Victorian Maiden also offers a selection of ouji-inspired pieces. Their designs exude Victorian elegance and refinement, with emphasis on vintage-inspired silhouettes, delicate fabrics, and intricate details.
7. Millefleurs
Millefleurs is a Japanese brand specializing in Classic and Gothic Lolita fashion, as well as ouji styles. Their clothing combines elements of Victorian elegance with a modern twist, featuring rich fabrics, elaborate prints, and romantic embellishments.
These brands offer a range of options for those interested in exploring ouji fashion, each with its own distinctive style and aesthetic. Whether you’re drawn to the dark allure of Gothic ouji or the whimsical charm of Sweet ouji, there’s sure to be a brand that suits your taste and preferences.
Ouji Fashion Pastel
“Ouji Fashion Pastel” is a subcategory of ouji fashion that incorporates pastel colors and soft, delicate elements into the traditional ouji aesthetic. This style combines the elegance and refinement of ouji fashion with the whimsical and light-hearted feel of pastel tones.
In Ouji Fashion Pastel, you’ll often find outfits featuring pastel-colored blouses, vests, and trousers or shorts, adorned with lace trims, ribbons, and subtle embroidery. Accessories such as bow ties, flower crowns, and delicate jewelry complement the look, adding to its ethereal and romantic appeal.
The pastel color palette typically includes shades of soft pink, lavender, mint green, baby blue, and peach, evoking a dreamy and fairy-tale-like atmosphere. These gentle hues create a charming and youthful vibe, perfect for those who enjoy a softer approach to ouji fashion.
Ouji Fashion Pastel offers a refreshing twist on the classic ouji aesthetic, infusing it with a sense of innocence and sweetness. Whether you’re attending a tea party, a romantic outing, or simply embracing your inner prince in everyday life, this style allows you to express your personality with grace and charm.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through ouji fashion, it’s clear that this style is more than just clothing—it’s a form of self-expression and creativity. From the dark romance of Gothic ouji to the soft charm of Pastel ouji, each look captures a different side of personality and imagination. Whether you love the drama of Victorian-inspired outfits or prefer a more relaxed, everyday version, ouji fashion welcomes you to embrace your inner prince.
Dress boldly, add your own flair, and step into a world where elegance meets individuality—and where every outfit tells your story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ouji fashion female style is inspired by Victorian and Rococo aesthetics, featuring tailored jackets, blouses, knee-length skirts or pants, and elegant accessories. It’s sometimes called “princess boy” or “prince style” for women who want a mix of masculine tailoring with feminine details.
Some well-known Ouji fashion brands include Alice and the Pirates, Moi-même-Moitié, and Atelier Boz, offering pieces that range from structured jackets to layered skirts perfect for Ouji looks.
Alice and the Pirates Ouji blends classic Ouji tailoring with playful, pirate-inspired details like ruffles, lace cuffs, and decorative belts. It’s a more theatrical take on traditional Ouji fashion.
Ouji fashion can vary from classic Victorian-inspired Ouji to casual Ouji and themed styles like pirate Ouji or military Ouji. Each type emphasizes structured tailoring, elegant layering, and a balance of masculine and feminine elements.
