An Ouji Overview: Part 2 Basic Anatomy

Ouji comes in all shapes and sizes. Unlike lolita, it does not have to meet a specific silhouette. Think of a coordinate as 4 main parts: head, torso, bottoms, and feet. The head consists of your face, hair, hats, or other hair accessories. Torso includes blouses, jackets, vests, capes, and other outerwear. Bottoms are pants and belts. Feet are socks and shoes. There needs to be something in each part, so the most basic outfit consists of the head, blouse, pants, and shoes. For more elaborate outfits, add layers and accessories. In parts 4 to 9, I will go in depth with each section.

Attention to details can make or break the coordinate. If it's too simple, it might end up looking sloppy or too much like regular men's formal wear. Ouji 101's What to Avoid section has a great example of something that's too casual. Some details to pay attention to are unique cuts, patterns, colors, and layers. Remember, balance is the key to a great coordinate!

Both of these outfits from Deorart are acceptable. The outfit on the left is more casual and looks less formal because of an untucked shirt and the horizontal split of white and black. The addition of the vest on the right makes the coordinate a bit more elegant. 

There are no rules for boystyle, but there are some general guidelines. If you're already familiar with lolita, then these will look very familiar.

• Clothing should be good quality. 
• It doesn't have to made of the finest silk in the world, but you shouldn't be wearing an entire outfit made of burlap. Common fabrics are cotton, cotton blends, polyester, chiffon, and velvet.
• Garments should be properly finished: all edges should be hemmed, no stray threads, not being held by hot glue and safety pins, etc. 
• If you want to wear lace, it should be good quality. There is such a thing as too much lace.
• Avoid cheap fabrics. Generally, overly shiney and wrinkly fabrics will look bad. Costume satin and crushed velvet are two materials that should not be worn. 
• Overall appearance should be well-groomed. 
• Your body should be modestly covered. No midriff, cleavage, or other private parts visible.
• Ouji is not a costume. This includes cosplay. Of course, there's nothing wrong with costuming, but you are not playing the role of a character. For example, there can be pirate-inspired elements in this style, but you are not trying to be a full blown pirate. You are not dressing up as a fictional character. 
• Don't be upset if someone mistakes you for a character. It happens all the time (especially at anime conventions), and you can politely correct them. The top characters to been mistaken for are Ciel Phantomhive, Alois Trancy, or any other male character from Kuroshitsuji, and Vocaloids Kaito and Len Kagamine. 

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