Does lolita dresses have to be puffy at the bottom? Can this dress be considered a lolita?
http://static.lowyat.net/uploads/attach-44/post-74844-1310305571.jpg
*picture courtesy of an online seller
Uh...not really...
It....might...be lolita inspired....?
But on the other hand, it might be inspired by a lot of things. Lace, ruffles, etc, are a fashion staple in a lot of styles...
If you want to be lolita, I would suggest trying to find some online lolita group sites. There was one particular one, but I forget how to find it right now.... The lolita fashion is very...uh...finicky. Hard-core lolitas can really get on your case if you're breaking certain fashion rules.
For example
Mini top-hats? No. That's a costume prop.
Lolita = frills and bows and lace? No. Lolita also has more mature flavors, for older men and women. It's not all childish frizzle frazzle.
Sexy lolita? Unless someone has a lolita complex, there is no such thing. Lolita is restrained, baring very little skin. NO CLEAVAGE AND NO THIGHS!