/cgl/ - Cosplay & EGL

first

#1383 I am your card match! I wanted to ask what type of lolita styles you were into as well as if you liked tea??

I have a few things in my wardrobe I've never worn that I think my match would like, its all brand stuff too. I was planning on buying them new things they referenced for the full value of the tier and then including some of these items as like a bonus gift, is that acceptable or is it still faux paus?

>>10496330
I would be happy with it, personally.

>>10496330
Wondering the same. Would love to give some items a new home. I bought them last year but never wore them. In practice it’s the same as buying them for my match but it feels different. Definitely not the main gift but as filler/bonus

>>10496261
8 or 8.5 US. Which is I believe a 39 from Taobao and a 25 from Japan.

>>10496330
If it included some new/unused items along with things you're looking to re-home, I wouldn't mind personally

>>10496330
as long as it matches their new/used preference, i don't see why not. I'd love it.

>>10496330
I bought tons of accessories when I was a teenager and thought I would be a sweet lolita, but never used them so I gave them to my giftee last year and she really liked them!

>>10496304
Hi! I'm mostly into elegant classic lolita, but I like toned down sweet too (like Chess Chocolate for example).

I do like tea :) more soft fruity/vanilla tea than herbal tea if that helps you.

Do people mind getting a brand they're not used to owning even if it was similar color and pattern palettes?

>>10496396
this is the most ita post i have read yet ITT.

>>10496410
No, go for it! People are so used to looking at the brands the like that they ignore others.

>>10496410
they might, they might not. it's a gamble. this whole event is a gamble.

#6952, would you rather have main pieces or accessories (blouses, jewelry, socks, etc.)?

>>10496447
Also, I know you said gothic is your substyle but are you okay with dark colors other than black?

main gift has been secured! nile perch is so goddang hard to find. i'm way over budget already, but i feel like spoiling my match desu

>>10496431
oh, you don't have to let everyone know you're on your period atm, sandy cunt-chan

>>10496452
No it isn't? There's dozens of items on mercari or fril at any moment.

>>10496463
i was looking for a pretty rare sweater that was released and found it on mercari. you good? lmao

>>10496465
Then say that. That's like saying "AP is so hard to find" when you're only looking for one dress.

man, some gull is mad today..

First day of November and I couldn’t help but start decorating for the jingle bell season, presents are secured for my matches, and also snagged a matching sweater set for my pupper son and I. Now time for typical hallmark movies. Life is good. Goodluck finding presents everyone

>>10496469
I think the anon worded it fine. There's no need to be so grumpy.

>>10496448
Sorry Anon for the late reply. I don't mind other colors than Black, and I'd rather have main pieces! Though, it's like 60/40, so I won't mind either or.

>>10496501
Happy early festive season to you too gull! I'm just waiting for FJ to get all my presents ready and I'm making a list for fillers and wrapping/packing supplies.

>>10496528
Okay! I found something really nice but I wanted to double check first lol

>>10496542
I can't wait to see it! :D

>>10496533
I really do enjoy making the presentation of the gifts

I just scored a piece for my match after a couple days of searching. I am so excited now to see if they like it! I'm most likely going to grab at least one more item that will put me over budget but I'm just happy I finally got a main item for them!

>mfw FJ just partnered with Lashinbang anime secondhand store and has 300 yen coupons and I already bought all my giftee's anime stuff

If anyone didn't get the email, the 300 yen coupon is: LB20113H
It's good until 11.30 for orders of 3,000yen or more for the first 100 people who use it.

Who likes stats?!

This year we has 53 participants, with roughly the same proportions of cgl interests this year. I think one of the differences this year is the lower raw amount of countries participating.

>no mention of my ID
sad

>>10496872
santa is just adhering very strictly to the spirit of surprise, right?

>>10496860

Well, at least I’m not the only Scottish one here.

Already above budget and I haven’t even bought a “main” gift yet. I hope my match likes being spoiled!

i hope my match takes the recent pricing into account and doesn't think I underspent

>>10496860
More stats, here is the annual word cloud of most mentioned words for interests and hobbies.

>>10496909
Thanks!

Haha, this is exactly what I imagined for cgl. And then you have 'aliens' right in the middle...

>>10496860
41.51% sending 0 cards
Fair though. I skipped on doing this year because of postal reasons.

>>10496330
Just make sure it matches their preference on used items gull

>>10496909
>sweet
>pink
>BTSSB
>video games
quickly, someone corner the market

Do you gulls think the number of previous owners matter that much? I found a dress that's NM with like 3 tracked owners so far. I know I'd never buy a used dress with more than 2 owners.

>>10496948
doesn't matter at all to me, i just look at the current condition

Hey 4505, do you still want those ankle boots on your list?

>>10496947
Way ahead of you

>>10496942
I’m only doing one card. I wanted to do more, but I was worried about the possibility of getting stuck sending multiple international cards.

>>10496961
Yup if you mean the goth ones on my none pinterest wish list aka the things to get me wish list. they've been something I've eyed for awhile as they fit my style a lot. Other sites try to sell them for double that site is the cheapest I've found them so far. I measured my feet and its 8.9" inches so if you do get me shoes hopefully that helps .
Those shoes and the pentagram heart purse from taobao on my pinterest or the melty heart purse are actually my most wanted items .I dont mind waiting past the deadline for items either.
Thanks for asking santa!

>>10496976
You mean the pentagram heart backpack?

>>10496977
Yup !I dont mind more than one bag either im big into bags but I dont have many cute shoes

Do I need to send proof of mailing my card? I’m not sure how to do that, they don’t give receipts for stamped mail

>>10497001
You can just take a photo of it with the stamp on it!

Its mainly so if your match says they never got it, we have proof it was indeed sent.

Hey Santa match its me 5177, answering your questions from the last thread. I got sick as hell over the weekend and just didn't check anything.


I don't really wear cutsews. I do like medium length sleeves but not short sleeves. I stick to white/pink accessories pretty much. Other colors I wear are lavender and sometimes more cream colors but mostly pink!

A question for those lolitas in the $15-$25 tier, how small is too small for you all? Like what does one expect to get from that range?

Like, would you be upset/disappointed if the only brand item you got was something small like an accessory? I have a indie dress as my main item but Idk it feels like I'm going to disappoint someone

>>10497080
I'd expect a Claire's hairclip, a stale tea packet, and a crisp high five at that tier, so I think you are already doing well. A used burando accessory would be the dream.

>>10497082
LOL thank you, I throw in a few used socks and call it a day

>>10497080
Yeah same here, like if I got a brand accessory and like a small candy that would be great. I would be super happy with like, something from my more normie interests such as a nice enamel pin, some fun printed socks, a homemade mask or a keychain plush, that sort of thing.

>>10497080
A small accessory or two, stickers, ect. Last year I received some brand otks, hair clips, stationary, candy, stickers. For my match I bought pretty much the same.

>>10497080
A dress as an item in that tier range is already a lot and much more than I'd personally expect. I sent a mid-sized brand plush, a cute t-shirt and socks, a pocket mirror, tea, sweets and some other little filler gifts. (About $40 all in all.) Imho in that tier you shouldn't expect bigger brand pieces.

fuuuuck one of the items I bought for my match came in today and it's so nice I kinda wanna keep it. My giftee better appreciate the fuck out of it lol

>>10497270
lol i had the opposite experience, like: i would not wear this, but you do you, match.

>>10497270
I had that experience last year, since I had a match with taste really similar to mine. Still haven’t been able to find that item again to keep for myself.

>>10497270
my match has a wishlist where I kind of want to get 50% of the stuff myself but I'm keeping it together! I'm def bookmarking some things just for inspo/to find something similar tho for which I bless my match hah

>>10497270
I relate. My match has the same taste as me and I love the stuff I am buying for them.

>>10497270
My match has the same taste as me but we’re pretty different sizes, so that’s helping me. In fact it’s giving me a chance to buy some pieces that I’ve always wanted to see in person but never had a reason to buy before now. It’s fun! It’s crazy how well matched I feel, the organizers did a great job!

9695, you said you like Persona 5, Made in Abyss, and Fire Emblem; do you have favorite characters?

To the santa-gull who asked me for my shoe size in the last thread.. you'll be pleased to note I just put together my new shoe rack and I need more shoes to fill it.

It’s been a week and I still haven’t bought a single big item for my gifted. Fuck my life can’t find anything. Doubling the "where had all the ap go"

>>10497383
Damn
4618, is that you?

>>10497400
Have you tried Yahoo Japan? I found some last night.

>>10497400
Dude I feel you on that! It took me a week til I found something for my match and they mainly liked AP so it was nerve wracking. I found my main piece for them on LM. I kept refreshing through out the day and looking through everything. I got lucky late sunday night and snagged a well priced gift right when I saw it cause I wasn't wanting to wait til the last second. That's honestly the only advice I got though. I saw some stuff on mercari too when I was looking, they just go fast so just keep an eye on the sites and keep refreshing every couple hours.

>>10496554
Yay! One more question because I’m so indecisive, between red, green and black, which would you prefer?

>>10497400
This but with decently priced gothic stuff. Everything under $60 is Baby or shit

>>10496909
Nice

>>10497422
Also this. Are y’all Scottish-chans?! Didn’t mention this in my form but damn I love Hozier. And Polunin. I wish I had someone to speak of my love to.

>>10497416
Don't worry Anon, I'm pretty indecisive my self! I do like both red and black. It's about 65/35 on my preference, but black slightly etches it out more. Green doesn't really meld with my other stuff in my wardrobe.

>>10497426
Gotcha!

To 6057,

sorry for being soslow, just sent you a mail!

Can someone please remind me do we count shipping of the gift to ourselves into a gifts’ cost or not?

>>10497433
I don't believe shipping is considered part of the price of the gift.

How much "filler" gifts do people normally put in their boxes?? Do people just add them cause they have a bit of money in the tier to still spend?

>>10497433

>>10497433
I mean, even if we did, I wouldn't. That's cheap

>>10497435
I usually just put two or three items less than $20 each. It's not really needed, but I just think it's a nice inclusion. I just like to add items to make the disappoint factor less than if I just got one item. It's easy to mess up on SS, so I just hope one of the gifts will be appreciated. Or if they need something to use the main item. My grandma would always wrap up batteries with my gifts when I was a kid.

>>10497435
it's just due to my anxiety saying but what if they don't like that gift? and that gift? and that gift? and that's how i end up with a lot of filler.

>>10497436
Thanks for indulging my lazy ass, thought just so.

>>10497433
If you counted shipping that'd be super messed up

2020 is awful you guys can we please just go over budget and spoil eachother ?

>>10497031
I've done all the shopping over the weekend since it might take a while to arrive - I kept going over your info and Pinterest trying to make sure I match the features you put down, so the OP I got for you has almost elbow length sleeves and it's high waisted (but not very high/doesn't look bad).
Is that okay...? I can change it up if you can't wear it!

>>10497431

I haven’t received anything, if you sent it to my fakemail it might have timed out! I can give you another email address if you don’t mind sending again, I’m so sorry!

>>10497403
That's me. I posted my sizes >>10496338

>>10497424
Haha I put Hozier and I'm American. I bought a vinyl player just to buy the LPs. Currently hooked on Dinner and Diatribes.

>>10497495
Way ahead of you, I’m in $50-75 and already spent twice the max. Might buy one more thing for my giftee but otherwise done!

>>10497557
My $75-100 tier is getting about $300 of stuff. I'm so nervous about it though.

>>10497563
SAME. I hope it’s not awkward but oh well, I want to make her happy cuz it’s been quite the year. But it’ll be fine, if you’re super nervous just leave it anonymous!

>>10497578
Me three. I chose a lot of things I think she'll really like though so hopefully she's too excited about her gift to feel awkward about the cost!

>>10497502
Please do!

#8290

Could you tell me a little more about the types of brooches you like? Do you like vintage style ones, or do you like wooden ones along the lines of Peppermint Fox and Echantillic Enchantilly? Or older BtSSB metal jewelry? Do you like animals or would you prefer florals or abstract decorative shapes? Are there colors and/or metals you prefer?

Thanks!

>>10497563
Wow! I've never has a match go past the budget for my stuff before which is fine not everyone can! So whoever your match is is going to be so thankful. Its incredibly sweet that you're doing that. Thanks santa! Your match is going to be so so happy and thats the best part. Don't be nervous at all.

>>10497563
Your match will be incredibly thankful. If you have the means to do so why not spoil your person after this lame year ?it's been a hard time. Your person will be so happy!

4928, you mentioned that you have an interest in trying out some j-fashion! are there any specific styles that you like the look of? Any colors or prints?

Also would you prefer something more decorational (ex: figure, art to be framed) or something more functional (clothing, item for cosplay, etc)?

>>10497557
>>10497563
Currently at $102 for my 50-75, $133 for my 75-100, and only $159 for my 100+

I'm still browsing the secondhand markets. I wasn't going to spend much more (maybe some fillers) but the election is stressing me out and retail therapy sounds nice, especially when it's for other people.

>5878
Do you have any Meta kimono print items you're specifically looking for currently? I'm on your pinterest but it's a bit vague for that category.

>>10497602
I like ribbon/bows, flowers and applique/embroidered brooches the most! I also like animals, especially bears and rabbits. I prefer gold tone jewelry to silver, otherwise any colors I mentioned on the form would be fine. I'm not as into wooden brooches but I'm open to that if you think it would fit!

>>10497557
I’m pretty sure my match is gonna get 2-3x what their tier is because one piece is already the whole tier cost but I’m nowhere near done lmao

>#9616
Who are your Girls Und Panzer favorites? Or just general anime/vidya waifus.

>>10497497
No you don't need to change it lol. I appreciate you asking though. I'm just happy to get something!

>>10497710
This is my first year and I pretty much doubled the amount of the tier as well because of that. I felt bad only getting one item that would be the whole tier cost so I bought them a second item that cost a lil less then the first. But like I'm still looking at stuff for filler. Not sure exactly what I'm going to put in yet but I hope they enjoy it.

>>10497705
Excellent information, thank you very much

>>10497692
Hey there! Honestly, not specifically, I don’t think there’s a single one I dislike!
Also I guess I should’ve mentioned that kimono fabric is very welcome for small/ everyday things too, as I have some hair clips, cloth bags, and general accessories made from upcycled fabric.

>>10497655
Hey there! I’m still such a n00b when it comes to anything j-fash and know absolutely nothing, so I consulted a friend, and she said my aesthetic would be himekaji! I generally always wear light pinks/soft neutrals and lots of vintagey floral patterns. I also wear stuff with cats a lot, if that helps any haha. I don’t generally wear anything on my head except things with thin headbands because I don’t like my hair getting flattened on top, but bows and anything clip-in are fine! I also love things that accentuate the waistline. If you need any additional measurements, please let me know. :)

I’d prefer no art to be framed if possible, unless it was a really good commission/custom piece of shippy stuff from the shows given, only because our walls are so full of wall scrolls, prints, posters, and artwork already—there’s hardy a blank space anywhere atm. I do own tons of figures already, but I don’t mind more, even if they’re copies of things I have already. I do love functional items, too! I’m not picky and don’t mind gently used items.

>>10497746
I'm actually looking at accessories now. I'm just worried I might get you one you already have haha

Hi again, 7699! Does your gothic wardrobe have any navy in it?

>>10497746
Ahh don’t worry about it, I don’t think you would, as the few that I do have are off brand/ homemade, and they’re all so unique that it would be amazing coincidence if it was the same hahahah.


>6952
If you were to get a shirt, would you prefer it to be more form fitting or looser? Do you generally wear like a western size S/M?
Also you mentioned being interested in gothic lolita, do you prefer the more standard female style or the more male styles? Are there any items from that interest area that you’d want?

>>10497730
When in doubt, get candles and soap. Bitches love candles and soap

>>10497788
Unless they say they don’t want candles and soap. Nayrt but I also am looking for filler gifts and my giftee doesn’t want any of the traditional filler gifts.

>>10497495
I have not gone much over budget, at least not yet, but it's all burando items. I think I would be satisfied with that, so I hope my match is too and isn't expecting $300 worth or stuff.

>>10497807
poor match.

>>10497795
That is my problem right now. What is considered a traditional filler gift? Do I just put accessories in there and hope that's ok? Like if it matches with their coords in anyway that should be fun but like is jewelry considered traditional gifts? I am the confusion on what my filler gifts should be for them at this point.

>>10497788
I'm allergic to scented candles and most soaps. #notallbitches

>>10497862
Usually fillers are things like face masks, candles, soaps, stickers, maybe cute novelty socks, so I think accessories would be fun! And more useful, too.

>>10497809
Shut up.

>>10497864
This helped a bunch, Thank you!

>>10497773
Mostly S for western T-shirts. Standard female style please, I don't like male styles. Any item is fine!

>>10497788
Candles and soap can be a bad idea for shipping in a box With clothes and snacks. Whatever scent that candle or that soap is will make the entire box smell like that. Especially any snacks included. No one wants soap tasting snacks. I speak from experience as someone who lived overseas and got regular care packages from my family. The cookies always tasted like laundry detergent or body wash

Finally done. No more shopping because it's obscenely over budget already.

$50-75 tier
>Total: $127

$75-100 tier
>Total: $194

$100+ tier
>Total: $210

#5613
Hello there!
You play a lot of instruments, so I was wondering on how'd you rank them in terms of enjoyment! Thanks!

>>10497911
I'm at 7 to 8 things for my match and am scared to see how over budget I am. . I dont even work but I saved up all year specifically so I could spoil my match for ss. I feel you sister

>>10497928
Bless your soul Anon!
Hope you get plenty of good Karma!

>>10497714
I figured I included these on the forms well enough, but upon double checking it seems I only put these down for vidya gaems.

For GuP I'm a big Erika fan. Kuromorimine in general is my favorite school.
For LoL of Legends I'm a big Jinx fan. I already have the official figure of her though so don't worry about that if you were planning on it.
Cynthia is definitely my favorite pokewaifu
I've been getting into Genshin (which isn't on my form) and my favorite from that is definitely Amber
LoZ definitely Zelda herself
Then with Nier: Automata, it would probably be 2B, but I haven't really waifu'd anyone from that game besides an obscure side character, mostly for fun.

For the other stuff on the list I'm much more a general fan of them and not really a a waifu lover. Thanks for asking though gull.

>>10497938
Damn Anon, Jinx and 2b!? Good choices c:

>>10497911
This is just making me want to see everyone opening their gifts already to see how happy these spoiled gulls are gonna be!

>>10497727
Thank you! However I'd rather get you things you would be more than happy to have in your wardrobe and wear, so please do let me know if it's not your cup of tea as it's no trouble at all to change things up!

5177 and 4700 -

Are you happy with snacks? What do you like, sweets/chocolates/biscuits? Any liked and disliked flavours?
Would you be okay with other fillers like sheet masks and fluffy socks?
(Fluffy socks are life, especially over winter but not everyone might agree!)

Hey #6451, question, I know you put up a wish list to see what type of style you like which was fantastic already. But I was also wondering what you might already have in your lolita closet as well. Doesn't have to be a huge list but if you can give me like maybe one or two outfits you already own that would be great! If not it's fine.

#1383 would you like some candies? Do you have a preference for taste? Are spicy candies ok?

Would you go as far as getting your match a brand main piece you re not totally sure they are going to like?

>>10497993
If they’re not super specific in their wishlist, they are probably open to whatever matches their aesthetic and fits them. Personally I think that’s the fun of gifts, to get something that you wouldn’t necessarily pick out yourself but ends up surprising you. Worst case? They appreciate the gesture and trade it sell it to find something they’d like better and it’s still a win

>>10497771
it does! thanks for checking in

>>10496909
tuxedo sam master race

>>10497928
Same anon. I just quit my job in October and I probably shouldn't have spent that much but 2020 has been a year so fuck it.

>>10497946
Same! I'm excited that I'm not the only one splurging. Everyone seems so happy and generous this year, probably because of how shit it's been in general.

>>10497898
So it would be a good idea to wrap that separately then? I got my seagull some soap and hand sanitizer and I think I'm just going to put everything in it's own bag

>>10498049
In sealed plastic if you can, but just the perfumed stuff is the stuff you want to seal up. It all depends on how long you think it’s in the going to be in the box. I was deployed overseas with the military so it would take six weeks for packages to get to me and that was more than enough time for whatever perfumes and fragrances in the soaps to get inside even sealed food. But if it’s only gonna be a few days then I don’t think it’s as big of a deal and a ziploc should do the trick

Hi 3851! I've been thinking that I have a really good gift for you but then I've read your form twice and now I feel myself stupid so I'm sorry for the next question. Does things from your collage represent what you want? Or they are what you already have?

First year participating and definitely underfilled my form, haven’t been asked a single question though. Hoping my match is just psychic and not a grinch. Not really expecting much regardless, I joined for the fun of gifting.

So I found my match a dress that I think they’re going to like, for a decent price and in excellent condition. The only thing that bothers me is length, it’s an older release and it’s like 87cm or so. There aren’t any length preferences in her form though. Should I buy it or look more?

>>10498099
I think you should.

>>10496909
Laughing at this small panty

>>10497424
>>10497550
I put Hozier too and I’m American. He’s an amazing artist and a really sweet guy

>>10498128
All things weeb considered, it was probably part of Panty and Stocking with Garterbelt.

It's still worth a chuckle. Thanks for pointing it out!

6057, in case you missed - please drop a new mail!

>>10498097
I’m exactly in the same boat. Just focusing on being an awesome Santa!

>>10498099
she can wear long bloomers or an underskirt to make it work. I think you should have just asked her about length requirements in the thread, but now it's too late and would ruin the surprise, so just go for the purchase

>>10497955
I’m sure whatever you get me is gonna be wonderful!

I’d love to have snacks! I like those seashell shaped chocolates and then my favorite flavor of candy stuff is strawberry. Chips/biscuits i love too. I can’t stand mint and licorice stuff. I’m ok with cute little fillers like fluffy socks or sheet masks

>>10498284
god, those seashell chocolates are godly

>>10497966
Oh, I love candy! Especially chocolate. :) Pretty much everything is fine, I'm just not too fond of minty stuff. Spicy is ok too. (If it's not too spicy? I'm a total loser when it comes to tolerance for hot/spicy things, but I'm open to try new stuff!)

6446! Do you like chocolate? Chocolate jewelry?Prints?

>>10498095
Hello! Don't feel dumb! it's more like an examples of the things that I like. I have things close to them, but none of the items pictured.

I didn't want to post an actually wishlist, just stuff that I'm into. Hope that helps! Thank you very much

>>10498311
Yes, yes and yes! In terms of actual edible chocolate I like milk chocolate the most, not a fan of dark or bitter flavours

>>10497914
I’ve never ranked them before! I feel like I’m picking a favorite child but...

French horn is first and best
Then trumpet (brass in general)
Strings and Mandolin specifically next
Piano and generic music vibes last
(I’m not a woodwind person so apologies to any clarinetist out there who gets upset)

>>10498336
Good taste anon

>>10498336
>Piano last
anger

>>10498336
I'm pleased to be your Santa
However, it saddens me that Piano is Last
I wanna drown you in Orange Fanta!
But, I hope my presents are a blast

Oh this is going to hurt.. by the time I get everything and ship it off my giftees I'll have spent close to $1000 on secret santa this year.

I already had a taobao ss order going for myself when matches were assigned so I ordered lots of accessories and fillers for my giftwe and then paid the extra money for EMS instead of SAL. I’m actually kind of excited to get my package in a timely matter this time lol. Here’s hoping it comes before the deadline :) if not it’s no biggie since my other purchases are already over the limit and I can just keep the extras if they don’t come in time

>>10498498
Holy cow how many tiers?

>>10498621
Three. $75, $100, $100+

>>10498498
Damn, seeing this makes me glad I only did one gift. I can get carried away with spoiling without running up a huge bill. Kudos to you though anon, you’re gonna make your giftees happy.

>>10498626
I honestly didn't realize how much I'd spent until I saw it like this. Plus the other stuff I bought from Etsy and stuff.

>>10498498
Jesus I forgot how fast DHL is. They're estimating my package will be here on the 10th. Looks like I need to head to the local dollar shop to buy wrapping and tissue paper.

>>10497080
Piggybacking off this, would two brand items and some filler be alright for $30-$40 tier?

So, my fellow santas, are you going to succumb into a guilty pleasure of trying on a dress you got for your match? I'm not saying wearing, not at all, just to look how some style would look on you in the mirror. Personally I am really tempted to try on a dress I ordered for my giftee that I've been wanting to get myself for years, eh.

>>10498813
It personally wouldn’t bother me so long as your the correct size and not a sweaty mess or wearing makeup. It’s no different than buying clothes in a shop that someone’s tried on before right? Can’t say everyone feels the same tho.

>>10498813
Doesn’t bother me at all desu I don’t care if you wanted to do some coord pics for it

I can't wait to give my giftee the dress I was unable to sell

>>10498849
Are you serious anon? Only if it matches exactly what your giftee wants and is in good physical and selling condition would that be okay but.. that's still barely okay.

>>10498930
I don't care, I always end up with getting shitty gifts, so I decided not to be a good Santa this year

Reminder to not respond to bait

I’m thinking about how to wrap things. For mailing lolita purposes I like to have things in plastic, but that’s so unaesthetic. I could put the items in plastic bags then wrap the wrapping paper over the plastic but I dunno, I personally like opening tissue paper and being able to pull the item directly out. Plastic just doesn’t feel nice. What are you gulls planning? In real life I don’t wrap my family’s gifts in plastic, but this time I’m mailing to another country so it’ll be in the box way longer so I want it to be safe. Let’s hear some cute ideas!

>>10498944
put the plastic over the wrapping? once the gift arrives it's not at risk of getting in the rain anymore, i hope, and it's safe to take the plastic off and just leave the wrapping.

>>10498944
You can keep the clothes and items in the packaging they come in anon and wrap them up, I'd rather have mine like that instead of taken out and touched.
Then wrap up in wrapping paper with little ribbons and bows if you can, or washi tape.
Then put a layer of bubble wrap around your whole present in the box you're mailing in?

>>10498813
Eww wtf. Do not wear something that yoi got for someone else before sending. Especially with covid. Thats disgusting for a lot of reasons .this should get you banned from ss

>>10498813
Wouldn't bother me. I could understand.

>>10499168
You wash the stuff you receive anyway before actually wearing it (except for maybe quickly trying it on). Like... if I buy things from lacemarket which the previous owner washed directly before shipping I'll still wash it again once I receive it, bc you never know...
But it's like that other anon said - it's no different than trying on clothes in a store which other people have likely tried on.

>>10498813
I would hate this, please don't do this

>>10499205
You wouldn’t know if they didn’t tell you

Pretty annoyed I won two auctions on circilly two weeks ago and the seller hasn't contacted me about payment, shipping, nothing. I'm going to have to replace those items for my match with something else, which is super irritating when I had everything chosen aside from filler items. It's my fault for forgetting to contact them right away so this is a vent more than anything. I will spoil you match I promise!

>>10496909
No stationary/stationery this year?

>>10499257
We learned our mistake from that. Hell, every time I go to search it on sites I have to stop and think "A for America, E for European.. and the European's actually know how to spell it so stationery is correct."

>>10498813
I think that's entirely dependent on their new/used preference. If they want new only, it would be entierly inappropriate. If they are ok with used, it's no different from the previous owners wearing it. Exceptions are: if you are straining the seams, posting photos of you in it, or putting it against your skin and not washing it after.

>>10498813
>>10499300

Agreed. If your match has indicated they don't want secondhand, or you've bought a new/sealed item for them and are presenting it that way, absolutely not. If they're ok with secondhand, and you absolutely fit the measurements/clean it before sending, then it doesn't seem any different to me than buying a reasonably worn item.

>>10499255
That's really annoying, sorry about it anon. Have you tried spamming them about it already? If anything I'm sure you still got time to find your match something!

>>10499380
Second hand items are washed. You trying on the item for a fucking selfie or laugh isn't second hand . Its nit cleaned after. Like this literally is disgusting. Im not tried to get covid or athletes foot or lice .

You guys are hilarious

>>10499463
You can just feel the love.

>>10499172
They clean stuff tried on in the store with a specific kind of spray for dry cleaning . Huge diff.
Noone should have to get something dry cleaned because you decided to wear their brand new stuff /un opened items for a selfie. That's so conceited , are you that hungry for attention on social media?
Can santa please outlaw this asap i dont want to be a part of ss if this is okay.

>>10499468
Most nasty things will die in transit during shipping, but I understand where you're coming from. I wouldn't want someone trying on something that's supposed to be new. Best the Santa committee rule on this.

>>10498813
I wouldn't care at all, but I wear old school.

>>10498813
Maybe if you try it on over a cami or something, but please don’t actually let the dress touch your skin, that’s a faux pas. I wouldn’t recommend taking pictures either, at least don’t post them.

Honest question for gulls who are grossed out by the concept, what makes it different from buying something secondhand yourself? As long as the person sending still washes it after trying it on/shipping to you? The idea that they are using a gift purchase to take a bit of advantage for themselves or...?

>>10499468
I worked in retail for years and never once sprayed any clothes after they were tried on. So please wash new clothes- from any source. Don’t rely on other people to sanitize crap

Fun story- I forgot a blazer once and my manager had me wear one from the store for my whole shift and tuck in the tag, she didn’t give a fuck at all. (tbf though, I bought it after my shift. I was sweating like crazy that day and didn’t feel right putting it back on the floor lol)

>>10499468
like >>10499518 said, i have worked everywhere from corporate department stores to local bridal shops and no one sanitizes shit.

>>10499468
This is the dumbest shit I’ve ever read. Maybe extremely high end stores do this, but no one else does.

Even brand new lolita may have been tried on. I’ve tried on clothes in AP San Francisco and not bought them, and those clothes in the store are the exact ones they’re selling online. It’s not different inventory. They made me wear a mask on my face to prevent my make up from transferring, but that was it. So even new lolita stuff may have been tried on. There’s really no such thing as sanitary unless you’re in an actually official sterile environment where you have to wear a clean hazmat suit and shower before you enter. Everything you touch in this world is covered in bacteria. I know coronavirus has turned a lot of people into germaphobes, but every garment you buy has been touched by many people. How do you think things get folded into bags, the tags attached, the garment inspected, the garment sewed, the fabric cut, etc? Just relax. It’s ok. Your garment won’t have cooties if someone tries it on. That being said I do think it would be weird to try something new on.

How many other gulls are getting ready to send off their gifts within the next week or so? I'm wondering if it's too early..

>>10499536
I'm someone who has immune issues so to me its a big deal.
And as other anon said, they use a cleaning spray after someone has tried something on to properly clean it. The gift is for someone else , not you. You shouldn't be trying it on.

>>10499536
I myself have immune issues so I get sick very easily..so this is something that makes me uncomfortable. Auto immune disorders and diseases are way more common than people realize. Something like a cold can send them to the hospital. Mine isn't so bad but my cousin gets extremely sick from 'normal people ' sicknesses. Honestly you should ask your person if they're okay with it, dont make the choice yourself .

i mean you can't control who touches the package in the post offices, what workers sneeze on it, what other boxes its touched, etc. if a washed garment someone else once touched is enough of a concern for you then you should be sanitizing it as soon as you receive it anyway.
like fuck ive got my own immune issues but "no one must have touched this clothing or i can never wear it" is not a realistic standard, do you only buy t shirts encased in plastic? what kinda nonsense bait is this going for? I've never met a lolita who doesn't own and wear secondhand items.

>>10499602
I want to but I’m waiting for one more thing to arrive. I’m planning on sending it off early if I can though

>>10499602
I'd like to send my gift early, but WW is dragging their feet on shipping. I contacted customer service today, so hopefully I can get my gift sent by the end of the month.

>>10499602
I’m still waiting on a few things but my cards are ready. Trying to decide if I should wait to send them all together.

>>10499638
My cards are ready too, I’m wondering if I should just mail them? I wonder if it would be better at least somewhat closer to Christmas though.

>>10499622
Wow seagul calm it down.
Pretty sure they weren't talking about someone touching their garment but someone wearing it for selfies . Theres a big difference anon. Im no lolita. I cosplay ....but can you really throw your lolita dresses in the washer ?? That seems like something that would need to be dry cleaned.

>>10499602
I'm still in the process of getting more filler items, but I'm hoping to send everything out by the end of november.

Question to the gulls, do you prefer to open your gifts right away or wait until the actual holidays to open them?

>>10499672
I'll open the box slightly and see if everything is wrapped separately. If it's wrapped separately then I'll open one a day starting in december, then post pictures when it's all opened. I, also, take a picture right when I get the package so Santa knows I have it.

just got the first pieces in for my gifts and its such a good rush. I hope I can send them out soon!

>>10499672
I like to open them as soon as they arrive, especially since the holiday season is so hectic so you never know if you'll get time if you wait.

>>10499672
i'd open the cards right away and the gifts on xmas morning

>>10499672
Depends. If I’m staying in town for Christmas I’ll wait. If I’m traveling to visit family I’ll just open it when it comes unless it comes super early, then I may wait a week until it’s closer to Christmas

Customs hit me hard santa-gulls, but at least my package is arriving.

>tfw got 6 cards and already bought them ~15$ of stuff each
>hasn’t even bought them fav merch things yet

>>10499822
is it taboo not to send gifts with your card matches? my noob santa understanding was gifts were for gift matches, and card matches got only christmas cards instead of gifts

>>10499650
Yes 9/10 can be tossed in the washer like regular clothes.

Would you prefer to get one big gift or two smaller gifts? The two smaller gifts would be about the same value as the big gift. I've already gotten my match filler gifts, just trying to decide on a centerpiece gift.

>>10499842
No but just to throw in some preprinted card and be done with it is considered mauvais ton. It’s common to write a letter or include some stickers or a face mask with the card, something to show you care.

Side story: when I first started participating which was like four years ago I got a plain piece of red cardboard which had just "Merry xmas" on it in a blue ball pen and it was so ugly and disappointing. Like what the point in going through all the process of sending international cards if it lacks the touch. And then three years ago I was grinched by 100+ tier, it was made better with helpers sending me a really small gift but still ruined for me UNTIL I got a card from my card match which totally made my Christmas. It was sent way before I was grinched and was so warm and precious it made me feel loved and my faith in humanity was restored. I always do thoughtful cards but this year I’m totally going to spoil my card matches as much as I can

>>10499859
>I was grinched by 100+ tier
That's my fear this year. First time doing it.

>>10499842
I don't ever expect gifts with the cards I receive, though I usually put some little things in mind. But I do think there should be some sort of thoughtful touch to it, like a nice note, or if it's clear the sender picked a card based on the interests I listed, or if they handmake it.

>>10499643
Please just mail them. With all the covid hysteria it could take months.

>>10499877
Highly unlikely. Unless you’re a troll you should know that you can only participate in 100+ if you’re whitelisted.

>>10499842
No, but you should put effort in the way you do best - a letter if you are good at writing, a drawing if that's your thing, or throw in some stickers. The lowest gift tier starts at $15, so I consider postcards to be the "$0-$15" tier.

Aaaah 100% of two of my three giftees stuff just got to me. Just waiting on my order of wrapping supplies so I can make the package look nice.

>>10499877
This is my third or fourth time doing the $100+ tier and I’ve never been grinched. With the feedback and whitelisting system you should be pretty safe.

>>10499892
Anons who said they like stickers better beware. It's coming.

>>10499672
I wait until closer to the holiday to open them, if not on the day itself (depending on if I'm traveling elsewhere to visit family that year). I just like the seasonal element to it and it feels more special that way, rather than something I've bought for myself/open immediately. I do take a photo of it when it arrives or post that I've received it just so the sender doesn't worry it's lost in the mail though.

I strongly dislike a card match (I know exactly who she is, though only by reputation) and I'm really glad I'm not her gift match. Not saying who it is because I don't know how many cards she signed up for and don't want to out myself to her. I bought her a nice card and a small gift because I'm not a total cunt, but ugh.

>>10499842
I've gotten flak for my kindergarten-tier handwriting on cards in the past but by the same token it's gone over better than hallmark cards.

>>10499962
what a childish and unnecessary thing to say

>>10500030
She was a bitch to her santa last year, so I don’t care.

My second gift came in today! Everything is super cute and I hope my giftee likes what I bought her. I'm just waiting on one more filler item and then I'm gonna be wrapping everything up to send out before the deadline cause I'm worried about the pandemic making shipping take too long.

>>10500033

I feel like now it could have only been one of two, maybe three people given what I read in the thread last year.

>bought all gifts ~3 days after matches went out with whatever the fastest shipping was
>still waiting on 8 things to arrive to me

I’m slightly worried about having to shop out close to the deadline, but if I have to splurge on faster shipping I will.

>>10499885
>Highly unlikely. Unless you’re a troll you should know that you can only participate in 100+ if you’re whitelisted.
nayrt, but girl... that anon meant she was doing the 100+ tier for the first time, not cgl SS in general...

>>10499847
If its 100 tier and they only get 2 things that'd be horrendous. If its 2 things and filler that's still...pretty bad.
It depends on the tier . Everyone is spoiling their match this year so please try to , especially if you're 100 tier

>>10500078
I’m not in 100, I’m in 50-75. I’m looking at a JSK she wishlisted that’s already $90, so it’s either that or two new brand accessories. I’ve already spent well over $75 on non-brand gifts that match her interests and preferences so I don’t appreciate you implying that I’m being cheap.

>>10500078
what an entitled thing to say. I feel like you're someone in the 100+ tier who is just greedy to recieve as much as possible and not actually concerned about others. if your santa is within the minimum, then that is not "horrendous" and you will manage to survive. this is why people complain they feel pressured to overspend - this comment is literally saying to overspend because other people do

I've seen a lot of comments pushing towards spoiling, and I just want to say that its normal and expected to stay within your tier of cost. Don't feel pushed to overspend if you're not comfortable with that, just focus on putting together thoughtful presents. It's not a contest, it's supposed to be a fun thing.

>>10500097
this. I signed up for the $30-$40 tier because that's what I can afford. The gift I have is closer to $40 than $30, but I'm still not spoiling by any means, but have added thoughtful items and a nice drawing for my match

>>10500088
I'm in the 50 but okay. If you're in the 100 plus range you should at least do more than 2 items . With filler its possible without going crazy . 2 big priced items and several filler imo is fine if you have big items as the main

>>10500129
You sound like a real cunt

>>10500129
>would rather get 2 cheaper items than one more expensive one
hmmm

My order from Japan is due to arrive tomorrow with partial gifts, then I will go ham on Taobao for filler for 11.11!! Super excited to see the items and start wrapping stuff up, but I haven't found any cute wrapping paper yet.

Thank god my order didnt take 6 weeks like the last one, hoping the same for Taobao.

>>10500148
Just curious, I'm on the hunt for cute wrapping paper, and cute stationary for my card tier, and was wondering if you had any recommendations? I was gonna try target tomorrow if anything but I really want to find some cute cards and washi tape too and the only stationary store I knew of shut down during covid.

>>10500152
This is the RL shop I go to, but I just found out they had a online store too
https://lilthinga.com/

>>10500129
I'm in the hundred plus. I want my giftee to get me something they can afford and they are comfortable with. No one should break the bank for me if they're struggling, I can afford my own shit. The fun is in giving, not getting- it's entitled to expect a huge gift when you literally sign up with a price framework in mind.

>> 10497344
Nanachi for Made in Abyss
Haru from P5
Dimitri for fire emblem
I hope this helps

>> 10497344 #
Nanachi for Made in Abyss
Haru from P5
Dimitri for fire emblem
I hope this helps

>>10500195
This. But I will say with this being my first year and trying to find something my match would like I did feel like I had to go over budget. I didn't really mind doing it because I have the means to right now but it is a lil daunting feeling when you want to make sure you buy them something they like. I ended up buying 2 things same budget price as a sorry if you didn't like the first item, hope you like the other type deal.

>in a lower gift tier
>already bought main gifts
>managed to buy 100+ dollars worth of filler items alone because my matches like stationary
oh god what have I done

>>10500217
Since it's your first year, you had to do 40 right? When I did it, it was very difficult to actually do a gift in that range. lolita is generally pretty expensive. It's nice of you to give a good gift. I also went over because I was so nervous they wouldn't like one thing so I'd buy another thing to make up for it...anxiety, man.

>>10500241
same, I got two accessories and I'm like WHAT IF THEY DON'T LIKE THEM!?!? so I'm shoving the gift full of extra bits in hope it will appease them

>>10500252
God I know Im so stressed too. I followed the guidelines of what they like but.. stressss

>>10500241
Honestly this is really it. The only time in the last four years of doing this I’ve been able to get main pieces was in $100+. And if you’re in a lower tier maybe you can blow your $50 on like an accessory or two and then you’ve got to pray they like them, because even with a detailed form it’s difficult! They like pink but it’s cool toned and their dream dress is warm toned etc. This year I’m in a middling tier and have tried to have an even 3 way split with one third jfash, one third their hobbies and one third their fave characters with a bit of filler. It’s not easy gifting for strangers, but it is fun.

What happens if a Main piece doesn't come in time? Is it better to just send what you have and then the main piece later? Will I be blacklisted if a buyer scammed me? Just nervous because my buyer hasn't show any activity in twelve days.

>>10500241
Yeah $40 tier, ended up doubling that cause I felt bad only getting an accessory for this girl to open up so I bought a main piece too that i thought she might like. Hopefully she likes one of them. I also knew lolita was kinda expensive but never really knew how much, I was honestly using this event to hopefully get more into the community cause I've been wanting to get into lolita but hadn't had the chance to before.

>>10500270
At that point your best bet is to cut your loss and find a different gift.

I wanted to wait until I got some tissue paper to wrap everything in to ship off 2/3 of my gifts but I'm getting so impatient and it's not supposed to arrive until next week. I just want my giftees to get their packages already.

>>10500270
Wait, what. You’re not telling that you signed for gifts without any money on hands, are you?

>mfw my giftee's last gift just arrived in a 3'4" box

Well.. at least it's free packaging for me to use to send to them but holy shit that's a massive box.

>>10500338
Jesus did you buy a toddler?

>>10500338
That’s some mad Amazon energy

>>10500359
i was just going to say this

>>10500356
It's 2020, no one's going to ask for that for Christmas.

>>10500359
It is an Amazon box actually but what's inside takes the entire length of the box so for once it's not Amazon overcompensating. It was a wishlist item they wanted.

>>10500366
I sometimes get amazon boxes that could fit 3 of the item inside plus packing materials, so it was a good guess.

>>10500374
Valid though. I once ordered a two-pack of allergy meds and they gave me a box that was 2/3 packing bubbles.

>>10500329
Learn to read.

>>10500097
I usually do 75-100, but this time I specifically signed for 100+ because every fucking single year I’m like "I won’t be buying them %thingname%, it’s alone the tier entirely" and then I buy it and overspend on fillers or buy something else and still overspend on small pieces. I always end up spending more than 100, so I figured out it’d be more fair and convenient to just sign with 100+.

>>10500097
for me the bar is so low i will be impressed if the present i receive is jfashion at all

>>10500419
I mean same lol

>tfw I wrap gifts all nice and realize my largest priority mail box is slightly too small

I regret throwing away my collection of Amazon boxes.

>>10500097
Honestly I'm only gonna spoil if we got the same taste.

>>10500400
>>10500329
I wrote this when I was died tired.
I bought from a reseller, I fucked up. Sorry for the confusion. I might just have to spend more, no big deal.

>>10500148
Nooooo I am so sad! One of the items I bought which was described as brand new in box arrived not only NOT brand new, but also NOT IN THE BOX. The seller only sent the box with nothing inside!!!

I didn't get insurance with my SS so I doubt I'll get a refund which I am not too fussed on, but I am just so sad about the item! It was so cute and a limited item so it will be a pain to find again.. ugh.. I am really disappointed.

>>10500516
That's fucked up

>>10500554
You got an empty box ?
Regardless if your item isn't as described ebay or PayPal will refund you no prob

>>10500558
learn to read

>>10500554
Damn that’s hella fucked up. I hope it wasn’t too expensive

>>10500558
>>10500560
Yeah! The photo just shows the front, so its hard to prove if it was open already as well.

Conspiracy - the SS opened it and stole it to try and make me buy insurance next time1!! It wasn't expensive so I am not that worried about that side of things.. I just think my match would have really liked it and so I am sad cos of that.

>>10500258
Tfw never got a main piece after being $100+ for at least 3 years now

>>10500566
Time for a PayPal dispute ! :D

>>10500570
I paid my SS straight from my card.. But I think as well if I forced a PayPal refund, they would for sure blacklist me and tell all their friends so I could never buy from Japan again.. I think I'll just cut my losses.

>>10500557
Lol salty

>>10500569
I hope I got you then!

>>10500569
I want to get my match a main piece, but she’s into 2010s sweet and while I’m going over budget I’m not going THAT over budget.

>>10500625
Oof, maybe go for a kumya?

>>10500570
t. scrote who doesn't use shopping services

ID# 3977
Do you want one big main gift and a few smaller gift or a bunch of smaller gifts? Or no preference? Ordering soon!

This sucks. I got wrapping supplies arriving next week but until then all I can do is sit and stare at this pile of gifts. I want to mail it off so bad but I don't want to send anything unwrapped.

#6952, it me again

I'm about to order the main part of your gift but I wanted to throw some filler in also, are you into things like socks, skincare, candy, tea, stationery, etc.?

God I am so nervous to start writing! Ive got my cards and small candy I want to include but I feel like I am very autistic and I won’t be able to write a nice, warm letter. Is anyone about the same and still doing cards? I’m not the only socially stunted one right?

>>10501621
I’m still doing cards. I’m not mailing mine until after thanksgiving. They only take a week at most to get there and i want them to get there in the Christmas season, not while it’s still fall. But I’m a strict Christmas can’t start until after thanksgiving B. It’s still fall, dammit.

>>10501621
Meth I sound like a sperg all the time especially in writing so it is what it is. I think the sentiment will shine through as long as it’s from the heart

>>10501621
u can write a rough draft for ur peace of mind before u copy it to the real stationery

>ID# 9616

Your gifts are arriving in two separate boxes via USPS Priority and should be there in 2-3 days. I sent tracking links to Santa Gull just now.

So my gift for my match is ready to go, but I'm worried that I'm sending it too early. Are you all waiting?

>>10501789
If it was any other year I'd say maybe a bit early, but god only knows this year. I'm shipping as soon as I can, just in case.

>ID #3013
Your gifts are being sent in one flamingo print polymailer. I've sent Santa Gull the tracking info.

>ID #5878

Canada sucks ass for shipping costs but you were an absolute gem to shop for so please keep an eye out for a massive white polymailer heading your way. Santa Gull has been sent the tracking info!

>>10501790
Bro same

>>10501791
Pretty sure I didn’t mention I love flamingoes so I guess this is just a happy coincidence! That was fast anon, I’m looking forward to it!

>>10501848
Oh awesome! At least that's a little bonus then haha

>>10500922
No preference

>>10501789
I'm going to send mine as soon as the packages arrive.

>>10501710
You're too kind!
Really
I'm not going to get them for about two weeks since I knew I wasn't going to be at my current address when gifts are supposed to be out.
It's 0 trouble at all, it will just wait for me, but I won't get back to you with super gushing thanks until Dec 3rd or so hehe

>>10501808
Eeeek! So exciting! I’m really touched that you enjoyed shopping for me ;__; Thank you for sending it out so early, I’ll be keeping watch!

>>10501976
I'm glad it'll arrive safely! I'm always worried a gift will get sent back or something. No rush either because I know I'm sending it early but the postal system has been kind of iffy lately so better early than late.

>>10501999
Of course! I don't have an estimate for you since even with what USPS says is a timeline probably won't happen since it's international but maybe a week or so and you should have it?

>People talking about mailing out their packages
>Just got my hands on the last craft supplies I needed
>Still needs to finish sewing

Anyone else who feels late in comparison to these brave early birds?

>>10502302
Me too! I've finished 2 out of the 3-4 accessories I plan to make for my match, but I'm still waiting on my taobao order to arrive. It supposedly comes in 2ish weeks, so we'll see. I've been browsing lm though just in case

>>10502302
I had my taobao order mailed to me last week. Fingers crossed it gets here in time. I have a backup plan if not, but :(

>>10502302
I received my main pieces, but I did a ton of shopping on Taobao for 11.11 which I havent even sent to myself yet as I am still waiting for everything to arrive at the SS. Praying it gets to me on time once it gets sent!

>>10502302
One lone brave bird actually so don't feel bad. I'm the nearly $1000-chan so I really wanted to just get everything sent off before I spent more.

>>10502381
Damnnnnnn. past 4 years of this i barely get a match spending the bare minimum.

>>10502302
I'm still waiting for things to arrive, so you're not alone.

>>10502441
The numbers definitely feel like I've splurged ($435 on FJ in items (+ $80 in fees and + $157 in shipping), $42 on Etsy, $135 on misc sites) plus all the shipping fees to me and then shipping to them (Canada-gull cost $60 alone) but when I looked at the pile of gifts I got for everyone it felt like I basically spent nothing. It happens every year for Secret Santa. I get stuff they want but I still feel like I've just gone to the dollar store and gotten absolute crap and tossed it into a box and I'm irrationally worried people will think I cheapskated them and went under-budget.

New thread >>10502668