Author's Note: Most of this might or might not help you. I hope you find it somewhat useful though.
1) Stick to one color scheme so it'll be easier to buy accessories and shoes based for it.
2) You don't need to have a lot of money to buy lolita dresses. You can buy preowned and it'll be cheaper or from bodyline.
3) The dress isn't what make up the outfit but the coord.
4) If your dream dress size doesn't fit then don't buy it yet wait until you find the correct size.
5) Don't act like someone else be yourself. Sure the fashion is cute and all but if you're acting like someone you're not then you won't be as happy.