30 Years Later and ‘Star Wars’ is Geek Fashion

When Star Wars hit theaters in 1977 it brought with it a new look at Sci-Fi, prior to its arrival Star Trek ruled the small screen. But something about Star Wars was different, it was a Space Opera and after that America was hooked.

With it came toys, action figures, bed sheets, lunch boxes, whatever you could plaster Luke Skywalker’s face on you would find it. Back in 77 and in the subsequent years after, you wouldn’t find any traditionally “girly” toys or clothing. Sure you could steal your brother’s blaster OR better yet his clothing, but it wasn’t yours.

1977 Princess Leia Organa Action Figure from Toy Hall of Fame

While I discovered Her Universe back in 2013, when I bought my first Doctor Who leggings the company which is owned by Ashley Eckstein the voice of Ahsoka in Star Wars: Rebels & Clone Wars  brings to the table looks that are strictly girl.

From leggings to hairpins, Eckstein’s company has paved the way for others to do the same and provide girls with plenty of cute looks. It was around this time I started noticing more and more products for girls hitting store shelves.

Her Universe Rouge Squadron Dress models by Eckstein for Her Universe (Image belongs to Her Universe) 

The thing with Her Universe unlike many other companies is the fact that the products are also come in Plus Size and in the last year items have been sold at Torrid, especially the new Force Awakens line.

This inclusion is also important to note as well, because girls of all sizes and shape can now participate in being geeky and stylish.

I gush about Her Universe a lot because for the first time in my life I found clothes that was girly and fit the kind of image I like to perceive. It also helps that the items from the different lines are available not only from the main site but can be found online and even at places like Hot Topic and are easily accessible.

Though in 2 years and the resurgence of Star Wars items are popping up all over the place from Target to Macys, girls both young and old have choices. Lines like Rock and Republic (found at Kohls) and even JcPenneys has what they have dubbed a “New Generation” of Star Wars items which includes items for women in stylish cuts and designs.

Rock and Republic Star Wars Cold Shoulder Sweater from Kohls (Image belongs to Rock and Republic for Kohls)

What was once not accessible to women before has now been dubbed Geek Fashion and racks are suddenly overflowing with skater dresses and leggings as well handbags, cosmetic bags and even funky heels.

You can’t escape the products being marketed at women and at young girls, suddenly “Star Wars” is pink and shiny with rhinestones and is attracting both the non-geek and the geek gal.

When you look at it like that, you’re attracting more fans and attracting women who may have never been interested in the fandom before or even interested in “geeky” things.

While it took 30 years to include women from the fashion aspect, many fans have been crafting for a long time both hand painted and sewn the designs have been around for a long time.

Next we’ll take a look at the high-fashion take over on the runways.

How ‘Star Wars’ Became Stylish

18 years ago my mother, a proud trekkie and Lord of the Rings fan took me to experience Star Wars for the first time. While I was only 7, Princess Leia and her iconic hair would stick with me for a long time.

In 2001 Star Wars: Episode 1 changed how I viewed myself, I was 11 and I knew that October I had to be Padme. Everything about her red throne room dress and make up would stay with me, just like Leia’s iconic look did a few years before.

Padme’s Throne Room Dress, Episode 1, 2001. On display at “Star Wars and the Power of Costume” EMP Seattle, 2015.

Since then I have come into being a Geek, with a lot of judgement and shirts that are too big even for dudes. Thankfully 2015 saw the rise of Star Wars again, and a change in how women are seen in ‘Geekdom’ and how they dress.

30 years, it took 30 years to acknowledge women and girls in the Star Wars and that we are more than frumpy and unstylish but in reality bring our own look. A lot has changed in those 30 years and thanks to companies like HerUniverse and even Disney, women are being seen as more than sexy for the male gaze but for their choice in fashion and attire.

From Cover Girl to even Diane Von Furstenberg, fashion and the Star Wars galaxy have collided in what I would consider a cosmic event. The acknowledgement of what I consider myself as a Stylish Female geek is everywhere.

Though this idea of fashion and geekdom has been long time coming, in part thanks to companies recognizing women and their love of Sci-fi in what was once considered male held.

Companies like Australian based Black Milk Clothing, make everything from dresses to leggings with some of the most iconic titles in geekdom. No longer are women wearing outfits made for male counterparts, but are wearing chic high fashion pieces.

This article is a multiple part series, exploring the new high fashion world of geeky women’s fashion. It also should beg the question why were there less dresses and more t-shirts in the past, join me as we explore a galaxy that isn’t so far far away anymore.

 

 

 

12 Days of Giving Back Day 6

It’s no secret I love books, I have a shelf overflowing with my favorite books and graphic novels. I frequent libraries like it’s my job and you can even find me on goodreads.

One of my favorite companies is Out of Print, which creates bags, shirts and other items with famous book covers and even redacted passages from banned books. The products which are sold online can also be found in book shops and speciality shops throughout the U.S.

But outside of the fact that Out of Print is super cute and has great items for everyone on your list, they also give back. Out of Print donates a book to Books for Africa and to those who don’t have access to books.

Through purchases on their website, you provide a book to a variety of school children in Africa and help establish a higher literacy rate in the country. 

Though many have seen their shirts and jackets, Out of Print also has great bags, socks, and now even women’s leggings. These items can be purchased at local shops or on their website located here.

 

12 Days of Giving Back Day 5

Warby Parker, like Toms is another well known one for one company which provide glasses and eye exams for those in need.

This company is one of those I have no idea how I came to learn about it but I wear my glasses with pride. While Warby is a bit more expensive, they do offer non-perscirption sunglasses for those of looking to give a good gift.

As mentioned the glasses are pricey, but they provide a unique style and if you’re looking for something a bit more funky they are the perfect company.

The concept is simple in that you buy a pair and they provide a pair to someone else in the world who needs it. To date the company has provided over 500,000 glasses for those in need, and continues to provide to those who need it.

While they do provide nonprescription glasses, if you’re looking for a gift for yourself their home try on program gives you the option to shop around and for around $95 you can get a pair of stylish glasses for yourself or maybe your a child.

Unlike some of the other companies, Warby is straight forward and provide exactly what they advertise chic glasses which give back. To shop for others or yourself go here.

 

12 Days of Giving Back Day 4

While I will admit I fell behind due to life getting in the way, here is Day 4 of my Giving Back series.

Pura Vida which means Pure life in spanish, is more than a slogan. The Bracelets which are made by local Costa Rican Artisans do more than just employee the local population but also give back to over 190 charities.

The company which was founded 5 years ago by California transplants, takes the simple idea of the friendship bracelet we all knew from camp and after school programs and gives it new meaning.

The bracelets which can be bought in stacks or as single bracelets and turned into custom stacks provide limitless options, but also give the wearer the ability to give back to a charity of their choosing.

Pura Vida have also worked with known names and companies to provide custom stacks that reflect the designer. I had first heard of the company from the Yoga Girl instagram who is a well known yoga instructor from Aruba.

From 1% for the planet to even a bracelet for the recent Paris attacks, there are plenty to choose from. Since starting the company there are now options for charms and even more beaded styles, along with the original styles created. The bracelets are also water proof and have a metal charm which are coated to not rust as well.

So far the company has made $666,721 in lifetime donations, and much like other one for one companies they provide opportunities to become reps and even internships for people looking to get more involved.

Pura Vida can be followed across Social Media and bracelets can be shopped here.

12 Days of Giving Back Day 3

This is the third installment in the 12 days of giving back series, and probably one of the best known one for one companies is Toms.

I got my first pair of Toms in 2009 and have since bought two more pairs which I wore to work at one point because of the company. The California based company had started with shoes, has since expanded to include boots, sneakers, glasses, clothing, accessories and coffee.

Toms started with just donating shoes to children in developing countries, but has added to providing vision exams to kids who need it and with a purchase of their coffee they provide clean water to those who need it.

The great thing about Toms is just that, if you don’t know someone’s shoe size, you can get them glasses or even just a pack of coffee which is available at Whole Foods.

Though Toms now also offers marketplace, which features other companies who also give back. The marketplace has everything from bags to blankets, so there are plenty of gifts to give that give back.

Climbing a mountain in Spain with my Gray Classics in 2011

But alas, Toms does shoes and they are some of he most comfortable shoes I have ever worn. They are also great for those of us who refuse to wear sneakers or socks for that matter.

To shop Toms and their variety of items along with their marketplace go here .

12 Days of Giving Back Day 2

Today I am excited to share a new company, but one that works with yesterday’s company The Elephant Pants. Hmong Hill which sells tribal bags and jewelry is a new company, which donates $4 of every purchase to schools.

Currently Hmong Hill is donating to 3 schools in Africa, and has partnered with the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF). Through the partnership AWF helps to build or rebuild schools throughout Africa in order to establish conservation education.

Like The Elephant Pants, the bags are made in Thailand and the fabric is woven by their namesake the Hmong Hill tribe who create the unique woven fabric.

Currently Hmong Hill is running a special and for every bag you buy, they’ll include a pair of The Elephant Pants standard pants. Both companies are trying to change the outlook of our world through education and conversation. But their slogan says it all “Bright Bags. Brighter Minds.”

Check out Hmong Hill here and follow them across social media for updates about their bags.

Disney Announces New Merchandise

If you’ve ever been to Walt Disney World or Disneyland you probably have seen the tourists from Tokyo or Hong Kong wearing merchandise you’ve never seen.

From adorable purses with Duffy the Disney Bear’s face to super cool t-shirts printed with princesses and other characters. In recent years much of the merchandise released over seas is slowly making it’s way across from Asia to our stores here.

Shellie May is probably the most coveted souvenir from Tokyo Disneyland and fetches a hefty price tag via eBay and other sites.

Last year in August Disney announced that Japan’s beloved Shellie May was coming to Aulani Resort and Spa in Hawaii. Many fans of Duffy Bear have become acquainted with Shellie May and her adorable merchandise that shows up in Japan. Shellie who is Duffy’s friend also created by Minnie Mouse, keeps Minnie company while Duffy and Mickey are off on their own adventures.

On Monday Disney Parks Blog announced that that Shellie May would be making her final leap onto the mainland, the adorable girly bear will be arriving at Epcot this fall. While it wasn’t announced if Shellie would get her own meet and greet like Duffy had, it was announced she would be available for purchase along with her own story book and set of costumes.

Along with the arrival of Shellie May, Disney continues to bring over merchandise which had been created for Tokyo. If you have been living under a rock for the past 2 years, then you have probably heard about the Tsum Tsum craze that hit the U.S., the adorable stuffed toys which stack have been welcomed with a grand frenzy.

A full set of Alice in Wonderland Tsum Tsum.

Along with the Tsum Tsum, Disney has also released merchandise to match their cute appearance. From socks to shirts, as well as dinnerware. This past week the Disney Store released their D/Style page, which includes a lot of these items along with a few other items such as handbags and a few other goodies.

Winnie the Pooh stuffed Tsum Tsum pencil case.

D/Style comes straight to us from Japan, all items found on the Disney Store website, they were designed by Japan’s creative team. According to the Disney Style Blog the items found in the collection are exclusive and bring a more “Kawaii” look to characters we already love, along with more Tsum Tsum.

The collection which was announced earlier this year at D23, has been long awaited by many fans since it caters to the 18-30 demographic of women. Though one could argue the items cater to all ages since it’s cute and colorful, but also very stylish.

Let me know which items you love the most on the new D/Style section and what you think of Shellie May coming to visit finally.

Disney World and other happenings

I have been absent, that I am aware of but unfortunately life has been busy and I unfortunately for the first time in maybe 4 years? Got the flu. Yes THE flu, I spent a week miserable and used almost all my sick time up at work because of how bad it was.

Aside from being a sick mess, I was also largely uninspired due to my sickness so it’s why I have been silent. The last three days I spent dealing with work and catch up, as well as a few contracting projects.

So so here we are October 1, and I’m getting ready to leave for Orlando and yes DAPPER DAY! I have largely unplugged from writing for the next few days but alas can you blame me?

I’ll also be at Food and Wine for the second year as an adult, I’ve been in the park for the last 20 years as an onlooker but last year was my first year actually eating the food. So be on the look out for that post when I get back along with pictures.

I’ll be covering Dapper Day this year with a largely closed park and the new Disney Springs.

While I won’t be on here at all, since I don’t have the app and my computers are staying at home you can follow my adventures on Instagram @DancinginMadrid I’ll be posting there before anywhere else or follow my Twitter @TheAlexWho to see what I have to say.

Aside from that, I’ll see y’all in a week with new posts and I’m thinking of adding some new elements to the blog.

Have a good weekend!

-Alex

Dapper Day Survival Guide

Photo Copyright Dapper Day, no copyright infringement intended.

This is the official last entry in the Dapper Day series, and this is probably the most important post because we’re only a few weeks out from all the events.

Every event is different, and being prepared is the most important thing you can do before heading out for a fun night. So where do we begin in this Survival Guide?

1. Plan for Weather

Last Spring Disneyland saw a chilly rainy event, last fall Hollywood Studios saw a rainy steamy event and no one knew what kind of weather they’d be having till that week.
Now if you’re in Florida, you know the weather here is temperamental we go from rain to sunshine in under 10 mins. So bringing a good umbrella or having a rain plan is a great idea, if there is lightning certain things will shut down in the park so plan for that as well.
California weather is warm during the day, but temperatures do seem to dip down a bit in the evening so its smart to plan for that. Same can be said about Paris which tends to have temps around 60 in mid-september.
Despite what park you plan to attend at, make sure to have the proper clothing as well.
You don’t want to show up in a long sleeve wool dress in Orlando because you’ll probably pass out, but you don’t want to under dress in case the weather does take a turn.
Simply put? Check the weather, and make sure to pack what you think you may not need.

2. Speaking of packing…

My first Dapper Day, I wore heels that were not comfortable. While many gals will wear them, make sure they are comfortable and you can stand to be in them for a few hours. While trying on shoes, consider this “Can I stand in a 60 minute line and then walk?” that’s usually how I pick my shoes.
If you’re like me and you’re an orthopedic’s dream, make sure you do have an extra pair of shoes or insoles in case the shoes you chose turned out to be less than. While ruining a Dapper Day dress or outfits with a shoe change, consider the long term effect on your feet.
What about my actual outfit?
Well always consider what you would need to pull it together, do you need a hat/fascinator? Or flowers? Or maybe a bow tie? Whatever the case may be always bring a few options you would match with that outfit. I wear panty hose usually so I bring an extra pair just in case for the day.
I have learned it’s smart to make a mini kit in your bag in case you need to redo your lipstick or add an extra pin or maybe just put some hairspray in your hair to keep it from falling apart.
All these little things will help make your day just a bit better

3. Water you doing?
Yes water, either bring your own or ask at any quick service location in the park for a cup with ice water. No matter the temperature or what you’re doing staying hydrated is important, especially those of us who plan to drink at the after events.
Spending a whole day without water could spell disaster later on in the evening for you.
So make sure to drink plenty of fluid throughout the day, especially in Orlando.

4. Eat, Obviously
Spending the whole day out, it’s important to make sure you eat and keep yourself from going hungry. Between the walking and the heat, it’s smart to eat something as you roam the park. While park food can be expensive, Disney does not prohibit outside food, so don’t be afraid to pack a few granola bars into your bag before heading out.
If you do choose to eat, stay away from too many sweets and try to eat something that will hold you over. While that churro and ice cream may seem like a good idea in the moment, you’ll probably wish you had gotten a burger later on.

5. Sunscreen
I probably can’t express this one enough, always wear it. Even if you’re wearing make up put some on under your foundation, because the sun can ruin any vacation.

6. HAVE FUN
That’s it. Thank you for joining me and I hope to see you at the park, this fall and next spring.