I went to my first convention at the tender age of seven, and since then I’m pretty sure I’ve seen everything there is to see. Like in the mundane-world, geek fashions trend and change with the seasons, and what was hot last year, is simply ‘so last year’, and won’t earn you geek-chic cred. Every time I attend I see hundred of new con goers spend enormous amounts of money on an outfit in the Dealer’s rooms and Artist Alleys, simply because they arrived at the con in mundane dress, but still want to be part of the cosplay spirit. If only they knew what I know, they could save money and look even more fabulous and unique!
Simple light weight chiffon dresses or tunics where all the rage at San Japan, this year. Comfortable, and careless, yes. But more importantly, the light weight fabric breaths wonderfully, which is important when it’s a 104 degrees outside, as it was here in Texas during the convention weekend. Bold prints, and stripes seem to be the trend, with the base color being black. Many wore them with black lace skirts for modesty, and funky leggings or socks. Add Chuck Taylors for a more casual look, or low heel boots for a more flirty effect.
Who can deny the appeal of an anime tee-shirt? Thanks to the internet, clever nerd shirts are plentiful, and diverse. From the old school to the newest of newb-lets, your tee-shirt must certainly be the colorful, with bold images and words. Some choose to cut and reconstruct their tee’s into feminine or funky to top, while others simply let their shirt be the back drop for eye catching accessories. No matter which way you want to wear it, make sure it’s got a good fit. Unflattering, oversized shirts will only make you blend into the faceless crowd. If standing out is what you strive for, take a risk, you have room for error while wearing a classic tee shirt safety net.
Convention goers seem to have a never ending fascination with Lolita fashion, and can you really blame them? Fluffy skirts, and cute socks, but a more casual Lolita inspired look can be easily attained by pairing a fluffy skirt with fancy style heels or platforms. Pile on the cute with a pastel colored pigtail wig and a big bow on top. It’s a simple way to get everything you crave from Lolita fashion with out all the layers. It’s easy to turn it from formal to carefree with an adorable screen printed top in place of a stuffy, button front blouse.
Now, as you walk through the dealers room you’ll be temped with the cutest hair clips, and hats you’ve ever seen, but don’t give in! Plan ahead! Etsy is filled to the brim with the greatest geek headgear at a fraction of the price you’ll pay at the convention. Character hats, and animal inspired ears are one of the most common signs at any con, but finding just the right accessories for your style is the essential part. Perler bead art, and accessories is the newest, and hottest trend in convention fashion. Necklaces, hair clips, or phone charms! I saw them everywhere this weekend! And what amazing things people come up with to make with them, pick up an 8-bit hair bow, or a heart counter necklace, just put the Perler on your person!
Nearly every anime convention in the united states stages a rave, or a techno style dance in the evening through early morning hours. If you want to wow people on the dance floor with more than just your totally sweet moves, try ordering some custom colored leg warmers and matching tutu to really liven things up, and to give you a lot of great movement while you’re shaking what your momma gave you. Don’t forget light toys, glow sticks, and plenty of water.
And as promised, The best Dressed at San Japan was…..
Was she trolling us, or are we trolling her?
Either way, she looks great doing it!
This is only the tip of the fashion iceberg, but explore the treasury to get ideas for your next con going attire! Save a little money by ordering online, and you’ll be thankful when convention time rolls around again.
A treasury inspired by the convention go-ers fashions at San Japan.
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Tags: anime, bow, cosplay, etsy, fashion, final fantasy, gamer, geek fashion, hair bow, hairclip, handmade, hello kitty, hoodie, melvin, nerd fashion, otaku, otaku fashion, perler, perler beads, pokemon, san japan 4tw, san japan. sanjapan, sanjapan4tw, shrug, skirt, sony, style review, upcycled, video games, xbox
