As the founder and CEO of geek fashion brand Hero Within, Tony B. Kim, @crazy4comiccon, doesn’t have to look very far for style options. The brand specializes in licensed apparel for such fandoms as DC Comics, Star Trek, Doctor Who, and Godzilla. Tony describes his personal style as “casual, modern geek.” Blazers, geeky tees, and jeans are his go-to for a polished, professional look that can go from the Hero Within booth to the convention stage. As comic conventions gear up post-pandemic, keep a lookout for Tony and Hero Within at an event near you.
What are your diehard fandoms?
Star Trek, DC Comics, Doctor Who, Star Wars, and Warhammer 40,000.
How would you describe your personal geek style?
I describe myself as “casual, modern geek.” I typically dress up one level up than what is expected, which is why I am often in blazers and jeans. I personally feel compelled to look my best while representing what I love, even if it’s subtle. The Doctor from Doctor Who has always been an inspiration to me. He/She have always had a very specific look that is both practical, unique, and dashing. That’s why you can never go wrong with a blazer!
What favorite geek fashion items can be found in your closet?
It’s really hard to choose among my various designs from over the years. If I was forced, I would probably say my Wonder Woman Denim Jacket and my custom San Diego Comic-Con Converse. I love my denim jacket and it just keeps looking and feeling better with age. Comic-Con is where Hero Within was conceived, launched and thrived, so my Converse hold a very special place in my heart.
Describe your go-to geeky outfit.
After working from home for over a year, my go-to’s are my Legendary (movie studio) Hoodie and my Batman Tactical Joggers. I think I wore them every day of the pandemic (not really, but close). I also regularly wear my new Thirteenth Doctor WHOodie because it’s super comfy.
Where do you find yourself searching or shopping the most for your geek fashion needs?
Honestly, I don’t. With the exception of some printed tees, almost everything I wear geek-related are items that I have either manufactured or made custom. With that being said, there are a lot of brands I would recommend, like Whosits & Whatsits, Jordandene, RockLove Jewelry, Volante Design, and anything that designers Hannah Black and Leetal Platt create.
Feel free to shout out any personal geeky passions, projects, or business endeavors:
Over the pandemic, we partnered with Godzilla and Doctor Who. We are just at the beginning phase of those properties and I am very excited about both of them. We also have another exciting partnership we are going to announce soon, so stay tuned!
Honestly, I am most pumped about the return of cons. Hopefully, we will see fans again this fall at either LA Comic-Con, New York Comic Con, and Emerald City Comic-Con.
