You can never have too many Star Wars clothes. Those are words we live by at Temple of Geek Chic. If you feel the same, you’re going to want to check out Etsy shop Nickangula. It’s named after Nick and Angela Gleason, married designers who put an artsy, modern twist on Star Wars style.
The design company specializes in geeky, offbeat apparel that is largely made to order in Hong Kong. Angela’s designs are featured on a wide variety of products, including face masks, swimwear, t-shirts, men’s wear, dresses, tops, bottoms, bags, outerwear, lingerie, children’s clothing, and pet accessories.
The Nickangula moniker comes from a nickname bestowed on the couple when they were childhood sweethearts. The shop reflects the duo’s passion for creating and costuming. Angela studied fashion design at Cazenovia College and “Nick has always been the kind of person to figure out how to do anything he puts his mind to,” she said.
The pair got serious about their business after Angela was diagnosed with a brain injury-induced neurological condition called Binocular Vision Dysfunction. To pay for the treatment she needed, they began making fleece bunny ear hats to sell on Etsy. In less than two months, the couple had sold 60 hats and couldn’t keep up with demand. Angela then added some of her fashion designs to the shop. They were well received and the business has been growing ever since.
Angela said getting sick was one of the best things that could have happened to her “because it forced her to pursue her dreams and succeed in something she truly loves to do.”
For a recent photo shoot, the Force was with models Francesca and Brittany while they modeled some of Nickangula’s Star Wars-inspired designs. Here is our Temple of Geek Chic review:
Come Over to the Dark Side Imperial Cog Midi Dress
The Stormtrooper armor of Star Wars fame doesn’t instantly call to mind sleek, form-fitting fashion. The signature black and white aesthetic works surprisingly well, however, as the basis for this dress design by Angela. It features simple but bold minimalist details that evoke the iconic Stormtrooper suit and helmet.
This sleeveless body con dress is made to hug curves to stunning effect. If you’re feeling hesitant about wearing something this snug, allow us to reassure you. This style is extremely flattering and just a little bit sexy. It’s also made of a stretchy polyester-spandex knit that’s soft and comfortable.
As model Brittany said, it fits well in all the right places. The skirt falls to about mid-knee, which she described as a good length. The dress runs true to size, but if you prefer a looser fit, just size up.
This dress could easily be styled as casual or fancy. Wear it to a club or throw a blazer over it for a professional look. It would pair nicely with high black heels or booties. Brittany said she loved that the design is geeky but subtle and appropriate to wear for any occasion.
Brittany modeled a Medium. Nickangula has another Stormtrooper-inspired design in the same dress style.
Sketchy Trooper in Black Herdsman High Top Shoes
These “hi top” skater shoes feature a terrific illustration of a Stormtrooper in shadow, holding a blaster. The dramatic contrast of black and white makes a major fashion statement. One of our favorite details is the black, suede-like fabric at the toe and heel.
From our inspection, these hi tops seem more like something you’d wear for fashion’s sake, rather than durability or comfort. The canvas and sole don’t seem very sturdy when it comes to quality, but this is still an incredibly cool-looking pair of shoes.
We noticed that the details of the illustration tend to get a little lost against the black background of the shoes. There’s also a white version of this sneaker that features the design more clearly, as well as a low sole style.
You could wear these shoes with practically anything. They’d look awesome with Nickangula’s Come Over to the Dark Side Imperial Cog Midi Dress or any Star Wars outfit.
Francesca wore a women’s size 8. She said they felt true to size. The shoes are also offered in men’s sizes.
Chewie Print Low Rise Yoga Leggings
These leggings feature creepy/cute Chewbaccas in a unique cartoon style. We can’t get over how quirky this bright orange and blue pattern is! While other Nickangula designs are on the subtle side, this is a delightful exception.
As well as being fun, the leggings are comfortable and high quality. They have a thick waistband that stays in place, good stretch, and are made of smooth, cool polyester-spandex. Model Francesca liked that the fabric doesn’t become transparent when stretched, although a bit of white may begin to show through. She said she loved the quality and comfort of the leggings.
Pay tribute to your favorite Wookie by wearing these to yoga class or rocking them at a comic-con. Francesca modeled a Large. The leggings run true to size. Though they’re described as low rise, they seemed to us to be more high-waisted.
The Chewie Print also comes in a variety of other products, including bikinis, slip dresses, undies, and bags.
The Child Crop Top
Featuring an adorable, sketch-like graphic of Mando’s precious child, this sleeveless, white crop top fits like a sports bra. The black trim adds to the sharp look of the design. The top is made of comfortable, supportive nylon-spandex. Model Francesca said she liked the quality and stretch of the soft, sleek fabric.
Wear this crop to the gym, your spin class, or on a hike. If you’re comfortable baring your stomach, it would be a great all-around warm weather top. Or, size up and layer it over a longer shirt. Either way, this design lets you keep Grogu close to your heart.
Francesca wore a medium, though the crop fit more like a small. The Child design comes in a variety of other products, including handbags, tees, and baby onesies.
Overall
We’re always on the prowl for Star Wars-themed apparel that’s different or edgier than the franchise’s official merch. Nickangula’s designs themed after a galaxy far, far away feel unexpected and we like that a lot.
Angela’s design style is original and inventive. Her work feels like it was created by someone with an artist’s eye. We love how sleek, modern, and minimalist the clothes are, maximizing black and white contrasts and bright pops of color. We also like that the brand doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s cute and playful and just a bit daring.
Though the clothes are made to order, the quality is generally good. The fit is accurate and the sizing is inclusive, ranging from XXS to 5XL, depending on the item.
Nickangula is ideal for Star Wars fans in the mood to wear something comfortable, low-maintenance, and a little off the beaten path.
The shop’s Star Wars-inspired styles are definitely some of their most memorable, but the shop offers many other creative designs, as well as home décor, gifts, and even custom hand puppets. To check out everything they have to offer, visit the website or Etsy shop.
Photos by Monica Duarte.
