When the first image from the James Webb Telescope was released by NASA in July, space and science geeks were over the moon. The largest, most powerful telescope ever built was one of the highlights of 2022. We can now celebrate its awe-inspiring discoveries with space-themed apparel from Svaha USA.
Featuring the first deep field image released from the telescope, as well as other fun, space-inspired designs, Svaha’s apparel embodies the wonder and excitement of exploring the final frontier.
While STEAM-themed clothing is readily available for children, Svaha gives grown-ups an opportunity to let their space-geek flag fly. Founded in 2015 by Jaya Iyer, the brand’s mission is to combat gender stereotypes with their unique line of apparel for kids and adults.
Iyer set out to prove STEAM concepts can be cool and accessible to everyone while celebrating women in those fields. Svaha’s soft, cotton clothing features bright, bold designs with STEAM and sports themes in nontraditional colors.
Temple of Geek Chic enlisted the help of models Lizzie, Kaylee, and Zaryfe to try out Svaha’s space-themed apparel at LA’s Griffith Observatory. Here’s our review:
Webb’s First Deep Field Katherine Dress
The super-cool pattern on this fit and flare dress is the first full-color image released from the James Webb Telescope. According to Svaha, it shows galaxies and stars against deep space, some slightly distorted by gravitational lensing. If you’re wonderstruck by the James Webb images, this piece is a unique and fun way to celebrate them.
The Katherine Dress tapers in at the waist and there’s some stretch to the fabric. This makes for a comfortable, curve-accentuating fit. The skirt has a bit of twirl, which we love. We were also happy to discover it has ample pockets. It’s cool, light, and easy to accessorize and dress up or down.
Kaylee said she loved the comfy feel of the dress, describing it as “fun and educational.” She thought it would suit wearers of any age and might be especially appealing to teachers or educators. Kaylee noted the dress was a little long at the hem, falling below her knees.
For reference, Kaylee is wearing a size large in the photos above. The dress fit true to size.
Webb’s First Deep Field Button-Up Shirt
If you like the idea of wearing the Webb’s first deep field image on something other than a dress, this fitted button-up is made to order. The orange, blues, and purples of the starbursts pop against the black background of this satin cotton, screen-printed shirt. The fabric is light, cool, and comfortable. Subtle, but eye-catching, it really captures the endless marvels of space.
Geeks of all genders could easily style this basic button-up in a variety of ways. It could be worn tucked or untucked or tied at the waist. The sleeves could be rolled up or worn down. You could go casual with it, take it out on the town, or wear it to work. Kaylee suggested going up a few sizes and wearing this piece over biker shorts.
Zaryfe modeled a size small. It fit well and may be roomy enough for those on the smaller side of medium.
The Webb’s First Deep Field design is also available in other styles, including leggings, cardigans, hoodies, joggers, skater dresses, and tops.
The Sculptor’s Acrobat Twirl Skirt
The Sculptor’s Acrobat Twirl Skirt happens to be our absolute favorite of the space-themed apparel Svaha sent us. This piece features a stunning image of the Cartwheel Galaxy in the Sculptor Constellation. The James Webb Telescope’s near-infrared imaging allowed for a better view of this rare ring galaxy, shown to spectacular effect on this delightfully twirly skirt.
This piece features the same dramatic, colorful design on both front and back. The flattering fit recalls retro/vintage style. The polyester fabric feels nice and cool and has a slight shine to it. The two-inch-thick elastic waistband allows for a little stretch for comfort. Automatic bonus points for the amazingly deep pockets!
Best of all, this swishy skirt is a ton of fun to wear. When you spread it out to its full size, it has a huge “wow” factor.
“It’s very flowy,” Zaryfe said. “It’s cute. I think nerdy people would like it.”
Temple of Geek Chic photographer Monica summed up the fun factor perfectly: “It gives good twirl.”
Zaryfe wore the Sculptor’s Acrobat skirt in a sample size we estimate to be a small.
Explore New Worlds Ida Top
With its brightly colored planets, suns, rockets, and cute, little UFOs, this casual top satisfies our space-obsessed inner child. Orbiting against a pleasing purple background, this playful pattern is perfect for grown-up science nerds and those who love color and fun/wild prints. We also appreciate the simplicity of this 100% cotton top. It’s the epitome of low maintenance. Just throw it on with a pair of jeans, shorts, or a skirt.
Svaha also offers the Explore New Worlds pattern in kids apparel, so you can match with your little one if you’d like.
Lizzie modeled a 2XL. It fit true to size.
Overall
We’re excited about Svaha’s mission of smashing gender stereotypes. Its great they’re providing geeks a way to express STEAM-related passions through fashion. We also love that the brand makes playful prints often reserved for children accessible to adults.
Svaha’s space-themed apparel is a vibrant celebration of the wonders of astronomy and space discovery. We think using the images from the James Webb Telescope in clothing design is a brilliant idea. These styles are simple, no-fuss, and versatile. They’re also inclusive with sizing ranging in general from XS to 5XL.
At our Griffith Observatory photo shoot, the models had a great time wearing and styling the featured pieces. All the clothes we tried would make excellent conversation starters when worn to work, school, or out and about. They definitely appeal to our inner science nerd. The brand’s STEAM-themed apparel would also make awesome Christmas gifts for the science geek in your life.
For more details, check out Svaha’s website.
Photos by Monica Duarte.
Read more about Svaha from Temple of Geek:
Temple of Geek Chic: STEM-themed apparel from Svaha Apparel!