Posted by Light Side? Dark Side? Which side will you join? That’s the question every Star Wars fan must answer. Personally, we’re swearing our allegiance to the Galactic Coven.
This group of stylish, Star Wars-loving social media friends met on Instagram and formed a group chat to discuss the Disney Plus series The Mandalorian. Their conversations evolved to include Star Wars in general, theories about the fandom, and even subjects not related to Star Wars.
Eventually, there were so many members and so many discussions going, they had to move the chat to the Slack app, member Tina Estrella said. The Coven began as a safe space for women and nonbinary individuals to talk Star Wars and became a welcome source of support and solidarity when the coronavirus pandemic hit.
“We have like seven to nine channels on (Slack) because we all have so much we want to talk about,” Estrella said.
“Especially during this unnerving time where many are either struggling mentally, personally, or otherwise, we have this group of amazing people who are ready to defend, support, and cheer up anyone that needs it.”
The group organized a meetup in February at Disneyland’s Galaxy’s Edge. Several members gathered in Batuu. They created a stir when they showed up wearing bold, red outfits inspired by the Nightsisters from The Clone Wars animated series.
“We’re not all bounders, but wanted something fun to wear as a group without getting too complicated,” group founder Solanah Hernandez recalled.
“When we all got to Batuu, we realized just how much we stood out, a group decked out in red against the sandy architecture. We would’ve had fun regardless, but the outfits got such a positive reception, from travelers and cast members alike. It was a completely unreal experience, but the highlight was really just hanging out together.”
“Truly, it was such an incredible day,” Estrella agreed. “I’m so glad that we all had that weekend with each other before the pandemic took over.”
Estrella said the Galactic Coven’s day out in Batuu included lots of laughter, an encounter with a skeptical Kylo Ren, attention from Stormtroopers, an arrest by Chewbacca, and reservations at Oga’s Cantina.
Shortly after the meetup, epic photos of the group’s vibrant, witchy bounds began circulating on social media, garnering buzz and catapulting the Coven to Star Wars fashion icon status.
Their status was further cemented when, a few weeks later, the group participated in the #passthebrush challenge on TikTok. Members showed off their best Dark Side looks in “Don’t Rush the Dark Side,” a video edited by Epi Erichsen. Lightsabers, force pulls, a dyad pass, and a force choke were involved.
“This challenge was so fun to do because each of us brought our own style and personality to our ‘reveal,’” Estrella said.
“So many people commented and messaged us about how they loved it and were inspired to make their own and it truly warms me up just thinking about how so many people enjoyed it! … We truly tried to sprinkle in so many little details we hoped Star Wars fans would appreciate, so it was great to see the video be so well received.”
“It was a really fun thing to do during isolation that made us feel more connected, and I think that came through,” Hernandez agreed.
The name Galactic Coven was coined by member Nina Penalosa. The group’s original title was “Mandalorian Bitches.”
“We were all like, ‘Wow,’” Estrella said. “That sounded so much better fitting for us, as The Mandalorian was already over and we had moved on to discussing so many other aspects of Star Wars, such as the novels, movies, and animated series.”
The Coven made a major impression on social media while rocking some serious Star Wars style. It’s not surprising, considering many members of the group make fashion based on the fandom and run geek fashion businesses. Other members are artists and/or work in creative fields.
Hernandez began hand-painting leather jackets for herself and a friend to wear to Star Wars Nite and the May the 4th celebration at Disneyland in 2018.
“A year later, I took a chance and asked if any of my followers would like a Star Wars-themed jacket and, unexpectedly, orders poured in,” she said. “It’s really fun working with people and discovering what Star Wars means to them, because it’s so different for everyone, and I’ve really learned a lot.”
Estrella hand-paints purses, inspired by Eliza Sidney and Hernandez. Members of Galactic Coven include a film stylist and designer, a zine maker, an illustrator, a hair stylist, several writers, lots of vintage fashion enthusiasts, and cosplayers and makers of all kinds.
“I think (the group is) really just artistically oriented,” Hernandez said.
“Each of us loves Star Wars-inspired style, music, visual art, writing. We all bring something different to the table. It’s such a vast and varied universe, there’s a little something for everyone, and so many ways to be inspired and bring that into everyday life.”
Fashion is a natural fit when it comes to Star Wars, Estrella said.
“With Star Wars, some of the most prominent and iconic features of the films are the fashion and styling. From the sleek lines of a general’s uniform to dramatic statements, such as Padme’s entire wardrobe, Star Wars iconography is very fashion-based. Being able to create our own interpretations of Star Wars fashion is what makes our group very unique and I appreciate the talent of the many members.”
More than the killer fashion they’re putting out into the world, the Coven members say they appreciate the group’s “respectful and supportive” vibe.
“One thing I’ve heard over and over from, mainly, young women is that our openness and positive take on the subject has inspired them to delve more into Star Wars,” Hernandez said.
“It’s an incredibly intimidating fandom from the outside, but creating a small space to freely discuss one of the most divisive movie sagas there is, without judgement or gatekeeping, is the reason I still love Star Wars. Without a positive community, it wouldn’t have the same appeal.”
According to Estrella, the Coven planned to meet up in person this summer at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim (which will likely be postponed) and will gather at some point for another group bound in Batuu.
“Truly, I want to stress that we are a coven, not a club,” she said.
“We are friends who have bonded for months over Star Wars and we want to encourage everyone and anyone to find their own ‘galactic coven.’ We saw a void in the community where diversity and inclusion of non-male fans was missing and so we harbored a space to fill that gap. This is just the beginning!”
In honor of May the 4th (known as Star Wars Day), Temple of Geek Chic spoke to members of the Galactic Coven about Star Wars fashion. Read on for their favorite fandom fashion icons, Star Wars style inspo, and more. You can follow the group on Instagram, @galactic_coven.
Solanah Hernandez
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
I vaguely remember my family watching the originals but I wasn’t too interested as a kid. But then Anakin Skywalker comes outta nowhere in my early teens and suddenly his poster is on my wall. I became interested again after The Force Awakens, but obsessed after The Last Jedi.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
No one can compare to Padmé Amidala.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
I love finding old prequel tees secondhand. They’re something I can enjoy daily!
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
I find so much vintage wear I love that I haven’t experienced too many geek or Star Wars-based brands, but I love the pins Rather Keen releases and the tees Super Yaki does!
Tina Estrella
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
I had casually seen the films growing up, but I did not start to become a true fan until high school. Being a foolish kid that wanted to maintain my “cool” appearance, I suppressed my love of fandoms like Star Wars and Harry Potter because I did not want to be seen as a geek (mind you, I was an honors student and helped stage our production of Little Shop of Horrors, so I was def a geek whether I wanted to accept it or not, lol).
Then after high school, I was kind of like, “Who even cares?!” and I fully embraced my fandom love by wearing merch and attending fan events at my local AMC theater. Now I’ve attended two Star Wars celebration events (Anaheim and London) and am looking forward to continuing to immerse myself into this community of fans!
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
I love me some baddies! So I am all for the dark side fashion. Darth Vader will always be the most iconic to me (maybe because I love wearing black so much). So definitely Darth Vader, he might not have the range of Padme but he definitely is the most iconic character that I think many instantly recognize.
Even just seeing the character at Disneyland, something about that giant suit exudes power and I can’t help but gush over it!
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
My favorite item that I own is an item that I’ve kept for seven years. Again, because of my love of Vader, it’s an old H&M knit sweater with Darth Vader’s helmet prominently in the middle. It’s simple but I love it. Even though it fits a bit snug these days, I don’t think I will ever part with it.
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
While she may not be a “brand,” I think Solanah is doing things that haven’t been done before. She truly has a way of incorporating the most brilliant designs into her jackets. As a fellow painter of clothing items, I am in awe of her every time!
I think that Super Yaki is also a brand that stays so current to geek and pop culture. Their shirts are so fun and many are those “if you know you know” type of designs and I think that it’s awesome when you can have a bit of fun with shirts like that.
I also think that Hot Topic is a brand that is so easily accessible and continuously makes amazing Star Wars and other “geek” collaborations. I especially love their artist’s tees. It’s where I go shop every Christmas because they have something for everyone.
Curstie Prater
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
The prequels. My father is a big Star Wars fan and when I was younger, he introduced me to the character Queen Amidala and from there on I was obsessed with Star Wars. I had this really amazing Queen Amidala paper doll book growing up and I remember playing dress-up quite often, trying to recreate her iconic looks.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
Oh, that is a tough question because there are quite a few characters that inspire me but if it isn’t my own version of a Sith look, I would say Leia Organa and Padmé Amidala. Leia has a lot of looks I can see myself wearing in my everyday life, especially her Endor look. I love that cape. I also wouldn’t mind owning Jyn Erso’s outfit. I really loved that look.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
I LOVE my Kylo Ren Hooded Capelet. I bought it for my first trip to Batuu and I wear them all the time. Even for looks that are not Star Wars-inspired.
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
I would say Her Universe because they have released some amazing t-shirts featuring lesser-known Star Wars characters and I really appreciate that. I also really enjoy thrifting at vintage stores or small businesses that carry simple pieces to create my own Star Wars inspired looks.
Ren Rice
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
My introduction to Star Wars was when I was a kid and my babysitter at the time tried to get me to watch it and I absolutely made a fuss about it. I didn’t care. Then, it came again in my early 20s when a friend at the time was incredibly obsessed with Han Solo and I didn’t get it, so she sat me down to watch one of the original trilogy films, couldn’t tell you which, and again I was just like, “What is this? This is boring!”
What really got me was the trailer for The Force Awakens. I remember when it was announced and everyone was so excited about it and I couldn’t figure out why. To say I was annoyed was an understatement. Looking back, it was definitely one of those, “I am not in on it and because I’m not I’m pissed everyone else is excited” situations.
So when the trailer came out and we see John Boyega’s head pop up, that’s when it hit me. I knew him from Attack the Block, so seeing him in a franchise where my only introduction was to a bunch of non-POC characters, I was just … immediately attached to him. That ended up being my first Star Wars theater experience and I’ll never forget it. Once I saw the trailer, I went back and watched all the previous six films by myself and the rest is history.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
It’s funny because I feel like if you asked anyone they’d have a clear-cut answer. I could say Padmé but honestly, while iconic, she’s not my favorite. I honestly don’t think I have a favorite? I think for me, because I am moreso on the back end of fashion, meaning I’m a designer. It’s my job.
I design and wardrobe style for film and for fun and I don’t really dress myself up. I’m really casual with hints of nerd in my day-to-day. But if I’m designing and creating for fun and I look to Star Wars, a lot of my inspiration comes from things like the tech, the helmet designs, the one dress a background character wore, the planet Crait … things like that.
If I do a round-up of things I’ve designed, I’d say a lot come from the First Order or the Siths. Currently, my obsession is translating Padmé gowns to scarves. In short, I’m all over the place. My own personal style, I suppose, is like that tomboy next door who is obsessed with Darth Vader.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
Probably my denim jacket. I used to work for Levi’s at their cooperate office in San Francisco. I bought a black denim jacket and had it embroidered to say “First Order” and then there was a shop in the lobby where you could buy clothes and I bought up all the Dark Side Star Wars patches to have them put those on for me too. Now it’s just decked out in First Order/Sith/Dark Side pins too. It’s fun to wear.
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
I don’t think I have a favorite one. I tend to shop all over the place. Currently, I’m obsessed with Super Yaki stuff though. They have a bunch of cool tees inspired by film and their Star Wars ones are great. I own the “The Prequels Were Great” tee.
Janey Ellis
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
Sadly, I can’t remember my first viewing of Star Wars. It was kind of just always present in my house. My brother and sister are 14 and 16 years older than me, respectively, and so they were children when the first films came out. At some point, I saw it and started playing with my brother’s original action figures. I remember when the re-releases came out, followed by the prequels, which continued my passion for the universe as a child.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
Even though I’m not a fan of the prequels, there is no denying the style of Padme. And even though she may only appear for a brief moment and in one outfit, General Holdo’s ensemble is one of my all-time favorite looks in the saga.
What is your favorite Star Wars fashion item you own?
Far and above, my Han/Lando jacket that Solanah made me. Lando is my favorite character, followed by Han, and I have always loved their relationship, so I wanted a jacket that showcased that relationship. I also recently made a dress using my brother’s old Return of the Jedi sheets. In terms of accessories though, I would say the Poe X-Wing fascinator I made from one of the Revell model kits is one of my favorite pieces.
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
Geek fashion brands are something I need to explore more. Sadly, there are only a handful out there, and I’m personally not a huge fan of any of them. I buy most of my clothing secondhand, and try to piece together Star Wars-inspired outfits using regular pieces of clothing. Or I like to sew my own stuff.
I do own a handful of Her Universe items, however, I have always struggled with fit with their stuff. While their items are cute, often the bust-waist-hip ratio is off, and the waist far above my natural waistline.
Alyssa Bradley
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
One of my earliest memories was watching A New Hope with my dad when I was 4 or 5. I have loved Star Wars ever since.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
It’s a tie between Padme and her grandson Kylo, the best fashion icons in the galaxy.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
A gorgeous custom bag inspired by Queen Amidala, hand-painted by Solanah.
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
I honestly have so many brands and creators I love that I can’t list them all. Jordandene is responsible for getting me into geek fashion and I love all her stuff so much. Also, so many members of this coven make the most beautiful clothes and accessories, like Ren, Solanah, and Janey, just to name a few! I love supporting independent artists when adding to my geek wardrobe.
Allison Erland
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
I found a Leia figure in the dirt in my back yard. I asked my dad about her and saw the original trilogy then at 6 or 7. I liked them but my dad wasn’t much of a fan so I didn’t really have the opportunity to delve back into the films until the prequels came out. I had a huge crush on Hayden Christensen and I instantly wanted to be Padme so it definitely instilled the love for Star Wars that came back full-fledged with this new trilogy, dressing up at Disneyland, and wanting to bring these strong, wonderful women to life.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
I don’t think there’s anyone in the galaxy who can hold a candle to Padme as far as I’m concerned. But I do have a soft spot for Qi’ra and find her style just a little easier to attain out in the real world.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
That’s a toss-up between my Japor snippet necklace, like the one Anakin made for Padme (I wanted one for so long, I was ecstatic when Disneyland sold one) and my custom jacket, painted by our founder Solanah.
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
I always try to find vintage or secondhand items first, when I can, since I find it brings a more unique, interesting story and obviously is great for sustainability. I definitely have a weakness for custom clothes. One of my favorite small shops is 1138 Clothing. (I was lucky to have a chance to model a Star Wars wedding party look for them a few years ago.) On top of that, many of our Coven members sew and I hope to guilt them into letting me commission some pieces soon.
Brittany Alyse
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
I was very young, probably around 4 years old. My parents had the original trilogy VHS box set on display in our living room and I was always fascinated by the cover art. The original trilogy was always playing on TV in our house. I have these various vivid memories of my cousin Jessica and I always watching Return of the Jedi and pausing the (original) scene in Jabba’s palace just before the Max Rebo Band came on.
Jessica and I would run from the living room to the bathroom to put our hair in high pigtails and slap some lipstick on and then rush back to the living room to resume the film. We would then dance our hearts out and sing along with Sy Snootles. I really wish our parents had caught that on video. It was a bizarre and special little thing we did.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
In terms of fashion, it’s always Padmé for me. Her range was truly incredible. I really, really hope we get to see characters in future Star Wars projects that follow in Padmé’s footsteps when it comes to her iconic wardrobe.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
It definitely has to be the breathtaking Padmé leather jacket that Solanah designed for me. It’s a work of art. I knew I wanted something Padmé, because she has so little merchandise available and I wanted to represent her adequately. I let Solanah design it free range and she blew me away with the end result. It’s definitely the Star Wars jacket of my dreams!
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
I really love Jordandené’s unique slogan shirts. I wear my “This is the Way” top so often. The fabric is so soft and the quality of her shirts is incredible.
Obviously, Solanah’s designs are out-of-this-world good. I am SO happy to see her thrive within the community and witness her craft evolve. I also really love fellow coven member Ren’s Star Wars-inspired hoods. Ren is so talented and their attention to detail is exquisite and precise. Right now, they are creating a double Padmé hood design and I absolutely cannot wait to see how they come out!
When it comes to Star Wars fashion, I really love taking subtle pieces and using accessories to make a “normal” outfit more of a galactic fashion statement. Shopping from small brands that aren’t at all affiliated with Star Wars has really been fun for me.
For example, I recently commissioned a piece from a shop called Sacred Crystal Co because Solanah had a beautiful red crystal necklace made that looked like a kyber crystal, so I commissioned a white crystal piece inspired by Ahsoka Tano and now it’s my favorite piece of jewelry that I own.
For my Nightsisters outfit, I wore this incredibly badass waist belt made by AELYSE and it really pulled my outfit from being just a normal, everyday thing to looking more like a Nightsister.
Madeline Grace
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
When I was 9, Episode I just came out and my dad took us to see it. I remember sitting in a packed theater with people carrying lightsabers and having no idea what was happening. I remembered thinking how amazing Padme was. I had little to no idea that there were other Star Wars movies! I actually watched them chronological because of it!
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
Fashion-wise, Padme always. However, my favorite character is Hera Syndulla from Star Wars Rebels. She is who I relate to the most and feel the deepest connection to. A woman in the galaxy just trying to do what is right.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
Purchased, my Godspeed Rebels jacket from Solanah. But my favorite me-made item is my Clone Wars dress that I designed and made for May the 4th last year!
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
Oh, this is hard. Her Universe is one of my favorite major labels. I own so many pieces from their collections over the years. I also love Elhoffer Design and Jordandené.
Angie Coronado
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
I was introduced to Star Wars by my older brother when I was a kid. The first scene I ever saw was one of the final scenes of Return of the Jedi, when Luke is burning Vader’s body, so I guess you could say I got spoiled, haha!
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
Favorite fashion icon is for sure Padmé. That’s really the only right answer. My favorite characters are definitely Obi Wan, Han, Leia, Poe and Rey.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
One of my most prized Star Wars fashion items is definitely my Solanah original jacket. We worked together to find the perfect design for a Poe Dameron jacket and I love it.
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
Super Yaki makes one of my favorite Star Wars tees and they’ve been putting out so many cool geeky tees recently.
Also I mentioned Solanah original jackets earlier. She’s been pumping out jacket after amazing jacket with so many unique designs. She really makes the design unique to the wearer.
Catherine Fanchiang
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
My introduction to Star Wars would have to be the Star Wars-themed Muppet Babies episodes. I think I always knew about Star Wars as a child from random images I’d see of C3PO and R2-D2, Jabba the Hutt and, of course, Darth Vader, but I don’t think I ever really knew what they were or where they were from. I remember watching Muppet Babies a lot as a child and the Star Wars episodes were fascinating to me. I can still see Kermit Luke and Miss Piggy Leia so vividly in my mind.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
My favorite Star Wars fashion Icon isn’t necessarily a specific person. It’s basically the entire Dark Side. I just feel like the Dark Side has all the great looks that are flattering and never go out of style. But as I’ve gotten older, I do have say that Padme and all Naboo Queens really have some amazing looks.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
My favorite Star Wars fashion item that I own has to be my leather jacket done by Solanah. I just have so many things to say about Solanah and I don’t even know how to express them. Solanah is just so extremely talented and really puts in a lot of thought into her designs. She might not know the references you give her but you wouldn’t even be able to tell once she’s done with something.
She really cares about what you want and is open to all ideas you might have. I trusted her 1000% throughout the whole process and I got an amazing one-of-a-kind piece. Like, my jacket glows in the dark! How cool is that?
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
I don’t really have a favorite geek fashion brand. I kind of just randomly search for my geek clothing based off of characters I like and go from there. But, one brand that I’ve always loved just for its simplicity and comfort is Jordandene. I love that they’re more subtle in their geekiness so you can wear it anywhere.
Courtney J. Nelson
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
Star Wars has always had a presence of some sort in my life, as it is in most, but I wasn’t drawn to it given the toxic fandom that was around it. I got the “not for you” message loud and clear. The Force Awakens is when it finally clicked for me, and I’ve dived into the fandom since then, and I love all of it so much.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
My favorite character is Ahsoka Tano, her character development has struck me the most. I really appreciate and relate to a lot of her personality traits, especially her loyalty and grit. But most of all, that she has come to represent thinking for yourself and really being your own person.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
The one I wear the most is my Japor snippet, but the most special piece is my fringe leather jacket painted by Solanah, another one of the coven members. It’s dark vs. light themed, and has a glitter rebel symbol on it. It’s the best.
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
I don’t particularly have a favorite brand. I pick up pieces here and there, but the best outfits are from a mix of that, thrifting, and supporting small shops/artists who make one-of-a-kind pieces.
Alice Fanchiang
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
I honestly didn’t sit down and watch a Star Wars through until high school, but I knew about it since I was a kid. I remember seeing parts of Star Wars movies on TV and parody forms of it in cartoons. Star Tours was also an early experience of the galaxy far, far away.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
I have to say Padme for fashion. Every single one of her outfits is different and beautiful. My favorite character is Obi-Wan Kenobi though, and I do appreciate the earth-toned Jedi aesthetic and boots. I’m about the boots.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
My favorites are all from small shops/creators. I have to mention the Jedi Fallen Order jacket I commissioned my friend Solanah to custom paint for me. Her work is so detailed and beautiful. Before that, it was two necklaces made by and gifted to me by my friend, @sparklingrampage on Instagram. One is a simple Rebel Starbird pendant; the other is a Lothcat.
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
I don’t know if I have a favorite Star Wars specific brand, but my go-tos have been Jordandene, BlackMilk, and Elhoffer Design. More recently though, I’ve been looking at small shops that aren’t geek specific, but they have clothing styles that are great for styling in geeky outfits — like Church of Sanctus and Nuit Clothing Atelier.
Liz Lund
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
I was introduced to Star Wars by my father. He had been a fan for a long time and couldn’t wait to show me and my three brothers the original trilogy during family movie nights.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
When I was growing up, my favorite Star Wars character was actually Oola from Return of the Jedi. Although she was only in a small portion of the movie, her brief arc completely transfixed me.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
My custom-painted leather jacket by Solanah is my absolute favorite piece I own. She was able to take my love of so many elements of Naboo, including both Queens Amidala and Soruna, the N-1 Starfighters, and the architecture of Theed, and design a gorgeous work of wearable art!
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
Some of my favorite geek fashion brands that have done fantastic Star Wars lines are RockLove Jewelry and Han Cholo.
Epi Erichsen
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
I inherited love for Star Wars from my mother. I remember as a young girl, sitting down with my very excited mother to watch the prequels. I still remember to this day when she saw Anakin building up C-3PO, she jumped off the couch and yelled, “That’s C-3PO! He’s my favorite!“ Ever since then, she’s always indulged my Star Wars whims. She even made me a Queen Amidala costume from scratch for Halloween once. And she’s no seamstress, but it looked great.
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
This is such a hard question. It kind of feels like you’re asking me if I would rather dress like a Hobbit or an elf for the rest of my life. I think, more than characters, the fashion of this Galaxy far, far away is what inspires me. Whenever I put together a Star Wars look, I just try to tell the story of the character through my clothes, and it really depends what character I’m trying to portray.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
I don’t really own many Star Wars fashion items. I did just purchase a beautiful hooded scarf from Ren. They made it with such love and such quality, it’s amazing! I’ll be wearing it for all sorts of looks, you can count on that.
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
I don’t really buy from many “geek brands.“ I’ve recently been trying to lower my environmental footprint, and I’m trying my hand at plus size thrifting or ordering handmade custom items I know will fit me for a long time and just right. I can’t imagine Queen Amidala going to a mainstream mall, so should I?
Nina Penalosa
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
My proper introduction to Star Wars was when my aunt took my sister and I to watch the original trilogy’s theatrical re-release in ‘97. Before that, I vividly remember — around the age of 4 or 5 — walking into the living room at the part in The Empire Strikes Back where Darth Vader dismembers Luke’s hand. I was traumatized for quite some time but, ironically, Empire ended up becoming my favorite among the Star Wars films!
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
Padme Amidala and Lando Calrissian, without a doubt! I’m enamored with both of their styles. I mean, how can you not?! But I can’t help but gravitate towards the Dark Side when it comes to my own sartorial choices. From the clean lines, tailored coats, mock necks, and overall color scheme, the Empire and the First Order is a smorgasbord of style inspo.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
I have an incredible Admiral Ackbar statement necklace that I purchased from Jennifer Landa a few years ago. She upcycled an old Micro Machines toy and it’s by far the most extravagant piece of Star Wars jewelry I own!
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
Her Universe really helped pave the way for geek fashion — a lot of my Star Wars clothes came from them at first, but I really love smaller brands like Jordandené for their subtly geeky hand-lettered tees, Utinni Bikini for their fun skater dresses and enamel pins, Po-Zu for their comfy-stylish-eco friendly Star Wars shoes, RockLove for their beautifully detailed jewelry, and Lantern Pins and BB-CRE8 for enamel pins. I love finding geeky t-shirts on RedBubble, TeePublic, and TeeTurtle as well.
Britney Waite
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
To be honest, I don’t remember a time when Star Wars wasn’t in my life. Growing up, I watched the Original Trilogy with my family. Then, as I got older, I went opening night or weekend to see the prequels come out. My sister always loved Star Wars too, so marathoning all six movies was something we would do regularly!
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
Even though it could be seen as the obvious answer, I HAVE to say Padmé. All her looks are so incredible with all the textures and details. Her hair and makeup are phenomenal as well and super inspiring to me as a hairstylist. In one of the Star Wars books, they even explain how her looks aren’t frivolous, they have cultural symbolism and even feature things to keep her safer. I do have to say that my favorite character overall is R2-D2! I always love the droids but I especially love R2 for his sass.
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
Last Christmas, I got one of the CoachxStar Wars purses and it is my favorite for sure, I use it every day! I had been on the hunt for a certain size of purse for my new everyday bag and the fact I got it 70% off AND it shows off my love for Star Wars, it’s an all-around win. Plus, it’s sparkly and the strap is super extra!
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
This one is hard to answer because I love sewing and making my own clothing as much as I can. I do love Loungefly and Danielle Nicole handbags, I love novelty purses so much. A lot of the time though, because I am always looking for sewing inspiration, I love looking at designers like @adria.renee, who makes some of the greatest couture gowns. Her Star Wars collecting is SO GOOD! Such amazing inspiration for how to add special fandom details to my every day clothing!
Sylvia Clarino
What was your introduction to Star Wars?
I first saw Star Wars on the big screen in 1977
Who’s your favorite Star Wars fashion icon/character?
My favorite Star Wars fashion icon is, of course, Padme Amidala, but my favorite characters are Jyn Erso and Ashoka Tano
What’s your favorite Star Wars fashion item that you own?
My favorite Star Wars fashion items I own are my two original painted leather jackets I commissioned from Solanah!
What’s your fave geek (or Star Wars) fashion brand?
My favorite geek brand is Jordandene — she’s the original — but I love supporting all my creative indie friends, like Solanah and @stvchcraft!
Other Members of Galactic Coven:
@ravenzahara, @sacredsomethingbykara, @vexxing, @k.in.your.book.
For More Star Wars fashion see:
Temple of Geek Chic: Star Wars Geek Gear from Musterbrand
Temple of Geek Chic: Galactic Apparel by Elhoffer Design
About Author
Love the costumes! So cool!