Without a doubt, the universe is having a Star Wars moment. From a droid-inspired makeup collection to R2-D2 showerheads, businesses are tapping into the galactic market — and all in honor of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The best items to shop now? Vintage Star Wars t-shirts. Attempting to escape the sea of Stormtrooper gear and Princess Leia buns at this time of the year? Good-luck, because this cult sci-fi franchise isn't surrendering without a fight.
The waiting game is now over — Friday marks the official release of The Force Awakens! Theaters everywhere are preparing for the onslaught of cosplayers, extra-large popcorn buckets, and probably a light saber or two. But before you redeem that 8:00 ticket (reserved weeks in advance, naturally), take a moment to ponder on what to wear. Wardrobe is just as interwoven in the Star Wars fandom as lunch boxes and figurines, and you'll be surprised at the number of ways you can showcase your force through fashion.
Retailers from Forever 21, J. Crew, and Hot Topic have produced their own Star Wars collections. Evidently, geek chic is well on its way to securing a permanent home in the sartorial realm. And whether you want to pull a "treat yo self" this Friday afternoon or gift a tee to a beloved Darth Vader junkie, shop 11 of the best vintage Star Wars tees around.
1. The Bro Code
Star Wars Bestie Graphic Tee, $9.99, macys.com
As far as iconic on-screen friendships go, Chewbacca and Han Solo are up in the ranks with Serena/Blair and Leslie/Ann. Double on that order and surprise your bestie with this matching tee too — friends that hunt for film easter eggs together, stays together, am I right?
2. Selfie Wars
Stormtrooper Selfie Tee, $15.32, etsy.com
A Stormtrooper and Darth Vader selfie tee: because everyone is a sucker for Star Wars meets millenial living.
3. Hipster Darth Vader
Junk Food Graphic Muscle Tee, $21.97, nordstromrack.com
If Darth Vader were to moonlight as coffee shop inhabitant by day and Tumblr blogger by night, this muscle tee would be the go-to uniform.
4. Team Spirit
Star Wars Empire Graphic Tee, $9.99, macys.com
Stylish propaganda is clearly a thing — especially if it involves an army of Stormtroopers. Forget about supporting your local football team... it's about time you pay your respects to the empire.
5. Date Night Attire
Star Wars Rebel Kiss Tee, $22, fifthsun.com
Sorry Shakespeare, but looks like Romeo and Juliet may have just met their match. I've officially set sail on the Luke/Leia ship, and there's no turning back.
6. Gamer Girl
Star Wars Pixel Tank, $22, fifthsun.com
Count this retro Star Wars tank as a closet must-have. After all, pixel minis of Boba Fett and C-3PO? You very well can't say no to that.
7. Words Of Wisdom
Star Wars Don't Call Me Princess Tank, $22, fifthsun.com
For the ladies of your life who slay the ongoing battle of sexism. Take a tip from Leia herself and build your own force.
8. Starstruck
Junk Food Death Star Tee, $72, junkfoodclothing.com
Star Wars and contemporary cool has never looked better. This beachy Death Star tee features a hearty dose of ombre and relaxed boyfriend fit.
9. Short And Sweet
ASOS Star Wars Top, $36, asos.com
At this point, you've probably amassed quite a collection of Star Wars gear — cozy pullovers, graphic zip-ups, and now, a colorful cropped tee.
10. Get Sketchy
Hot Topic Star Wars Stencil Top, $24.50, hottopic.com
Is anyone even surprised that Hot Topic would play host to a bevy of adorable Star Wars merch? Back in the day, Hot Topic was my haven for Twilight/Team Edward gear (ah, the nostalgia) and clearly, their fandom fashion is still on point.
11. Lost In Translation
Star Wars Jedi Fight Tee, $24, urbanoutfitters.com
Alright, so technically this is a men's tee, but why not re-purpose for your own wardrobe? From the jedi fight print to the Japanese lettering, I'll have no qualms rocking this tee on my own.
Images: Courtesy Brands
