Into 'Star Wars' galactic fashion: Everything you need to know

When you think of Star Wars you think of spaceships, lightsabers, aliens, and all the fantastical elements that are a crucial part of that universe. Fashion too comes to the forefront when you think of this galactic franchise. George Lucas paid special attention to the costume designs of his characters, he put his heart and soul into Star Wars, even though he never expected the series to take off the way it did.  

For the original trilogy which was released from 1977- 1983, he wanted the costumes to be simple, he stuck to a limited color palette which was mostly neutrals like white and beige. The only exception to this colour palette were Darth Vader and C-P3O who had complex designs in black and gold. He used the muted colors to evoke a sense of desolation caused by the tyrannical Galactic Empire a great example of this is Princess Leia whose outfit resembled that of a nun even though she is a princess and is supposed to wear extravagant outfits.  

When it came to the prequel trilogy which was released in 1999, he did a switcheroo. Since, the movies were set before the empire came into power, the galactic senators were in their heyday, and the filmmaker decided to go for opulent and fantastical outfits to showcase the grandeur of this era. He wanted the costumes to be very avant-garde as they were supposed to be made for alien nations, he even brought in costume designer Trisha Biggar (who also designed for the Indiana Jones franchise) to make his vision possible. Here are our picks for Star Wars' most prolific and extravagant outfits...

Padme’s wedding dress, 2002

Padme’s wedding dress looked timeless with beautiful lace and brocade embellishments throughout. Her headdress was studded with pearls which made it look even more beautiful. She looked angelic at her wedding in the film Attack of the Clones. 

Chancellor Valorum's turquoise coat, 1999

For the franchise men’s fashion has been as important as women in the Galactic Republic. Chancellor Valorum in the prequel series was seen sporting a gorgeous blue embroidered coat. This statement coat was so striking that it still makes an impact, all these years later. 

Sly Moore’s icy aesthetic, 2002

If ice were a person it would be Sly Moore in Attack of the Clones. Her outfit comes off as very unique with the pale blue tassels making it look like snow has settled all over her coat. The structured neckline also gives her character an intimidating aura. 

Natalie’s picnic dress, 2002

Natalie Portman in the prequel series captures her character's innocence in this dress. This costume has everything—dainty flower embroidery in the sleeves, corset bodice, the beautiful net headpiece, to a skirt full of glittering stars and sequins. This outfit was a huge hit among the fans as it has been routinely replicated in Star Wars cosplay events. 

Palpatine’s layers, 2005

Palpatine definitely loves layers, we can say the same for his personality too. His outfit at the senate in Revenge of the Sith consists of a maroon and black voluminous combo. The embroidery on the floor-length maroon vest and the puffy sleeves leaves a lasting impact on the viewers.

Princess Amidala's royal regalia, 1999

This white ceremonial outfit worn by Padme is definitely one of her best. The ruffled robe and the white dress make it so regal. The halo-like accessory makes the costume even more ethereal. 

Nute Gunray’s knit outfits, 2005

Knits and crochets are a very popular trend right now, but Neimoidians have been wearing very intricate wool knit outfits for ages. The detailed wool embroidery on this outfit, especially on the shoulders makes this costume look otherworldly. 

Padme travels in style, 1999

There might be a lot of Padme outfits in this but hey, her fashion sense is that good. Costume designer Trisha Biggar outdid herself with this costume, this dress has so many elements—like a knitted coat, a crochet lace bodice, and a feathered headdress, yet none of these elements clash, they go well together and make this outfit look magnificent. 

Senator Bail Organa stuns in velvety blue, 2005

The men in Star Wars sure do love layering. The senator layered a blue velvet cape over his military outfit, and even accessorised with silver arm cuffs and a chest plate. 

Lizzo’s Cameo, 2023

Did you know that Lizzo and Jack Black did a cameo in The Mandalorian? The pair comes together again in the season three of The Mandalorian where Lizzo wore an intense blue and purple gown with a holographic kaleidoscopic blend of peacock feathers, while Jack Black wore a military outfit in the same colour scheme.