Every year my favorite part of Seattle’s GeekGirlCon is browsing the new-to-me vendors spread across the exhibitor floor. This year’s exhibitor selection was the biggest yet, much to my delight, with fantastic wares from cosmetics to art to apparel.
Here are just a few picks to highlight some of the incredible vendors exhibiting at one of the most friendly and relaxed conventions of the year.
Dragonsworn Cosmetics
The dazzling colors on Dragonsworn’s table called to passersby like a beacon. When I flipped the bottle over and saw that the colors are named and inspired by favorite fandoms like Dragon Age, Overwatch, Harry Potter, and more, I was happily surprised. And once I heard that the handmade polishes are free of toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, or camphor, which is fantastic for my nail-nibbling daughter, I was sold. (I picked up Iron Bull, because Iron Bull.)
Dragonsworn Cosmetics also carries lip gloss and eyeshadows, and can make custom colors, so there’s something for just about anyone looking for a subtle way to show off their favorite fandom.
Elhoffer Design
The gorgeous Star Wars inspired dresses by Elhoffer Design must almost be seen to be believed. Both the Poe and Rey homage designs were on hand at GeekGirlCon, and if you were lucky enough to have one at the table in your size, Elhoffer Design allowed potential buyers a quick dash to the bathroom to try one on.
The grey Rey-inspired dress fit like a dream. The fabric was soft but sturdy, and bless Elhoffer Design, the dress has pockets. POCKETS. The skirt flares in a lovely fit that flatters anyone who wears it. If you’ve been looking for a way to step up your everyday cosplay game, browse Elhoffer Design’s line of clothes inspired by Star Wars, The Avengers, Harry Potter, and more.
The Gorgonist
While it’s easy to be drawn to The Gorgonist’s gorgeous work by some of your favorite One Piece and Studio Ghibli characters, it’s the original art and her creative takes on fandom franchises that really draw your eye. The Gorgonist’s movie poster take on The Neverending Story is mesmerizing, her seasonal crows series is just waiting to be hung on your walls, and I want to know more about her original characters immediately.
Retro Pop Namu
While most of the Japanese-inspired designs by Retro Pop Namu feature a prominent Seattle landmark, the organic designs appeal to just about everyone. All I have to say to you is “ninja octopus” and “science squid” and you’ll immediately get an idea of Namu’s steampunk style. Clothing is handmade and available in both adult and child sizes.
Urban TomBoy
After hunting for years for geeky-themed barrettes for my daughter (and making a few of my own), I am always drawn to them when I spy them for sale. But the amazing designs by Urban TomBoy will catch just about any parent’s eye, with the detailed Nintendo, Star Wars, and more hair clips for sale. You’ll also find tutus, handbags, and makeup bags for geeky girls of any age.
Top image © GeekGirlCon
All photos: Kelly Knox
