Exploring the Intersection of Fashion and Science Fiction
Visitors to the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio (DACO) will have a unique opportunity to step into the world of futuristic fashion through the “Boldly Dressed” event. This one-day experience invites attendees to explore the imaginative designs of the United Federation of Planets, their allies, and adversaries. The event is part of the “Star Trek & Worlds Beyond” exhibition, offering a deeper look into the costumes that define the iconic franchise.
A Guided Journey Through Star Trek’s Fashion
The tour is led by Celeste Malvar-Stewart, a central Ohio fashion designer and fiber artist known for her innovative approach to design. Alongside author Emily Strand, she will guide guests through the exhibit, drawing connections between the speculative fashions of the 23rd and 24th centuries in the Star Trek universe and contemporary clothing trends.
Malvar-Stewart highlights the significance of costume design in shaping our perception of characters. She explains that the way a character dresses often tells us a lot about their personality and role in the story. “We don’t really have an idea about the [character] and their personality and their role really without their costume,” she said. “Their costume tells us a lot about them, just like us in everyday life.”
Cultural Influences in Star Trek Costumes
One of the most intriguing aspects of the tour is the exploration of design choices, such as material selection and inspiration behind certain pieces. Malvar-Stewart points out that some costumes are crafted using upholstery fabric, blending elements from various Asian cultures. For instance, some designs resemble kimonos but incorporate fabrics like ika, which is common in Indonesia and the Philippines, where she originates.
“I think it’s a combination of different Asian aspects because they look kind of kimono-like, being very Japanese, but they also use the fabric, which is called ika, which is very prominent in places like Indonesia and even the Philippines where I’m from,” she explained. “It looks like just a fusion of this Asian influence and it’s just very layered and very architectural; very striking pieces.”
Personal Connection to Star Trek
As an immigrant from the Philippines, Malvar-Stewart grew up watching Star Trek on television. She credits the show with helping her learn English and feel more connected to her new home. “When I first started watching it, it was wonderful because there were all of these aliens and people from different planets and different worlds, and it made me feel like, ‘Oh, I’m just one of those; I belong just as much as they belong,’” she recalled.
She also appreciated the adventurous spirit of the show and how the costumes reflected the diverse worlds and characters featured in the series. “I loved the adventure and I think the costumes were such a great reflection of visiting these other planets and seeing different aliens.”
Sustainable Practices in Fashion
As a fashion and fiber artist, Malvar-Stewart focuses on creating “slow fashion” couture pieces using ethically and sustainably sourced materials. She collaborates closely with local farmers in central Ohio, including alpaca producers. She frequently visits the alpacas that provide the fleece used in her work, with a favorite named RaeRae.
“She’s wonderful,” she said. “She’s a little bit older, but she still produces beautiful fibers.”
Malvar-Stewart believes that everyone has a connection to the fashion industry, as the choices we make daily influence how we are perceived by others. Similarly, costume designers shape the audience’s understanding of characters in films and television shows.
Event Details and Tickets
The “Boldly Dressed: A Tour of Star Trek Fashion” will take place on Thursday, July 24, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio in Lancaster. Attendees can purchase tickets through the DACO website for more information. This event offers a rare chance to explore the intersection of science fiction and fashion, while also gaining insight into the cultural and artistic influences that shape both worlds.
