How to Dress Geek Chic

Actor Ashton Kutcher channels his inner geek with a pair of funky horn-rimmed glasses.
... Stephen Shugerman/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Whether you're into sci-fi or video games, there's no shame in being a geek. But just because you're a fan of "Star Trek" doesn't mean you can't be stylish too. Rocking the geek chic look is a way to proudly boast your status as a fanboy or fangirl while still looking sharp. The key to the look is casual pieces so your look has an effortless feel.

1 Go Skinny

For the geek chic look, tight pants are a must -- that’s why skinny jeans are such an important part of the uniform. You can opt for a stretchy pair in black or dark-wash denim for a classic look or go with a colored denim style. Red, green and cobalt are all appropriate options. Skinny corduroy pants fit the look well, too. If you’re not a fan of the form-fitting skinny jeans, though, straight leg jeans also channels the geek chic look. For girls who want to rock the style, apply the same principle to skirts – go with a slim-fitting option like a pencil skirt. Any fabric can work, but denim, corduroy, khaki and wool skirts are usually the best options.

2 Get Graphic

You should invest in a few funky graphic tees for the geek chic look. Look for T-shirts with images of your favorite comic book superheroes, video game characters, science-fiction TV shows or movie artwork. For a really authentic look, go with vintage tees from the '80s, like a “Star Wars” T-shirt. Generic graphic tees with clever sayings or whimsical cartoon animals are other fun options. When picking out your graphic T-shirts, though, choose fitted styles and pair them with jeans and colorful tennis shoes for a fun, casual outfit.

3 Add Layers

While graphic tees are a key part of the geek chic look, the right layering pieces can help take your outfit up a notch. Throw a hooded sweatshirt in a funky blue camouflage print or bold green and purple stripes over your tee and jeans. Or borrow an argyle cardigan from your grandfather’s closet and wear it over a simple white T-shirt and skinny cords. In warm weather, pair your favorite T-shirts with a sweater vest or a tailored button-up style to give your look a plenty of geek flavor.

4 Accessorize

Whether you have trouble with your eyesight or not, the right pair of glasses can instantly make you look geek chic. Black horn-rimmed glasses are the classic option – if you don’t actually need glasses, pick up a non-prescription pair to sell the look. Or try adding a pair of suspenders to your skinny jeans – go with a bold, rainbow pair to really stand out or keep it simple with a basic black or gray set. For girls who are wearing skirts, try a pair of knee socks to give your look a little more geek style. A wristwatch, backpack or messenger bag with your favorite cartoon or comic book character gives your look a little more personality.

Based in New York City, Jennifer Blair has been covering all things home and garden since 2001. Her writing has appeared on BobVila.com, World Lifestyle, and House Logic. Blair holds a Bachelor of Arts in Writing Seminars from the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.

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