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The Evolution of Fandom Merchandise: A Shift from Mainstream to Exclusivity

From Affordable to Luxury: The Rise of High-End Fandom Merchandise

Pop culture goods have come a long way since basic black tees with movie titles screen-printed on them. Void of the nostalgia attached to video stores, these items have expanded to become a staple in mall mainstays like Hot Topic. The brand’s partnership has helped drive demand, and more retailers have followed suit, catering to nerdy lifestyle and fashion inspired by major franchises and fandoms, such as Star Wars, Marvel, anime, Doctor Who, and The Lord of the Rings.

The Barbie Revival: A Shift in Fandom Merchandise Trends

However, thanks to the release of the Barbie movie, things have begun to shift away from the casual, influencer lifestyle obsession. The iconic Mattel brand has transformed from a walking billboard to maximalist luxury, with merchandise featuring the character’s image everywhere, from home goods to travel to fashion. The likes of Margot Robbie’s Barbie and Ken’s "I’m Kenough" fuzzy rainbow hoodie have become highly coveted items.

Beyond the Pop Culture Mashup: A More Subtle Approach

However, not every licensed piece of merchandise is worth the cost. Brands have taken to slapping IP images onto expensive items simply for the perceived association with the pop-culture brand. Star Wars is a prime example, with fans willing to pay top dollar for high-quality items, such as Columbia gear or luxury bedding sets. However, sometimes it’s better to play it safe and opt for more affordable, creative pieces.

Celebrating Your Fandom with Quality and Affordability

Sometimes, it’s better to go for a more subtle approach, and Disney’s collections offer affordable price points with creative artist showcases, transforming beloved characters into something unique. Gift shop souvenirs at the theme parks, which tend to go viral, often feel more authentic to the world you love. For instance, the electronic Figrin D’an and the Modal Nodes Kloo Horns released when Galaxy’s Edge opened have become a standout gift for fans.

A Better Approach to Merchandise: Finding the Right Balance

With the rise of licensed merchandise, there’s something for everyone who gets excited about shopping fandom-themed products. It’s essential to be mindful about paying for more than the brand. Brands like Beis, Heroes & Villains, and Lillebaby have catered to parents with Disney collections for strollers and more. Recently, Wicked made a run for the hottest holiday merchandise, with exclusive items like Stanley cups, fashion collections by Paul Tazewell, and vinyl records.

The Future of Fandom Merchandise: Exciting Developments and Trends

Most recently, Wicked‘s home release, the coveted steelbooks, has become a highly sought-after item. Online exclusive retailers like Bloomingdale’s have offered designer drops of clothing, jewelry, and more at affordable price points. With the release of Disney’s Snow White live-action movie and Cinderella’s 70th anniversary, expect more enchanting and classy Disney Princess pieces. Unique Vintage has just rolled out its Snow White collaboration, bringing fairytale core to the forefront in a stylish way.

Staying Up-to-Date with the Latest Fandom News and Releases

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, as well as updates on the DC Universe on film and TV. Stay tuned for information on the future of Doctor Who, including release dates and where to stream new episodes.