Video game characters are more than just avatars—they’re cultural icons. Their outfits often become symbols of their personalities, stories, and the worlds they inhabit. From Mario’s vibrant overalls to Lara Croft’s rugged adventurer gear, these designs leave lasting impressions. In this article, we explore the 12 most popular video game characters whose fashion sense has captivated fans, influenced cosplay trends, and even inspired real-world apparel. Let’s dive into the pixelated closets of gaming’s best-dressed heroes, villains, and anti-heroes.
Classic Icons: Timeless Fashion Statements
These characters have stood the test of time, their outfits etched into gaming history.
1. Mario (Super Mario Series)
Mario’s red cap, blue overalls, and signature mustache are instantly recognizable. Designed for simplicity on limited hardware, his outfit became a global phenomenon. Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto once said, “I wanted Mario to feel like a relatable everyman—someone who could be a plumber or a hero.” The color contrast (red vs. blue) ensures visibility, making Mario a masterclass in functional design.
Key Outfit Features:
- Red cap with “M” insignia
- Blue denim overalls
- White gloves
- Brown shoes
Learn more about Mario’s design evolution here.
2. Link (The Legend of Zelda Series)
Link’s green tunic, pointed hat, and Master Sword define heroic fantasy. Inspired by Peter Pan’s adventurous spirit, his outfit evolves across games but always retains its elf-like charm. In Breath of the Wild, the blue Champion’s Tunic modernized his look while paying homage to tradition.
3. Lara Croft (Tomb Raider Series)
Lara’s tank top, shorts, and dual pistols redefined female protagonists in the ’90s. Her practical yet bold attire symbolizes resilience. The 2013 reboot introduced a more tactical look, blending survivalist gear with her iconic braid.
Classic Characters and Their Signature Styles
| Character | Game Series | Iconic Outfit Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mario | Super Mario | Red cap, blue overalls |
| Link | The Legend of Zelda | Green tunic, pointed hat |
| Lara Croft | Tomb Raider | Tank top, holsters, hiking boots |
Modern Legends: Contemporary Style Icons
Today’s characters blend cutting-edge design with narrative depth.
4. Aloy (Horizon Zero Dawn)
Aloy’s Nora Brave outfit—a mix of tribal furs and futuristic tech—mirrors her role as a hunter in a post-apocalyptic world. The intricate beadwork and machine-derived armor pieces make her a standout in gaming fashion.
5. Kratos (God of War Series)
From Greek warrior skirts to Norse pelts, Kratos’ attire reflects his journey. The 2018 redesign added a fatherly touch with a rugged beard and minimalist armor, symbolizing redemption.
6. Ellie (The Last of Us Series)
Ellie’s plaid shirts and backpacks embody post-apocalyptic realism. Her Part II look features a tattooed arm and practical gear, highlighting her evolution from a vulnerable teen to a hardened survivor.
Fantasy and Sci-Fi: Imaginative Attire
These characters transport us to otherworldly realms through their wardrobe.
7. Master Chief (Halo Series)
The green MJOLNIR armor is synonymous with sci-fi military prowess. Its sleek, angular design and energy shields blend functionality with futuristic flair.
8. 2B (Nier: Automata)
2B’s gothic lolita-inspired dress and blindfold create an enigmatic aesthetic. Director Yoko Taro explained, “Her design contrasts innocence and destruction—a theme central to the game.”
Fantasy/Sci-Fi Wardrobe Essentials
- Flowing capes (e.g., Geralt of Rivia)
- Neon-lit cyberwear (e.g., Cyberpunk 2077’s V)
- Elaborate helmets (e.g., Samus Aran’s Power Suit)
Anti-Heroes and Villains: Dark and Edgy Styles
Dark charisma defines these characters’ wardrobes.
9. Sephiroth (Final Fantasy VII)
Sephiroth’s long leather coat and silver hair exude menace. His design influenced countless RPG antagonists, blending elegance with menace.
10. Bayonetta
This witch’s weaponized hair and skin-tight bodysuit redefine “dressing to kill.” Her glasses, made from her own hair, add a playful yet lethal edge.
Quote: “Bayonetta’s confidence is her armor.” – Hideki Kamiya, Creator.
Sporty and Casual: Comfort Meets Cool
Relatable yet stylish, these characters prove practicality can be chic.
11. Tifa Lockhart (Final Fantasy VII Remake)
Tifa’s crop top, gloves, and combat boots balance athleticism and charm. Her redesign added detachable sleeves, emphasizing her fighter persona.
12. D.Va (Overwatch)
D.Va’s pink mech suit and gamer-inspired jacket reflect her esports star persona. Blizzard’s designers aimed for a “K-pop meets pro gamer” vibe.
The Influence of Video Game Fashion
From cosplay conventions to high-fashion collabs (like Louis Vuitton’s League of Legends line), gaming attire impacts global culture. Designers draw inspiration from characters’ color palettes, textures, and silhouettes.
Real-World Collaborations
| Game | Fashion Brand | Collection Theme |
|---|---|---|
| Animal Crossing | Valentino | Pastel luxury wear |
| Final Fantasy | Louis Vuitton | Futuristic travel accessories |
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Iconic Outfits
Video game characters’ outfits are more than pixels—they’re storytelling tools and cultural touchstones. Whether it’s Mario’s timeless overalls or Aloy’s tribal-tech hybrid, these designs inspire creativity across mediums. Next time you play, take a moment to appreciate the artistry behind the wardrobe!