Neopian Fashion Trends and You

The first step in your exciting fashion adventure begins with a ticket out of Neopia Central. Uni is always dressed in her best, and is enviable to any aspiring fashionista, but where do you think she gets her style inspiration from? Other Neopian lands are packed with gorgeous clothing and accessories, much of which never having been seen in Neopia Central before. Can’t you imagine packing your bags with golden headdresses from Sakhmet, elegant gowns from Neovia and Kauhide boots from Meridell, and returning to Neopia Central ready to reign as fashion royalty?

First stop, Faerieland! Faerie City is obviously the fashion capital of Neopia, inspiring clothing designers and fashion magazine writers all across Neopia. Stroll down the sparkling streets of the city and take notes on the most gorgeous outfits you see around you -- no one can accessorise like a faerie. Then, if you can afford it, head up to the Hidden Tower and check out their very exclusive range of capes and armour (the tower can be hard to find, so just ask for directions). When the hustle and bustle of the city gets too much, head outside the city limits and drop by the Rainbow Fountain to check if the Rainbow faerie has any quests for you to complete. If you’re lucky enough to get one, she’ll let you take a dip in the colourful waters -- you’ll come out with a brand new look, the perfect canvas for all your new fashion creations!

When you’re done with the glamour and glitz of Faerieland, make your way to any of the other Neopian lands, but make sure you’re travelling with an open mind. You might not expect prehistoric Tyrannia to inspire modern trends, but plush fur and bones can be used to create some very unique looks. For the most glamourous pets, the Lost Desert offers an array of gilded and bejewelled looks, while Shenkuu boasts some of the finest silk and embroidery in the whole of Neopia. If you’re looking for something more casual-cool, the folks of Mystery Island know how to rock a Hawaiian shirt, and the cosiest knits can be found in Happy Valley at the base of Terror Mountain. Explore all the fashion that the Neopian worlds have to offer, take notes and get ready to give your closet a complete makeover!

So now that you’re up to your eyes in inspiration, it’s time to go shopping. Uni’s Clothing Shop is, of course, a reliable source of lovely basics, but now that you’re ready to get creative, try heading to some different stores in Neopia Central so you have a much larger selection to choose from.

The Second-Hand Shoppe is a good place to start, many of the items being one-of-a-kind pieces that can transform a look completely (although watch your step, the dung piles up pretty quickly). The friendly Nimmo at the counter is a great example of how vintage clothes can produce a truly unique look; apparently he got his vest from his great-great-grandfather! Browse the shelves and grab as much as you can -- the best stuff gets snatched up quickly so stay on your toes. After you’ve filled your bags with thrifted goods, you might consider donating some of your old, unworn clothes to the shoppe. They can never have too many donations, and other pets are bound to give new life to the clothes that you’re bored of.

Next up is a trip to the Neopian Marketplace, the busiest and most vibrant area of Neopia Central. Squeeze through the crowds and make your way into the numerous Neopian-run stores that form the market. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for that perfect jacket or pair of shoes. If you’re looking for a particular item, perhaps something you saw on your Neopian travels but couldn’t get hold of, duck into the Shop Wizard’s tent and he’ll not only tell you where you can find it, but also where to find it the cheapest! You’ll be getting your paws on your dream duds AND saving hard-earned Neopoints!

By now your closet should be bursting with clothes, but if you’re still not completely satisfied with what you’ve got and you’ve got some spare Neocash jangling in your pocket, visit the NC Mall and browse the stalls they have open there. They have a gorgeous selection of clothes and accessories that aren’t available in regular Neopian stores. Be warned though, it’s hard to leave the mall without buying more than you can carry...

So there you have it! No more mindlessly conforming to the latest trends, and no more wasting hours of your day hanging outside the Clothing Store waiting for it to restock only to feel the fabric of the latest, trendiest pair of pants slip out of your paws as some sneaky Usul nabs it from you. Armed with a world’s worth of fashion knowledge and inspiration, you’re ready to deck yourself out with your brand new trinkets and fashion finds and start setting the trends yourself!