Hello, Savantes. It’s been a while. What’s new? I’ve been keeping busy with work and other projects. Now that the #PunkNotPrada movie is out, I’ve been meaning to get back to you and tell you that I have good news. I’ve been busy compiling a list of the best Batman merchandise and related items that have been released over the years. As you know, I’m a huge Batman fan, and I believe that his success on the big screen shows that there’s still plenty of life left in the classic character. So without further ado, here’s my list of the best Batman merch that you should own.
Robert Pattinson Batman (2012-)
If you’re a fan of the 2012 remake of the revered 1989 Batman, then you should own this movie-accurate jacket. It features the bold orange and black look that Robert Pattinson’s Batman character sports throughout the film. The jacket is crafted from a cotton blend with a drawstring and full adjustable hood to keep you snug on those chilly days. When you want to add a little luxury to your look, you can always pull off this stylish jacket to complete your Halloween look.
The Dark Knight Rises
This is the caped crusader’s ultimate triumph. It was only fitting that The Dark Knight Rises would cap off the trilogy of modern Batman films. The Dark Knight Rises introduced a more mature and battle-hardened Bruce Wayne into the fray, an element that would carry over into the comics for years to come. This is the definitive leather jacket for the True Believer in you. You can almost feel the cool breeze as Batman crosses the street to put a stop to injustice.
Aquaman (2018-)
This is the king of the ocean’s traditional attire. It’s fitting that the king of the seas would don the traditional white and blue comic book cover on the big screen. The film’s costume designer, Michele Clapton, drew inspiration from the iconic cover art when designing Aquaman’s garb. The result is magnificent. If you want to embody the majesty and power of the seven seas, then Aquaman’s costume is the one for you. The white and blue coloring is bold and proud, the perfect match for your favorite superhero.
The Batman: Return Of The Caped Crusaders
This one might be a bit of a cheat, but I couldn’t leave it off the list. The Batman: Return Of The Caped Crusaders is a direct continuation of the 2004 original The Caped Crusaders. This time, it’s Dick Grayson’s (Burt Ward’s) turn to don the cowl as he battles a quartet of super-villains. The film was directed by Philippe de Broca and thus far, its been receiving positive reviews. In the continuation of the original show’s finale, Dick Grayson ascends to the Dark Knight’s place as Batman, making this film a must-see for anyone who enjoys The Caped Crusaders. This is the ultimate Batman tribute and also has some cool outfits worn by the titular heroes. If you’re a fan of the show, then this is the ultimate movie-to-TV-show conversion kit. For those of you who have fond memories of Burt Ward and created an archive of his various TV and film appearances, then this is the ultimate collector’s item. You can relive the glory days of Batman and Robin with this awesome set.
Tumblers
This is the traditional police uniform worn by detectives on the T.V show, Law & Order. Inspired by the show, designer Marc Jacobs crafted these limited-edition tumblers for Balenciaga. Each tumbler holds 15ml of precious water, perfect for those hot summer days or cold winter nights. The sleek shape and classic color schemes make these drinking accessories the perfect conversation starters. Whether you’re a fan of Law & Order or not, these tumblers are a must-own for anyone who loves the storied history of the NYPD.
Robin Hood (1966-)
This movie brought a dark side to Batman, one that was previously unseen. It was also the first time that the Joker had been depicted on screen. The film had a massive impact on pop culture, and arguably, it’s still one of the most influential comic book adaptations ever made. If you’re a fan of British actor, Richard Simmons, then owning a copy of this movie is a must. The actor famously played the Joker in the film, and he returned to his role as the Clown Prince of Crime in the 2018 film, The Joker. This is the definitive brown leather jacket for the character actor in you. The jacket sports the unique hood that Simmons wears in the 1966 film, which served to distinguish it from other leather jackets. If you see yourself as a more ‘serious’ or ‘soulful’ Batman than the comic book character, then this is the jacket for you. When you’re feeling particularly fierce, you can pull off this leather jacket with pride.
The Penguin (1966-)
This is the ultimate Cold War-era Batman villain. He’s been the stuff of nightmares for generations of children and adults alike. This is the definitive Penguin costume. The classic black and white color scheme doesn’t hurt either. When you want to channel your inner child and feel like a scurvy villain, then this is the ultimate Halloween costume for you. If you’re worried about how hot it might be in Florida this time of year, then cover up with this awesome penguin hoodie.
The Riddler (1966-)
This is probably the greatest mystery-themed Batman villain of all time. If you’re a fan of the British actor, Monty Wooley, then owning a copy of this character is a must. The design of the costume drew inspiration from the grid-like pattern found on the British actor’s sweater. Similarly, the purple and green color scheme pays homage to the actor’s costume and also that of the Netflix series, The Ringer. The character’s defining feature is his eccentric laugh, so if you have a crazy laugh that no one can understand, then this is the costume for you. When you’re feeling particularly mischievous, you can unleash your inner Riddler and use his help in committing all kinds of crimes.
The Catwoman (1966-)
This is one of the most recognizable images of all time. It was used to great effect in the hit 1980s TV show, The A-Team. If you’re a big fan of the show and want to look the part, then owning a copy of this cinematic classic is a must. The designers drew inspiration from the orange and black attire of the show’s leading lady, Margot Kidder, when styling this one-of-a-kind orange leather jacket. If you want to channel your inner heiress, then this is the ultimate Halloween outfit for you. When Margot Kidder first donned the catwoman costume, audiences weren’t sure if they wanted to laugh or cry. The image of the character in motion is probably the essence of sex appeal.
The Boyfriend (1975-)
This is the ultimate gay pride outfit. It was on the short list of most memorable and iconic Halloween costumes of all time. The designer, Steven Rosenblatt, drew his inspiration for this unique design from a combination of his love of comics and his own personal experience as a gay man. If you’re a proud homosexual man looking for a way to express your sexuality, then this is the ultimate Halloween costume for you. The designer wanted to create something that would “bring out the hippie in everyone”. What he came up with was a unique fusion of comic book and flower child designs, perfectly evoking the spirit of the ‘70s.
More Classics
These are some more traditional outfits that deserve a spot on your wardrobe. As I’ve said before, the classic comic book covers and characters still hold a special place in my heart. These pieces are also readily available and won’t break the bank.
Black Lightning
If you’re a fan of Netflix’s Black Lightning, then owning a piece of the action is essential. The character is a high school principal who invents a suit that turns him into a sort of modern-day superhero. This is the suit and its associated accessories. The character is inspired by Afro-American culture and the history of black superheroes in general. If you want to channel your inner superhero and feel like you can tackle any situation with confidence, then this is the outfit for you. When you’re feeling particularly bold, you can flash the accessories and gear that Black Lightning sports, not to mention his logo tights, which are an essential part of the costume.