Dressing For Success At Your First Comic Con

In the excitement of preparing for your first comic con, it's easy to neglect the most important aspect of your planning--your wardrobe. However, even if you're not going to arrive in costume, it's important to go to websites and carefully analyze your clothing choices. If you don't, you'll run the risk of having an uncomfortable and unsatisfying time.

Here are the most important aspects to consider when choosing your day's wardrobe. Some of these considerations might not be obvious if you haven't been to a convention before.

Bring Layers

Comic conventions are typically indoor affairs. Because of this, many convention guests don't think about dressing for the elements. After all, why would you possibly dress for extreme heat/cold when you'll be spending the entire day inside a climate-controlled convention center?

Unfortunately, the climate will undoubtedly vary wildly inside the convention center. Since heating and cooling a large indoor space is difficult, your position will determine your level of comfort. Imagine spending two hours in line for a panel underneath a massive air conditioning vent!

Multiple thin layers of clothing are the answer to this problem. You won't want to bring a jacket since it can't be easily rolled up and stored when it isn't needed. That said, you'll want to have the option of quickly adding/subtracting layers when your position makes things uncomfortable. Consider wearing 3-4 layers of shirt--and at least one with long sleeves.

Check Your Shoes

Proper shoes are the key to long-term comfort and avoiding back pain. Your shoes probably aren't up to that task, though. That's because most people--including 9 out of 10 American women--wear shoes that are too small for their feet. This often goes unnoticed because most people aren't on their feet all day.

To avoid the foot and back pain that comes from ill-fitting shoes, check how well your shoes fit in advance. Since most people have a foot that is larger than the other, your shoes should give your larger foot ample room to move your toes. You also shouldn't feel constrained on the sides of your feet.

The other aspect of a shoe's fit is the arch support. If your shoes are old, the arch support has likely broken down. Consider adding an insole to your shoes--or even purchasing a new pair of shoes with new, firm support. Since you'll be spending hours on your feet over a day or more, the investment is totally worth it.

Carefully Choose Accessories

Accessorizing for fashion purposes is typically a bad idea at a comic con. While it might be tempting to wear your triforce necklace or a themed hat, you should probably avoid doing so. You have to travel light since you won't be able to store unwanted items effectively as you wait in line for the next panel.

There are, however, a few notable exceptions. They are:

• Watches--Phones have a tendency to run out of batteries and you'll never know if a clock is in sight or not while you're in line.
• Bags--Not all conventions allow personal bags in the center. Call ahead and find out of a backpack is acceptable, and bring one if it is.
• Belts--You'll be standing. A lot. If your pants have a tendency to slide, you'll be glad that you have a belt with you.

Basically, limit your accessories to items that add value or utility. After you've visited a few conventions, you'll know what works for you. Then, you can add items as you see fit. 

Your first comic con will be a fantastic experience that you'll remember for years to come. By choosing an effective wardrobe for this experience, you'll be certain to remember it for all the right reasons.