Final Fantasyis famous for its intricate, dramatic, and often wildly impractical character designs. From belts on belts to asymmetrical outfits and flowing capes, the series leans hard into high fantasy fashion with a distinct flair for the theatrical. It’s not uncommon for characters to look like they just walked off the set of a music video, or out of a Hot Topic catalog.
Whether it’s Tidus’s one-legged cargo shorts, Machina’s red cape, or Noctis’s all-black ensemble, Final Fantasy characters embrace bold, unconventional styles that prioritize aesthetics over realism. It’s part of the franchise’s charm: a world where saving the planet and looking like a glam-rock icon go hand in hand.
10Tidus
Final Fantasy 10
Tidus, the protagonist of Final Fantasy 10, is a sword-wielding blitzball champion with a flair for fashion that’s as bold as his personality. His outfit reflects his sporty roots, featuring an armored left arm and distinctive cut-off cargo shorts… with one leg removed. Say what you will, but Tidus is clearly a trend-setter.
His iconic shorts look like they came straight off a Hot Topic shelf, closely resembling theSocial Collision Black Stud Grommet Zip-Off Cargo Shorts. Decked out with silver studs, zipper accents, and deep pockets, these cotton shorts are perfect for an adventuring athlete on the go. However, they lack any stretch, which could be a problem for someone constantly dodging monsters and leaping into action.
9Balthier
Final Fantasy 12
Balthier,the suave sky piratefrom Final Fantasy XII, gets pulled into a political whirlwind after a botched heist, ultimately joining the party to help prevent an all-out war. Always impeccably dressed, Balthier’s signature look includes an ornate gold vest over a flowing white shirt and fitted brown leather pants, perfect for a dashing rogue of the skies.
He might raise an eyebrow walking into Hot Topic, but even Balthier would be impressed by theGold Brocade Vest. While it’s not quite as lavish as his usual garb, its shimmering detail makes for a worthy substitute. As for the pants, leather may be out of fashion, but theBrown Side Tie Flare Leggingsoffer a modern alternative: form-fitting, flexible, and stylish enough for a sky pirate with refined tastes.
8Onion Knight
Final Fantasy 3
Final Fantasy 3 stands out in the series with its flexible job system, allowing players to switch roles and outfits throughout the game. One of the most iconic jobs is the Onion Knight, a melee class with a distinct look: harem-style pants, a colorful shrug layered over a white shirt, and a memorable, ornate helmet.
While Hot Topic doesn’t stock medieval armor, a casual Onion Knight-inspired outfit is definitely doable. TheBlack Reflective Zipper Pocket Slim Straight Pantsfeature reflective detailing that creates the illusion of wider volume at the top and a tapered fit at the ankle, perfect for channeling those classic harem pants. Top it off with a white base shirt and a colorful cropped shrug, such astealorblack and red, giving modern Onion Knights the flair they need to stand out while strolling the town… no helmet required.
7Tifa Lockhart
Final Fantasy 7 Remake
Tifa is a powerhousewith a no-nonsense fashion sense; her outfit is built for movement, support, and practicality, all while sticking to a bold black-and-white palette that highlights her red eyes. While Hot Topic doesn’t offer much in the way of sports bras, it shines when it comes to black-pleated skirts andover-the-knee socks.
Tifa would likely be drawn to theBlack Faux Leather Pleated Mini Skirtfor its sleek, tough aesthetic that matches her confident presence. But for daily wear she’d probably also grab theBlack Grommet Pleated Mini Skort, which offers built-in shorts for added mobility. It’s the perfect blend of form and function, just like Tifa herself.
6Machina Kunagiri
Final Fantasy Type-0
Machina is one of the top cadets at the Akademia, known for both his exceptional combat skills and his polished, disciplined appearance. He holds himself (and his wardrobe) to high standards, always seen in a neatly pressed coat and his signature red cape that symbolizes his dedication and pride.
While Hot Topic isn’t in the business of outfitting elite military students, it has a few pieces that Machina might approve of. TheBlack Brocade Coatoffers a sharp, formal look with structured lines and double rows of brass buttons that echo his uniform’s precision. As for his signature cape, Hot Topic doesn’t sell one separately, but theDC Comics Supergirl Costumeincludes a red cape that might just do the trick. If he doesn’t want the full costume… maybe Rem will.
5Laguna Loire
Final Fantasy 8
Though not a permanent party member in Final Fantasy 8, Laguna Loire plays a vital role through flashbacks that shape the story. A battle-hardened soldier with a kind heart, Laguna’s outfit is practical: a worn jean jacket over a white shirt, brown pants, and black boots, perfect for someone always ready for a fight.
At Hot Topic, Laguna would head straight for theBlack & White Contrast Stitch Denim Jacket, grabbing a size up so he can roll the sleeves just right. For pants, theBrown Cargo Zipper Pocket Pantsoffer durability and plenty of storage for items like ammo or field notes. Throw in a pair of rugged boots, and Laguna’s ready for battle… or just a casual day out.
4Y’shtola Rhul
Final Fantasy 14- Shadow Bringers
Y’shtola is a member of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn and a powerful sorceress… with a fashion sense to match. While Y’shtola shows a preference for white tunics in A Realm Reborn and Heavensward, she brings out a gorgeous, layered black dress in Shadowbringers.
While Hot Topic has a wide selection of black dresses, it doesn’t have anything that quite matches Y’shtola’s vision. Luckily, Y’shtola is a resourceful woman and could still make it work. She would likely layer the Cosmic Aura Black Celestial Velvet Bell Sleeve Dress for its sleeves and bodice (and the celestial imagry certainly doesn’t hurt) with the Cosmic Aura Black Lace Tiered Hanky Hem Midi Skirt for body, length, and the asymetrical look.
3Rosa
Final Fantasy 4
Rosa is a woman who adores soft textures and luminous tones. Her wardrobe is a dreamy blend of whites, golds, light pinks, and subtle purples, an elegant contrast to the typically dark, edgy aesthetic Hot Topic is known for. Still, even Rosa could find pieces to match her romantic, battle-ready vibe.
One of her most iconic items is herfloral-patterned tights, delicate, yet practical (though let’s be real, she’d need extras for all the inevitable runs during combat). Her corset-style top might be one-of-a-kind, but theBlush Pink Babydoll Cami Dressat Hot Topic has a similar soft silhouette and features floral patterns Rosa would love. And no Rosa look would be complete without a dramatic cape. While Hot Topic may not carry her exact shimmering gold, theLord of the Rings Fellowship Hooded Capebrings the drama and elegance she needs.
2Serah Farron
Final Fantasy 13
Lightning’s younger sister and the heroine of Final Fantasy 13-2, Serah is at the heart of both saving the world and kicking off the events of Final Fantasy 13. With her time-traveling adventures and constant action, Serah’s outfit balances practicality and charm; her sleeveless white top, pleated skirt, and sturdy boots are both cute and functional.
Serah dons a different outfit in Final Fantasy 13-2, but that style would be difficult to find at Hot Topic.
If Serah ever visited Earth, she’d definitely have fun shopping at Hot Topic. She’d stock up on over-the-knee socks and would likely gravitate toward theSocial Collision Red Plaid Black Grommet Tiered Skirt. Its layered look and black base closely resemble the lace-trimmed skirt she usually wears. While Hot Topic might not carry a basic sleeveless overshirt, theThorn & Fable White Lace Bolero Girls Crop Shruggives off the same delicate, feminine vibe: perfect for Serah’s blend of softness and strength.
1Noctis Lucis Caelum
Final Fantasy 15
Noctis could easily be a walking poster boy for classic Hot Topic, specifically the era before it shifted from alt-rock haven to fandom merch central. The crown prince of Final Fantasy 15 is dressed head-to-toe in black, sporting skull motifs, combat boots, and just enough brooding energy to haunt a backstage green room.
If you’re looking to channel your inner Noctis in everyday life, Hot Topic still has the goods. Start with theBlack Double Cargo Pocket Long Shorts, perfect for carrying all your royal essentials, and pair them with a skull-emblazoned tee. TheScreaming Skulls T-Shirt by Call Your Mother, with its gray tones and distressed design, practically screams “Prince of Lucis.” Top it all off witha black overshirt featuring a skull on the back(collar popped, of course), and you’ve got yourself a look fit for a road trip across Eos… regalia not included.
