Footwear is not simply a practical necessity any longer, something we just wear on our feet to protect them. It has become a powerful form of self-expression. We can select styles that represent our favorite TV shows, movies, music, and iconic characters from pop culture. Footwear brands have begun to create designs that capture the essence and magic of various popular trends and franchises. And, we’ve curated a collection of pop culture-inspired footwear that will excite collectors and enthusiasts alike. Irrespective if you’re a major lover of pop culture or someone who simply enjoys unique fashion designs, these innovative and one-of-a-kind styles will elevate your shoe game.
1. Batmobile Crocs
These Batmobile Crocs are truly iconic! They’re modeled after the dashing vehicle from the 1989 Batman movie starring Micheal Keaton. The shoes are brilliantly designed and amped with all the bells and whistles, such as a graphic on the front that displays the hood. It also features a set of fins near the ankle, and there are wheel-shaped details around the heel. The front section includes actual windshields! The Crocs are also equipped with headlights, taillights, a jet engine intake at the front, and an afterburner on the back.
2. Pringles x Croc Boots
Meet the Pringles x Crocs boots – these boots are the perfect culmination of functionality and fun, and they’re intended to grab attention. The primary color of the boots is a chill beige, which will complement all your outfits very well. The shoes also include bold red accents which instantly call for attention. The Pringles logo is displayed on the cuff and the side pocket, imparting the boots with a snack-themed vibe. The boots are unique and cool, but they may make you look like a sore thumb, so if you’re okay with that, then they’re a great fit for you.
3. The Simpson Stan Smith Sneakers
Adidas brought back the Simpsons to its popular Stan Smith sneakers! The sneakers form a symbiotic fusion that transcends fashion trends. The shoes are embellished with Marge’s husband Homer, and one of Homer’s popular scenes has been integrated into the shoes – where he slowly moves back into the bush. This scene is pretty popular amongst meme enthusiasts from all over the world!
4. Marvel x Nike Footwear
Say hello to these stunning Marvel x Nike Football sneakers created by Paul Parsons using MidJourney’s AI. The unique and mind-blowing shoes perfectly capture the grandeur and power of MCU’s most iconic heroes and antiheroes. The sneaker series includes 9 different footwear models, which are inspired by the memorable and distinct characters from the Avengers movie, and Wolverine too!
5. Wednesday Stomp Clogs
Inspired by Tim Burton’s hit Netflix series Wednesday, the Wednesday Stomp Clogs are the perfect culmination of gothic style and comfort. Designed by Crocs, these limited-edition clogs are creepy yet chic. They are designed to provide a fresh and dramatic look that is great for fans of the show and lovers of spooky fashion. They feature a glossy black upper and a white color detail, giving a nod to Wednesday’s schoolgirl outfit. The Crocs are great for casual outings or Halloween events this spooky season!
If you are a lover of pop culture, and your personal space is adorned with Pokémon, Star Wars, Marvel, or Mario-themed products and devices, then, well you’re at the right spot. Because we’re gonna take it up a notch for you and introduce you to some pop-culture-based LEGO builds. We’ve curated some of our favorite pop culture LEGO builds for you to try building by yourself! From a LEGO version of the Brooklyn 99 show to a LEGO variant of Harry Potter’s Sorting Hat – these LEGO builds are complete collector’s items for pop culture lovers.
1. LEGO Downton Abbey Set
LEGO builder BRO3 created a dedicated LEGO set for the historical drama series Downton Abbey to celebrate the show’s 15th anniversary. The LEGO Ideas Downton Abbey set is extremely detailed, featuring the old Highclere Castle, as well as the expansive Crawley family including the butlers and the castle caretakers who make up the main cast of the show. The built has been designed with incredible attention to detail, and it includes multiple rooms, and at least 15 minifigures – 16 if you count the dog Pharaoh. It even includes Lady Mary’s bench!
2. LEGO Godzilla
Created by the LEGO builder Matthew Esposito, the LEGO version of Godzilla is the first LEGO Godzilla, despite almost ten or more movies coming out. The LEGO build is a small-scale variant of the city-destroying reptile, and it is inspired by the ‘King of Monsters’ Godzilla’ (from the 2019 movie). The Godzilla is only a few inches tall, featuring a hefty body and long tail. It can even blow blue flames in all directions.
3. LEGO Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
LEGO builder Teljesnegyzet created the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in a LEGO-based action figure set. The LEGO Ideas TMNT kit accurately represents the four turtles in their superhero garb. The set includes turtles in their four colored bandanas and bands, with their own weapons of choice. The turtles have a belt with their initials labeled on the buckle, and they have been color-matched to their originals, and display four shades of green.
4. Sorting Hat
The LEGO Group has launched another cool Harry Potter-based build – meet the LEGO version of the Sorting Hat! It is a dedicated LEGO variant that includes a hidden sound box that emits loud and randomized phrases in English, which we’ve all surely heard before. The hat is 9.5 inches tall, and 7.5 diameters in length, and you can showcase it proudly on a stand with Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw house symbols on it.
5. LEGO Barad-dûr
The new LEGO set- themed on Barad-dûr, Sauron’s iconic stronghold is a must-have for the Lord of the Rings fans. It is a build consisting of 5471 pieces and is topped with the Eye of Sauron, which is the disembodied eye that overlooks his evil domain. It includes four main sections – a prison, an armory, a throne room, and a kitchen. Users can also get a complementary 269-piece Fell beast set, with wings for the flying creature and the Nazul Minifigure.
6. LEGO Portal 2 Gun
The gun from Portal 2 doesn’t exist in real life, but Hooded-Blaze built this gun to be a perfect replica of the cyberpunk quantum gadget from the game. The Portal 2 Quantum Tunneling Device is built entirely from LEGO bricks and includes its own stand. It also has the ability to alternate between shooting orange or blue tunnels, much like the game. How cool is this build?!
7. LEGO Kung Fu Panda
A LEGO Kung Fu Panda from the first movie in the franchise was submitted to the LEGO Ideas Forum. The super cute Po is equipped with a dragon scroll and a bowl of noodles, and he performs the epic Wixu Finger Hold as well! The brick panda is equipped with a completely positionable body with movable hands, legs, head, fingers, and even eyebrows! Po also has a jiggling belly that bounces if you touch it.
8. The LEGO® Ideas 21348 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Red Dragon’s Tale
LEGO has finally combined with DUNGEONS & DRAGONS to mark DND’s 50th anniversary, creating The LEGO® Ideas 21348 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Red Dragon’s Tale. It is a 3745-piece playable box set designed by LEGO-builder Lucas Bolt and was initially submitted to LEGO’s Ideas forum, where LEGO’s internal team selected it and converted it into this stunning set, featuring a tavern, mysterious dungeon, and a tall wizard’s tower. It also includes a massive Cinderhowl, a menacing red dragon as well.
9. LEGO Brooklyn 99
Brooklyn 99 will always be hands down my favorite TV show ever, so when LEGO builder Ben Fakhauser created an adorable build for it, I was super excited. The LEGO creation includes the entire 99th precinct – all the rooms and characters as well! The precise and intricate build contains everything – from the bullpen to the captain’s office, even the printer room! Important aspects of the precinct floors were incorporated, and even secret details like Holt’s pet corgi Cheddar were recreated too!
10. LEGO Seven Dwarf’s Cottage
Say hello to this cute LEGO version of the Seven Dwarf’s Cottage from the iconic Disney movie – Snow White. The fascinating build is made using 2228 pieces, and 10 mini figurines. The build is created with a lot of attention to detail and reminds you of all the interesting and lovely bits of the table. The set also features Snow White’s glass coffin, the Evil Queen with the forbidden red apple, the Prince, and the Seven Dwarfs.
If you are a lover of pop culture, and your personal space is adorned with Pokémon, Star Wars, Marvel, or Mario-themed products and devices, then, well you’re at the right spot. Because we’re gonna take it up a notch for you and introduce you to some pop-culture-based LEGO builds. We’ve curated some of our favorite pop culture LEGO builds for you to try building by yourself! From a LEGO version of the Brooklyn 99 show to LEGO variant of Harry Potter’s Sorting Hat – these LEGO builds are complete collector’s items for pop culture lovers.
1. LEGO Brooklyn 99
Brooklyn 99 is one of my favorite TV shows ever, and LEGO creator Ben Fankfauser immortalized it with this adorable build which encapsulates the entire 99th precinct, including all the rooms and characters from the show. The detailed set includes almost everything, ranging from the bullpen to the captain’s office, and the printer room as well! Integral and precise aspects of the precinct’s floor were recreated, and some secret details like Holt’s pet corgi Cheddar were added to the mix as well.
2. LEGO Sorting Hat
Harry Potter fans should rejoice because the LEGO Group recently unveiled the Sorting Hat! The Sorting Hat has unveiled a dedicated LEGO version, with a hidden sound box that will emit out loud randomized phrases in English, which we all are familiar with. It is 9.5 inches tall, and 7.5 diameters in length, and it can adorned on a stand that features Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw house symbols.
3. LEGO Seven Dwarf’s Cottage
Meet this adorable LEGO version of the Seven Dwarf’s Cottage from the iconic Disney animation – the Snow White movie. This lavish build is made of 2228 pieces, and 10 mini figurines. It is intriguingly and precisely detailed to bring to mind all the interesting and memorable aspects of the tale. The build also comes along with Snow White’s glass coffin, the Evil Queen with the forbidden red apple, the Seven Dwarfs, and the Prince.
4. The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull
The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull (76964) is one of the first Jurassic World sets intended for museum-like display. It is a 577-piece set that includes a T. Rex skull with an opening jaw, and a stand to proudly display it. The build also includes an info plaque, an amber piece at the back, and a fossilized footprint.
5. LEGO Miller’s Planet Scene
LEGO builder Minibrick Productions has recreated the iconic Miller’s Planet scene from the iconic Interstellar movie with this little LEGO-based build that features the ranger aircraft, astronauts Cooper and Brad, and the shapeshifting robots TARS and CASE. The two robots are equipped with repositionable arms that allow them to walk like humans, while Hathaway and McConaughey wear their space suits.
6. LEGO R2D2
To commemorate the 25th anniversary of Star Wars, LEGO has launched a 1050-brick version of R2D2. R2-D2 is the iconic droid in the multiple Star Wars adventures, who was loved by everyone! He is making a fascinating return in his brick-built form, in a compact and smaller form than the 2214-brick version 3 years ago. It is intended for younger galactic lovers aged 9 and above.
7. LEGO The Great British Bake Off
The Great British Bake Off is now available in a LEGO version! The LEGO Great British Bake Off is equipped with an impressive amount of detail. It recreates almost every aspect and element of the show, down to the tiniest and minute details. It features six decked-out participant islands littered with utensils, a sink, burners, a KitchenAid mixer, and an oven at the bottom. The backdrop is adorned with signature string lights, Union Jack flags, and a kitchen pantry.
8. LEGO Avengers Tower
This impressive LEGO set measures 35.5 inches tall, and it was created as a part of the 60th anniversary of the Avengers. It is supposed to be one of the tallest sets when put together! As you look at it, you’ll notice the Quinjet, Leviathan, and two Chitauri flyers from the 2012 Avengers Assemble. The interior of the set features scenes from the Infinity Sage, Age of Ultron party, and Endgame.
9. LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant
LEGO collabs with Mario in the form of this LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant. The build is made up of 540 pieces, and when you put it together you get a sharp-toothed Piranha Plant! The build commemorates this little ‘villain’ from the game, and it is also camera-ready letting you show off that you’ve completed the masterpiece. It features the spiky leaves, the polka-dot head, and the green pipe from which it grows.
10. LEGO Quidditch Trunk
Meet the LEGO Quidditch Trunk! It may not be LEGO’s most complex or difficult Harry Potter build, but it is quite entertaining and interactive. It is a 599-brick build and is equipped with a comprehensive Quidditch setup that includes brooms, hoops, players, and a launcher that lets you shoot disc-shaped quaffles through the hoops.
If you are a lover of pop culture, and your personal space is adorned with Pokémon, Star Wars, Marvel, or Mario-themed products and devices, then, well you’re at the right spot. There’s something about pop culture designs that spreads a sense of joy and amusement through you, adding a whimsical quirkiness to even the most mundane of spaces. And, we’ve curated a collection of fun yet functional pop culture designs that cover some of your favorite movies, characters, and shows! From AI-generated Star Wars timepieces to furry Sonic The Hedgehog-themed controllers – this list of adorable and playful products has something for all pop culture lovers out there!
1. Star Wars Timepieces
Designed by our Editor-In-Chief Sarang Sheth, these imaginary timepieces are inspired by various characters from the Star Wars Saga. Every year, the 4th of May is celebrated as Star Wars Day, and these watches were created on Midjourney’s AI art generator as an ode to this day. The first one is an homage to the Storm Trooper with its slightly cloudy transparency and ceramic surfaces, while another one has a Darth Vader theme featuring the iconic Sith lord’s helmet.
Why is it noteworthy?
All the timepieces were created using Midjourney’s latest versions 5 and 5.1, functioning as accurate and impressive homages to the Star Wars series. All the pieces perfectly represent certain characters and their trademark characteristics – ranging from Darth Vader and his helmet to Yoda with his green skin and brown cloak
What we like
There are various kinds of timepieces ranging from a wrist watch to pocket watch and even a table clock
What we dislike
They’re conceptual AI-generated designs, so we don’t know how well they will translate into tangible products
2. Brooklyn 99 LEGO Build
One of my all-time favorite shows is Brooklyn 99, and LEGO creator Ben Fankhauser has built an adorable build featuring the entire 99th precinct, amped with all the rooms and characters from the show. The detailed set includes almost everything from the bullpen to the captain’s office and even the printer room!
Why is it noteworthy?
The entire set was built with great attention to detail, and the most precise aspect of the precinct’s floor was recreated. Some secret details were added as well! Fankhauser says the set is full of Easter eggs! Holt’s office even has his pet corgi – Cheddar.
What we like
Accurate representation with hidden details for added excitement
What we dislike
The iconic briefing/meeting room is not included in the build
3. SmartAir Minions Routers
The SmartAir Minions Routers were one of the key highlights at CES 2024 for us. We didn’t go searching for them, but when we did come across them, we were completely floored, because at first glance they look like plush little toys, but only a further investigation reveals that they’re adorable WiFi routers!
Why is it noteworthy?
The WiFi routers are available in two models, and they resemble two main characters – short and cute Bob, and tall and goofy Kevin. The Bob-shaped router offers dual-band WiFi connectivity, while the taller Kevin provides triple-band internet – 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz.
What we like
The routers provide an excellent blend of wide coverage and high speeds
They eliminate dead zones, providing WiFi connectivity to every corner of your home
What we dislike
Kids may mistake them for toys and play with them, bringing down your home network
4. Squid Game Security Camera
Inspired by the dark South Korean series Squid Game, this security camera is the perfect addition to the home for every pop culture lover! It is designed after the workers who monitor the activities of the players on CCTV monitor. These creepy creatures can now be placed in your home, keeping your living space and you, safe and secure.
Why is it noteworthy?
The rotating lens of the camera is positioned where the eye would be, offering 180-degree views of the surroundings, ensuring complete security. The camera has a unique feature to ensure no hacking attempts can be made – it has a privacy mask that physically blocks the FOV when the camera is not being used.
What we like
Has its own light illumination that can be adjusted by the user
What we dislike
It is a conceptual design, so we’re unsure how well it would translate into a tangible one
The relevancy of the Squid Game theme may be in question, so may not resonate with users
5. Dune: Part 2 Xbox Controller
Microsoft unveiled a Dune edition controller in collaboration with Warner Bros and Legendary Pictures to promote the release of the movie. The unique controller has a levitating feature, which essentially means that the controller rests on a stand that floats, although we’re unsure how this is achieved, but we guess magnets were used.
Why is it noteworthy?
The controller features a custom finish accentuated by the movie logo and symbols. The controller is also partnered up with a Dune-themed Ornithopter Stand which offers a whole feel. It has an alluring and vibrant feel, making it a true collector’s item.
What we like
Gives off the impression that it is floating
What we dislike
It is a one-off collector’s piece, so need to get your hands on it quickly
6. Samsung Eco-Friends Collection
Samsung has patterned up with a South Korean accessory maker to create the Eco-Friends collection. The line is quite eco-friendly, in comparison to the usual plastic-based accessories that you find in the market. They’re designed for the new Samsung devices like the Galaxy S23 line, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, and the Galaxy Watch 5.
Why is it noteworthy?
The accessories are made from 40% Post Consumer Materials. These materials usually include recycled plastic and vegan leather. The designs feature popular characters and shows like Star Wars, Hello Kitty, Spongebob, The Simpsons, and Pokémon. There are also some fun designs by younger artists.
What we like
Eco-friendly alternative to the plastic-based accessories found today
What we dislike
Only limited to Samsung’s newer models
7. Elemental Coffee Machine
Meet the Elemental Coffee Machine – a unique coffee machine that combines the elements of Star Trek and Apple! The innovative coffee machine has a sleek silhouette featuring an espresso group head with an intuitive modern touch interface. The form of the machine is quite clean and minimalist, making it super easy to use.
Why is it noteworthy?
The coffee machine’s UI is a tribute to ‘okudagrams’ – a nickname given to the interactive displays found on control panels in 23rd and 24th-century starships as seen in Star Trek. The panel was added here to eliminate the long time it takes for filter coffee to brew, while also creating a fun experience.
What we like
Has a MacBook reference in the compartment as it looks much neater
What we dislike
Users may find the control panel unnecessary and may find it difficult to adjust to the machine’s form
8. Smart Minion Projector
This adorable Smart Minion Projector takes an otherwise mundane gadget to a whole new level. The geometric cylinder merges the elements of IP with the functionality of the product, while the yellow is the bright pop of color needed to transform the projector into complete Minion mode!
Why is it noteworthy?
The projector features a single camera, automatic focusing motor, and TOF feature face recognition which ensures the picture is clear at all times. A smart eye protection function can be added as well, making the project truly updated, and well-equipped to meet your movie-watching needs.
What we like
Compact and cute upgrade to the typical projector
What we dislike
9. Starfield Xbox Controller & Headset
Last year at the Xbox Games Showcases 2023, Microsoft launched the Starfield Xbox controller and Starfield headphones to promote its sci-fi RPG dubbed Starfield. The controller is inspired by the ship’s controls as seen in the game and amped with transparent pad triggers and bronze rumble motors. The headset also has similar accents.
Why is it noteworthy?
The devices have a retro aesthetic which is defined as NASA-Punk in the DNA. The designs are quite clean, with the controller’s side and back grips resembling the panels of the spaceship. The gamepad can be easily used for various devices like Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Windows PC, Android, and iOS.
What we like
Futuristic retro appeal combined with excellent functionality
What we dislike
The controller doesn’t come equipped with a rechargeable battery
10. Sonic The Hedgehog Xbox Controllers
A collaboration between Microsoft and Paramount Studios led to a Sonic the Hedgehog Xbox controller and the Xbox Series S which is embossed in a black hue with the big iconic golden ring around the vent. Sonic and Knuckles have been featured on the front, and the controllers are also super cute!
Why is it noteworthy?
The controllers are furry! They are covered by a layer of furry-colored hair, one is blue like Sonic’s hair, while the other is red, mimicking Knuckles’ fur, creating unique controllers, and honestly unlike anything we’ve seen on the market.
What we like
A must-have design for the Sonic fans
Innovative take on controllers
What we dislike
Not meant for people whose palms get sweaty easily
