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Star Trek Uniforms Fully Explained

Since its premiere more than 50 years ago, Star Trek has been at the center of a growing web of culture, television, film, and fandom. With nine television series and 13 films, with undoubtedly more to come, there is a wealth of material to analyze and enjoy. Today, an enthusiastic fan can take just a single aspect of the Star Trek universe and dive into it for weeks.

Take uniforms. A seemingly simple concept, right? Star Trek generally focuses on the experiences of people serving in Starfleet, essentially a futuristic version of the Navy in space. So, Starfleet uniforms should be fairly consistent, even boring. Everyone's supposed to look like a cohesive group, so there should be little variation.

However, the uniforms of Star Trek are so varied and connected to the intricate fictional world of the franchise that it's pretty fascinating. Someone appearing on Star Trek: The Next Generation and then showing up again in a film like Star Trek: First Contact will probably have to fit themselves into two very distinct outfits. With more than five decades of stuff to go through, says CNET , there's a dizzying variety of looks for what's supposed to be a pretty staid quasi-military organization.

Practically everything about the history of Star Trek uniforms is linked to behind-the-scenes stories, real-world creativity, in-universe drama, and even a touch of fashion history here and there. From color, to cut, to material, there's a lot to learn.

Color is key to Star Trek uniforms

In Star Trek: The Original Series , which ran from 1966 to 1969, you can't miss the brightly hued uniform shirts sported by the crew of the starship Enterprise . Captain James T. Kirk and other members of the command staff sport golden yellow tops, says Mental Floss . Blue is reserved for the science department and medical personnel, so you'll see it on Mr. Spock, the second-in-command, and the ship's physician, Doctor McCoy.

And what of the folk in red uniforms? According to Star Trek lore, these poor "redshirts" are little more than cannon fodder, though, officially, red is for communications, admin, and security. If you're watching an episode where a random, red-clad crewmember is asked to beam down to the planet with the main cast, don't get too attached. They're probably going to get zapped, eaten, or otherwise annihilated to further the episode's plot.

Of course, there are some exceptions. Statistically speaking, says Nerdist , redshirts are not that bad off. Consider also that red shirts adorn major characters like Scotty, the ship's chief engineer, who made it through the entire series.

Now that you've got that settled, remember that it's only good for one series. In later Star Trek shows, red and gold switched places. Captains like The Next Generation 's Jean-Luc Picard wore a dark red, while his security chief, Worf, wore gold.

Starfleet rank is shown by pips and stripes

Like so many real-world military organizations, Starfleet hinges on rank. Crewmembers are expected to follow orders, but on starships that can carry thousands of people, who are they supposed to take seriously? That's where the rickrack comes in.

In Star Trek: The Original Series , rank was denoted by stripes of gold ribbon on someone's sleeves. The more stripes, the higher the rank. Generally speaking, says Atlas Obscura , two or three stripes means a captain. Commissioned officers are a safe bet for one stripe. Non-commissioned people get either a bit of braid or nothing at all. The stripes were brought back for the reboot films beginning in 2009.

The follow up series, Star Trek: The Next Generation   went for something different during its 1987 – 1994 run. The colors became a more muted, and the old rank stripes, which, frankly, looked like something you might have picked up from your local craft store, were retired. In their place, officers wore "pips," subtle little pins, on their collars. The higher someone's rank, the more pips they sported.

Other films played around a bit with the rank symbols, like the different colors and badges shown in 1982's Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan . Still, they weren't too off the original mark. Generally speaking, the more junk on someone's uniform, the more likely it is that you'll have to follow their orders.

The original series went for velour

Futurama 's Zapp Brannigan character, a send-up of Captain Kirk, is all about his velour uniform. The first Star Trek series really was into luxurious velour, too, but the fabric proved challenging to maintain. It's not as if the 1960s were known for comfortable natural materials, after all.

According to Esquire , the fabric initially used in Star Trek: The Original Series was a little flashy. Costume designers used a stretch cotton velour for the tops, with a black synthetic Dacron infused with sparkles for the pants. Both materials were meant to subtly glitter under studio lights, lending the uniforms a shimmery, 23rd-century, spacefaring feel. 

Unfortunately, the velour was a flop. Many called it "that rotten velour," noting that the fabric tended to shrink in the wash and could tear easily. In the third and final season, designers substituted it for a double-knit nylon, says CNET , which proved to be a much hardier fabric, especially when it got thrown into the washing machine.

Captain Kirk's special green shirt was a little embarrassing

Originally, reports Atlas Obscura , the command staff of Star Trek: The Original Series was supposed to be sporting a muted green. Under the studio lights, though, the cameras read the green velour as a golden yellow. The production team simply went with it for the rest of the series.

Careful observers of the 1960s run will note that Captain Kirk is sometimes seen in a very green tunic-style shirt. According to an interview with series costume designer Bill Theiss , that's because it was made out of a different material. That particular shirt looked genuinely green. This is also why some of the colors in the original series seem to change, said Theiss. Even the miniature of the Enterprise could appear ever so slightly green under the right conditions.

William Shatner, the Canadian actor who played Kirk, wasn't necessarily fond of the tightly wrapped look, says Cinemablend . "It was a little embarrassing after lunch to have that tight green thing on you," he said.

Star Trek's women went from pants to miniskirts

The first pilot episode of Star Trek: The Original Series , " The Cage " is an odd duck. Though it was shot in 1964, it didn't make it to screens in its complete form until a Betamax release in 1989. Bits of the story were included in the season one two-parter "The Menagerie," but it contained only the briefest glimpses of what might have been.

These included things like a smiling Spock, different uniforms, and a woman in command wearing pants . Star Trek: The Original Series is notorious for its gendered uniforms. The men wore pants and long-sleeved shirts. Female crewmembers were confined to miniskirts so short that Lieutenant Uhura, the communications officer, always seemed on the verge of an embarrassing situation when she sat down.

That's partially why Number One, the second-in-command in "The Cage," stands out: She's wearing pants. Number One, played by Majel Barrett, is also a daring commander. But she wasn't considered right for the character. When Star Trek got its second pilot, none of the women were in command, and certainly none of them wore pants. Barrett returned, albeit as the emotional, mini-skirted Nurse Chapel.

Nichelle Nichols, who played Uhura, offers up a counterpoint. "I was wearing [miniskirts] on the street," she told the BBC . "What's wrong with wearing them on the air? [...] It was the era of the miniskirt. Everybody wore miniskirts."

The first Star Trek movie shook took uniforms in a weird direction

Star Trek: The Motion Picture looked like it was going to be a big deal. The 1979 film was the first time that fans would get to see their beloved crew on the big screen. Anticipation was high. Then, the movie debuted.

It landed with a dull thud. While die-hard fans still got enjoyment out of Star Trek 's film debut, most viewers couldn't get past the plodding story and dialogue-heavy scenes. It made just enough profit to justify a sequel, to be sure. SyFy contends that The Motion Picture did originate some interesting new trends for the franchise, like wearable communicators and redesigned Klingons . Still, few would point to this entry as their favorite Star Trek movie.

Some of the blame surely lies with the redesigned uniforms. Where The Original Series had colorful, if somewhat cartoonish togs for the crew, The Motion Picture made it look like everyone was going to the weirdest slumber party ever. According to Memory Alpha , the crew was now outfitted in two-piece tunics and one-piece jumpsuits in mind-numbing shades like pale blue and beige. At least the women on the crew were dressed in the same jumpsuits worn by the men. They might have looked oddly dull for space adventurers, but crewmembers like Lt. Uhura didn't look like they needed to worry about errant breezes. And, if nothing else, the space pajamas look pretty comfortable.

The Wrath of Khan redeemed Star Trek uniforms while cutting costs

Though Star Trek: The Motion Picture began the series tradition of changing Starfleet uniforms at every opportunity, rebooted uniforms didn't get very eye-catching until the second film. In Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan, both the plotting and the uniforms got a much-needed upgrade.

To be fair, the striking red jackets of The Wrath of Khan wouldn't have existed as we know them if it weren't for the beige jumpsuits of The Motion Picture . As revealed by Empire , costume designer Robert Fletcher, burned somewhat by his experiences on the first film, decided to stay on in an attempt to redeem his craft. Fletcher still had to work within budget, says Forgotten Trek . Indeed, the budget was smaller, since the studio had been spooked somewhat by the lackluster performance of the first motion picture. As a result, Fletcher rather cleverly utilized the old movie uniforms. His team dyed the tunics red because that was the shade that took best to the fabric. 

Meanwhile, Fletcher added a few more militaristic details to the revamped uniforms, like boxy shoulders, stripes, and shiny rank insignia. Fletch referred to it as "Hornblower in outer space," referring to the popular Horatio Hornblower series, set in the era of the Napoleonic Wars. The maroon color proved so successful that it persisted far beyond the film and back onto television with the follow-up series, Star Trek: The Next Generation.

Star Trek: The Next Generation's uniform was all about spandex

While the uniforms debuted in Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan were structured, boxy outfits inspired by military getups, the theme wasn't going to last, for William Ware Theiss, who designed the costumes for Star Trek: The Original Series , was ready to completely revamp even his own designs. Theiss was called upon to design the costumes for the first year of Star Trek: The Next Generation , the follow-up series that premiered in 1987. According to Forgotten Trek , Theiss wanted to pull back from the structured look of Wrath of Khan and return to a softer appearance.

That meant spandex. Specifically, Theiss employed a heavyweight material, of the type often used for swimsuits. He also changed the color scheme, making red the color for command staff, while gold was switched to engineering and security. Blue remained the key shade for medical and science personnel.

While designers might have liked the spandex, it got poor reviews from the actors. The form-fitting material was unforgiving of a heavy lunch or brief dalliance with a slice of cake. Robert Blackman, who replaced Theiss in later seasons, came to the rescue with a different cut and wool fabric. Unfortunately, only the male actors got the best changes, like two-piece uniforms. Female actors like Marina Sirtis, who played Counselor Troi, were stuck in uncomfortable one-piece jumpsuits for a while longer.

Deanna Troi's exception confused Trek fans

In Star Trek: The Next Generation , ship's counselor Deanna Troi was actually a Starfleet officer, but you wouldn't know it from her clothes. While everyone else on staff was wearing the regulation Starfleet uniform, Troi was often stuck in revealing onesies that recalled the first film's unfortunate jumpsuits. 

It may have something to do with Troi's gender. As quoted at Forgotten Trek , Marina Sirtis, who played Troi, took a dim view of how the show treated female characters. "The women on this show are very non-threatening," she said. "You don't see women in power positions." Troi was meant to be a soft, caring therapist. Perhaps her clothing was meant to reflect that gentleness, but with an admittedly sexist twist that lowered her necklines and kept Sirtis trapped in revealing spandex for much longer than her coworkers. Too often, her clothes reflected stories where Troi was made to be helpless or even outright dull for the sake of the plot.

Counselor Troi finally got to wear the real uniform in "Chain of Command, Part 1," a season six two-parter. In it, Captain Jellico, an uptight fill-in for Captain Picard, curtly tells Troi to just wear the uniform already. While the impetus for the wardrobe change might have been embarrassing for her character, Sirtis was delighted. As she told the BBC , "I was thrilled when I got my regulation Starfleet uniform [...] I got all my brains back."

The "skant" tried to reach gender equality but fell flat

We should give Gene Roddenberry some credit. While he was often of his time for things like scantily clad secondary characters on Star Trek: The Original Series , he genuinely tried to push back against cultural assumptions. Sometimes, it worked and became practically legendary, as when he helped to create a diverse bridge crew on the first television series. Other times, he pushed for costume parity that simply didn't land.

Roddenberry was involved with the production of Star Trek: The Next Generation from its 1987 premiere until shortly before his death in 1991. He was part of almost everything in the series, including the costume design. As reported by Star Trek.com , Roddenberry directed designer William Ware Theiss to design what became known as the "skant."

This take on the minidress was made out of the same spandex as the other uniforms. It was also meant to be unisex. Crewmembers of any gender would be able to wear the thigh-baring skant. Yet, it was a hard sell. The skant was ever-so-briefly seen on a male crewmember here and there in the first season, says SyFy, but never after that. Female crew like Counselor Troi wore it a bit longer, but actors and viewers alike thought it just made her look like a space cheerleader. Though you can understand what Roddenberry and company were going for, the skant just couldn't stay. It faded into fan lore and obscurity soon after the first season.

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine made the uniforms fit for actual work

Star Trek didn't stop with Star Trek: The Next Generation . The sequel series was followed up by a progression of films and further television series. These included Star Trek: Deep Space Nine , which premiered in 1993 and briefly ran concurrently with The Next Generation . Though both series are supposed to take place at roughly the same time, the uniforms seen on Deep Space Nine were a serious departure.

Costume designer Robert Blackman returned to the jumpsuit design but mercifully stayed clear of figure-hugging, back-breaking spandex, says Forgotten Trek . Instead, the looser jumpsuits were made out of wool. Blackman had, like earlier designers, discovered that wool took dye better than other fabrics and held up to repeated washings. 

The softer uniforms looked like they could exist in a real, workaday reality. Characters like Chief O'Brien can be seen in the bowels of Deep Space Nine, a scrappy space station inherited from its previous Cardassian occupants. His jumpsuit, based in part on a mechanic's outfit and NASA workaday gear, looks right at place in the more gritty, realistic world of Deep Space Nine .

Star Trek: Lower Decks brings back color and might explain a big mystery

Star Trek: Lower Decks is an animated comedy series, the first ever to take a look at the ridiculous side of Star Trek . While it's very definitely a silly take on the franchise, the Lower Decks series actually holds a clue to the ever-changing and seemingly inconsistent uniforms across the series.

In part, the uniforms of Lower Decks are an homage to a never-used 1994 redesign. According to Trek Movie , creator Mike McMahan realized the discarded uniform design for the Star Trek: Generations movie was just right for his series. It calls back to The Next Generation just enough to make connections but remains distinct and colorful in its new two-dimensional context.

This latest series might also help explain the constantly shifting Starfleet uniforms. Careful viewers may have already noticed that different ship and station crews sport wildly different looks, even when they're supposed to be taking place at the same time. 

Inverse points out the apparent fact that Starfleet uniforms seem to correspond to very specific ships and jobs. Someone sent to a space station like Deep Space Nine would wear one uniform, while another crewmember on Picard's Enterprise would sport something noticeably different. An outside viewer could still see they were Starfleet personnel but might correctly guess they were stationed in different places. The looks on Lower Decks , which are their own unique creations, add more evidence to support this theory.

Screen Rant

Starfleek academy: the 10 best star trek uniforms, ranked.

The uniforms worn by members of the Star Trek cast are totally iconic, though some definitely rank a bit higher than others.

There are few things as iconic in the Star Trek franchise as its uniforms. Since the bright gold, red, and blue hues boldly burst onto television sets in 1966, they've been indelibly linked to its storylines of adventure and exploration in outer space. The uniforms have changed greatly since the Star Trek Original Series, sometimes becoming more functional, sometimes more flattering, and sometimes more ugly as more movies and more television shows are released.

With so many different uniform options, how can we decide which ones are the best? Sometimes their variations are extreme, like going from spandex single piece jumpsuits to sophisticated separates, or from bright colors to muted monochromatic shades, but all of them reflect the characters that wear them and the time period they wear them in. We've stuck to the main uniforms from all the series so far and excluded variants worn only a handful of times. Here are the ten best uniforms in Starfleet, ranked. Engage!

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Star Trek: The Motion Picture

Sometimes the leap to the big screen for a television series means a bigger budget, and with that budget comes bigger special effects, better locations, and improved costumes. And sometimes it results in the uniforms from the first Star Trek motion picture, featuring the cast of the Original Series in some of the strangest uniforms ever to appear in Starfleet.

The popping hues of blue, red, and yellow of the original Starfleet uniforms were replaced by an incredibly neutral color palette of beige, brown, and cream, ensuring that no one stands out according to rank, department, or station. The bell bottoms and Doc McCoy’s chest hair really root these uniforms in the 70s.

The Next Generation

Star Trek: The Next Generation was a defining series in the Star Trek franchise; it was the first television series to premiere after the original debuted in 1966, and it was the first to feature a new take on Starfleet uniforms (apart from the growing pains made to the ones in the Star Trek films with Captain Kirk and Co.). That being said, the uniforms of the first two seasons were pretty terrible.

The uniforms were basically one spandex sheath, which often seemed too tight for its wearers, causing them to hunch and generally look uncomfortable, and the wide neckline didn’t help. While they may have looked more “futuristic” than the original uniforms, once they became separates, and made from different fabrics, they looked a lot better.

For the time period, they’re supposed to be from, the uniforms from Enterprise aren’t completely horrible. They’re functional and act as a utilitarian amalgamation of the flight suits modern astronauts wear combined with early Starfleet uniform concepts. Since Enterprise was set before the Original Series, they needed to show the progressive nature of Starfleet ensembles.

The problems with the Enterprise uniforms are confined to the fact that they’re fairly basic looking, that the lines located at the shoulders denote the division of departments, and that the colors follow typical Starfleet designations but are difficult to ascertain at a glance. Nothing about them screams “ Star Trek ” the way the other iconic suits do.

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Star Trek: Discovery

Set a decade before Captain Kirk and Co. embark on their five-year mission, and a century after Enterprise, the uniforms of Star Trek: Discovery try to combine the aesthetic and color palette of both series to varying degrees of success. They adopt the blue of the flight suits worn by the crew in Enterprise, but in two pieces with a lot more metallic piping.

Gone are the iconic division colors boldly displayed on the shirts worn in the Original Series, replaced with more subdued paneling on the sides of the uniforms. They don’t look terrible, but they do inject some inconsistencies for the timeline, given what Captain Pike wears in Season 2, and given what Kirk wore in the “The Cage” episode of the Original Series.

The Original Series

Who can deny the impact of the uniforms worn in the Original Series? Sure, they were just black pants and a black top with a colored v-neck sweater worn over the top, but what they lacked in fine detail they made up for in bold simplicity. Starfleet rank, division, and designation were all plainly displayed, and apart from the female members of the crew having to wear mini-skirts, everyone looked equally resplendent... or corny, depending on your point of view.

The series took some liberties with its uniforms over the years—especially with Kirk’s variants—but consistently the command division always wore gold, engineering and security personnel wore red, and science and medical wore blue.

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Star Trek Reboot Movies (Kelvin Timeline)

The direction of the uniforms in the Star Trek films by J. J. Abrams, also known to follow the Kelvin timeline, seems to be a natural progression of the iconic uniforms from the Original Series. They have the same colors for the various crew designations (blue, red, gold), with accompanying black pants and shoes.

The biggest difference in the uniforms is that the reboot versions are slightly textured and have the option for short sleeves where appropriate. They also have a dress variant which, when added with the daily wear options, makes for an all-around smart looking assortment of uniforms that combine the iconic look worn by Captain Kirk and Co. in the 60s with an upgraded aesthetic.

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Star Trek II-VI

After the disastrous beige onslaught that was the uniforms of the first Star Trek film, the subsequent movies featured a much more formalized version comprised of a red single-breasted jacket—which Kirk tended to wear open—with white collars/braiding, a belt, and black pants.

These uniforms were bold, with a far more militarized design than any before or since. Plus, they featured in The Wrath of Khan, a film beloved by Trekkies the world over. Even though they didn’t help in distinguishing the crew divisions very well, they gave an elevated look to a maturing crew. They occasionally popped up in the occasional Next Generation episode, such as the one featuring Scotty, to much fanfare.

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First Contact/Late DS9

One of the biggest and most successful departures from the Star Trek uniforms introduced in Next Generation came in First Contact , which also had some crossover in the last season of Deep Space Nine,  presumably introduced by Worf on his journey back to the station, and to some extent Voyager . The uniforms were used in all subsequent films.

With their monochromatic aesthetic, the division of designations was no longer the main focus, conveyed instead by the undershirts worn beneath uniforms that had grey shoulders and black bottoms. While Trekkies may have still wanted more visible color in their uniforms, this was a way to have functionality without sacrificing style and character.

Early DS9/Voyager

The early seasons of Deep Space Nine and Voyager gave us a uniform that was the inverted version of the one seen in Next Generation. Instead of black shoulders and black bottoms sandwiching a designation color on the torso, the shoulders became the way to highlight division colors for the crew. They seemed a natural progression from the changes TNG made to the uniforms of the Original Series which favored full color.

With these uniforms, the colors are still prominent, but they aren’t overbearing. The black bottoms give a sophisticated look, and the single open neck jumpsuit design creates a streamlined aesthetic. Voyager, lost in the Delta Quadrant, with a crew in some of the best uniforms in Starfleet.

Next Generation Seasons 3 - 7

The Starfleet uniforms from Next Generation Seasons 3-7 are some of the classiest, functional, and flattering uniforms of the entire franchise. Their basic composition was black shoulders with either red, blue, or gold designation colors on their torso, matched to black bottoms that reached a triangular angle at the waist.

The strange wide neck of the earlier seasons was replaced with a formal collar, and the unflattering spandex sheath replaced by a looser, more form-skimming fabric. They had the bold colors of the Original Series, married to a more futuristic and sophisticated design aesthetic to create the ultimate Starfleet uniform.

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Star Trek: Ranking Every Starfleet Uniform Worst To Best

Rating Starfleet's hottest looks from the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th centuries.

With more than 50 years of history behind it, the Star Trek Universe has built itself quite a wardrobe.

Too easily dismissed as "pajamas", Star Trek's Starfleet uniforms have varied wildly in form and style – from the classic three-tone costumes of The Original Series to the blinged-out duty blues of Star Trek: Discovery. Almost every new series and movie has introduced its own sartorial vision of the future, raising the question of why a paramilitary organization like Starfleet would need to change its tailor quite so often and creating a huge selection for cosplaying fans at convention time.

Some of these costumes have represented questionable fashion statements and been the bane of the actors forced to squeeze into them, others have become icons of the franchise, as recognizable as other Trek aesthetics like Spock's bowl cut and Klingon kleavage.

Here's our ranking of each Starfleet duty uniform from the least flattering to the pride of Starfleet's closets.

16. Star Trek: The Motion Picture

Robert Fletcher was charged with completely redesigning the classic Starfleet uniforms for the franchise's first warp onto the big screen in 1979's Star Trek: The Motion Picture. At the request of director Robert Wise, these uniforms were aggressively monochromatic, eschewing the distinctive gold, blue, and red TOS uniforms for earth tone jumpsuits that left little to the imagination.

Fletcher carefully crafted a new division color and ranking system, even producing an extensive guide for the costumers to follow on set. With the film's inflated budget, Fletcher was able to design numerous variant costumes that included formal two-piece uniforms, casual robe-like wraparound uniforms, and the aforementioned formfitting duty jumpsuits. These uniforms were also distinguished by futuristic belt buckles that were, according to Gene Roddenberry's movie novelization, medical scanners linked to the Enterprise sickbay – a reasonable technological development for a spacefaring civilization unconcerned with protecting their personal data.

Still, TMP's uniforms were notoriously bland, falling into the background of the similarly earth tone sets rather than popping on screen like their 1960s predecessors. Star Trek: The Motion Picture's numerous costumes are undeniably futuristic, but Star Trek has a distinctive vision of the future and these threads just don't fit.

I played Shipyard Bar Patron (Uncredited) in Star Trek (2009).

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• Costumes & Props • General
• Replica Costumes

Star Trek TOS Pilot Uniform Fabrics and Such

• Thread starter AnthonyD2199
• Start date Jun 10, 2022

AnthonyD2199

Well-known member.

• Jun 10, 2022

Craft Velour - Fabrics - Crafts

Commodore Kirk

• Jun 14, 2022

I would love to know as well! I've always been keen on making a Pilot-Era tunic. You might be interested to know that these pilot uniforms were repurposed in "Charlie X" as the uniforms for the Antares and for Charlie's sweater . Search up the HD screencaps for "Charlie X" and you may be able to see the Pilot Uniforms and the TOS uniforms side-by-side and with the same film-grain/color grading. However it seems like the uniforms used for "Charlie X" are actually that third beige color, and not the gold used in either the pilots or in the rest of TOS. So, really, I don't know how useful that is. But I could be wrong. I'm no expert. You could also try reaching out to James Cawley on Facebook. The man really knows what he's talking about. He's seen tons of the uniforms firsthand and worked diligently to recreate a lot of them. It couldn't hurt to try. Cheers  

"The command was identical, however the blue was a bit brighter and less on the grey side than that used in the regular episodes" Click to expand...

"Both command and sciences uniforms for the pilot were modified by changing the collars to black and used in the earliest first season episodes on extras and guest stars. You can see one prominently on the character of Greene in Man Trap" Click to expand...

Commodore Kirk said: So I actually just went ahead and reached out to James myself and he got back to me super quickly. I hope this helps! Click to expand...

Commodore Kirk said: It was no problem - I've always wanted a Cage uniform myself! It's definitely a little scary reaching out at first, but usually it's the best way. Especially in a niche little community like this. Just gotta be gracious, honest, and forward and most people will be more than happy to help you out Really good catch with "The Corbomite Manouever". I'm not even sure how you caught that, because that's some real eagle-eyed viewing. Seems to back up what Cawley said too! Any other questions about the Pilot uniforms? I've found a few good forums/threads over the years that might help you out. Click to expand...

• Jun 15, 2022

Unfortunately those questions I don't quite have answers for! I think ShadowDaleCreations sells his own "The Cage" uniform, but beyond that I don't know anyone else making them. I asked Cawley if he'd ever consider making patterns, but he said he wasn't very interested. The pants are pretty similar to the TOS pants, so I'm sure you could get by on those. And the shirts, from what I can tell, are a different pattern from the TOS shirts. It's pretty simple though. It's a pretty generic shirt. I did ask Cawley why the collars in "The Cage" sort of "bubbled out" since they don't do it in "Where No Man Has Gone Before", and he said it was just because the costume designers "let out" the collars so the actors would be more comfortable. Also, the field jackets are apparently made out of some sort of upholstery fabric (headliner foam) with the foam-side out. I found this out from this thread and Cawley confirmed it for me over Facebook. Of course, the foam was easily scarred, snagged, and gouged by surfaces, so I'd probably recommend finding a similar but different fabric. Also, if you're curious about the rank insignia, Captain Chase of Starfleet.ca wrote a really interesting article on it! The meaning of the rank braids actually differ between "The Cage" and "Where No Man Has Gone Before".  

Commodore Kirk said: Unfortunately those questions I don't quite have answers for! I think ShadowDaleCreations sells his own "The Cage" uniform, but beyond that I don't know anyone else making them. I asked Cawley if he'd ever consider making patterns, but he said he wasn't very interested. The pants are pretty similar to the TOS pants, so I'm sure you could get by on those. And the shirts, from what I can tell, are a different pattern from the TOS shirts. It's pretty simple though. It's a pretty generic shirt. I did ask Cawley why the collars in "The Cage" sort of "bubbled out" since they don't do it in "Where No Man Has Gone Before", and he said it was just because the costume designers "let out" the collars so the actors would be more comfortable. Also, the field jackets are apparently made out of some sort of upholstery fabric (headliner foam) with the foam-side out. I found this out from this thread and Cawley confirmed it for me over Facebook. Of course, the foam was easily scarred, snagged, and gouged by surfaces, so I'd probably recommend finding a similar but different fabric. Also, if you're curious about the rank insignia, Captain Chase of Starfleet.ca wrote a really interesting article on it! The meaning of the rank braids actually differ between "The Cage" and "Where No Man Has Gone Before". Click to expand...

Oh, I'm sorry to hear about ShadowDale! And I apologize for recommending them - I've only ever seen one person order from them and it turned out very nice. I wasn't aware of that reputation. I'm glad you let me know, because I was thinking about saving up for some of his stuff! Also, something I found out on my own - the equipment belt used in "The Cage" looks very similar to a WWII M1936 pistol belt. I'm 99% positive. I've found reproductions of that belt on Amazon, and intend to purchase one! I read one thread awhile ago where people speculated it was an olive green belt painted silver/white, but when I spoke to Cawley he recommended I find a white belt and paint it silver. I'm not sure which color is actually the most accurate, but if you're painting over it anyway I'm sure any color is probably fine. This is the belt I plan to pick up - olive green, and the proportions for all the eyelets seem correct. Here's a white reproduction I just found , though I think the buckle seems a bit off. Honestly though? I'm sure either would work!  

It's okay, I almost got something from them many years ago until I found out, about the person who ordered from them, was it recently or years ago? The Pistol Belts I know well from researching Battlestar Galactica belts, the belt you've picked looks good!  

• Jun 16, 2022
• Jun 18, 2022

Alas! At least the Pilot stuff don't seem too tricky to make. What is it from New Voyages/Phase II were you interested in checking out? To be completely honest, I haven't seen most of them.  

• Jun 19, 2022

I loved when he introduced some of the unused Phase 2 costumes into the series like the Division Colour dungarees, he also put together a perfect replica of the Season 1-2 TOS women’s uniform also I’m not certain if I did this to the costumes on his series but the Uniform Tunics made for Phase 2 had a bit of a sharper collar made of rib knit rather than springweave.  

Captain Dunsel

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• Jun 20, 2022

Woah! The colors really faded on that one, huh? It just looks like straight purple. I'd almost call it berry. That's a very cool find, even if the colors have faded into almost unrecognizability. I think it does support the idea that the blue velour in the pilots were much closer to an indigo than the teal-y blue used in post-pilot TOS uniforms.  

• Jun 22, 2022

Commodore Kirk said: Woah! The colors really faded on that one, huh? It just looks like straight purple. I'd almost call it berry. That's a very cool find, even if the colors have faded into almost unrecognizability. I think it does support the idea that the blue velour in the pilots were much closer to an indigo than the teal-y blue used in post-pilot TOS uniforms. Click to expand...

• Jun 26, 2022

I'm not sure. I suppose if the colors are different than there could be more than one kind of velour in use. I also recently spoke to Scott Nakada of the old XScapesProps website. He mentioned that some fans believe both velour and brushed tricot were used as the shirt fabric for TOS uniforms, and that he himself believes the same. I don't know how true that is, but he's a very reliable source. If you have examples of these more "plush" velour shirts I can ask him what he thinks. Remember though, "The Cage" had different film conditions than "Where No Man Has Gone Before". The difference you're seeing could just be that. James Cawley had also said the gold used in the pilots was the same as used across the rest of TOS. Maybe take a look at "Charlie X" again to compare the beige Antares uniforms (repurposed pilot uniforms) to the texture of the TOS uniforms?  

Commodore Kirk said: I'm not sure. I suppose if the colors are different than there could be more than one kind of velour in use. I also recently spoke to Scott Nakada of the old XScapesProps website. He mentioned that some fans believe both velour and brushed tricot were used as the shirt fabric for TOS uniforms, and that he himself believes the same. I don't know how true that is, but he's a very reliable source. If you have examples of these more "plush" velour shirts I can ask him what he thinks. Remember though, "The Cage" had different film conditions than "Where No Man Has Gone Before". The difference you're seeing could just be that. James Cawley had also said the gold used in the pilots was the same as used across the rest of TOS. Maybe take a look at "Charlie X" again to compare the beige Antares uniforms (repurposed pilot uniforms) to the texture of the TOS uniforms? Click to expand...

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Looking at Brushed Tricot, it’s possible that those were used for the original Pilot Uniforms which would account for the more fleecey look of the fabric in modern pictures while the look of the surviving Series Uniforms is rather different. Here are Two of Spock’s Tunics, one from the Pilot and one from Season 2, the look of the fabric is similar but not identical. (Pictures from Star Trek Prop Authority)  

Expanding on this, the Tricot revelation has made me think about the TOS Uniform Recreations created for ‘Trials and Tribble-ations’ and ‘In a Mirror, Darkly’, I now believe that with the exact type of velour used in TOS being so difficult to find they may have used Brushed Tricot as a substitute, this accounts for the Recreations having the lack of sparkle and fleecy look of the Pilot Uniforms rather than the Series ones.  

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TNG-era Starfleet Uniforms

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Is there a way to access the tng two piece uniform analysis at this time, or should i wait for the updated one?

The TNG jacket/trousers resources are coming soon - hopefully in the next few months.

First I will be updating and re-uploading the older TNG resources, and then I have several screen-used TNG jumpsuit examinations to post about.

The TNG jacket/trousers will probably be next in the queue. I've had the opportunity to study two screen-used TNG jackets (Commander Riker and Lieutenant Barclay) and am looking forward to sharing all I learned from them.

Those costume analyses and sewing tutorials will hopefully be worth the wait. 🙂

It seems to have been more than a few months since Jan 2022. 😉

Any updates on the timeline for the TNG jacket/trousers pattern?

Haha, yes it has ... obviously things have been progressing more slowly than expected, but those are next in the queue so hopefully in the next few months! 🙂

Are there any updates on the two piece?

Not yet, sorry. I've been in a prolonged long-distance move but am finally settling in and moving forward again. Hopefully by this summer?

Is it necessary to use spandex, or can a woven fabric be used? Thanks for all you do!

Jumbo spandex was used for the jumpsuits, skants, season 1 admiral uniforms, early formal uniforms, at least one Dr. Pulaski uniform, and season 2 admiral trousers.

Wool gabardine was used for the jackets, trousers, and admiral uniforms from season 3 onward, as well as at least one Dr. Pulaski uniform and the later formal uniforms.

While anyone is obviously free to use whatever they like for their own costumes, personally I wouldn't interchange the two since ("accuracy" aside), they fit and drape in different ways.

Thanks for the clarification. I'm on the bigger side and not sure spandex is the way to go. In any case, I will likely wait until you release the pattern for the jacket/trousers. Thanks again.

Grace, I purchased the pattern from Alex for the Season 1 Admiral, in actuality I have purchased all of Alex's Star Trek patterns he had on his web site BadWolfCostumes.com, I have made,(personally sewn by me), 11 so far. When I started I had zero sewing experience. I watched my wife use a sewing machine and followed Alex's instructions, I have also purchased some books and watched dozens of tutorials on YouTube. Back to the Admiral season 1 jacket. I used super spandex for the black and I used Joann's Sew Classics Bengaline Suiting Fabric, Content: 81% Polyester, 15% Rayon & 4% Spandex, for the red. The secret is a very good walking foot for your sewing machine. Here is a photo on Facebook of me wearing it. https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10163558964010646&set=pob.100007781894969

TNG Admiral, thanks for the info. The FB link didn't work, so I can't see the finished product, but I'm sure it looks amazing. Also, kudos to you for teaching yourself a new skill. I haven't purchased any patterns yet. I've been sewing since I was small and have quite a bit of experience with sewing, pattern-making, and tailoring. My intent was to alter the jumpsuit into a jacket and pants, but it appears the pattern was designed for a knit, and not a woven fabric as I would prefer to use. The drape and fit wont be what I need without more customization to the existing pattern than I'm willing to do. Since OCD is coming out with a jacket/pant pattern, I will just wait for that. Thanks. 🙂

I have been asked to make the TNG Skant for my son. I have been sewing forever. Why in the world did they make it so difficult by adding the sort of shorts to the skant? It would have been soooo much easier to make the outfit with an invisible zipper down the back and make a pair of shorts to wear under the skant. If my son wants it authentic, I will dive in, and attempt it, silently, grumbling.

Haha, I know what you mean. I'm no costume designer, but I would've probably made it a proper "skort" with full (basic) shorts attached underneath. But we know Theiss was a brilliant madman who apparently loved asymmetry, so ... 🙂

Hi Alex, I'm making a 1st mock-up of the TNG skant for myself, and I'm stuck at the step where the front vent is sewn down. I simply cannot figure out this step and I'm a long-time sewist. The photo on pg.32 is not making sense to me. I can't tell where the zipper is, nor can I figure out how to orient things to get it in alignment with the picture. Do you have any more photos that break this step into smaller more detailed segments? Thanks!

It is an unusual construction. The current tutorial is my best effort to demonstrate the process, although I am considering making a video walkthrough of these and few other uniforms, depending on interest. In the meantime I do hope it clicks into place for you. 🙂

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What Do The Star Trek Uniform Colors Mean & Why Are They So Important?

"Star Trek" is definitely a technicolor wonderland of a show. That sense of eye-catching brilliance trickles down from the background scenery to the props used by each cast member, all the way to the uniforms the show's central crew wears as a part of their duties. 

It's easy to notice that the crew of the Starship Enterprise wear tunics in varying shades. Those colors are quite important — they denote which job class each crew member belongs to. Those classes were devised by series creator Gene Roddenberry and costume designer William Ware Theiss, and are intended to resemble the classifications used by the United States Military on noise-heavy aircraft carriers. 

Sometimes there are differences allowed for dress uniforms; the command staff, for instance, will wear green uniforms during formal occasions. And these rules aren't hard and fast ones; across the whole universe of "Star Trek" series, films, and other ephemera, the colors various officers wear on the show and the meanings behind them change depending on when the scene takes place in the show's general timeline. But these are the color codes that most often denote each character's job on the ship, and the ones used during the original "Star Trek" series to explain who is who and what they do.

The term 'red shirt' gained a negative connotation

Even if you're not a "Star Trek" fan, you've probably heard jokes about how often red-shirted officers are introduced to the show, only for them to quickly die during away missions. For a period of time, the term "red shirt" became a dirty word in the "Star Trek" world; it's gone on to take on a larger cultural significance, indicating that a person is a disposable background element easy to get rid of. And yet many of the show's red-toting characters are the franchise's longest-lasting individuals. The class encompasses the engineering, security, and communication staff positions on the Enterprise. Lt. Nyota Uhura (Nichelle Nichols) and Montgomery "Scotty" Scott (James Doohan) are among the most prominent crew members who wear scarlet hues. To wear red on the bridge is definitely a high honor.

Are 'red shirts' more doomed than their counterparts? Mathematician James Grime weighed in on the subject during a talk at New York's Museum of Mathematics in 2017. A simple statistical calculation revealed that 10% of the show's red-shirted denizens die during the original show's run — compared to 18 percent of golden-shirted characters. "There is some truth in the old 'Star Trek' myth if you look at security officers ... 20 percent of security officers died. So I think the moral of the story is, if you're on the starship Enterprise and you want to survive, be a scientist," he said.

Ironically, crimson red was eventually used to denote a position of authority on the ship; the uniforms that debuted in "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" place the crew in scarlet togs, with no color divisions to mark them.

Blue denotes a scientific mind

If you're feeling blue during your time on the Enterprise, then you're probably logically-minded. Throughout much of the original "Star Trek" series, blue uniforms were given to the show's science and medical officers. That's why Spock (Leonard Nimoy), Nurse Christine Chapel (Majel Barrett), and Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy (DeForest Kelley) can be seen sporting blue tunics throughout the series' run. The designation of blue uniforms hasn't changed much during the course of various "Star Trek" series; blue and purple shades are used to indicate ship medics in such continuations of the universe as "Star Trek: The Next Generation."

Blue was also the chosen shade for the crew uniforms in "Star Trek: The Motion Picture," with splashes of brown, oatmeal and white. This change didn't go over well with the cast. Their rebellion against the baggy uniforms went beyond their alleged unsightliness; costume designer Robert Fletcher sewed shoes into the bottom of each uniform, forcing the actors to ask their assistants for help in completing simple tasks such as going to the bathroom. A change was promptly made for the next film, and the red Navy-style uniforms stuck with the whole movie franchise until "Star Trek: The Next Generation" was launched.

Golden shirts denote power

Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner), meanwhile, sports a gold-colored shirt. These are the outfits worn by those in command: largely, captains and other figures of authority. In other iterations of the show, gold tunics are worn by members of the ship's security staff. In any event, it's a uniform that denotes power.

But those shirts weren't actually intended to be golden at all; in reality, they were pale green tunics that were filmed as golden or orange-looking thanks to the sort of film the show used. According to an interview conducted with Bill Thiess in 1988 for Star Trek Prop Authority , it wasn't the show's intent to present Kirk and other captains as wearing gold at all. "It was one of those film stock things; it photographed one way – burnt orange or a gold. But in reality was another; the command shirts were definitely green." Unfortunately, thanks to that mistake the look has stuck, and Kirk's uniform is more often remembered as golden instead of green.

Whether they're sporting green or dodging danger in red, there's one thing officers on the Enterprise definitely know how to do – look stylish in a timelessly classical way.

Star Trek's Different Uniform Colors And Their Meanings Explained

T he Starfleet uniforms seen on the original "Star Trek" series back in 1966 were designed by William Ware Theiss, a costume designer who had previously worked on major Hollywood productions like "Spartacus," and who would go on to design for films like "Harold & Maude," "Bound for Glory," and "Pete's Dragon." According to an article on StarTrek.com , Theiss became friends with D.C. Fontana on the set of "Spartacus" (Fontana worked as a member of the studio's typing pool), which gave him the connection he needed to land his "Star Trek" job. It was Theiss' idea to make futuristic space uniforms look more shirt-like and casual, which stood in contrast to the shiny-and-chrome sci-fi costumes that were more in vogue at the time.

Theiss was also notorious for the skin-revealing outfits he designed for the show's many female guest stars, and he was noted for being able to ride the line of acceptability when it came to nudity. He was a talented man whose name should be more widely known by Trekkies.

The actual colors of the Starfleet uniforms, however, were decided by committee (with Fonanta and show creator Gene Roddenberry giving input), so Theiss went along with the idea that the various workers on a Federation starship should be color-coded by their respective departments. Little could Theiss have known that the Starfleet department colors would remain a permanent fixture in a media franchise that would last (as of this writing) 57 years.

As far as Starfleet is concerned, there are three central departments on a Starfleet vessel: Gold is for command, blue is for science/medical, and red is for engineering/security. In the days of "Star Trek: The Next Generation," the red and gold would be inverted. Theiss won an Emmy for "Next Generation" before his death in 1992.

Read more: Why Khan Noonien Singh Casts A Shadow Over The Entire Star Trek Universe

Gold, Red, Blue, And Other Uniform Colors

In the original "Star Trek," for instance, one might note that Captain Kirk ( William Shatner ) wore a gold uniform. That was to denote his position in management. Other lower-ranking officers in gold uniforms were essentially on the "management track," presumably learning about all departments on a starship and hoping to command a vessel of their own someday (or at least become a first officer).

Those in the red uniforms worked with the technical aspects of a ship. Scotty (James Doohan) and Uhura (Nichelle Nichols) dealt with machinery, engines, communication devices, etc. Red was also used for security officers on the U.S.S. Enterprise, which may be why so many redshirts died on away missions; they were ancillary security officers. Red uniforms were also worn by yeomen, who essentially helped with clerical work and didn't have a rank. It's worth noting that in the canon of "Star Trek," engineers, yeomen, and security officers don't have to attend Starfleet Academy to serve on board a starship. One can simply enlist. Those officers answer to the heads of their respective departments.

Those in blue, like Spock (Leonard Nimoy) and Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley), are in charge of scientific research and medicine. A lot of "Star Trek" is devoted to the sciences, so it makes sense that it would be an active and enormous part of any ship. The science/medical department is pretty self-explanatory.

One might note that Kirk occasionally wore a green tunic with a V-neck collar. The green uniform didn't denote any unique department and seemed to be a regulation fashionable alternate for starship captains. If a captain was bored with their standard gold uniform, they were allowed -- on casual Fridays? -- to wear the green one.

The All-Red Uniforms

In director Robert Wise's 1979 film "Star Trek: The Motion Picture," the uniforms were updated. The crew all wore disco-ready bodysuits that were, likewise, color-coded by department. Command officers now wore all-white outfits, science officers wore a muter steel blue, and engineers wore a muted golden brown. Looking close, one might also note that the Starfleet insignias on officers' left lapels were also color-coded, and the coloring system seemed to be more elaborate for the badges. Command officers wore white, science officers wore orange, medical officers wore green, engineers wore red, operations officers wore gold, and security officers wore silver. "The Motion Picture" was the only "Star Trek" outing to use this code.

"Star Trek: The Motion Picture" also revealed that officers seemed to have many fashionable alternatives to their standard uniforms, and multiple uniform cuts and tunics could be seen around the ship. Occasionally, it seems that Starfleet goes through fashion phases where it becomes lax and less stringent about the uniformity of its uniforms. These "any uniform will do" phases seem to last about a year before Starfleet cracks down again.

Hence, in "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan," a new standard was put into place, and the all-red, Christmas sweater-like uniforms (seen in the picture above) would remain the standard through at least the 2350s when the Enterprise-C was commissioned. Those uniforms looked awfully hot but had button-down, shoulder-fastened chest flaps that could be opened to cool off a little. One might note that the subtle department colors were included on the uniform's collars, cuffs, and shoulder straps. Command officers wore white, engineer/security officers wore orange, and science/medical officers wore grey.

The Red/gold Flip

William Ware Theiss returned to "Star Trek" to design the uniforms seen on "Star Trek: The Next Generation," and the design reverted to the red/gold/blue color coding from the original series, only now with the red and the gold reversed; commander officers like Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) wore red while engineering/security now wore gold. There has been no explanation in the canon of "Star Trek" as to why the department colors flipped. Some fans have theorized the red/gold flip was a production decision made to confront the "redshirts always die" cliché that has wormed its way into the Trekkie's pop consciousness. If the captain wore red, then audiences would no longer assume that those in red uniforms were doomed.

The "Next Generation" color coding system has stayed in place until this day. Those colors remained unchanged in "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine," "Star Trek: Voyager," and the four "Next Generation"-inspired feature films. More recently, "Star Trek: Lower Decks," which takes place about 10 to 15 years after "Next Generation," boasts the same coding. The general uniform designs have changed a lot, but the coloring remains consistent.

On "Next Generation," Picard also might be seen wearing a grey uniform with a suede-like red jacket thrown over it. Like Kirk's green tunic, this seems to be a special fashion dispensation for captains. One might also note that Wesley Crusher (Wil Wheaton), who served as an acting ensign on the U.S.S. Enterprise-D, wore a grey/dark grey body suit. This was the uniform given to provisional officers; Wesley hadn't gone to Starfleet Academy yet and wasn't an official ensign.

The Distant Past, The Distant Future

The 2001 series "Star Trek: Enterprise" is set a century before the events of the original "Star Trek," and the show's costume designers came up with a wonderful uniform design that rests comfortably on a timeline between NASA and Kirk. The crew all wore functional, indigo-colored jumpsuits, replete with pockets and zippers, that bore their department colors on stripes seen over their shoulders. Because "Enterprise" takes place long before the notorious red/gold flip, command officers still bear gold stripes, while engineering/security officers wear red ones. The science officers have always worn blue.

Also set before the events of the original "Star Trek" was the 2017 series "Star Trek: Discovery," which featured a pretty drastically different uniform design. The characters wore all-blue uniforms that featured chrome-encrusted highlights on their sides and wrapped around their shoulders to denote their departments. On "Discovery," command officers wore shiny gold, science officers wore shiny silver, and engineering/security officers wore shiny bronze. Medical officers were permitted to wear all-white uniforms, a trend also seen in the chronologically concurrent "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds." That series adhered more directly to the 1966 designs and colors.

In the third season of "Discovery," a time warp threw the characters into the 32nd century, and, naturally, Starfleet uniforms had changed. The cut of the uniform was very different; the ranking pips were displayed in multiple ways all over an officer's body. Sometimes, the uniforms were grey with department colors denoted on down-the-chest stripes. Sometimes, they were all one color.

For clarity's sake, however, the "Next Generation" era color coding remained intact on 32nd-century "Discovery," something that seems to have lasted the better part of a millennium. The biggest change: medical officers now wear white instead of blue.

Read the original article on /Film .

Lower Decks finally fixed the biggest cliché in Star Trek canon

What does it mean to be a "redshirt," anyway?

What’s the most dangerous color in Star Trek?

Old-school wisdom would tell you that wearing a red uniform is bad form in Starfleet — because the random officers wearing “redshirts” always get offed in horrible ways. But, this trope hasn’t actually been true in Trek canon for a very long time.

With one very sly joke, Lower Decks just made it clear that, as you look beyond The Original Series , wearing red is broadly meaningless in Starfleet.

Here’s how Lower Decks unpacked this trope — and what it means philosophically, both in terms of Star Trek canon and the common sci-fi tropes of “disposable” crewmembers. Mild spoilers ahead for Star Trek: Lower Decks Season 2, Episode 6, “The Spy Humongous.”

Kirk and a bunch of guys he’s sending to fight a rock monster. Guess how many make it back alive?

The origin of the Star Trek redshirt trope

During the run of The Original Series , Starfleet characters wearing a red uniform belonged either to the engineering, operations, or security divisions.

This is why Uhura and Scotty wore red. But, because of that last category — security — the extra muscle sent to deal with rough aliens, Klingons, space gods, and rock monsters, also wore red. That’s why a bunch of guys who got slaughtered by the Horta in “Devil in the Dark” had red shirts.

Although it’s unrelated, the academic process of holding a student back in school (for whatever reason) is also called “redshirting” and, like the redshirts of Star Trek, has some connotation that the person who is a “redshirt,” is somehow less than. Either that or a “redshirted” person is carrying some kind of stigma. Hell, you could argue the earliest “redshirt” was Hester Prynne in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter .

The larger point is simple: Trek fandom latched onto the recurring cliché that Starfleet had expendable characters, and they often wore red. If there was a landing party at the beginning of an episode, and it contained Kirk, Bones, Spock, and a few folks wearing red that you’d never seen before, you were basically just counting down the moments until they expired.

In 2009, J.J. Abrams embraced this trope in the Trek reboot by putting Kirk and Sulu on a death-defying raid of a Romulan platform... along with... some guy named Olson. And yes, Olson had a red spacesuit, and you get one guess as to what happened to him two minutes after he was introduced.

Ruk has destroyed all the redshirts in this episode, but stops short of ending Kirk’s life — why?

In some ways, Trek’s redshirt trope is in conversation with horror tropes where characters are picked off, one-by-one, until the only people remaining are the primary protagonists. (In this view, everyone in Alien is “a redshirt” who isn’t Ripley.)

While the connection to horror might seem odd with Trek, some of the writers of The Original Series had horror backgrounds, including Harlan Ellison, Theodore Sturgeon, and George Clayton Johnson. Additionally, Psycho author Robert Bloch wrote three episodes of the classic Trek: “Wolf in the Fold,” “Catspaw,” and “What Are Little Girls Made Of?”

In the latter — one of the very first episodes of TOS — a huge android named Ruk (Ted Cassidy) murders red-shirted security officers, and later nearly murders Kirk. Obviously, Ruk can’t kill Kirk, because Kirk is the main character, and the writing simply won’t allow him to die. But in The Original Series , with very rare exceptions, the danger faced by the main characters (Kirk, Uhura, Sulu, et al.) is heightened when guest characters — “redshirts” — die first.

In the TNG -era, wearing gold as pretty dangerous, too.

The myth of Star Trek redshirts

The math on literal redshirted characters being more likely to die in The Original Series doesn’t really add up. While TOS has a lot of “minor” characters sacrificed in favor of the various plots, the numbers don’t totally support the idea that characters wearing red are always in the most danger.

In 2017, Inverse spoke to mathematician James Grime who specifically studied this trope. “Of the 43 deaths we saw, 25 of them were red shirts,” Grimes said. “That’s 58 percent. This has led people to believe that redshirts are the most likely to die, but this is wrong.” Grimes’ point was simple: “This is the probability you are a redshirt if you die. What we want to know is the probability you will die if you are a redshirt . And that’s a different question.”

The larger point is, there’s a logical fallacy in the Trek redshirt trope: People don’t die because they’re wearing red. These characters die because they are doing the more dangerous jobs in Starfleet. Both narratively, and within the constraints of in-universe world-building of Starfleet, there is a subtle classist system; that classist system probably puts the junior officers at greater risk than senior officers.

Boimler and “Redshirts” of Lower Decks.

How Lower Decks flipped the “redshirt” script

In Season 2, Episode 6 of Star Trek: Lower Decks — “The Spy Humongous,” Boimler is briefly recruited by a group of cocky ensigns obsessed with getting promoted. This group unironically calls themselves “the Redshirts,” which Boimler sort of thinks is weird at first — but he goes with it.

Boimler’s hesitation about the nickname implies that, within the reality of Star Trek, the trope of “redshirts,” may also exist — though, by the 24th century, the colors of uniforms had been switched around. In all but one of the classic Trek films — from The Wrath of Khan to The Undiscovered Country — all the characters wore red. By the time The Next Generation debuted, the command division of Starfleet no longer wore gold but instead wore red. You could argue this means that “gold shirts” were in more danger in TNG, DS9, and Voyager , but that’s not exactly the point.

In this Lower Decks episode, Boimler makes the most interesting point against the redshirt trope. Toward the end of the episode, when Tendi has been turned into a giant scorpion monster, the “Redshirts” start trying to give speeches instead of actually doing anything. When Boimler calls them out, their answer is “We’re inspiring the crew!” But Boimler’s response is perfect: “We are the crew.”

In the world of Star Trek, there’s a sense that — at least on Earth — poverty, war, racism, sexism, and other discrimination simply don’t exist. But what Lower Decks points out is that classism does still exist, even in the egalitarian 24th century.

Granted, Lower Decks presents this as a joke, but it’s a pointed one. The difference between being a “member” of a team and a “leader” of a team is a trope that pervades everything from superhero flicks to kitchen-sink dramas.

By attacking this one silly Star Trek trope, what Lower Decks is saying is that life is rarely that binary. In life, most of us aren’t “the captain” — but that doesn’t mean we’re the clueless, expendable ones in red, either.

Star Trek: Lower Decks streams on Paramount+.

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STDIS-100394-0011-ST-DISCO

Star Trek: Lower Decks RITOS Adult Short Sleeve T-Shirt

If you are a fan of Star Trek: Lower Decks you will love this RITOS shirt a s worn by Captain Freeman on   Star Trek: Lower Decks.  The t-shirt features RITOS on the front  emulating the DISCO shirts worn on Star Trek: Discovery.

• Fit: This crew neck shirt is comfortable and lightweight.
• Made of: 100% Combed Ring-Spun Cotton and 90/10 Cotton/Polyester in color
• Care: Machine wash cold inside out with like colors and tumble dry low.
• Shipping Policy: For more information, see our Shipping Policy here .

STLD-100011-0013-ST-LD-ritos

Star Trek: Lower Decks RITOS Women's Short Sleeve T-Shirt

If you are a fan of Star Trek Lower Decks you will love this 'RITOS' shirt as worn by Captain Freeman on Star Trek: Lower Decks . The t-shirt features RITOS on the front emulating the "DISCO" shirts worn on Star Trek: Discovery.

• This is the perfect tee to lounge around in!
• Additional Information: This shirt is designed to have a snug fit - we suggest sizing up if you prefer your shirts to be baggy.

STLD-100012-0013-ST-LD-ritos

Star Trek: Lower Decks RITOS Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt

• Get cozy in this super-soft traditional crewneck sweatshirt!
• Fit: Comfy and casual fit
• Made of: 50% polyester / 50% cotton

STLD-100000-0007-ST-LD-ritos

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Command Delta Badge

This magnetic delta comes to you directly from Star Trek: Strange New Worlds . It is full-size and true to the show's scale in size and finish. The delta features a brushed metal finish. The delta has two vertical magnetic clutches and a back plate to hold it securely in place. While manufactured with FanSets normal attention to detail, this delta is not manufactured as a prop replica.

• True to the show's scale in size and finish
• Ships on May 15, 2024

ST-SNW-R7007211-1-SNW-BDG

Star Trek: Lower Decks Badge

Forged from resilient materials, the Star Trek: Lower Decks Badge proudly showcases the iconic Delta Shield insignia, adorned with the unique colors and design motifs of the U.S.S. Cerritos crew. Whether you stand among the esteemed senior officers or serve as a humble ensign, this badge serves as a beacon of your dedication to Starfleet and the Lower Decks team.

• This magnetic delta comes to you directly from Star Trek: Lower Decks .
• Measures at 2.25" tall
• The delta features a brushed metal finish.
• The magnet has two vertical magnetic clutches to hold it securely in place.
• While manufactured with FanSets normal attention to detail, this delta is not manufactured as a prop replica.

STLD-R7007212-1-LD-BDG

Star Trek: The Next Generation Badge

Star Trek: The Next Generation Delta This delta comes to you directly from Star Trek: The Next Generation.  It is a full-size delta that features a matte brushed metal finish.  The magnetic version has two horizontal magnets or clutches to hold it securely in place. While manufactured with FanSets normal attention to detail, this delta is not manufactured as a prop replica.

STTNG-R7007210-1-TNG-BDG

Star Trek: Picard Magnetic Delta Badge

This magnetic pin comes to you directly from the   Star Trek: Picard . It is a full-size delta. While manufactured with FanSets normal attention to detail this pin is not meant to be an exact prop replica. With a bright silver delta over a matte finish black nickel it measures 2 ¾" tall. Revised for screen accuracy this new version of the Picard Delta features a groove in the silver overlay. This magnet lets everyone know how much you enjoy Star Trek: Picard.

Product Details:

• Official Size and Scale!
• Double Clutch Magnetic Back
• Measures 2 ¾” tall

STPIC-R7000287-1-ST-P-D

Star Trek: The Original Series Engineering Uniform T-Shirt

DOORBUSTER DEAL ! Additional discounts do not apply. Shop all doorbusters here!

• CUSTOM STAR TREK APPAREL: This official Star Trek: The Original Series Engineering Uniform T-Shirt is made of 100% cotton for ultimate comfort during space travel.
• OFFICIALLY LICENSED: Wear these officially licensed Star Trek: The Original Series Engineering Uniform T-Shirt everywhere you go to show your love for your favorite franchise
• PERFECT FOR GIFTING: These official Star Trek Uniform T-Shirts make an out-of-this-world birthday, holiday, or graduation gift to any Star Trek fan!
• This Star Trek: The Original Series Engineering Uniform T-Shirt features metallic printing on the sleeves and delta for an eye-catching design visible from space.
• Wear this classic Star Trek: The Original Series Engineering Uniform T-Shirt over and over again by machine washing cold on a gentle cycle with like colors. Tumble dry low.
• Availability: Ships to the United States and Puerto Rico.

STTOS-R7000496-2-ST-TOS-EUTP

Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform Sherpa Blanket

This Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform Sherpa Blanket lets you relax in ultimate comfort after a long day of commanding the U.S.S. Enterprise. Featuring the iconic colors of the Star Trek: The Next Generation command uniform on the soft mink front and a cozy sherpa back, this Star Trek blanket is perfect to snuggle up in as you unwind during the evening.

• You'll never need another blanket! This blanket is the perfect addition to your home, it looks good and is a nice companion on cool nights.
• Made Of: 100% polyester.
• Care: Machine wash cold on gentle cycle with mild detergent and similar colors. Tumble dry low or lay flat to dry for longest life.

STTNG-100206-0002-ST-TNG-CUS

Star Trek: The Original Series Command Uniform Throw Pillow

Give your starship quarters a noticeable upgrade with this Star Trek: The Original Series Command Uniform Pillow. Inspired by the iconic command uniform from Star Trek: The Original Series , this Star Trek accent pillow makes a great finishing touch to your home decor.

• Show off your favorite shows or characters with this vibrant throw pillow. You'll want to be able to display one of these in each comfortable spot in your house!
• Measures: 16” Wide x 16” Tall.
• Made Of: spun poly material with down alternative; blown and closed.
• Care: Spot Clean or Dry Clean Only.

STTOS-100256-0003-ST-TOS-CUP

Star Trek: Discovery Science Women's Uniform (Silver)

Boldly go where no man has gone before, and look great while doing it with this Star Trek Discovery Science Uniform in silver. This blue top features an inner lining, a silver Starfleet emblem on the chest and additional silver accents ,  making it the perfect addition to your Star Trek cosplay costume . Pants are not included, only the jacket.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

• Material: 100% Polyester
• Care: Hand Wash to preserve uniform
• Additional Information: Pants are not included.

ST-D-279843

Star Trek: The Original Series Science Uniform Adult Shorts

Planning a trip to Risa, Casperia Prime, or maybe Freecloud is more your vibe? Don't forget to pack these Star Trek: The Original Series Science Uniform Adult Shorts in your suitcase! Get ready to do some high tech science experiments aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 in these blue Star Trek: The Original Series Science Uniform Adult Shorts featuring the Science Badge! With mesh side pockets, water-repellant fabric, and elastic waistband, you can't go wrong rocking these amazing shorts on your next adventure.

• Made of: 91% recycled polyester, 9% spandex (fabric composition may vary by 3%)
• Four-way stretch moisture-wicking microfiber fabric
• Elastic waistband with a flat white drawstring
• Mesh side pockets

STTOS-100442-0036-ST-TOS-SUS

Star Trek: Discovery Command Uniform Throw Pillow

Give your decor an out-of-this-world upgrade with this Star Trek: Discovery Command Uniform Pillow. Inspired by the command uniforms within the DISCO series, this Star Trek: Discovery pillow is perfect for command division members and Star Trek: Discovery fans alike.

STDIS-100256-0003-ST-D-CUP

Star Trek: Voyager Command Uniform Sherpa Blanket

Even those in the command division need some R&R! With a soft mink front inspired by the command uniforms of the U.S.S. Voyager crew members, this comfy Star Trek: Voyager Command Uniform Sherpa Blanket is perfect to throw over your shoulders after a busy day. With a soft mink front and cozy sherpa back, this Star Trek: Voyager blanket is a must-have addition to your personal quarters.

STV-100206-0009-ST-V-CUS

Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform Beach Towel

Make your next beach vacation the best one yet with this Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform Beach Towel. Perfect for crew members in the command division, this soft Star Trek: The Next Generation beach towel keeps you dry while showing off your love for your team.

• Whether at the beach or pool you will use this beach towel as your favorite accessory all summer!
• Measures: 30"x60".
• Made Of: 100% Velour Terry Cotton.
• Care: Please wash before using towel. Pile and softness will return.

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Star Trek: Discovery Men's Copper Operations Uniform

Did you know that the Uniforms for Star Trek: Discovery were based on actual NASA uniforms? That is why they are so stylish. The Star Trek: Discovery Men's Copper Operations Uniform looks just like the one worn by Shazad Latif as Security Officer Lt. Ash Tayler in the series. The lined blue top features a copper Starfleet badge and additional copper accents.

ST-D-R821206-STD

Star Trek: The Original Series Engineering Uniform Athletic Shorts

Planning a trip to Risa, Casperia Prime, or maybe Freecloud is more your vibe? Don't forget to pack these Star Trek: The Original Series Engineering Uniform Adult Shorts in your suitcase! Channel your inner Paul Stamets, Montgomery Scott or Georgi LaForge in these amazing red uniform shorts featuring the Engineering Badge! With mesh side pockets, water-repellant fabric, and elastic waistband, you can't go wrong rocking these amazing shorts on your next adventure.

STTOS-100442-0008-ST-TOS-EUS

Star Trek: Discovery Command Uniform Sherpa Blanket

Whether you are unwinding after a long day aboard the U.S.S. Discovery or settling in for a Star Trek marathon, you will love snuggling up in this Star Trek: Discovery Command Uniform Sherpa Blanket. With a soft mink front inspired by the DISCO command uniforms and a cozy sherpa back, this Star Trek: Discovery blanket will become your favorite household accessory.

STDIS-100206-0010-ST-D-CUS

Star Trek: Discovery Command Uniform Beach Towel

From pool days to beach vacation, this Star Trek: Discovery Command Uniform Beach Towel is a must-have accessory for DISCO fans. Inspired by the command uniforms within the DISCO series, this soft towel lets you lounge or dry off while showing your pride for the command division aboard the U.S.S. Discovery.

STDIS-100199-0001-ST-D-CUB

Star Trek: Voyager Command Uniform Throw Pillow

The perfect accent pillow for Star Trek: Voyager fans and command division members alike, this Star Trek: Voyager Command Uniform Pillow instantly elevates your home decor. Featuring a design inspired by the command uniform of Voyager crew members, this Star Trek: Voyager pillow is a fun addition to your room, media room, dorm, and more.

STV-100256-0003-ST-V-CUP

Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform Throw Pillow

If you are in the command division on your starship, then you deserve some R&R every now and then! Inspired by the command uniform of crew members aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise, the Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform Pillow lets you relax in comfort while showing some pride for your division.

STTNG-100256-0003-ST-TNG-CUP

Star Trek: The Original Series Command Uniform Sherpa Blanket

Being in the command division takes a lot of skill, energy, and focus. That is why you will love relaxing in your quarters with this Star Trek: The Original Series Command Uniform Sherpa Blanket draped around your shoulders. With the colors of the Star Trek: The Original Series command uniform on the soft mink front and a cozy sherpa back, this Star Trek blanket is a must-have for all crewmembers aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise.

STTOS-100206-0004-ST-TOS-CUS

Star Trek: The Original Series Command Uniform Beach Towel

Just because you take a vacation from commanding the U.S.S. Enterprise doesn't mean you can't represent your division! Inspired by the command uniform of crew members aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise, this Star Trek: The Original Series Command Uniform Beach Towel will make your next beach vacation out of this world.

STTOS-100199-0001-ST-TOS-CUB

Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform Tote Bag

You can let everyone know your status in the command division by throwing this spacious Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform Tote Bag over your shoulder. Featuring a design inspired by the iconic red command uniform, this Star Trek: The Next Generation tote bag will become any fan’s favorite accessory.

• Dimensions: Bag 15" x 15"
• Maximum weight limit: 44lb
• Handle length: 11.8".
• Made Of: 100% spun polyester fabric, Dual handles 100% natural cotton bull denim.
• Care: Handwash.

STV-100145-0001-ST-TNG-CUT

Star Trek: The Original Series Command Uniform Premium Tote Bag

Whether you are commanding a starship or heading to class, this Star Trek: The Original Series Command Uniform Tote Bag lets you store everything you need for the day in one secure place while showing off your command division status. Featuring the iconic yellow uniform and command division badge, this Star Trek: The Original Series tote bag is a must-have addition to your style.

STTOS-100145-0001-ST-TOS-CUT

Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform T-Shirt

Are you ready to join the command division of Starfleet? Then you will love adding this official Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform T-Shirt to your wardrobe. Perfect for those who excel in the command division aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise , this tee is a must-have addition to your wardrobe.

• CUSTOM STAR TREK APPAREL: This official Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform T-Shirt is made of 100% cotton for ultimate comfort during space travel.
• OFFICIALLY LICENSED: Wear these officially licensed Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform T-Shirt everywhere you go to show your love for your favorite franchise
• From Star Trek marathons to exploring new areas of the galaxy aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise, this Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform T-Shirt is a must-have look for any fan.
• Wear this classic Star Trek: The Next Generation Command Uniform T-Shirt over and over again by machine washing cold on a gentle cycle with like colors. Tumble dry low.

ST-TNG-CUT-SM

Star Trek: Discovery Women's Command Uniform

Step onto the bridge and take control this Halloween with the Star Trek: Discovery Women's Command Uniform. Whether you are dressing up as Michael Burnham, the Shenzhou Captain Philippa Georgiou, or assuming command of your own spaceship, this uniform will let everyone know who's in charge. This Star Trek: Discovery outfit features the standard-issue navy blue uniform of all Federation crew members, as well as the gold trim that signifies command personnel. Includes a shirt with Starfleet insignia and zipper, a matching pair of pants, and boot tops.

ST-D-R821183-SM

Star Trek: Discovery Women's Copper Operations Uniform

Look as stylish as Cadet Sylvia Tilly this Halloween when you put on the Star Trek: Discovery Women's Copper Operations Uniform. This lined blue shirt with copper accents is a replica of the style worn by Mary Wiseman as Cadet Tilly in Star Trek: Discovery. It features copper shoulder braids and a copper Starfleet emblem.

ST-D-R821207-SM

Star Trek: Discovery Women's Gold Command Uniform

Step onto the bridge and take control this Halloween with the Star Trek: Discovery Women's Gold Command Uniform. Whether you are dressing up as Michael Burnham, the Shenzhou Captain Philippa Georgiou, or assuming command of your own spaceship, this uniform will let everyone know who is in charge.

ST-D-R821205-SM

Star Trek: The Original Series Women's Deluxe Science Uniform

You'll look like you stepped off the Starship Enterprise when you wear this  Star Trek: The Original Series Women's Deluxe Science Uniform. This costume includes a form-fitting blue dress with a black collar shiny gold wrist bands and a replica Star Trek emblem pin. Look your best and impress Star Trek fans young and old in this officially licensed costume.

• 100% Polyester
• Embroidered Star Fleet emblem on front
• Metallic band around forearms

ST-TOS-R889060-XS

Star Trek: The Original Series Women's Deluxe Command Uniform

You'll look like you stepped off the Starship Enterprise when you wear the  Star Trek: The Original Series  Women's Deluxe Command Uniform. This costume includes a gold, form fitting long sleeved mini dress with a black collar, shiny gold wrist bands, and a replica Star Trek emblem pin. Look your best and impress Star Trek fans young and old in this costume.

ST-TOS-R889059-XS

Star Trek: The Original Series Deluxe Spock Uniform

Suit up for duty with this fresh Star Trek: The Original Series Deluxe Spock Uniform and you'll look and feel as good as new! Made of 100% polyester, this pullover shirt with a v-neck and raglan cut sleeves will keep you cool while you’re making the crucial decisions you never get credit for! It’s also got an embroidered Starfleet emblem and metallic ribbon sleeve stripes, because what’s the point of being out in space if you can’t have some seriously far-out, from the next galaxy type-a style? Live long and prosper, indeed!

• 100% polyester
• Pullover shirt has V-neck and raglan cut sleeves
• Embroidered Starfleet emblem and metallic ribbon sleeve stripes
• Original series style, finally available in our century!

ST-TOS-R888983-SM

Star Trek: The Original Series Spock Dog Costume

ST-TOS-R580267-L

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Fans on mission. To seek out autographs from Star Trek icon William Shatner

LAKE TWP. − For many, it was a final frontier.

To boldly go where they had never gone before — into the presence of Star Trek actor William Shatner .

Several hundred people flocked Saturday to Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market to get autographs and pictures with the 93-year-old man known for his role as Captain James T. Kirk in the original 1960s television series Star Trek. Those 79 episodes spawned a decades-long influential cultural franchise and phenomenon.

The crowd loudly cheered when Shatner appeared at 10:50 a.m. in an area by the food court cordoned off for his appearance that was arranged by Prime Time Sports and Framing of Kent. Fans, several arriving in wheelchairs, brought Star Trek uniforms, promotional pictures from the TV series and Star Trek films, a model of the U.S.S. Enterprise and sketches to be marked with his coveted signature.

Related: 'Star Trek' legend William Shatner to appear at Hartville MarketPlace

The cost of each autograph or picture with him was $149. If you wanted both, the cost was $275. For him to write three words or less with the autograph cost $79 more. Several also paid $100 for a VIP pass to skip the line.

Shatner could be seen for the next 74 minutes signing autographs, smiling and engaging in light banter with fans. After everyone who had paid for an autograph had been served, he got onto a scooter with balloons tied to it and going nowhere close to as fast as warp speed went to All Star Sports Gallery.

Someone wearing an elaborate costume as Bumblebee the Transformer led the procession. Then, Shatner switched from the scooter to sitting on a stool to take pictures with people, with the line of those waiting for pictures stretching back to the food court area.

Dave Bell, 74, of Lake Township, who watches the classic Star Trek episodes every night, said he wasn't willing to pay $149 for an autograph. But he came to Hartville Marketplace to get a glimpse and picture of Shatner.

"I'm a Trekkie. But this is ridiculous," Bell said about the crowd. "I'm not surprised. He's a very popular guy."

Jann Henthorn drove an hour from Orrville to see the man who played the beloved Star Trek captain.

"Is William Shatner here?" she said as she tried to spot him through the autograph seekers blocking her view. "I see him! ... All of us baby boomers are all excited!"

Henthorn recalled watching Star Trek when it first aired in the 1960s long before it achieved massive cult status in syndication.

"He looks good," she said about Shatner.

Cassedy Brennan, 28, of Wadsworth stood by one of the barricades snapping pictures of Shatner. Her father, a big Star Trek fan, was in line waiting for an autograph on a poster.

"He is like a kid in a candy store today. He is so excited. It's like Star Wars, Star Trek paraphernalia in the basement. ... Unopen toys. This is his jam," she said. "I think it's cool. Not exactly my thing. But here to support my dad. It's cool to see, too."

Brennan was one of the few people in their 20s in the crowd.

"I probably wouldn't know William Shatner out of context if it weren't for my dad," she said, adding that she saw classic Star Trek episodes with her father. "There's probably some millennials that are fans. But I'm not a sci-fi kind of girl."

Michael Rothman, 38, of Lake Township said Shatner autographed his set of Star Trek DVDs.

He said the actor said to him, "'Thank you very much.' That's all he said."

His wife Shandi Rothman clarified that, "He (also) said, 'Pleasure to see you.'"

Stacy Klotz of Massillon got Shatner to autograph her Captain James T. Kirk poster. She considered the $149 cost a "once in a lifetime type of thing." A sci-fi fan, she first started seeing Star Trek in syndication in the late 1970s.

Matt Merew, 56, of Zanesville got Shatner to sign his model of the Enterprise and his picture depicting the scene where Captain Kirk fights an alien captain known as a Gorn. The picture already had the autograph of the actor who played the Gorn that Merew got at a past Star Trek convention.

Cameron Blakey, 46, of Mogadore, who watched Star Trek in the 1980s with his uncle and mother, got Shatner to autograph his sketch of Captain Kirk that Blakey drew.

"He asked me how I was. And he asked me if I drew this. I told him I did. And I told him that we basically thank you for everything and he made my day," he said. "He made my life. Awesome, awesome experience!"

Karen Isaiah of Mogadore said she watched the original Star Trek in 1967.

"I'm ecstatic. I didn't want to miss him for anything," she said. "I met (singer) Johnny Mathis. I talked to William Shatner. My life is complete."

Reach Robert at [email protected]. X formerly Twitter: @rwangREP.

NFL uniform power rankings: Where do new Broncos, Jets, Lions kits rank?

The NFL could be entering what might be a golden era for its teams’ uniforms — one of the most visible, marketable and profitable components of the country’s biggest sports juggernaut.

Two years ago, the league reinstated the use of secondary helmet shells, a development that allowed teams to develop alternative uniform combinations and/or embrace their past looks . Think about teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers , New England Patriots and Tennessee Titans (Houston Oilers), who all featured white helmets with their classic looks — and, yes, you’ll find the 1970s, ‘80s and ‘90s are an especially prized fashion era, especially if that’s when you fell in love with the game — but couldn’t reprise them until the uniform rule was modified.

Now the helmet palette is being expanded further, teams undergoing uniform redesigns this year offered the option to implement a third helmet, an alternative that will be available to every club in 2025.

Not every club will maximize the rule at first — or maybe ever — but at least we’re off and running with the New York Jets , Detroit Lions , Denver Broncos and Houston Texans all revamping their unis for the 2024 campaign … which naturally necessitates and update to what have become our near-annual NFL uniform power rankings, listed from worst to best ( previous rank in parentheses ):

32. Washington Commanders (31)

Good luck finding anyone, particularly in the D.C. area, who has much enthusiasm for this completely uninspired rebrand — and that seems to include the new ownership group, which hasn’t exactly dismissed the notion that another one could be coming at some point. The road uniforms in particular are eyesores with the black alternates the best, if somewhat by default … though the use of the District of Columbia flag on the shoulders is a keeper.

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31. Carolina Panthers (29)

Learned recently that the panther head logo is designed in such a way as to resemble North and South Carolina together on a map. Kinda cool. Not much else about these uniforms is. A dated hodgepodge that just takes you back to the 1990s, when black and teal (aka “Panther Blue”) — the San Jose Sharks basically — was hot. Seems like it’s time for an update, maybe with something closer to Carolina Blue. But the logo can now stay.

30. Cleveland Browns (30)

Only a Clevelander can truly love brown mixed with orange, otherwise only seen on the less-appetizing candy corn or Tony Gwynn’s San Diego Padres. Points are further deducted after the team didn’t use its brown-over-brown combo with orange numbers last season. But the Browns are very excited to be going back to their white facemasks — points for acknowledging their relative 1980s greatness — and a glossy orange helmet shell.

29. New England Patriots (19)

If it was time to part ways with Bill Belichick, then it’s time to part ways with the “Flying Elvis” logo and officially put the dynastic era in mothballs in favor of a rebrand … or at least a full-time return to the “Pat Patriot” uniforms.

28. Baltimore Ravens (26)

Be nice if black and purple complemented each other a bit better, but when you’re going for Edgar Allan Poe … the purple jersey with the gold numbers does pop, but the AFC North champs didn’t wear it last season. The Maryland flag baked into the shoulder crest remains the best detail. However club president Sashi Brown said earlier this month that, "We have some stuff that's coming,” in terms of an alternate look. Nice to see the Ravens’ account on X, formerly Twitter, utilize the infamous mustard pants as part of an April Fools' Day prank.

27. Jacksonville Jaguars (24)

Kind of in a meh spot — not offensive but not inspiring, though that’s certainly a better state of affairs than some of the uniform (and helmet) atrocities they committed a decade ago. Appears the Jags are another franchise that will also be wisely throwing it back this season … at least to the extent you can go retro when you’re not even 30 years old.

26. Arizona Cardinals (25)

Are they effectively Ohio State West since last year’s redesign? Yeah, basically. Is that a notable improvement from where they’d been? Yeah, basically.

25. Atlanta Falcons (27)

Say this for former HC Arthur Smith — at least he embraced the throwbacks and kept those hideous gradient alternates out of sight. (Unrelated, did you know the team has red pants , never worn, squirreled away somewhere in the equipment room?) Since they’re apparently not making the throwbacks their primary uniform any time soon, hopefully they at least bring back the 1980s-era red jersey and silver pants at some point.

24. Denver Broncos (32)

They rolled out their updated "Mile High Collection" on Monday. Is it an improvement? Sure … though looking worse would have been a challenge. The swooshes are gone from the side panels and pants and the tapered stripe removed from the helmet. In their place are a bunch of triangular “summit markers” on the jersey and back of helmet and a few “5280” references … just in case you’d forgotten the Broncos play in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains at a mile above sea level. (Unrelated, they also made extensive use of an orange Ford Bronco in their social media rollout … which only made me wonder if they aspire to be the Lions and are paying royalties to Ford.)

In fairness, a lot of exhaustive work and focus grouping goes into these redesigns. It’s just hard not to get snarky when the final product looks like the lovechild of the Chargers’ uniforms and the University of Virginia’s — especially when the (correct) path of least resistance was to make the John Elway-era classics (when the Broncos could not win a Super Bowl) the main ones once again. But let’s at least give Denver points for utilizing all three of its helmet options — the “Midnight Navy” primary, “Summit White” alternate and the iconic throwback. TBD if new QB Zach Wilson can complete half his passes in any of them …

23. Tennessee Titans (28)

They’re a bit of a mess with various color splashes and combinations and the shoulder and hip detailing callbacks to a Roman centurion, which is both creative and inelegant. But you can forgive a lot when the Oilers throwbacks are back in the rotation — they returned in their full Columbia Blue glory in 2023 — much as Houstonians understandably hate seeing them.

22. Los Angeles Rams (20)

With the exception of the yellow-white gradient on the blue jersey’s numbers and blue pants’ striping … it’s kinda grown on us holistically, even the increasingly (and correctly) minimized “Bone” roadies. But things would be a whole lot better with some throwbacks mixed in — preferably navy jerseys and helmets with white ram horns.

21. Chicago Bears (23)

Conservative classics that feature perhaps the league’s best sock game. The throwbacks go way back, the helmet similar to the University of Michigan’s. If they didn’t wear the orange helmet and orange jersey combo again, would anyone complain?

20. Miami Dolphins (15)

The unique aqua and orange color scheme is an appropriate homage to South Florida, and the new logo has aged decently — though, like their AFC East brethren, the Fins’ throwbacks are still the superior look.

19. New York Giants (17)

They should take a cue from the Jets — imagine that, New Yorkers — and revert to their late-20th century uniforms permanently or, at minimum, make those their primaries. Befuddling that, aside from the helmet, “Big Blue” currently has zero blue in its main roadies.

*18. Houston Texans (18)

They’re set to unveil new (and already leaked) uniforms Tuesday, promising the “most fan-inclusive and transparent uniform redesign in NFL history.” We’ll see. A clean look with an underrated logo — incorporating the Lone Star State’s flag with a bull — have been pretty static since the team’s inception in 2002, aside from the additions of the alternate “Battle Red” jersey and helmets.

(*Subject to change)

17. Detroit Lions (22)

It’s nice to see a team owned by the Ford family continue to weave the Mustang motif into its uniforms with this year’s new striping pattern. The blue collar featured in all the jerseys is also a nifty way to honor the hard-working folks of Motown. But nice as the new alternate blue helmet is, not as sweet as the one used last season with the creeping lion logo — which, sadly, is no longer in the closet.

16. Buffalo Bills (16)

Clean presentation and can’t argue with the charging buffalo logo, though we’d like to see the grazing version from the team’s AFL days mixed in with a bit more regularity … maybe with an alternate blue helmet?

15. San Francisco 49ers (14)

Solid if understated, which is pretty much how the Niners’ “Faithful” want it. Must be noted that history has shown an interlocking SF just can’t beat an interlocking KC when it counts.

14. Kansas City Chiefs (11)

Their classic, simple look is increasingly familiar — just ask the Swifties. And the arrowhead KC logo is also becoming synonymous with excellence and dominance. But a little variety would be nice, the champs the only team that doesn’t employ a third jersey and seemingly disinterested in expanding their wardrobe.

13. Dallas Cowboys (12)

Love or hate “America’s Team,” the Cowboys’ brand, star sigil and all, might be the most recognizable in team sports. The long-standing tradition of wearing white at home has always given their fans a different color palette to enjoy every week since the visitors usually wear their home unis — even if you believe, like I do, that Dallas actually looks better in its navy jerseys and silver pants.

12. Indianapolis Colts (10)

They just exude NFL history — Johnny Unitas and the iconic horseshoe logo made my father an NFL fan, and the primary uniforms haven’t evolved all that much over the decades. The “Indiana Nights” alternate was a generally nice addition to the collective locker last year, though the black helmet was an unnecessary whiff.

11. Green Bay Packers (13)

They exude even more NFL history for the league’s all-time winningest franchise. However, it's probably time to have a little fun with the monochrome dark green alternates by adding a green helmet.

10. New York Jets (21)

First — thank you. And OK, fine — apparently, we’ll never get anything that incorporates the silhouette of an F-22 or evokes imagery of Maverick Mitchell shooting down fifth-generation “Soviet” fighters (or Patriots). But the permanent callback to the NYJ’s 1980s look is nevertheless a significant Mach 2.5 leap forward. The uniforms are clean, the logo is sleek — both on the shimmery green helmet and black matte alternates — and the new secondary insignias provide some needed variety. The opportunity cost of a truly unique third kit remains the only major complaint here … though the players don’t seem to have any.

9. Minnesota Vikings (8)

Long underrated with their popping purple and gold combination and the subtle Norse details on the current uniforms. The throwbacks are clean but a shame the alternate purple jerseys with gold numbers remained in storage last season.

8. Cincinnati Bengals (7)

No better head-to-toe alternate in the league than the white tiger kit topped with the bleached helmet and black tiger stripes. They’ve also nicely toned down their primary uniforms, which remains one of the league’s more creative, fun looks. Wouldn’t complain if they punted entirely on the orange jerseys — though they effective have, donning them just once last season.

7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9)

The “Creamsicle” uniforms are back in the lineup, and the alarm clock jerseys remain a thing of the past. (And we’re totally fine with the Sapp- and/or Brady-era pirate ship kits being the usual look with “Bucco Bruce” mixed in occasionally.) Said another way, all is right in the world of NFL haberdashery … at least as it pertains to Florida’s Gulf Coast.

6. Philadelphia Eagles (6)

How great was it to see the return of the Kelly Green retros in 2023? While looking forward to seeing them more often … the Midnight Green and black might be a bit underrated, while also eternal as the only uniform in which Philly’s won a Super Bowl.

5. Seattle Seahawks (5)

How great was it to see the return of their original blue, silver and green look in 2023? While looking forward to seeing those retros more often … for my money, the College Navy, Wolf Grey and Action Green contemporary look — with the creatively incorporated feathers, some tapering over the top of the crown — is Nike’s best redesign, while also eternal as the only uniform in which Seattle’s won a Super Bowl.

4. New Orleans Saints (4)

As a general rule, too many uniform combinations tend to diminish a team’s identity and brand. Not for this team. Black, white, “Old Gold” — it all works, including the deeper hue of gold used on the home and away throwbacks. The black helmet with the cascading Fleur-De-Lis logos down the centerline is arguably the league’s best alternate shell. But it would be great if they could do a Mardi Gras inspired version, basically a Saints-themed uniform with New Orleans Jazz colors?

3. Pittsburgh Steelers (3)

Black. Gold. The iconic logo evoking the Steelmark symbol used by the American Iron and Steel Institute with the trio of hypocycloids on the right side of the helmet. A true classic … even if some of us like the “Dark Knight” alternates even better.

T1. Las Vegas Raiders (1), Los Angeles Chargers (2)

A clear copout, but sometimes there’s no favorite or wrong answer. The Bolts offer a sun splash of color, multiple uniform combinations — though not so many to muddle their look — and the lightning logo that so perfectly spans the helmets. Conversely, the Silver and Black feature the league’s most menacing look, courtesy of their color scheme and sinister logo.

Maybe the tiebreaker will eventually go to the team that comes up with the best uni tied to a secondary helmet? Sure would like to see the Chargers in the Seau-Tomlinson era navy lids with the white bolts. And SURE would like to see the Raiders in monochrome black, topped with a now authorized black helm and the primary logo in silver. The Jets finally listened to me — no reason the AFC West’s best-looking clubs shouldn’t.

Follow USA TODAY Sports' Nate Davis on X, formerly Twitter @ByNateDavis .