CN FORUMS ARCHIVE Telescope Reviews: The Fashionable Amateur Astronomer

Amateur astronomy - one of the last bastions of slacker wear and looking good at the same time

It has come to my attention that even in the dark, I feel like I want to look good, in a thrown together way, should we do encounter beings from a civilization far, far away. What kind of statement would we make at first contact? More than likely, it would be visual and as the old adage goes, you have 5 seconds to make a good impression.

So what's an amateur astronomer to do?! Well, while it might seem overwhelming at first, in fact, it's quite easy to be comfortable, warm and fashionable during those long, cold nights gazing upon ancient photons.

For men, I would suggest a nappy pair of flannel lined jeans, which while roomy, has good, slimming lines. The flannel holds in a layer of insulating air while at the same time feeling oh so nice against the skin. Top it off with layers of silk, cotton and flannel in pleasingly coordinated colours. A down jacket of contrast makes a statement of individualism. Accessorize with neck gator, highlighting a sprig of colour in the flannel or go full out in your coordinating scheme. Hats should always be worn, and nothing has stood the test of time better than your basic Minnesota flap hat...hold the front flap up with a stylish pin (maybe one of those absolutely adorable AL observing club pins!). Finish off your look with sturdy, BLACK, boots...insulated of course. And, socks - create a long, svelt line with socks matching your flannel lined jeans. Ralph Lauren would be pleased.

For women: Granted, we women have more of a choice when it comes to clothes and accessories, but the basics holds true for us as well as men...warmth, ease of movement and look good at the same time. Scarves make the difference and what a difference they make! Flannel lined pants/jeans can be had in all sorts of shapes and lengths, depending upon your preference. Look for flat fronts (no pleats! they create the illusion of tummy!), comfortable waistband and a pleasing back profile. As above, layering is the best bet against the cold and what is better than that special silk top to start off your foundation? Not only can you use it for functionality, it doubles as a cute top in and of itself for those special pre-observing soirees. Look for small prints, texture and colour. Wrap the neck with a silk, wool or angora/cashmere scarf, pinned off with a lovely star-splash pin or your AL pin. Hats - all kinds abound for the fashion savvy woman astronomer. Wide brim hats also can block out stray light when looking at a faint fuzzy.

For everyone: the basics of good fashion sense starts with the skin - moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Especially in areas of wind currents and/or dry conditions. Not only will you be protecting your skin from the raveges of time, moisturizer acts like a protection barrier from the outdoor elements, thus keeping you youthful and fresh looking all night long.

Regardless of your observing habits, it pays to dress for success. Success in keeping warm, staying comfortable and looking good.

Night Lighting as Fashion Accessories

The fashionable amateur astronomer always has functionality in mind when accessorizing an outfit. Due to the nature of our hobby, what better way to keep things convenient than to wear our lighting in stunning manners?

The red flashlight is the staple of any complete observer's wardrobe...from big, bling bling nightwatchman flashlights to dainty, flashing LCD's incorporated into quaint pins that can be put most anywhere on the body, the tripod or the atlas table!

This fashionista loves the idea of the dainty, LCD's which can be attached to the hat, the shoe or the sleeve - not only does it push the envelope on haute coutre astro wear, but it provides safety at the same time! People will notice your slick style and not run into you, thus avoiding any potential damage to body and telescope!

OSH Hardware Stores have an exquisite variable lamp position flashlight that is about 3" long with clip. Clip this to your down vest, front pocket or scarf for conveniece and good looks. It's hands free, which might be the best reason to get one. While they don't come with red covers, make your own red cover to the degree of redness that looks best on you! What could be better?

Dainty LCD lights come in an assortment of styles and you can find them at about most any store...but for the true individual, creating your own dainty red LCD from components is a mark of deep insight to the world of astro-fashion. You can customize a one-of-the-kind piece which will be the talk of starparties to come.

With the range of choices we have in accessorizing, I have no doubt that we'll soon see charming, dynamic and out-of-this-world looks on the runways of upcoming starparties.

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Stacy
"Why yes, there is a difference between photon deprivation and PMS"

AKA Konstellation Kitty
M42Gal
Stellarvue Nighthawk II
Orion Starblast 6" Newtonian - newest addition to the family!!!
7x50 Orion Scenix Binoculars
Old 3" Jason Comet Chaser