What started with a small group of comic book collectors has expanded to movies and a vast collectibles market. Dress as your favorite superhero (so you won't be recognized) and head on down.
"This year's Comic Con is in full swing in San Diego, and we have some choice photos from the floor. The annual nerd mecca has moved well beyond just comic books to cover all things animated, nostalgic, and/or playable. It's the best chance to see pen and ink icons brought to life, as well as some of the most elaborate comic-culture costumes around. Check back frequently for more updates."
Implications - Today's nerd is no longer viewed as the social outcast his predecessors were. Instead, nerds are revered as geniuses, with geek chic innovations like Comic Con viewed as the social norm.
Herds of Nerds Stampede San Diego
Comic Con 2007
Trend Themes
1. Geek Chic Innovations - The trend of embracing and celebrating nerd culture offers opportunities for companies to create products and experiences that cater to the geek community.
2. Cosplay Culture - The rise of cosplay and fandom-driven events can be leveraged by businesses to create marketing campaigns and merchandise that appeal to fans of comic book and pop culture characters.
3. Expanded Collectibles Market - As the collectibles market continues to grow beyond just comic books, businesses can tap into this trend by creating unique and limited edition merchandise for fans to collect.
Industry Implications
1. Entertainment - Businesses in the entertainment industry can cater to the nerd community by producing and promoting content that celebrates geek culture.
2. Fashion - Fashion brands can capitalize on the trend of geek chic by creating clothing and accessories that appeal to fans of comic books and pop culture, particularly those who enjoy cosplay.
3. Collectibles - As the collectibles market continues to expand, businesses in this industry can create new products that appeal to fans of comic books and pop culture characters, such as figurines, toys, and limited edition merchandise.