Do You Believe in Magic?

J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series is my absolute favorite group of books in the entire world.  I started reading them when I was only six years-old and never stopped until July 21, 2007.  I devoured each book on the day that I received it and I have read each and every one innumerable times since.  I also loved the Warner Brothers movie series (with the exception of the warped plot line of Goblet of Fire, but whatever), and even tried to audition for the part of Luna Lovegood when I was in fifth grade (I sent in an audition package and everything).  I also adore StarKid's satirical musical rendition of the stories in the YouTube sensations A Very Potter Musical and A Very Potter Sequel.  (StarKid is a fantastic group and I strongly recommend watching all of their projects...Glee's Darren Criss first came into the public eye when he wrote music for them and starred as Harry!)

I have always been fascinated by the vast myriad of creatures that Rowling incorporates into her stories.  I know that many of them stem from mythological and fantastical roots, but others are so phantasmagoric and creative that it blows my mind.  I decided that for today's post, I would create a few outfits inspired by the fantastical beasts of the wizarding world.

Thestrals

from Harry Potter Wiki

Thestrals are among my favorite magical creatures.  I loved how Luna and Harry began to bond over seeing them, for Luna is probably my favorite character.  Though thestrals appear to be grim omens of hardship and woe because of their connection with death (only those who have witnessed death can see them), they are actually quite loyal and "dead clever".  They unfortunately garner their bad reputation through their dismal and slightly creepy appearance.  They are giant black leathery and skeletal winged horses with glittery, pupil-less, white eyes.  However terrifying they appear though, they are still an excellent source of outfit inspiration.

This outfit would be perfect for going out on a summer evening.  The shimmery sequined tank is reminiscent of the thestrals blank eyes, while the trendy leather shorts bear semblance to their leathery hides.  This cute fitted blazer has an interesting sheer lace back while the strappy wedges, which are similar to the thestrals skeletal builds, also add a dose of summer flair.  This sweet heart pendant necklace has an infinity symbol carved into it; this pays homage to the beasts' connection with death and the eternal love those like Luna, Harry, and Neville have for their deceased loved ones.  Top it all off with this super cute turband from Urban Outfitters!

Pixies

from Harry Potter Wiki

Admittedly, pixies are not the most well known or important creatures in the Harry Potter series.  However, I absolutely adore their scene in Chamber of Secrets.  Lockhart's most pathetic traits are first exemplified in this scene and the havoc the mischievous pixies wreak on the poor second-years is hilarious.  Pixies live to create chaos wherever they go.  They can fly and are extraordinarily strong for their small size.  They have extremely high-pitched, cringe-inducing voices that are decipherable only to other pixies.

This outfit may seem sweet and demure at first glance; however, it is bursting with quirk and mischief.  The gorgeous blue frock appears simple from the front but the unexpected open back brings it on-trend.  The pale pink seed bead statement necklace and chandelier earrings are similar to the accent colors on the pixies' stomach, ears, eyes, and lips.  The strappy silver heels are a tribute to the creatures' magic and this fairy ring is reminiscent of another sassy magical being.

Phoenixes

from Harry Potter Wiki

Fawkes, Albus Dumbledore's pet phoenix, is arguably the most important creature in the entire series.  Not only does he save Harry from the basilisk, he also provides two feathers for wands that turn out to be the twin cores of Harry's and Voldemort's wands.  Phoenixes are majestic red and gold birds that have black eyes, a gold beak and talons, slightly glowing feathers, and a long glowing tail that is hot to the touch.  They can carry heavy loads (such as four people at a time!), have healing tears and magical songs, are immortal, and are able to disappear and then reappear elsewhere, similar to the wizard travel technique of apparition.  Phoenixes also have a special ability to regenerate every so often.  They begin to lose their feathers and wilt before bursting into flames on their burning day.  They are then reborn from the ashes and grow back to full sized birds.

This is outfit is one of my favorites as it is most true to my personal style.  This lovely watercolor maxi dress is a fashionable interpretation of the phoenix's plumage and long tail.  The gold headband and sandals highlight the dress just as the birds' beak and talons compliment its feathers.  This adorable necklace depicts an actual phoenix in flight over a pendant that includes all the colors of the phoenix's signature flame.  A set of firey bangles contrasted with a burnished silver metal cuff (that evokes imagery of the ashes from which the bird is reborn) complete the look!

Hungarian Horntail

from Harry Potter Wiki

The Hungarian Horntail is an extremely brutal breed of dragon.  Even Hagrid (who is an animal lover to a fault) notes the beast's ferocity; it is the most dangerous breed of dragon.  It is a massive dragon with black scales, bronze horns, and a spiky horn covered tail.  They are extremely fast creatures too; the Horntail that Harry contended with in Task One of the Triwizard Tournament could keep up with his top of the line, super speedy Firebolt broomstick.

This outfit is perfect for casual summer outings, or maybe even outdoor music festivals.  Channel the Horntail's scaly exterior with this trendy asymmetrical patterned skirt.  Pair it with a bronze tank to match the black and bronze color motif of the dragon.  Layer this cute studded denim vest that adds a tough edge to the carefree look.  Add to the looks edginess with studs, studs, and more studs--they are safer and trendier than the Horntail's signature spikes.  Pile on the rings and bangles and these adorable neutral colored studded gladiators with a tiny wedge for an extra lift.  Grab your studded wristlet and you'll be fashionably dragon-chic!

Do you love the Harry Potter series?  Which fantastical beast is your favorite?  Would you wear any of these outfits?  Let me know!!

Love, Leaza