Since first appearing on Japanese TV in 1995,Neon Genesis Evangelionhas never gone out of style. For over three decades, this series—created by Hideaki Anno and produced by Studio Gainax—has given audiences numerous iconic characters, scenes, and even uniforms. For instance,the multicolored plug suits worn by Eva Unit pilots Shinji, Rei, and Asuka have become as recognizable to anime fans as the mecha featured in the series itself.
As part of the ongoing 30th-anniversary celebration ofNeon Genesis Evangelion, several unique clothing collaborations with Japanese brands are set to go on sale soon. Starting on March 14, the Tokyo-based youth apparel brandCALNAMUR will release a collection ofEvangelion-inspired items, including a line of sweatsuits modeled after the series' iconic plug suits.
Eva Plug Suit Sweatsuits: A Stylish Tribute
The Legacy of an Iconic Design
CALNAMUR’s “Plug Suit Sweatsuits"are designed for an oversized, comfortable fit and are available in multiple sizes for men and women. The collection features colors and detailing (including knitted Unit numbers) inspired by characters from the anime:
Additionally, a specialPurpleversion, inspired by Eva Unit-01, will be sold exclusively on theZOZOTOWN webstore. Each sweatsuit is priced at 26,400 yen (approximately $178.32 USD).
The plug suit inNeon Genesis Evangelionis a specialized attire worn by Eva pilots to synchronize with their Units. Designed for functionality, it features a sleek, form-fitting design that enhances the pilot’s connection with their Eva. The suit incorporates protective elements made from rigid materials, ensuring both safety and flexibility. Each suit is custom-made to fit the pilot’s measurements with specific color schemes that correspond to each character, reflecting their unique identities—Asuka’s suit is predominantly red, matching her fiery personality, while Rei’s suit is primarily white, symbolizing her enigmatic nature. The plug suit has become iconic in anime culture, inspiring various merchandise and cosplay adaptations.
Evangelion’s Popularity Continues to Soar
Bringing Anime Style to Everyday Fashion
Since the release ofEvangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Timein 2021, nonewEvangelionanime series has been produced. However,the franchise’s popularity remains strong, especially as it approaches its 30th anniversary in 2025. To commemorate this milestone, various newEvangelionmerchandise has been introduced, including games and figures.
“It’s strange”: Evangelion Creator’s Response To The Series' Popularity Perfectly Symbolizes What Makes It So Fascinating
Neon Genesis Evangelion’s creator was surprised by its success early on, particularly due to one issue which may have been key to its popularity.
Evangelion’s30th-anniversary lineup is also bringing its signature style into everyday fashion. Alongside CALNAMUR’s plug suit sweatsuits, brands like COSPA and GU are droppingEvangelion-inspired jackets, hoodies, and graphic tees. What started as a futuristic anime design has now made its way into real-world streetwear and activewear, proving thatEvangelion—and the plug suit’s—influence goes way beyond just anime.
