Since its inception, Dragon Ball has captivated audiences with its exhilarating battles, memorable characters, and remarkable transformations. However, amid the action-packed scenes and supercharged showdowns lies a frequently overlooked aspect of the franchise’s aesthetic appeal: the characters’ outfits.
These costumes do more than just enhance visual flair; they often serve practical functions. From weighted training gear to protective battle armor, each outfit tells a story, symbolizing the wearer’s relationships, affiliations, or transformations throughout the saga.
In this article, we present a list of the seven best outfits in Dragon Ball, highlighting their significance and impact within the franchise.
7 Vegeta
Pride Before the Fall (of Fashion Sense)
Among the array of intimidating garments in Dragon Ball, few can rival the unexpected iconicity of Vegeta‘s pink “BADMAN” shirt. This memorable outfit debuted during his time at Capsule Corp following the Namek Saga, illustrating his awkward transition into life on Earth.
The essence of this outfit lies not purely in its vivid color scheme but in its stark contrast to Vegeta’s warrior identity. Dressed in a neon pink, short-sleeved shirt, complemented by yellow slacks and loafers, this look represents a humorous and surprising departure from the traditional Saiyan warrior attire—thanks to Bulma’s influence, of course.
6 Future Trunks
A Time Traveler’s First Impression
When Future Trunks made his debut in Dragon Ball Z, his distinctive outfit immediately set him apart. Sporting a blue Capsule Corp jacket layered over a black tank top, gray pants, and gold boots, he embodied a post-apocalyptic aesthetic that resonated with his tumultuous background.
His signature sword, strapped across his back, added a layer of depth to his character, signaling both a warrior’s might and a narrative steeped in history long before he uttered his first line.
5 Android 18
The Coolest Killer in Denim
The introduction of Android 18 brought a refreshing fashion sense to the Dragon Ball universe. Her signature ensemble—a blue denim jacket layered over a black and white striped shirt—coupled with a pearl necklace and jeans—evoked an image straight from ’90s fashion.
This outfit perfectly encapsulated 18’s attitude, reflecting her blend of confidence and nonchalance. Unlike traditional martial arts outfits, her attire emphasized that she wasn’t attempting to intimidate her foes; her presence alone was formidable. Even as her character evolved and she adapted new styles post-marriage to Krillin, the elements of her original outfit, particularly the blue jacket, remained a memorable emblem of her identity.
4 Goku Black
Style as Ruthless as His Intentions
The outfit worn by Goku Black is a master class in visual design. At first glance, it resembles a darker version of Goku’s traditional attire, featuring a black gi, long-sleeved undershirt, crimson belt, and gray pants, topped with a distinctive Potara earring. However, this look carries a deeper, more sinister implication.
The striking red belt not only serves as a fashion statement but also symbolizes the bloodshed he seeks to impose. His outfit creates a sense of familiarity twisted with malevolence, reinforcing the narrative that Goku Black is not simply an evil counterpart, but a corrupt entity embodying chaos.
3 Goku
Spirit of Peace in Alien Threads
Following his defeat of Frieza on Namek, Goku returned to Earth not just with a powerful new technique—Instant Transmission—but also in a distinctive new outfit reflecting his journey. This baggy lavender ensemble, featuring a brown vest and departing from his traditional gi, symbolized significant growth and transformation.
The Yardrat clothing represented not merely a change in appearance but a new chapter in Goku’s legacy, showcasing his resilience and evolution after achieving the status of the first Super Saiyan in a millennium.
2 Gohan
A Tribute Sewn in Bond
During the epic battle against Cell, Gohan chose to don not his father’s iconic orange gi, but rather Piccolo’s colors—a purple gi accompanied by a blue waistband and white cape. This choice was not merely aesthetic; it marked an emotional milestone.
Piccolo had played a maternal role in Gohan’s life, training him after Goku’s demise in the Saiyan Saga. When Gohan requested to wear Piccolo’s colors, it was a heartfelt tribute, symbolizing respect and the solid bond between mentor and mentee. This outfit was pivotal, marking Gohan’s emergence as a fierce warrior and his ascent beyond his father’s legacy as he unleashed his incredible power and achieved Super Saiyan 2.
1 Goku SSJ4
The Wild Power of a Saiyan Unleashed
Regardless of opinions about Dragon Ball GT, one undeniable highlight remains: Super Saiyan 4 Goku‘s design stands unique among the transformations in the franchise. Its boldness is unmatched, characterized by a striking combination of red fur, black pants, golden cuffs, a prehensile tail, and intense yellow eyes framed by shadowed eyelids.
This design evokes an ancient, primal essence, capturing the essence of Saiyan mythology. It’s a transformation that fully liberates Goku from traditional attire, embracing a primal identity reminiscent of warrior kings.
Though the design underwent some modernization in Dragon Ball Daima, many fans consistently argue that the original SSJ4 encapsulated raw, primal energy that felt both ancient and powerful, solidifying its place as an iconic look within the realm of Dragon Ball.
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