Niner's Paradise

QQQQQQQQQQQQ!!!!!

2012-01-30T22:03:00.000-08:00

I have seen very few Q Starfleet uniforms come up for sale ever. Period. He is rare and he is a very unique character, so I am thrilled to be able to add this uniform to the collection. This costume was actually used on Voyager, however, it is the same style he wears in the second half of the Deep Space Nine season one episode "Q-Less."

John DeLancie did a fantastic job with his characterization of the arrogant and obnoxious Q, and, love the character or hate him, he is a recurring piece of Trek history over three series. This is a great alien race to add, and certainly not one that I ever imagined owning. It is hard to believe how many collecting surprises still lurk out there!

Jadzia Dax FC Distressed

2012-01-30T20:52:00.000-08:00

I am in love with a new toy. It just arrived today and I was thrilled to get it onto a mannequin ASAP. I have been coveting a Jadzia Dax hero FC uniform for several years and serendipity dropped this one into my lap. This Deep Space Nine First Contact -style uniform came with costumer's tags indicating it was used in the 5th season and then re-used in the 6th season and finally distressed for the great episode "Rocks and Shoals." The interior sewn-in tags read Terry Ferrell and it is solid hero through and through. The one way that I always distinguish between hero and background duty uniforms is the level of tailoring specific to the actor who wore it and also the little "extra's" that are always inside. For example, with this Jadzia Dax uniform, the undershirt has a sewn-in undergarment below, and a fabric interior cover to reduce zipper irritation to her neck.

One thing I find particulary interesting with this piece is that the costumer used black spandex for the main body of the uniform jumpsuit. This differs from my male counterparts, but makes sense so that it could hug her curves and look flawless. I'd say it worked!!! The fact that this piece has some intentional distressing to the abdomen is great because it allows us to appreciate the costume for the exact scene it shows up in. Any non-distressed uniform, unless a very rare variant, is difficult to pinpoint the used episode or scene.

Mirror Universe Leeta

2011-12-17T13:08:00.000-08:00

Just rescued from the ethers and returned to the fold is Chase Masterson's very lovely Mirror Universe costume. While not garnering tons of screentime, this is still one of the more attractive Mirror pieces I have yet seen. This costume included her earrings and I find it interesting that in the Mirror Universe, a bajoran would be wearing two earrings instead of just one. I guess that two is the "mirror opposite" of one? And yet, I can't find the earrings in any screen-caps so who knows? Anyway, I can't imagine what it would have taken to cram her into this little outfit. That must be why they laced the back and built the top with all kinds of internal ribbing. I can just imagine a costumer with their foot against her backside while pulling on the lacing with all her might like an old fashioned corset. Oh, the sacrifices actors must make for their craft!

Commander Sisko Civilian from "The Jem'Hadar"

2011-10-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

One of my missions with this collection has been to be able to reunite certain costumes that appear together on-screen. There is something inside me that feels energized and enthused when scenes from episodes are "recreated" by uniting costumes that were parted for quite some time and then finally brought back together under my roof. This blog entry is a good example. Back in the It's A Wrap days I was lucky enough to acquire both the Hero Quark camping outfit worn by Armin Shimerman, and the Eris vorta costume worn by Molly Hagan, from the season 2 Deep Space Nine finale "The Jem'Hadar." However, this wasn't enough to satisfy my need to complete the costume scene that I had in mind, so over the course of about a year and a half, I was able to finally separate the Hero Sisko civilian outfit worn by Avery Brooks, from its overseas owner. It is now here for me to enjoy, and so without further ado, I am proud to display the three prisoners of the Jem'hadar!

Fun with Friends!

2011-09-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

This week we have had the great fortune to have our good friends visiting from Colorado and we spent the first night under the real stars with a couple telescopes and a very clear sky. We took in some great celestial sites ranging from double stars, open clusters, globular clusters, and galaxies. It was a night devoid of mosquitoes and clouds. That is rare in the midwest!

After that invigorating experience outside, it was time to indulge our love of the fictional universe. We took down several costumes and put up all of the pieces that I have pertaining to the Season 2 opener: "The Homecoming", "The Circle", and "The Siege." This trilogy has long been one of my favorite arcs of the early seasons so it was great fun to see all eleven costumes together at one time!

Picture from upper left to lower right: Chief O'Brien, Jadzia Dax, Bajoran Security, Bajoran Militia, Minister Jaro Essa, Vedek Winn Adami, Major Kira Nerys (duty uniform), Major Kira Nerys civilian, Vedek Bareil Antos, Li Nalas, and Quark. Screencaps of the various uniforms are below:

Next up, "The Jem'Hadar".

Duck and cover. Here comes THE ELIMINATOR!!

2011-09-24T18:13:00.000-07:00

Did you ever wonder just how intimidating a Ferengi could be? Meet Leck played by Hamilton Camp. He is what the Ferengi refer to as an eliminator, that's right, not a liquidator, but someone who gets rid of individuals. A contract killer, or, in the case of "The Magnificent Ferengi", a rescue-ops contractor. Leck is a truly wonderful character, adding to the depth of the Ferengi race and great for comic relief such as in his shooting of Moogie in the practice rescue scenario on the holosuite! Leck also initially declined the offer of latinum to join, but rather decided it would be of interest to test his skills against the Jem'Hadar.

Leck's costume gives him all the "street-cred" of a successful and important Ferengi. It is beautifully detailed with gold buttons, much elaborate decoration, and some serious hardware at the neckline. The color scheme is very nicely accomplished with burgundies, oranges and golds, lending a very autumnal quality to this piece. Oh yeah, and the head-wrap is just plain awesome! So here he is in all his deadly glory. Enjoy!!

Pel

2011-09-18T17:37:00.000-07:00

Quark's bar is full of colorful characters and aliens and I love collecting anything from his establishment. I have been enjoying this female Ferengi waiter costume worn by April Messershmidt for several years and sadly, I am only now getting around to blogging it.. What is particularly nice regarding this Ferengi is the completeness of the costume. The components include a shirt, jumpsuit, jacket, headwrap, and apron. Unknown to me, but suspected, and only upon doing some research did I discover that Pel, played by Helene Udy wore this costume first, as the female guest starring romantic lead for Quark. Her character Pel appeared in the season two episode "The Rules of Acquisition."

To begin with, the jumpsuit has two tags inside: A newer, more pristine DS9 tag with April Messerschmitt, and an older more yellowed tag with H U on it. The only female Ferengi with initials H.U. is Helen Udy. The shirt also has two tags inside, an older yellowed tag with the ink removed from cleaning and a newer tag with again, April Messerschmitt. With no legible name on the older tag, it comes down to screen matching the pattern. If you watch the episode and pay close attention, it can be determined that at least two different shirts were worn. My shirt obviously matches to the very beginning during the Tongo scene and also several other scenes including the end. There are several screen-caps below for comparison. Finally the coat is also Pel's based on the appearance of the jackets right side lapel applique. In person it is quite obvious that there are bulges on what should be the flat portions in between the black rubber ridges in both the second, third and fourth segments from the bottom. Those bulges correspond on-screen with some very directionally distinct highlights under the bright filming lights. I must say that I am over the moon with this news and so very excited to finally have a costume that IS more than it seemed when first purchased. "The Rules of Acquisition" may not have ended happily for Quark, but this is one chapter in collecting with a very good outcome!

DEEP SPACE NINE

2011-09-18T14:57:00.000-07:00

In my heart there will always be a small hole that was occupied by the now defunct Star Trek The Experience. In August of 2008 I was in Vegas for my first big CON, and it so happened that that was the last month of existence for The Experience. While at the CON, I fell in love with Quark's Bar, the promenade, the great rides and the museum. I saw friends get married on the bridge of the Enterprise-D, other friends renew their vows on the same bridge, and the the best part was that our community of collectors was there in-force and wearing screen-used costumes! It was a magical time, and I would give a lot to be able to go back there and enjoy one last warp core breach with a side of Holy Rings of Betazed.

It was amazing to me that of all the series, they decided to go with DS9 as the main theme of the promenade and given my understandable prejudice in favor of that specific franchise, I was in heaven. Then, about 3 months ago, I had the opportunity to bring home a piece of The Experience. I acquired the actual neon letters that spell out Deep Space Nine that hung over the entrance to the promenade. They have since been mounted onto the wall in the DS9 room in my home and it is with great pleasure that I get to share this with you all.

Perhaps my sorrows are eased a bit, but now I need to get Darren the bartender out here to serve me up some intergalactic beverages!

Jim

Bajoran Security Officer Pinar

2011-09-17T21:29:00.000-07:00

From the Propworx auction earlier this Summer, I was able to add a Bajoran security uniform that was sorely lacking in the DS9 collection. What I really love about this piece is the fact that stylistically it matches Odo's duty uniforms, and it is also a named character security officer. Deputy Pinar, played by Shaun Bieniek appeared in the Deep Space Nine episode Times Orphan.

Gul Dukat as Anjohl Tennan

2011-09-09T20:24:00.000-07:00

For years I have been wanting to get Marc Alaimo represented in the Deep Space Nine collection, so I am very proud to be able to show you now the Bajoran incarnation of this amazing character. Alaimo was one of the greatest character actors ever to grace the Trek universe and as Dukat, he is in my top 5 for all-time best villains. I particularly like that this costume gets plenty of on-screen time with Kai Winn, played by Louise Fletcher. The wonderful storyline twist of the ensuing romance between these two characters adds to my pleasure of reuniting these two costumes once again.

Karen Ferris

2011-06-27T17:31:00.000-07:00

After selling my Red Squad stunt Captain Watters uniform, I did some dealing and ended up with the hero "Valiant" Karen Ferris costume. This is a good step up as any named hero is always worth more than a stunt uniform and will be far more desirable to collectors. Worn by Courtney Peldon as the tough and tenacious first officer, this piece is complete with appropriate Red Squad collar insignia.

Tora Ziyal #3

2011-06-27T12:23:00.000-07:00

What DS9 collection wouldn't be complete with one or two good Ziyal costumes? Mine apparently, as I am now blogging my third Tora Ziyal. She may have been a minor character on Deep Space Nine, but her importance in the story arc of Gul Dukat is very essential.

For some reason, I find that I always enjoy her appearances on the show despite Ziyal being portrayed by three different actresses. I felt like all three brought something slightly different to the role and I didn't favor any one of them. This particular dress is the non-distressed version of the her last wardrobe appearance on the show just prior to her untimely demise. It had multiple uses on the show in such episodes as "Return to Grace" and "Sacrifice of Angels" and was worn both by Melanie Smith and Tracy Middendorf. This trilogy of dresses now in my possession along with my Garak trio really help to strengthen the Cardassian base of the collection.

The Collection gets exposure on SyFy.com!

2011-06-23T11:04:00.001-07:00

Nearly a month ago I was contacted by a producer in New York who had seen this blog and wanted to make a webisode companion piece to be connected to the SyFy channel's Hollywood Treasure show. I agreed and the following week they shot the collection and interviewed me for nearly five hours! I think they did a great job putting the piece together and I am pleased with the outcome. If you'd like to see it, click here. As the weeks go by my webisode may not be what initially pops up, and you might have to scroll down on that page and select webisode #4, the Jim Williams Collection.

I hope you enjoy it! I know that I had fun being selected and participating in it!

Slaint'e,
Jim

Dr. Bashir Mirror Universe Stunt

2011-06-17T07:58:00.000-07:00

Here is one of the rare DS9 mirror universe costumes offered up for auction. This is the stunt version of the Dr. Bashir costume which never surfaced, so this is the only example I am aware of for this costume. It is great because it has the shirt, leather pants, leather belt, and the wonderful tall boots. I think the boots really make the costume stand out well. This piece was worn by Jeff Cadiente, Siddig's stunt man and recurring performer on several of the series. I enjoyed the mirror universe for its creativity, willingness to sacrifice characters, and its continued interaction with the "normal" universe throughout DS9.

Quark

2011-05-03T18:36:00.000-07:00

For me, Quark was the hub of the bicycle wheel of DS9; present on the station from the beginning, and there long after the show had run its course. His complex character generated so many laughs and joys that he is without a doubt my favorite.
I have been lucky enough to acquire two different Quark costumes, but it is his season 1 & 2 outfit with two different jackets that I display and cherish the most.

Tora Ziyal #2

2011-05-03T16:40:00.000-07:00

Poor young Ziyal... I really enjoyed her character and also the fact that her ending was tragic and resulted in Dukat's breakdown. Short of her brief time on the station and friendships with Kira and Garak, this unfortunate girl never had a chance of finding happiness in her life. During her brief existence she graced the screen in several beautiful costumes, and I am ecstatic to be able to share this gem with you here. The dress was heavily featured by Melanie Smith in the DS9 episode "Favor the Bold."

Kira from the Circle Trilogy

2011-03-24T22:38:00.000-07:00

I am so pleased to be able to share this costume with you! It took a bit of time and some re-hashing of IAW lots, but now this Kira costume has been reunited and is complete in its original form. From my favorite early season story arc, this is Kira as she was relieved of duty and spent time with Vedek Bareil exploring being "useless". It was while in this costume that Kira had her first orb experience. This is my personal favorite non-duty outfit of Nana's, and now it will join the other Kira costumes in the collection.

Sisko TOS TNT Uniform

2011-02-02T20:23:00.000-08:00

Here is a Deep Space Nine costume worthy of any great collection. The extreme rarity and importance of this costume make it a cherished favorite of my collection. I was blown away to actually get this into my hands.

Trials & Tribble-ations is THE fan-favorite Deep Space Nine episode of all time. The effects people did a miraculous job interweaving the new footage of the DS9 cast into the TOS scenes with Kirk, Spock, and the gang. I still remember seeing it air originally on TV and thinking, "How in the heck did they do that?" The best part is that it stands up to scrutiny more than ten years later! Now those are great visuals.

Of all the costumes used in this episode Sisko's was top on my list. The classic command gold top with the insignia and sleeve piping are unmistakably memorable. Everyone that sees this outfit instantly thinks Trek and that is not true of the many alien costumes and other Starfleet costumes in my display. The construction is very complicated, not just a pullover and made to match the original used thirty years prior. This is as close as I'll probably ever get to owning a TOS Starfleet uniform so I am extremely grateful for its presence.

Breen Rifle

2011-01-15T19:49:00.000-08:00

To my knowledge, this is the only one of these around. (Please let me know if others are out there!) This rifle was used by Kira in the DS9 Finale while she is dressed as a Breen rescuing Garak and Damar from a pair of Jem'Hadar. This beautiful weapon is one of the few in my collection and holds a place of honor with its own spotlight to make it pop against the Chocolate wall behind it. A modified version of this rifle was used in the fabrication of Ezri Dax's TR-116 rifle from the episode "Field of Fire."

Everyone Needs a Subspace Transmitter

2011-01-12T18:37:00.000-08:00

Well, never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that this prop would come to the collection. This was a crazy long-shot in my estimation when I started bidding at last Summer's Profiles auction and it went cheap IHMO for a prop that is heavily featured in two great DS9 episodes. It is the third person in the room for both "Duet" and "The Ascent." To have Dukat, Sisko and the transmitter each taking their place for intimate scenes in the cave and watching the drama unfold while this transmitter sits in my gameroom blinking at me is almost mind blowing. Then, to turn it around to the back side and see the "System Off-Line" flashing as Sisko and Dukat do the same in the episode gives me chills. In "The Ascent" Quark and Odo must carry a similar metallic megalith to the top of a distant mountain peak in order for its transmissions to exit the atmosphere. The Transmitter again takes a place of honor as the third character in the episode, assuming an almost adversarial or antagonistic role.

I think this prop sums up the feelings that I have for all these costumes and props in the collection. They give me such a deep emotional experience as I watch the episodes with them in my presence that I find a new connection with them and with the show. And, after all, its all about the show.

Look Out Tosk, Here We Come!!

2011-01-04T18:08:00.000-08:00

Freshly in from the Gamma Quadrant is the Tosk Hunter alien. Played by Garrit Graham, this Hunter alien is the only one whose face we get to see as he threatens his way throughout the station in pursuit of poor Tosk. The Hunter costume is wonderfully unique, with a vibrant red bodysuit, awesome thigh-high boots, forearm shielding, a helmet that rocks because the internals work, and lastly a harness that lights up and blinks like a Christmas tree. My geek is SO on with this one! On a dark night, its fun to turn the lights down low, put on some DS9 in the game-room and power up Thot Pran and this Hunter costume. Does it get any better than that?

To all the DS9 Romantics out there...

2011-01-04T16:07:00.000-08:00

This is a post long in the making. I have been looking forward to putting the picture up, but it took me a couple of months to get off my keester and get Odo onto a Manequinn. I know that some folks hate the Odo/Kira romance, but for me, it was one of the most touching aspects of the series, and the start of their relationship in Vic's Lounge paired with the final moment on the changling homeworld are the best. To that end, here are Kira's red dress from the holographic "Lola Chrystal" persona and subsequent Kira dates with Odo, and Odo's Tuxedo. I currently have a bowtie correct for the final scene of their romance on the shirt rather than the western style the shows costumers used for the first few appearances of the tux. I still need to nail down the correct color for the metal around the black of the buttons, silver or gold? Kira's dress is hanging by some built-in dress hangers in the corset portion. I have to say that the dress displays beautifully and I will probably never put it away into the closet. It is truly a wonderful piece for me and I am grateful to Toni for its sale.

Ok, so here for your enjoyment are Odo and Kira!

THE ONE AND ONLY Klingon Accordian

2010-08-13T20:18:00.000-07:00

This is perhaps my favorite win of the June 2010 Profiles in History Auction. It is certainly among the most sentimental. This is the only Klingon musical instrument in existence to my knowledge, and is versatile in that it may also be used as a weapon!! Don't go taunting your local Klingon polka group or you might just get an accordian to the temple.

This prop, while non-functional, is a georgeous piece of prop-making. It is solid, painted with incredible luster and detail, and the bellows really do suck air and blow it out. I am quite fortunate to have gotten this, and will definitely cherish its presence.

Gambling Sphere

2010-08-13T19:48:00.000-07:00

This treasure is one of my favorite light-up props from Deep Space Nine. Coming to us from the second season episode "Rivals", wherein Martus Mazur acquires the sphere in prison and then proceeds to replicate larger versions for his new casino on the
Promenade. This little sphere has a battery powered circuit which controls the pattern of light-up LEDs covering the surface. There is also an input for an external power source to run the internal fluorescent bulb. The prop builders really packed a lot into this cute little package.

Tora Ziyal

2010-08-13T18:59:00.000-07:00

Lovely Ziyal... you went before your time. A tragic life, followed by a tragic death, made Melanie Smith's character very touching and compelling. Imagine being half-Bajoran, half-Cardassian, having Gul Dukat for your father, living on Deep Space Nine amidst Bajorans, and coming to the realization that your only option is to help your friends defeat the Dominion and the Cardassians by becoming part of the resistance.

I have been after one of these costumes for what seemed like an eternity, but with only five in existence, and one of those in Italy, it required my friend Toni to graciously part with one of her treasures. I am excited to have this particular one as I think only her death costume would surpass it.

Jadzia Dax Starfleet Uniform

2010-04-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

At long last I finally have a costume that for some reason eluded me throughout the IAW auctions, but thanks to the good folks at The Propstore of London, this costume came to me last weekend. I always loved Jadzia's character on Deep Space Nine and feel that my other representation of her was not adequate. I much prefer to have her Starfleet duty uniform because this example totally represents her during the early seasons of the show. Both the uniform and the grey undershirt are Terry Ferrell's Hero pieces and look fabulous in-person.

LT. CMDR. WORF Duffle

2010-04-14T21:30:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my friend Darrin for parting with this, my Worf costume now has some ballast to weigh it down. This is one of those rare props that can actually be associated with a specific character and scene. After all, his name is right on the side!! As you may know by now, I am not big into props, but something like this is tough to pass up.

It is made out of solid resin with a fixed strap to enable any able-bodied Starfleet officer to don it.

When this prop was originally sold in the IAW auctions, there was a piece of tape covering the name. Talk about a surprise and a payday for Darrin when he peeled that layer back!!

Leeta's Bajoran Earring

2010-04-05T15:45:00.000-07:00

Here is the Earring of one of Star Trek Deep Space Nine's loveliest Bajorans. Chase Masterson, as Leeta, wore this earring in many of her DS9 appearances, and it is great for the collection since I have also previously posted on Rom's Bajoran Earring. It is always so much fun to complete "on-screen pairings" of costumes. Leeta's Earring is unique in that it has three purple beads which give it a feminine appearance.

Leeta

2010-04-05T09:48:00.000-07:00

Well, it has taken nearly three months, but I have finally been able to take possession of a great Star Trek Deep Space Nine Leeta piece. After perusing the archive for Leeta costumes, this was the one that I wanted most of all for two reasons; first, because of its sheer number of appearances in various episodes, and second, the amount of significant historical moments witnessed by it. For one thing, this piece was Leeta's wedding dress when she married Rom. It was worn by her in such episodes of DS9 as "Call to Arms", "Favor the Bold", "You are Cordially Invited", "Take me out to the Holosuite",and "Profit and Lace."

The outfit is simple yet fun. It consists of a Green velour jumpsuit with the cute colorful dress worn over it. Importantly, this outfit also came with Leeta's Bajoran earring. Anytime that I can get the appropriate earring for any Bajoran costume it is a minor coup. The outfit has Chase Masterson on the corresponding sewn in tags and is in excellent condition. I have met Chase Masterson in past convention attendances and she is a very sweet and kind person. It is nice to know that the kind and caring Leeta is also who she is in reality.

Thanks to Henry in England for parting with this piece and enhancing my collection. Cheers!!

Leeta

2010-01-18T19:47:00.000-08:00

For the moment, this is my only Leeta costume in the collection. It is the photo double costume for Leeta from "Facets" and "Bar Association." Played by Chase Masterson, Leeta was a "fun" addition to the cast of DS9. She contributed to the comedy and unbelievability of Rom's epic rise to success. What are the odds that he'd not only get Leeta, but also become the Nagus? That was a great plot twist. God bless the writers of DS9 for making it such an enjoyable journey.

Li Nalas' Coat

2010-01-18T19:09:00.000-08:00

To quote Commander Sisko, "Li Nalas was THE hero of the Bajoran resistance." He was rescued by Major Kira from a Cardassian penal colony and returned to DS9 where he was appointed Navarch by Minister Jaro's influence. This coat is the only Nalas piece ever offered up for auction, and as such, has a special meaning to me. Played by Richard Beymer, Li gave up his life to save Commander Sisko, becoming a tragic and memorable figure in Bajor's history.

Dr. Bashir Dress Uniform

2010-01-18T18:10:00.000-08:00

Worn to high level functions such as Commander Sisko's promotion ceremony and Worf and Jadzia's wedding, the Dress uniform is one of the rarest Starfleet duty uniforms. This piece is a nice and interesting compliment to the typical duty uniforms from the other series. Dr. Julian Bashir, played by Siddig El Fadil turned Alexander Siddig, wore this uniform in "You are Cordially Invited."

Michael Eddington's Leather Jacket

2009-12-16T09:45:00.000-08:00

This jacket was the only "officially" named Michael Eddington piece that surfaced during the IAW auctions. This fact came as a surprise to me because I thought for certain that we would have seen one or two of his duty uniforms turn up as well. My assumption is that his uniforms went unnoticed by the IAW staff and were probably sold as background costumes. Dang!!

Ken Marshall portrayed the devious and romantic Eddington in several episodes spanning multiple seasons of Star Trek Deep Space Nine. My previous blog entry of Sisko's Undercover Civilian Costume was used on-screen in the opening of "For the Uniform" in the scenes with Eddington in the Maquis base.

A quote by Captain Benjamin Sisko: "I called him a traitor once, but in a way, he was the most loyal man I ever met. He was a Maquis, right up to the bitter end."

Captain Benjamin Sisko Undercover Civilian Costume

2009-12-15T18:20:00.000-08:00

This complete Sisko costume is a fun non-duty outfit that rocks because it has wonderful knee-high boots and a great vest. This is my fourth Sisko costume and I am starting to think that a person can't have too many!! From the intense Deep Space Nine episode "For the Uniform", Captain Sisko wears this costume while in a Maquis stronghold searching for the nefarious Michael Eddington. I particularly enjoy this episode due to Sisko's transformation into a person willing to play the part of the bad guy, poisoning an entire Maquis planet. He is made of some very strong stuff!!

Chief O'Brien and Quark Baseball Practice Uniforms

2009-12-15T17:52:00.000-08:00

These two costumes came from the Christie's auction in New York, and then via a circuitous route to my Deep Space Nine collection. I had already acquired the Vulcan Logician's gigantic dugout banner and had it displayed on the wall, so when these jerseys became available, I couldn't resist adding them also.

The Miles O'Brien costume is his photo double's and came with corresponding hat, pants, and socks. The Quark costume consisted only of Armin Shimerman's jersey. Together they make an attractive display.

The corresponding DS9 episode is "Take Me Out to the Holosuite." This is more of a light-hearted break from the Dominion War than a serious story, but I enjoyed it none the less. Watching Rom attempt to play baseball was excruciatingly fun, and seeing the crew doing something outside of their comfort zone proved quite diverting. While I am NOT a baseball fan, I think I could get into it if teams consisted of my favorite fictional characters?!

Badda-Bing, Badda-Bang

2009-10-13T16:06:00.001-07:00

These next two pieces are a fun indulgence of my passion for Deep Space Nine. "Badda-Bing Badda-Bang" is a delightful season seven retelling of the Ocean's Eleven story with the stage set on the Holosuite at Vic's Lounge. Of course, all the principle cast members take part in the casino hijinks and ultimately the good guys come out on top.

For this entry I thought it would be fun to pair up two of my favorite character's costumes: Captain Sisko's Tuxedo (I am on the hunt for the appropriate bowtie, studs, and cumberbund) and Vic Fontaine's suit (I need to find the tie!!). If anyone can help me locate the corresponding items whether screen-used or not, please let me know. Thanks!

Deep Space Nine Art

2009-10-13T14:30:00.000-07:00

This interesting masonite-backed picture was used on-screen in Chief O'Brien's quarters throughout the run of Deep Space Nine. It is best seen in the first and second season Deep Space Nine episodes "If Wishes Were Horses" and "Cardassians." Pieces like this can be seen all over DS9 in the various crew quarters and they really make an interesting addition to the wall in any display area.

This piece came to me from a very early trade with my "sister" Lyn. She has been collecting art and banners used on DS9 for years. I have thanked her before for this wonderful piece, but I want to publicly say "Thank You" again. Lyn, you are a great friend!

Kasidy Yates

2009-10-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

Penny Johnson first appeared on the Star Trek TNG episode "Homeward" and found a regular recurring role on Deep Space Nine. As Kasidy, Penny portrayed a career gal with a big heart, and a devastating smile. This costume is her dress from a date early in her courtship with Captain Sisko.

Jadzia Dax

2009-10-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

This purple off-duty costume was worn by Terry Farrell for the memorable kiss scene in the Deep Space Nine episode "Rejoined." I think most fans of the show will easily recall this episode and scene as it is one of the few same-sex kisses ever aired on any Trek series. If memory serves, I think that the mirror universe Kira (as the Intendant) and mirror Ezri Dax share a brief intimate moment. This is my only Jadzia costume to date, but I am on the lookout for any of her duty uniforms. If you have one to part with, let me know. For now though, I am contented to have this little gem.

There's a New Blog in Town

2009-09-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce that I just started a second blog called "The Rest of the Trek" to display my collection of costumes and props from the other non-DS9 series and various motion pictures. Niner's Paradise will continue to be updated as I have many more pieces to go yet, but this will give me a chance to organize the rest of the Trek collection. To visit "The Rest of the Trek" just go to http://restoftrek.blogspot.com/search?q=.

Pop on over and I'll see you there.
Jim

DS9 Phaser Rifle

2009-08-29T09:38:00.001-07:00

The Deep Space Nine phaser rifle is unusual in design, and as a collectible, very hard to find. While there were presumably many that were made for the show, they hardly ever turn up in any auctions. With the IAW auctions lasting more than two years, we never saw one of these show up for bidding. "Hero" versions are next to impossible to locate and I was extremely lucky to find this stunt version. Rather than being made out of resin and having all the light up features that you see on rifles used by leading characters, this version was used either for background work, or where some sort of stunt would be performed, a stunt that could damage a resin version. This particular stunt rifle consists of a metal armature (internal structure) with cast rubber over it. The metal provides strength and more rigidity to the piece than if it were entirely rubber. The exterior rubber was then painted with the metallic finish necessary to allow this weapon to appear realistic on screen.

Anyone who reads this blog knows that I am definitely into the costumes from Deep Space Nine, but from time to time it is fun to get a prop that is representative of something you see in many of the different episodes. Props like this add interest to the collection, and give you something to hang on the wall above the costumes in the dead space from six feet to eight or nine feet. When well lit, they add a little drama to the room, and certainly garner attention from guests passing by.

Quark Goes Camping

2009-08-29T08:28:00.000-07:00

This costume was worn by Armin Shimmerman in the Deep Space Nine season two cliffhanger "The Jem'hadar" when the Siskos, Quark, and Nog travel to the Gamma Quadrant together for a school science project. Jake and Nog take on the task of completing a planetary survey of an uncharted body, so the group beams down and settles in for the evening. Things take a turn for the worse when Quark catches his arm on fire when tending to the meal, and then Commander Sisko and Quark are captured by the Dominion forces on the planet.

This Quark costume is personally fun to have because it shares quite a bit of screen time with my Eris costume, the first Vorta encountered on DS9. I love that the Ferengi sense of style still impacts such things as a camping outfit, and it is another example of over-the-top fashion. I must call attention to the fins on the sleeves and pants which are just great. Also, note that the right sleeve is distressed to appear scorched from Quark's encounter with the campfire.

The costume is also worn by Quark again when he accompanies Worf, Jadzia, Leeta, and Julian to Risa in DS9s worst episode "Let He Who is Without Sin." What a pity that episode is so bad. They really messed up making Worf's character turn away from the Federation. Poor writing on that one. Oh, well. Don't get me going on that. After all, this entry is a celebration of my favorite character, Quark!

Rom Bajoran Worker

2009-08-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

When Rom decided to leave his job at Quark's, he donned the Bajoran uniform of the Deep Space Nine station maintenance crew. This liberating move freed Rom up to focus on doing what he does best, being the engineering genius who can hold the Dominion's attack forces of the Gamma Quadrant at bay for months. Who knew his skill set included minefield theory? What an under-appreciated ferengi!

Here is Max Grodenchik's Bajoran uniform. It is seen in many episodes of DS9 and includes the classic matching Ferengi headwrap.

Rom's Bajoran Earring

2009-08-24T20:41:00.000-07:00

Next up for your consideration is an unexpected DS9 windfall. I had no idea this was coming to me, but It's A Wrap in their usual ineptitude put this earring together with the Vedek Bareil robes and sold them as a single lot. One look at any screencap of Bareil would have easily convinced them that this piece didn't go with the costume, but alas QC was not their modus operandi.

When I received the lot, as purchased by a good friend of mine from the original EBay buyer, I was flummoxed by this enormous earring. I have three other Bajoran earrings and this one just dwarfed the others. Then, during a phone call we had, he suggested that perhaps a Ferengi might have worn it due to the completely over-sized nature of all the components. BOO-YA! After a few minutes perusing Trekcore, the truth of its identity was quickly revealed. It was none other than Rom's earring from his engagement with Leeta in the episode "Ferengi Lovesongs!!" This was a sweet moment of getting more than I bargained for, and for a collector of Deep Space Nine, this was an important item to get into the display case. This piece coincidentally goes extremely well with my next post, Rom's Bajoran uniform.

Kai Winn's Nightgown

2009-08-10T19:25:00.000-07:00

I'm not usually a big fan of costumes that don't represent the character ie. civilian costumes of Starfleet officers, but in this case, I had to make an exception. Why? Call me greedy, or obsessed, or just plain nuts, but when I saw this inexpensive gem come up in week 34 of the IAW auctions, I had to make it mine. When you have Winn's Vedek robes, and Winn's Kai robes how can you not get the last possible costume to carry her name on the tag? I HAD TO own every piece representing this character. It became my mission. Louise is so wonderfully rotten in the role of Winn that I remember getting physically sick when she'd appear on screen the first time I watched the DS9. Now that is amazing acting!!!

So what are we looking at with this offering? Nothing but the sexiest costume that the least sexiest character EVER on Star Trek wore. It is a grotesque romance she shares in this nightgown and I shudder to think what any offspring conceived through this union might have been like. Yikes! So let your imagination run wild and savor it in all its splendor. Aah, Deep Space Nine, what treasures you give us...

Now, if these pictures aren't enough to make you gag, please enjoy this walk down memory lane at YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cDNIuWdSQg Unfortunately, the audio has been disabled. GRRRR! So you'll just have to sing "Strangers in the Night" to yourself as you watch this homage.

Kai Winn's Knife

2009-08-10T17:58:00.000-07:00

This Deep Space Nine prop is the nidus of an unexpected turn of events. Winn, influenced by Dukat, actually stabs her faithful ranjen Solbor in the back with this knife, killing him. Dukat states his intentions of disposing of the body, while Winn holds the knife, then blood covered, over the Book of the Kosst Amogen. As a single drop of Solbor's blood drips onto the pages of the ancient text, the words flame into ledgibility, thus allowing Winn and Dukat to release the Pah Wraiths from the fire caves. You've got to love DS9's creative writing!!

Pah Wraith Figure

2009-08-10T17:02:00.000-07:00

When Dukat returns to Cardassia after his mental "instability", he searches through the archives and locates this statue which is an ancient carved figure of a Pah Wraith. The Pah Wraiths were the evil counterparts of the Celestial Temple's current inhabitants, the Prophets. In a great and ancient battle, the Pah Wraiths were cast out of the Temple and imprisoned in the Bajoran fire caves. Apparently though, not all the Pah Wraiths ended up in the caves because this figure contained one on the inside. As Dukat broke it open and released the Pah Wraith, it took up residence inside of Dukat with the purpose of getting to Deep Space Nine, and from there, attacking the Prophets. This figure is the unbroken version handled by Dukat in the beginning of the scene.

I really enjoy props of this size because they are more easily displayed and enjoyed than computer consoles or large set pieces. I also like the fact that this prop is easily matched to a specific DS9 scene and is easily recognized as a humanoid figure by my guests who may not be Star Trek fans. So much of this collection is literally "alien" to visitors that anything that they can easily appreciate is a welcome addition to the display.

Cult of the Pah Wraith

2009-08-10T15:11:00.000-07:00

Here is a DS9 costume add-on that designated a Bajoran as no longer following the Prophets, but rather their celestial antithesis, the Pah Wraiths. The episode "Covenant" featured Gul Dukat as leader of the cult of the Pah Wraiths on Empok Nor. Members of the cult had strict guidelines on their activities including procreation, for which Dukat had to give "consent." Followers of this faith outwardly displayed their participation by wearing the red armband and earring shown below. The armband was worn on the right upper arm, and the earring was worn on the left ear, opposite the traditional Bajoran earring position. Interestingly, the earring is a modified Major Kira earring. Sadly for its members, the ill-fated cult did not last long enough, to see its "gods" restored to the celestial temple. Rather they found that their leader was disingenuine and a hippocrt. Big surprise...

The Gamma Quadrant

2009-08-07T11:21:00.000-07:00

I am posting this blog entry for the benefit of the folks at http://gammaquadrant.libsyn.com/ better known as" The Gamma Quadrant." They run a fun Deep Space Nine podcast every Sunday, taking the podcasts one episode at a time, in order, from the beginning and spending half an hour discussing the merits and pitfalls of the writing, actors, directing, and anything else that grabs them. I highly recommend tuning in and enjoying these DS9 episodes in a new way.

In the podcast for "Q-Less", I think it was Ryan who mentioned that the man in the Assayer's office looked like the Zakdorn from TNG. The funny thing is that I had the same thought the last time I watched "Q-Less." He was, of course, referring to Kolrami, the Strategema master, from TNG's second season episode "Peak Performance." Played by Roy Brocksmith, he actually did make an appearance also on DS9 in the episode "Indiscretion," as Razka Karn, a scrap and
salvage dealer.

So here he is, in all his golden glory from TNG:

Here he is in DS9, and the second picture is the Assayist. Very similar facial profiles, I'd say.

Nog

2009-08-07T08:44:00.000-07:00

Nog is the son of Rom, Quark's brother. His journey on DS9 takes him from a bit of a juvenile delinquent, to a valued Starfleet officer by the end of the series. This costume is Nog's young Ferengi outfit from episodes such as "Life-Support." The bright colors and gold metallic threads really give this an 0ver-the-top feel like so many of the other great Deep Space Nine Ferengi costumes.

Slain Founder

2009-08-05T19:27:00.000-07:00

The female Founder was fond of reminding Odo that"he was the only changeling to harm another", and for that crime, Odo's power was stripped away, forcing him to become a solid. From Deep Space Nine's third season episode "The Adversary", this piece is that of Odo's fatally wounded Founder nemesis masquerading as Ambassador Krajensky. The costume consists of a standard Founder outfit (bodysuit, shoes, and gown) with the addition of vast amounts of sculpted and textured latex applied over the upper two thirds. On screen, only the upper half was visible as the lower half was covered in CGI changeling goo. As an Odo fan, I find this piece to be a significant part of his history.

Romulan Tal Shiar

2009-08-05T18:31:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the good folks at Memory Alpha for all their hard work compiling the names of background actors that allowed this costume to be identified to a Romulan in the Deep Space Nine episode "Visionary." As can be seen here, the costume is the one on the far right, a background security guard for the Romulan Intelligence officers debriefing the Defiant crew for their Gamma Quadrant information. These particular Romulan costumes are very iconic to me and any serious TNG or DS9 collection should have at least one such example.

Admiral Ross

2009-08-05T17:10:00.000-07:00

One of my perennial favorite Deep Space Nine characters is Admiral William J. Ross, played by Barry Jenner. In his role as Ross, the writers and producers loved his performance so much that they brought him back many times in the later seasons of the show. He had a quiet, strong, reflective demeanor and IMHO was the finest Admiral ever on any of the Star Trek series. This costume is a combination of parts from Admiral Ross and Admiral Paris (Voyager), but the most fun was seeing both actors at the Vegas CON in 2008 and getting pics of them with the outfit!

Red Squad Cadet

2009-08-05T15:59:00.001-07:00

Red Squad was the elite group of cadets taken on a mission to travel the perimeter of the federation aboard the USS Valiant in DS9's episode "Valiant." This cadet costume is identifiable by the pin on the neck of the undershirt. These costumes are generally popular and the pin is a very difficult item to locate in its original red paint scheme. Most were painted green for reuse on Enterprise. This particular costume was worn by the stunt double for Captain Waters in the scene were he is killed.

Vash

2009-08-05T14:40:00.000-07:00

Most Trek fans remember Vash, played by Jennifer Hetrick, from TNG's "Captain's Holiday" and "QPid." She and Q reprised their respective roles on DS9 in the first season episode "Q-Less" bringing those characters to the station for one last adventure. This costume is from the memorable fight scene between Sisko and Q when Vash is sitting in the bar talking to Quark.

The Intendant

2009-06-26T19:43:00.000-07:00

Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who is the fairest one of all? I've got to go with Kira in her Mirror Universe role of "The Intendant." This is one catsuit that is meant to show Nana's form to the extreme!

This is the stunt version of this costume as the original is unavailable. It was sadly cut into costume cards by Rittenhouse. The cast headband is Nana's and matches on-screen. I was so lucky to get this piece into the DS9 corral, as hot ladies like this are rare and in high demand.

Kira Season 2

2009-06-26T19:18:00.001-07:00

Well here is a new costume that I am quickly falling in love with. This Kira costume, for me, is the quintessential one. Used in the "Circle" trilogy, episodes that I find particularly compelling and from which I have collected several other costumes, it also makes appearances throughout season two and season three. I find the quilted shoulders and sleeves contrast beautifully with the body of the uniform. Add to that the highly tailored form of the costume for Nana Visitor's slender figure, and you've got one downright georgeous outfit!

Bajoran Officer

2009-05-19T18:22:00.000-07:00

Here is a quickly recognizable background costume from DS9. Obviously it is one of the myriad Bajoran officer costumes used throughout the seasons of DS9, however, apparently they changed the style in either season three or four from the courdoroy seen below to a smoother textured synthetic. I particularly like the early season style best as it seems a bit richer and more complex.

Verad Dax and Mareel

2009-05-19T14:06:00.000-07:00

Here is a pair of hero costumes from the second season episode "Invasive Procedures" worn by John Glover and Megan Gallagher respectively. Verad as shown in the picture with me wearing it, is without the dickie used in the first half of the episode. The removal of the dickie in the last half was to show a transformation of his character from a closed-in, self conscious individual, into a fully realized being brimming with confidence. Mareel's costume was reused on ENT for a klingon and was thusly distressed a bit to remove some of the bluish tint.

We were fortunate to get to wear these costumes to the Minneapolis CON two years ago, and Chris (the Creation Entertainment photographer) captured that great weekend and these costumes in JPEG format for us (for free!!). Thanks so much Chris!

The Third Garak's a Charm

2009-05-06T19:09:00.001-07:00

I am very proud to be able to now say that I have three Garak costumes in the collection. I just added his costume from "What You Leave Behind" and am thrilled by its display appeal and the quality of this piece. This is the stunt version of the costume and is most likely from the scene where Garak is blown back by an explosion. This costume style has the added bonus of being featured on the cover of Andrew Robinson's DS9 novel "A Stitch in Time."

Vedek Bareil

2009-05-06T18:13:00.000-07:00

After nearly two years of regretting not going after this one in the IAW auctions, it finally came home to me. It took a circuitous route and I must thank another friend, Mark, for acquiring it with me in mind from the original winner.

Vedek Antos Bareil was seen wearing this costume in several great early season episodes and it was also re-used in "The Darkness and the Light" by Vedek Latha Mabrim. Bareil was Major Kira's first romantic interest during the run of the show, and I particularly enjoy that he was an adversary for Vedek Winn.

Commander Sisko

2009-05-06T17:43:00.000-07:00

I'd like to thank my Canadian friend, Grant, for selling me this gem. My DS9 collection had a huge hole at the top of the chain of command, and given Grant's kindness and willingness to part with the piece, my Niner's group is much more complete. Thank's again bud!!

This Sisko command two-piece was used in the DS9 pilot episode "Emmisary" during the scene when he is with Jake on the holosuite at the fishing hole, and then walking about the Enterprise-D and DS9. For me, this is an iconic Trek costume because it not only represents Sisko, but also is an example of the highest ranks on TNG. For me its a two-for-one, and a piece that is most welcome.

Minister Koval

2009-02-03T20:41:00.000-08:00

Played by veteran Star Trek actor John Fleck in the Deep Space Nine episode “Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges”, Koval was the Chairman of the Romulan Tal Shiar during the Dominion War. He was a long-standing opponent of the Federation-Romulan Alliance, advocating that the Romulan Star Empire should seek a separate peace with the Dominion.

It was later revealed that Koval was a Federation operative and had been working with Starfleet Intelligence for more than a year. The “assassination plot” to kill him was a collaborative effort between Starfleet, Section 31 and Koval himself to ensure Kimara Cretak’s dismissal from the Senate, thus giving him Cretak's seat on the Continuing Committee. Koval’s placement gave the Federation an ally inside the highest reaches of the Romulan government.

Ezri Dax

2009-01-28T17:14:00.002-08:00

This Ezri Dax costume is from the seventh season DS9 episode "Shadows and Symbols," and was worn by Nicole DeBoer on her first day of shooting on the show. Nicole got to see this costume on my wife during a photo-op in Vegas in 2008. Her eyes lit up and she immediately started to tell us a story about wearing that costume in the desert heat.

Vedek Porta

2009-01-27T20:03:00.001-08:00

From DS9, this Vedek costume represents a prominent background, and occasional guest actor ensemble in several episodes.

The Vedek costumes are wonderful for their elaborate design, and intricate accessories. This variety is no slouch. It sports a silver metal pin at the neck, green metallic trim flowing over the shoulders down the back to a terrific bajoran emblem similar to the one seen on the Kai's belt.

This costume came from Christie's "Vedek Lot".

Chief O'Brien

2009-01-22T22:02:00.000-08:00

Ok, this is one of my all-time favorite costumes. Not only is it a very special character, but it is one of his signature "gettin' down to work" outfits. Whenever I think of O'Brien, my first mental image is THIS costume.

I still can't believe I own this one, and am very grateful to the help of a dear friend for her assistance getting this piece.

Senator Cretak

2009-01-22T21:41:00.001-08:00

Senator Kimara Cretak came to DS9 full of diplomatic promise, but as Major Kira would soon find out, her motives were less than sincere. In the guise of establishing a hospital facilty on one of Bajor's moons, she was underhandedly creating a military fortification, and ignoring Bajoran policy, serving only the interests of the Romulan Star Empire.

This costume comes into the collection via the IAW auctions and is a fine example of a female Romulan dignitary uniform.

Luaran

2009-01-22T21:21:00.001-08:00

Luaran, played by Kitty Swink (Armin Shimmerman's wife) was shot by Garak and killed aboard a Jem'Hadar attack fighter.

This costume is interesting in that it is the most beautiful of the Vorta costumes and also comes with a removable Jem' Hadar disruptor rifle blast wound. This is particularly nice in that it provides variety for displaying the costume.

Vorta costumes are rare and hard to find so I count myself very fortunate to have it in my collection.

Martus Mazur

2008-12-17T21:01:00.000-08:00

Martus was Chris Sarandon's (ex-husband of Susan Sarandon, and probably better known as Prince humperdink from "The Princess Bride.") wonderful character from the DS9 episode "Rivals." It is a colorful episode with great humor and loads of Quark so one can't help but enjoy it!! This costume is very attractive with much glitter and as a dear friend so kindly put it, a "sparkling dickie." It has a distinct vegas-style to it and I feel that the costume designer did a great job with this one.

Kes

2008-12-17T20:39:00.000-08:00

I know that this isn't a DS9 costume, but seeing that Brett, the Kes fanatic, is now following my blog, I couldn't help but post a few pics of my Kes. I just had to Brett, sorry to rub your nose in it!! LOL.

Jennifer Lien is such a sweetheart! My wife wore this costume to the Vegas 08 CON for a photo-op with her and she was hilarious. Her first comment was: "I can't believe I used to fit into that!" She is a delightful, down-to-earth lady who has moved on with her life and created a wonderful family, not living in the past.

This costume has great color and is a beautiful representation of the character. It is a treasured piece and I am fortunate to have it. Sorry Brett...Not!!! :)

(A follow-up note: Apparently Brett treasured it more than I as he is now the owner. Congrats Brett!! I know it is in the right home.)

Luther Sloan (Wendell Greer, Cartographer)

2008-12-03T21:47:00.000-08:00

This costume was created for the great DS9 episode "Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges." It was worn by William Sadler in the role of Luther Sloan, head of the enigmatic Section 31. In the episode he was incognito as Wendell Greer while attending a conference between the Federation and Romulus. He was discovered and then "vaporized", or so we were to believe. Sloan's character was a wonderful enrichment for theTrek tapestry, and having one of his costumes (including boots) is a meaningful addition to my collection.

This costume had subsequent use on Voyager and had a second dickie made out of the pinstripe suit material used for that appearance. Obviously with my DS9 preference, the costume can only be displayed as seen pictured with Sloan's dickie.

Section 31

2008-12-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

Here is a rare costume. Only one has ever come up for auction, and this outfit posesses a unique and special history. Originally used on Deep Space Nine, the top and bottom of this costume were split between each of Sloan's henchmen.

Then, when Enterprise decided to bring Section 31 about in the persona of Agent Harris, the actor Eric Pierpoint wasn't given a custom outfit. Instead, he was told to report to the costuming department and they put together this outfit for him based on whichever henchman's top or bottom was an approximate fit. (He was a bit irritated not to get his own cotume as his character had several recurrences. Too bad.)

This is one of my favorite costumes simply because it is just so comfortable to wear. The lining is cool against the skin, and the leather is so soft that it feels amazing. Keep an eye out for the Sloan version. If that one comes up for auction, I would say $1500 would be a conservative estimate.

Lursa/Ch'Rega

2008-12-03T20:15:00.000-08:00

This Klingon female costume was used on two different series, and was modified significantly for its second use.

Its first appearance was in the Deep Space Nine episode “Past Prologue” where it was worn by Barbara March in the role of the elder Duras sister, Lursa.

The notorious Duras sisters were responsible for starting the Klingon civil war, and in this episode the pair were caught selling explosives to a Bajoran Kohn-Ma terrorist.

The costume’s second appearance, in Voyager’s “Prophecy”, saw it’s green sleeves replaced by the common black fur variety, and a new cast breastplate attached. It was worn by Peggy Jo Jacobs in the role of Ch’Rega, best remembered for her torrid love affair with Voyager’s morale officer, Neelix.

The costume was won at the historic Christie’s Star Trek auction in New York, and continues to be a gem in my collection. The Bat'Leth, composed of rubber over a metal armature, was won through the Its A Wrap auctions.

Lady Sirella

2008-12-02T21:17:00.000-08:00

Lady Sirella, daughter of Linkasa, was General Martok’s wife and Mistress of the House of Martok. Sirella, played by Shannon Cochran, was of noble descent, tracing her maternal lineage back to Shenara, daughter of Emperor Reclaw of the Second Dynasty.

A proud and headstrong woman, Sirella was originally opposed to the marriage between Worf and Jadzia Dax, believing that by allowing an alien to join her house, their identity as Klingons might be threatened. Since, as Mistress, it was her duty to approve all marriages into the family, she came to Deep Space 9 to evaluate Dax’s worthiness. After much conflict, she eventually acquiesced and performed the wedding ceremony with great pride.

This costume was featured in the Deep Space Nine season six episode “You Are Cordially Invited." I believe this piece represents one of the finest achievements in Klingon civilian costume design.

Minister Jaro

2008-11-29T20:36:00.000-08:00

Played by veteran actor Frank Langella, Minister Jaro Essa was a member of the Bajoran Provisional government. His conspiring mind led him to create a terrorist group known as "The Circle." Minister Jaro appeared in the first three episodes of season two including "The Homecoming," "The Circle," and "The Siege." In his attempt to become Bajor's sole political leader, he entered into a pact with Vedek Winn such that the two would use their positions to assist each other gain full control. They would then return Bajor to the "Orthodox values" it once held so dear. This costume was subsequently slightly altered with the addition of an insert at the neckline for use by the supposed Federation ambassador in the season three episode "The Adversary."

Vedek Winn

2008-11-29T20:19:00.000-08:00

A constant source of animosity, pretentiousness, and malevolence, Vedek Winn came to DS9 from Bajor with a strong sense of purpose and an agenda of fear mongering. Her path continued with intrigues and manipulation until the very end. Louise Fletcher gave tremendous venom to this character and added rich interest to the tapestry of Deep Space Nine.

This elaborate costume came from the Christie's 40th Anniversary auction in New York.

Kai Winn

2008-11-29T19:48:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wanted to see a heart of pure self-interest and evil? Plan your next vacation to Bajor and behold their newest "spiritual leader". Vedek Adami Winn (played by Academy Award winner Louise Fletcher) manipulated her way past Vedek Bariel at the last moment to grasp the golden robes to become the newest Kai . She continually opposed the Emmisary, Captain Sisko, until the situation might dictate that his support or agreement would increase her sphere of power. Such a "lovely" specimen of a lady surely deserves a few fine photos.

Major Kira (Maternity)

2008-11-29T17:33:00.000-08:00

When Nana Visitor and Alexander Siddig's off screen romance resulted in a pregnancy, the most natural thing for the writers of DS9 to do was to have Keiko's baby transplanted into Major Kira's womb. Of course!! What else would do? You can't have two pregnacies on the same show, right? This necessitated the need for a new "maternity" style costume for major Kira, and thankfully gave me an inexpensive way to get a representation of Kira's without spending 2500 dollars for a standard duty uniform.

Pictured is the "stunt"maternity costume. It came complete with all Bajoran insignia, boots, and two jumpsuits, one of which was Nana's.

Thot Pran

2008-11-29T14:51:00.000-08:00

The Breen Confederacy sided with the Dominion in the final season of DS9, replacing the Cardassians as their principle Alpha Quadrant military ally. While the Cardassians still served the Dominion militarily, the role of strategic advisor for Dominion Forces fell to the Breen leader Thot Gor, and subsequently, Thot Pran.

Thot Pran's costume is a towering presence at roughly 6'6". It came from the Christie's auction, and is the only Command-level Breen costume known to exist (Thot Gor's costume seems to have been put to pieces). This costume was worn by Max Omega and featured in "The Dogs of War," and "What You Leave Behind."

Damar's Death Costume

2008-11-29T14:10:00.001-08:00

One of the most enjoyable character evolutions takes place with Damar. He begins his DS9 appearances as Gul Dukat's 1st officer, rises to the rank of Legate and Head of Cardassia, and ends his life sacrificing himself for the resistance to free his beloved homeland from the Dominion.

This costume worn by Casey Biggs in "What You Leave Behind," has the original disruptor blasts and is an amazing piece to behold.

Worf

2008-11-29T12:07:00.000-08:00

Any fan of the Star Trek franchise will certainly remember Worf, son of Mohg. Seven seasons of TNG and four seasons of DS9 make his character ring in our brains like the clashing of Bat'Leths. This Worf costume from the episode "By Inferno's Light," was worn by Michael Dorn in the scenes where General Martok assists him to remove his jacket just prior to the first fight with the Jem'Hadar, and immediately after as they returned to the holding cell.

The Dominion

2008-11-29T08:39:00.000-08:00

No DS9 Collection could be complete without an homage paid to the villains. The Dominion, the enemies from the Gamma Quadrant, had a hierarchy that has been great fun to collect.

The Founders were the leaders:

The Vorta were the Founder's field commanders. This particular Vorta is Eris, the first to be encountered by Starfleet in the season 2 final episode "The Jem'Hadar":

The Jem'Hadar are the loyal footsoldiers of the Dominion, fighting as needed and giving their lives willingly. After all, "Victory is Life".

Garak

2008-11-28T22:50:00.000-08:00

Just plain, simple Garak. Perhaps one of the finest characters ever conceived in all of Trekdom, Garak is like a fine wine, rare and significant, and an important part of DS9. The episodes in which he appears are some of the finest ever screened. He is brilliantly portrayed by Andrew Robinson, and I only wish that there were more episodes featuring this intriguing soul.

Arguably the finest DS9 episode, "In the Pale Moonlight," features a handful of Garak's costumes. I am fortunate to posess my personal favorite, his maroon ensemble. This costume was first introduced in the season 4 opener "The Way of the Warrior."

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His most-often worn costume is also in the collection and carries with it tremendous history and importance. Used in such great episodes as "In Purgatory's Shadow," "By Inferno's Light," "Empok Nor," "When it Rains...," "Tacking into the Wind," "Extreme Measures," "The Dogs of War," "Afterimage," and "In the Pale Moonlight", this piece came my way thanks to an equitable trade with a dear friend. Thanks again, D.

Quark and Odo

2008-11-28T22:00:00.000-08:00

Another favorite on-screen pairing of mine was Armin Shimerman as Quark and Rene Auberjonois as Odo. The writers had a field-day playing these two against one another, and the actors did it so well, that you got the sense that in real life, the two must get along marvelously (which is certainly the case based on their time on-stage at the Vegas CON of 2008).

For me, Quark was the hub of the bicycle wheel of DS9, there on the station from the beginning, and there long after the show had run its course. His complex character generated so many laughs and joys that he is without a doubt my favorite.
I have been lucky enough to acquire two different Quark costumes, but it is his season 1 & 2 outfit with two different jackets that I display and cherish the most.

Odo costumes are extremely rare for some reason, and I count myself lucky to have one example. While it is not one of his duty uniforms, this particular costume represents Odo once he has been infected by Starfleet (Section 31) and has manifested the symptoms of the disease.

O'Brien and Bashir

2008-11-26T18:30:00.000-08:00

This, the inaugural blog, begins my presentation of hero costumes and characters of interest from DS9. I will then move into the different series and movies.

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I am going to kick things off with a tribute to two of my favorite main cast actors; Colm Meaney and Alexander Siddig. These costumes represent a dynamic and evolving relationshipbetween two main characters, and since DS9 is all about character growth and change, I think they are a great pair to have in the collection.

Here is Chief O'Brien as he appeared in many of the seventh season episodes along with Dr. Bashir in his corresponding distressed uniform from "Extreme Measures":