Well the time has finally come for us to square everything against each other, and choose the best-looking armor sets in Dark Souls II – well, likely until next week, when my tastes will have fluctuated entirely. But there’s nothing to be done about that. So join me as we proudly take a walk down the runway, showcasing only the finest attires that the land of Drangleic has to offer. Small note before we get going: don’t forget that beauty is the eye of the beholder, so the following ranking is entirely subjective based on my opinions.
10. Archdrake Set
Starting things off at number ten, we’ve got the clothes of the ancient Archdrake sect of Lindelt. These sweet looking robes are the coziest set in the entire game. They remind me of the oversized hoodies people often wear during winter to keep warm while in the comfort of their homes. I mean look at all that fluff. You could probably hide another player under all that cloth and nobody would notice! It’s also one of the best suited attires for a cleric build that’s all about miracles and smashing faced with a mace. How to get: The Robes are part of the Cleric’s starting gear. The rest of the set is dropped by Lindelt Clerics in the Shrine of Amana.
9. Creighton’s Set
Here we’ve got the armor set of one of my favourite NPCs in the game: Creighton the Wanderer. This armor does a perfect job of representing what chainmail is like, which is protective yet lightweight (compared to some of the heavier pieces). The mask somewhat reminds me of what executioners would wear, so an axe would be a perfect fit with this set. How to get: Given as a gift from Creighton for finishing his questline. Can also be bought from Merchant Hag Melentia after killing Creighton.
8. Lucatiel’s Set
Yes, the armor set of yet another fan favourite NPC (and one with the most tragic dialogues), Lucatiel of Mirrah. Its outlandish design is entirely unique to it, making it clear the wearer is not from around these parts. I definitely recommend either using a thrusting sword, or one of the two Mirrah greatswords to really embrace the character you’re dressed as. How to get: Gift from Lucatiel of Mirrah after summoning her for three (different) boss battles, or you can just kill her yourself (you wouldn’t dare).
7. Imported Set
I absolutely adore how the Imported set looks. It flawlessly captures the feeling of a mysterious rogue who wants to keep their identity hidden right until the perfect moment arises. Take note that the stats on this thing are absolutely atrocious – so you’re gonna have to do a lot of rolling. Who would’ve thought that one of the best-looking sets in the game would be so easy to get. How to get: Starting gear of every single new character.
6. Drangleic Set
When someone brings up Dark Souls 2, the Drangleic armor (together with the sword) is one of the first things that immediately comes to mind. The combination of the red cape together with gold-ish tint of the armor ensures it a spot in the world of fashion. Wanna know something really cool though? When you first find the armor, it’s missing the helmet. Later in the game you travel to the past through the Memories of the Ancients and obtain the helmet from Captain Drummond after slaying the Giant Lord. So the reason the helmet is missing in the present, is because the player took it from its owner in the past. Bet you didn’t know that huh? How to get: Treasure in the Forest of Fallen Giants, on a ledge after the Pursuer boss fight. The helmet is given as a reward from Captain Drummond.
5. Faraam Set
You knew it, I knew it, everyone knew it. The Faraam set is too iconic to leave out from any conversation where it can be included. It just looks nice! The history, lore, and theories associated with it are all very intriguing as well. How to get: Treasure in Drangleic Castle, next to the King’s Gate bonfire.
4. Astrologist Set
Every single time I make a sorcerer or hexer, I end up using this set, just because of how beautiful it looks. The contrast between the bright yellow and the dark black cloth make it completely stand out from all the other robes. Not to mention just how well it pairs with the natural blue/cyan colors of the sorceries. How to get: Sold by Royal Sorcerer Navlaan after completing his questline, or freeing him from his prison.
3. Syan’s Set
If you’ve ever wanted to become the knight in shining armor, this is a hundred percent the set for you. Sir Syan’s armor set is a magnificent sight to behold. It acts as a beacon of golden light among all the dark and dreary, gray and black armors that DS2 is filled to the brim with. Plus the cape is absolutely fabulous! Oh brave Sir Syan, how cruel your fate was. How to get: Dropped by Syan Soldiers.
2. Chaos Set
Look at it. Look. At. It. This set wonderfully encapsulates the whole idea of “chaos”. It’s the number one outfit to wear when you’re up to no good and have total mischief in mind. Pyromancies and this set go hand in hand, just like Royal Sorcerer Navlaan would have wanted of you. PRAISE CHAOS! How to get: Gifted to you by Royal Sorcerer Navlaan after completing his questline (you must be hollow while talking to him).
1. Heide Knight Set
I’m a total sucker when it comes to anything with a white and yellow motif. Wearing the Heide Knight set makes me feel like a legendary battle-hardened hero, who’s out for one last adventure before retiring for good. It’s ideal for any aspiring paladin who wishes to purge evil from the land, using their all-powerful lightning miracles. Pairing it with something like the Heide Knight Sword and any bright-colored kiteshield is a classic 10/10 look. How to get: Dropped by Heide Knights.