San Diego Comic-Con’s opening night has always been a celebration of fandom, but this year, the 11th Annual Her Universe Fashion Show, presented by Universal, shattered every expectation along with audience attendance records.
I was sitting in the front row, watching the magic unfold in a swirl of light, music, couture, and pure fandom joy. From my front-row seat, I didn’t just see fashion. I saw a movement. Her Universe has spent over a decade redefining geek style, making space for creativity, inclusivity, and self-expression. What started as a small spark eleven years ago is now, in Eckstein’s own words, “a supernova.”
The Her Universe Fashion Show isn’t just a Comic-Con event anymore. It’s an annual love letter to fandom, artistry, and the idea that you can be exactly who you are and look incredible doing it.
From the moment I stepped into the Seaport Ballroom at the Manchester Grand Hyatt, the energy was electric. The lobby had been transformed into a Wicked-themed wonderland, with immersive photo ops, costumes from the upcoming film Wicked: For Good, LEGO big builds, and product displays that had fans stopping every few feet for selfies. The KISS nail booth was buzzing, and the merch displays had more than a few attendees plotting their next cosplay upgrades.
But when the lights dimmed and the stage came alive, it was pure theater. Also, can we talk about the generous amount of swag each attendee received? Every guest left with exclusive swag, including the LUG Coupe XL Crossbody bag, Wicked KISS nails and lashes, and the brand-new Wicked: For Good Mattel small dolls—a perfect cherry on top of a night already overflowing with gifts. I’m very excited to take the LUG bag on my next trip!
Ashley Eckstein’s Most Magical Entrance Yet
Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein didn’t just walk onto the runway…she floated in on a remote-controlled moving platform inspired by Glinda herself. The stage transformed into the fantastical World of Oz, brought to life by ALTRD Projections and powered by state-of-the-art Barco projectors. It was a jaw-dropping moment that made the audience gasp and instantly set the tone for the evening.
Co-hosting alongside the magnetic Michael James Scott, Eckstein dazzled in six different Wicked-inspired looks by designer Andrew McLaine with help from assistant Hannah Kent. The hair and makeup artistry by Veronica Nunez and Leibi Carias tied the visual fantasy together flawlessly.
Then came one of the night’s most unexpected delights: Eckstein and Scott performing a live Wicked musical medley. Their chemistry was infectious, and when Scott belted “Defying Gravity” for the finale, the room erupted.
A Star-Studded Judging Panel
Joining the panel this year was actress and advocate Marissa Bode, making a special appearance ahead of Wicked: For Good’s release. She was joined by Variety’s Marc Malkin, Hot Topic’s Robin Motts, and last year’s winners Wes Jenkins and Candice Miller.
“I came expecting a fashion show,” Bode told the crowd, “but nothing could have prepared me for this warm, vibrant, and inclusive community. The very welcoming and creative voices on this runway made this a Wicked-ly memorable evening.”
While the audience votes were tallied, Michael James Scott returned with his “90s Mixtape” medley, turning the ballroom into a high-energy singalong.
Ashley’s final look was perhaps the most breathtaking of the night was a living gown made of 2,400 fresh tulips, designed by McLaine and assembled onsite by floral artist Rochelle Leigh Wall of delightful! Flower co. The matching floral headpiece and shoes made it a literal runway garden moment.
And the Winners Are…
All of the designs were incredible! I loved learning the story behind each designer and their design. The two designers who will now collaborate on collections with Her Universe (and take home $2,000 each) were:
- Judges Winner: Lynleigh Sato of Redondo Beach, CA (@lynleighsato) (far right)
- Audience Winner: Caitlin Beards of Randolph, NJ (@ladyavadesigns) (left)
For fans who couldn’t be there in person, you can watch the full show below:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=jckJhsYY9v8%3Fsi%3DH4GQ7mQknJyOoAeA
Follow Her Universe: @heruniverse on Instagram, X, and Facebook; @officialheruniverse on TikTok.
