Raeven K, the winner of last year’s Her Universe Fashion Show, is back this year as a judge. In this interview, she talks about her experience as a contestant, what she’s looking forward to as a judge, and what fans can expect from this year’s show.
To mark a decade of unforgettable shows, host and Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein (voice of Ahsoka, Star Wars) and co-host Michael James Scott (Broadway star) will lead an evening dedicated to Mattel’s nearly 80 years of innovation and imagination. The show promises to enthrall audiences from the moment the lights dim, starting with Ashley Eckstein’s cutting-edge couture look that is sure to make headlines. The dynamic hosting duo will then shine a spotlight on geek couture fashion, promising unforgettable surprises. As previously announced, award-winning director Jeremy Merrifield will direct the show.
Since its inception in 2014, the Her Universe Fashion Show has consistently captivated fans with the creativity of talented designers who have poured their hearts into crafting one-of-a-kind custom geek couture looks for the runway. This year, two of the 25 participants will win the ultimate prize: the opportunity to design a special fashion collection with Her Universe. The audience will choose one winner, and an expert panel of judges will select the other. This year’s judges include the 2023 Her Universe Fashion Show winning designers Rachel Petterson and Raeven K, Robin Motts (SVP Hot Topic Merchandising), Vivienne Medrano (Creator of Prime Video’s Hazbin Hotel and Helluva Boss), and Robert Best (VP of Barbie Product Design at Mattel).
A Conversation with Raeven K, former Winner and now Judge of the Her Universe Fashion Show
In this interview, she talks about her experience as a contestant, what she’s looking forward to as a judge, and what fans can expect from this year’s show.
Reflecting on Last Year’s Win
Raeven K won last year’s competition with her Storm-inspired dress from X-Men. She describes the design process as a “fever dream,” with a quick turnaround time from concept to execution. Despite the challenges, she emphasizes the rewarding nature of the experience, highlighting the supportive community surrounding Her Universe.
Her Universe Fashion Show 2023 Audience winner – RaevenK. (@thatssewraevenk) for her Mistress of the Elements look inspired by X-Men’s Storm. Photo Credit Mark Edwards
A Judge’s Perspective
As a judge this year, Raeven K brings a unique perspective, understanding the intricacies of the design process and the challenges contestants face. She’s particularly interested in learning about the innovative techniques designers use to create their unique looks. She also acknowledges the logistical challenges of transporting elaborate cosplays, sharing anecdotes of contestants who have gone to great lengths to protect their creations during travel.
“I know exactly what it takes to get up there on that stage in the first place. I also know all of the things that it takes to get to that point. So, the trial and error is obviously a lot of what we’re creating and things that are not, quote-unquote, traditional fashion. So you’re having to figure out techniques and new ways of doing things and really experimenting to end up with something that wonderful, to have it on a stage like that. So I really do understand and can empathize and will give them credit for all of their amazing work and techniques and ideas. “
Looking Ahead to the 10th Anniversary Show
As a fan of the show, Raeven K expresses her excitement for the 10th anniversary show, particularly the Mattel theme. As a lifelong Barbie fan, she’s eager to see fresh interpretations of the iconic doll and other Mattel properties. She hints at the judges’ involvement in the show, promising that their looks will be “on brand.”
“I feel like it’s a cop-out, but I love Barbie, like I have. I actually have a Barbie in the studio. So, like, I’ve loved Barbie ever since I was a kid. I want to see some new and fresh takes on her and just, like, the world in general. Obviously, Mattel has a ton of other properties, so I’m really interested to see what little niche pockets of Mattel history people are able to bring forward into the forefront. I really love those tiny, tiny details, so I’m excited to see what comes out of that. But I think I’m still looking forward to seeing Barbie looks. I can’t I can’t hide that.”
Her Universe and Mattel, in a joint announcement, unveiled the theme for the iconic 10th annual Her Universe Fashion Show: a celebration of decades of fashion, innovation, and geek couture as Mattel approaches its 80th anniversary. The show, scheduled for Thursday, July 25th at 6 pm during San Diego Comic-Con, will pay homage to legendary Mattel brands such as Hot Wheels, UNO, and Magic 8 Ball through a dazzling array of fashion and giveaways.
Mattel plans to transform the lobby into a vibrant showcase commemorating 35 years of Polly Pocket, highlighting nostalgic fashions spanning over three decades. Guests can anticipate an immersive experience, filled with nostalgic charm, innovative displays, and photo opportunities that pay homage to Polly Pocket’s enduring legacy of making the ordinary extraordinary.
What Fans Can Expect
As a former contestant, Raeven K encourages fans to pay close attention to the details in the contestants’ designs and to appreciate the creativity and innovation on display. She also teases exciting surprises from Ashley Eckstein, the founder of Her Universe, who is known for her elaborate showmanship.
Personally, I’m looking forward to the judges’ looks. I know what Rachel and I are working on, so I’m really excited for them to see that. Obviously, everything that the contestants are working on is going to be worth multiple takes. I’m so excited to do the judging process and see it on the runway. And then Ashley, I feel like every year she one-ups herself.
Michael James Scot, Raeven K, Rachel Petterson and Ashley Eckstein at the Her Universe Fashion Show 2023. Photo Credit Mark Edwards
A Celebration of Creativity and Community
The Her Universe Fashion Show is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of creativity, fandom, and community. Raeven K’s enthusiasm for the event is infectious, and her insights offer a unique glimpse into the world of cosplay and fashion design.
“It was definitely worth all the heartache and late nights for sure. Honestly, even if I didn’t win, I would say that it was still worth it. The people that I met, the community that surrounds Her Universe, it’s unlike anything that I’ve seen in fashion. If you are looking for a warm and inviting space to kind of experiment, the Her Universe community is definitely the place to do it.”
Portrait of a Fangirl Podcast
The Portrait of a Fangirl Podcastis a series from the team at the Temple of Geek. Portrait of a Fangirl initially began as a web series and has now expanded into a podcast series as well. You can watch and listen to the series both here and on our YouTube channel. The podcast is currently in its second season.
Hosted by Jenna Wrenn, at the core of the project is the importance of telling the stories of women who have found inspiration, growth, and power through fandom.
Host and executive producer of the Portrait of a Fangirl Podcast, Jenna Wrenn, is also an entertainment correspondent for Temple of Geek. Jenna has interviewed talents such as Felicia Day, Max Brooks, Christopher Paolini, Rachel Smythe, and Ashley Eckstein. She has written several articles for Temple of Geek covering conventions, anime, pop culture, and much more.
A historian by trade, a writer by passion, and a cat mom by birthright. Jenna loves to travel, forge new connections, and cosplay. Jenna is excited to bring more fascinating interviews to viewers/listeners of the Portrait of a Fangirl
