The Comic-Con hype is real, and nothing kicks it off like today’s Her Universe Fashion Show announcement! Her Universe has unveiled its 25 designers for the 11th Annual Fashion Show at San Diego Comic-Con. The designers will showcase their innovative creations at the 11th Annual Her Universe Fashion Show, presented by Universal. This year’s event, featuring a mix of returning favorites and exciting new talent, is set to captivate audiences on Thursday, July 24, at 6:00 p.m. PT.

“Defying Fashion” Takes Center Stage

In celebration of this year’s theme, “Defying Fashion: Fashion That Defies Expectations,“ finalists will unveil unique designs inspired by iconic Universal Pictures franchises such as Wicked, Jurassic World, and Universal Monsters, as well as DreamWorks Animation favorites like How to Train Your Dragon and Trolls. Each designer has been meticulously selected for their exceptional ability to blend beloved fandoms with high fashion. Their one-of-a-kind pieces will debut at the show’s largest audience to date in the Seaport Ballroom at the Manchester Grand Hyatt.

Here are the 25 Designers for 11th Annual Fashion Show at San Diego Comic-Con

This year’s event brings a mix of returning favorites as well as exciting new voices to the runway. Here are the designers set to captivate audiences:

• Aaliyah Frye (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2018)
  • Hometown: Boerne, TX
  • Social: @small_frye_designs
• Caitlin Beards (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2023, 2024)
  • Hometown: Randolph, NJ
  • Social: @ladyavadesigns
• Cat Gravereaux (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2023, 2024)
  • Hometown: Fort Edward, NY
  • Social: @kyasarin.cosplay
• Catherine Hart (she/her)
  • First Time Participant
  • Hometown: Glendale, CA
  • Social: N/A
• Emma Joy (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2024)
  • Hometown: Cornelius, OR
  • Social: @hunnie_bunnie_bee
• Ericka Angiuli (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2018)
  • Hometown: Anaheim, CA
  • Social: @angiuli_designs
• Grace Meeks (she/her)
  • First Time Participant
  • Hometown: Winter Garden, TX
  • Social: @graceandtruththreads
• Jennifer Biladeau (she/her)
  • First Time Participant
  • Hometown: Seattle, WA
  • Social: @Sewsaywealldesigns
• Jen Wolff (she/her)
  • First Time Participant
  • Hometown: Houston, TX
  • Social: @jwolff501 (X)
• Katherine Everything (they/she)
  • First Time Participant
  • Hometown: Lancaster, CA
  • Social: @katherine_everything
• Katie Strube (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2023)
  • Hometown: Kissimmee, FL
  • Social: @kstroobzcosplay
• Kayleigh Michelle (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2023)
  • Hometown: Hillsborough, NC
  • Social: @signed_km
• Kiki Cotter (they/them)
  • First Time Participant
  • Hometown: Roseville, MN
  • Social: N/A
• Leah Mednick (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2023, 2024)
  • Hometown: Somerville, MA
  • Social: @imleahnotleia
• Lynleigh Sato (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2018, 2021, 2023, 2024)
  • Hometown: Redondo Beach, CA
  • Social: @lynleighsato
• Mandy McLean Couch (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2023, 2024)
  • Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
  • Social: @defiantly_mandy
• Margaret Kidwell (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2024)
  • Hometown: Republic, WA
  • Social: @madgical.creations
• Megg Waddington (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2023)
  • Hometown: Johns Creek, GA
  • Social: @costumesbymegg
• Melissa Lynette (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2023)
  • Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
  • Social: @houseofsedgeandbee
• Meredith Heika (she/her)
  • First Time Participant
  • Hometown: Colleyville, TX
  • Social: @meredithheika
• Paige Campbell (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2023)
  • Hometown: Ransomville, NY
  • Social: @quasar__creations
• Prue (she/her)
  • First Time Participant
  • Hometown: Chandler, AZ
  • Social: @prue_ductions
• Samantha Strickland (she/her)
  • Returning Participant (2023, 2024)
  • Hometown: Ocee, FL
  • Social: @unoriginalsam85
• Steph Piper (she/her)
  • First Time Participant
  • Hometown: Olympia, WA
  • Social: @stephpipercosplay
• Terence Johnson (he/him)
  • Returning Participant (2023, 2024)
  • Hometown: Van Nuys, CA
  • Social: @terencebjohnson

Here is Everything You Need to Know Before Attending the Show

The Her Universe Fashion Show is open to the public. However, advanced wristband distribution is required for entry.

• Wristband Distribution: Wristbands will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 10:00 a.m. PT on Thursday, July 24, at the Seaport Ballroom Foyer at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego.
• Line Policy: Attendees may line up prior to the official distribution time, but Her Universe does not endorse or manage unofficial lines. Also, Her Universe reserves the right to adjust distribution times and manage lines for safety and fairness.
• Doors Open: Doors will open at 5:00 p.m. PT, unless otherwise noted by the Her Universe Team upon wristband reception and check-in.
• Seating Process: Audience members will be admitted in groups. Upon receiving wristbands, attendees will be informed of their group number and exact return time for seating.
• Show Time: The show will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. PT and is expected to last approximately two hours. Late arrivals, even with wristbands, may not be accommodated.
• Fan Engagement: Additionally, fans are encouraged to follow Her Universe on social media (@heruniverse on IG, X, Facebook, and @officialheruniverse on TikTok) and use the hashtag #HerUniverseFashionShow for exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Why This is a Must-Attend Event: The Her Universe Fashion Show Puts Fans First

The Her Universe Fashion Show has become a beloved staple of SDCC, offering a unique platform for fan designers to showcase their creativity. As in previous years, the show will feature behind-the-scenes videos highlighting the design process and inspiration behind each couture creation. The event is especially known for its inclusive and inspiring atmosphere, where designers from all walks of life share their passion and talent.

Furthermore, Ashley Eckstein’s impact on the fandom community is immeasurable. This show is a gift to us fans – a way to be a part of fandom versus just consuming. As a long-time fan, I’ve seen how this show is a chance for the audience to participate in the fun, whether by walking the catwalk during intermission, voting for the audience winner, or being on stage showing off a design. Undoubtedly, the Her Universe Fashion Show is incredible and a do-not-miss event.