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The 10th Annual Her Universe Fashion Show, presented by Mattel, electrified this year’s San Diego Comic-Con, captivating a packed audience with a fusion of fashion and fandom. Within moments, the show dazzled as Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein unveiled a groundbreaking projection mapping dress blending technology with 65 years of Barbie fashion, while Broadway’s Michael James Scott ignited the crowd with a vibrant performance. Co-hosts further wowed with geek couture inspired by Mattel icons like Barbie, Polly Pocket, and more.
Twenty-five designers showcased their extraordinary creations throughout the night, drawing inspiration from beloved fandoms and pop culture icons like Barbie, Beetlejuice, and others. From intricate details to innovative designs, each look celebrated the power of imagination and honored milestones like the 65th anniversary of Barbie.
This year’s winning designers will not only collaborate on a collection with Her Universe but also each receive a $10,000 prize to mark the show’s 10th anniversary.
Judges winner – Wes Jenkins, Orlando, FL
Audience winner – Candice Miller, Louisa County, VA
“It’s been my dream to open up the show with a projection mapping look since 2017, but I didn’t have the right team to help me pull it off—until now!” gushed Eckstein.
Ashley Eckstein’s groundbreaking opening Barbie look was a marvel of collaboration, involving over twenty designers, engineers, and artists. A 40,000 lumens projector illuminated a single dress with seven iconic Barbie fashions, celebrating 65 years of the iconic doll.
The fusion of fashion and technology was led by AOA and Live Everyday Studios, who created a life-size Barbie box illusion and custom virtual Barbie fashions. Renowned music team Nathan and Andrea Padgett scored the opening with a moving rendition of “Roar,” adapted to showcase the music of each Barbie era.
Polly Pocket also took center stage with a lobby transformed into a nostalgic Polly Pocket experience. Eckstein even appeared as Polly Pocket herself, emerging from a life-size compact in a heart-shaped skirt.
Other Mattel-inspired fashion highlights included Eckstein and Scott as Totally Hair Barbie and Ken, and in matching outfits made from Uno cards. Scott also sported a custom-made Hot Wheels suit.
Throughout the night, audience members won prizes ranging from Barbie dolls to Uno card decks, keeping the fun and excitement going.
The Her Universe Fashion Show footage will be available online next week exclusively at www.youtube.com/user/HerUnive
