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.
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. “

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