‘Definitely Fake It ‘Til You Make It’: Ashley Eckstein Reflects On Spread Of Geek Couture And Her Universe Fashion Show’s 2024 Mattel Partnership

'Definitely Fake It 'Til You Make It': Ashley Eckstein Reflects On Spread Of Geek Couture And Her Universe Fashion Show's 2024 Mattel Partnership

As a lifelong gamer and avid fan of all things geeky, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of excitement and pride as I reflect on Ashley Eckstein’s journey in promoting “geek couture” through the Her Universe Fashion Show. I still remember the first time I heard the term “geek couture” – it was at San Diego Comic-Con several years ago, where fans were showcasing their unique and creative fashion inspired by various fandoms, but they didn’t have a proper platform to display their work.


Ashley Eckstein, famously known for her iconic voice acting in “Star Wars” as Ahsoka Tano, is preparing to tackle her most anxiety-inducing assignment yet: hosting the Her Universe Fashion Show at San Diego Comic-Con in 2024. This event holds extra significance as it marks the show’s tenth anniversary, and Her Universe successfully presented a virtual version during the pandemic when live events were not an option. In an interview with TopMob on July 25, Eckstein discussed the partnership with Mattel for the upcoming show and the growing trend of geek couture.

“Geek chic” is a term used to describe how pop culture fan bases are expressed through haute couture that surpasses traditional cosplay. Eckstein, who is known for her involvement in the Her Universe Fashion Show where designers showcase their work, as well as modeling some of the creations herself, shared with me her thoughts on this trend expanding beyond comic-cons to mainstream fashion. When I had a conversation with Eckstein recently, I asked how she feels about seeing geek chic gaining popularity not just at comic-con events but also in the wider world, and she responded:

I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the birth of geek fashion at San Diego Comic-Con, and let me tell you, it was a sight to behold! For decades, fans have been creating amazing geek-inspired outfits, but they didn’t have a proper platform to showcase their work. I remember seeing them proudly strutting their stuff in the hallways, using makeshift runways as best they could. It was a travesty, and as someone who’s been part of both the geek and fashion communities, I couldn’t help but feel deeply moved.

She truly accomplished that goal! It’s fitting to ponder the beginnings of “geek chic” fashion during the tenth anniversary of the Her Universe Fashion Show. Noteworthy is that this event took place following the show commemorating Disney’s centennial celebration last year. Ashley Eckstein added:

I used to exclaim, “Wow, geek chic is on the rise!” [laughs] I used to say that with a chuckle, “Geek chic, haven’t you heard of it?” Now, whenever I come across it – as you mentioned – even outside of Comic-Con events, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride. It’s amazing how this once niche trend has gained mainstream recognition. Designers and fans now have their own platform, and geek-inspired fashion isn’t dismissed as just a Comic-Con phenomenon anymore. It’s a legitimate trend that’s making its way into major fashion events such as the Met Gala and Fashion Week in New York, Paris, and Milan. Geek chic is here to stay!

As a devoted fan, I must admit that the Her Universe Fashion Show at Comic-Con is truly unique when it comes to showcasing the talents of designers in the “geek couture” world. And it’s not just due to the impressive co-hosts that Ashley Eckstein has managed to bring on board in recent years. I mean, she even slid into DMs to get RuPaul’s Drag Race star Nina West on board! Plus, Broadway sensation Michael James Scott has graced the stage twice now, returning for 2024. What a fantastic lineup!

At this year’s fashion event, Mattel will serve as the host. Later, Ashley Eckstein explained their perfect collaboration: Her Universe and Mattel.

When it comes to discussing brands such as Barbie and those promoting female empowerment, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride. I used to downplay my involvement, muttering “isn’t that neat?” instead of owning up to the fact that it all began at the Her Universe Fashion Show. I’m incredibly proud of our dedicated team and the talented designers we’ve had the privilege of working with. I owe a great deal of gratitude to San Diego Comic-Con for providing us with this amazing platform. This project has grown beyond what I could have ever imagined, almost like a child going off to college, and I take immense pride in its success.

Barbie has consistently been a beloved component of Mattel’s collection. However, her popularity reached new heights among various age groups after the launch of the “Barbie” film in 2023, which was released just weeks before the Her Universe event at Comic-Con in San Diego on July 25, 2024. Eckstein, who has been involved with Mattel for a decade, described this anniversary year as unique, explaining:

After reaching the ten-year mark, I truly recognize the significance of this milestone. It brings with it a sense of responsibility and anticipation. Previously, Disney was our sponsor, but now it’s Mattel, a company that holds great nostalgic value for me as it was a significant part of my childhood. With giants like Mattel supporting us, we get to work with beloved brands such as Barbie and Polly Pocket. The weight of this opportunity is palpable, and I am eager to create something worthy of the trust placed in us. I’m thrilled and proud of what we’re developing.

Eckstein made it clear that she only works on projects and actively supports things she is passionate about or genuinely believe in. Her fondness for Barbie and Polly Pocket dates back to the 1990s, and this connection has remained strong throughout her life.

I’ve always felt like a pint-sized powerhouse, despite my petite stature. Growing up, people were taken aback by my size, but I never let that define me. In fact, one of my nicknames is Polly Pocket, a name given to me because of the surprise that comes with meeting me in person. People would exclaim, “Wow, you’re much smaller than we anticipated!” and they’d chuckle, comparing me to the beloved toy character.

Luckily, the Her Universe Fashion Show in collaboration with Mattel, scheduled for Thursday, July 25 at 6 p.m. PT in Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel’s Harbor Ballroom during San Diego Comic-Con, is just around the corner. Ashley Eckstein will kick off the event with a unique geek chic outfit, followed by teaming up with Michael James Scott, known for his entertaining Disney role as the Genie in Broadway’s Aladdin, to co-host.

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2024-07-25 02:38