For costumers, future costumers, and those who simply enjoy watching costume events, this overview of convention competitions will look at their history, differences among conventions, the judging processes, and what it takes to make an impact. Also tips on research, fabrication methods, music, reference materials for crafting and judging, and stage presentation ideas for taking original and re-created designs from concept to stage-ready. Panelists include award-winning costumers from past Comic-Cons and many other conventions Allan Lavigne, Judith Grivich, and Rebecca Roberts Ryan. Also, Ian Branson (Comic-Con/WonderCon Masquerade tech director), and moderator Martin Jaquish (Comic-Con/WonderCon Masquerade coordinator since 1992).