Character: Kitty Pryde / Shadowcat
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Artist: Mike Maihack
Reviewer: Dean Trippe

In light of Kitty Pryde’s ‘Die Hard’ situation in the newest issue of Astonishing X-Men, I felt like it was time to break out Mike Maihack’s redesign of her costume. It’s simple and fairly straightforward (though that may be the result of our senses beeing dulled by literally hundreds of X-uniforms over the years), but the simplicity in design works in favor of multiple artist’s styles drawing it. It’d look great in a cartoonier style like this, and still look awesome drawn by series artist John Cassaday.

I could also see this as a costume for Kitty’s Ultimate counterpart, especially since it looks a good deal edgier than the suit she’s wearing over in those titles.

The short-sleeve shoulder flares recall various incarnations of her uniform, and the headband makes a subtle reference to the different masks she’s worn. Including Lockheed is a nice touch as well. I wouldn’t mind a few design complications, such as utility pockets on the belt, or a delineation between her suit and her boots, but I love the simple yellow “X” on the top and the classic red belt buckle.

Simple, clean, classic. It’s a winner all around.