ArenaNet is preparing to roll out a significant quality-of-life update for Guild Wars 2, introducing a long-requested feature known as Fashion Templates. The new system is scheduled to arrive as part of the game’s next major update tied to its ongoing expansion cycle, marking a shift in how players manage cosmetic customization.
For years, Guild Wars 2 players have relied on equipment templates or manual wardrobe changes to manage their character appearances. While functional, those systems tied visual customization closely to gameplay stats, making it cumbersome to change a character’s look without also altering their build. Fashion Templates aim to separate those two systems entirely.
A Dedicated System for Appearance Customization
According to ArenaNet, Fashion Templates introduce a new Fashion tab within the Hero panel. This tab allows players to save and apply complete cosmetic setups independently of gear and build templates. Each Fashion Template can store armor skins, weapon skins, outfits, backpacks, and dye selections, enabling players to switch appearances without affecting character performance.
The update consolidates most wardrobe-related options into a single interface, reducing the need to navigate multiple menus when adjusting a character’s look. Players can apply full outfits at once or selectively use individual components from a saved template.
How Fashion Templates Will Work
When the system launches, players will receive a limited number of Fashion Template slots by default, with additional slots available for purchase through the in-game gem store. Saving a look to a Fashion Template requires transmutation charges, consistent with how cosmetic changes currently function in the game. ArenaNet has confirmed that legendary equipment will continue to benefit from its existing transmutation flexibility.
To ease the transition, players will receive an in-game prompt the first time they access the Fashion tab, allowing them to save their current appearance without cost. ArenaNet has also stated that the system is designed to work account-wide, meaning unlocked templates can be used across multiple characters.
Expanded Control and Sharing Options
Fashion Templates will integrate with Guild Wars 2’s existing quality-of-life tools. Players can assign templates to hotkeys, preview looks before applying them, and share appearance setups using chat codes — a feature already familiar to players who regularly share build templates.
The system also includes optional automation features, such as applying selected cosmetic settings to newly equipped gear, reducing the need for repeated manual adjustments.
Community Response and Open Questions
Early community reaction has been largely positive, with many players welcoming a dedicated fashion system after years of requests. However, some concerns remain. Players who previously used equipment templates as a way to store cosmetic looks have expressed frustration at needing separate fashion slots, particularly when additional slots require a gem purchase.
There are also limitations at launch. The initial implementation focuses on character gear and dyes, with cosmetic elements such as mounts and gliders not yet included. ArenaNet has indicated these features may be considered for future updates, but no timeline has been announced.
A Shift in Long-Term Design Philosophy
While Fashion Templates may appear cosmetic on the surface, the update reflects a broader shift in Guild Wars 2’s design philosophy. By formally separating appearance from performance, ArenaNet is acknowledging the importance of player expression as a core part of the game experience rather than a secondary feature.
