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A comic book character who has maintained the same look, or at least strikingly similar variations of the same outfit, for much of her existence is Zatanna Zatara, who typically dresses for her night job as a magician. However, DC Comics' Absolute Universe has a knack for reimagining classic characters in new and surprising ways, and the powerful sorcerer is certainly no exception.
Absolute Zatanna is set to make her debut in Absolute Wonder Woman #14, and the series writer, Kelly Thompson, shared an early look at the magic-wielder, along with more of illustrator Hayden Sherman's designs, in a post on her Substack from Nov. 2, 2025. Had she not identified the character by name, it might have been difficult for even the greatest admirers of Zatanna to figure out who she was based on her outfit.
The sneak peek at the cover art for her character's second appearance in Absolute Wonder Woman #16 does show the sorcerer wielding her magic, as indicated by mystical blue clouds emitting from her hands. Yet, Zatanna's signature magician's outfit — a tuxedo-style leotard complete with a top hat — has been replaced with a cropped, studded blue leather jacket and matching gloves with black pants and over-the-knee combat boots.
Image via DC ComicsFurther illustrations included in Thompson's post show Zatanna wearing a mask similar to that of Tom Hardy's Bane in The Dark Knight Rises over her head, which also boasts short, curly hair instead of her usually long and wavy black locks. The only element bearing any real resemblance to her original wardrobe is a mesh top over her black bralette that calls to mind her original iteration's fishnet stockings.
Of course, her visual design is far from the only thing that sets Absolute Zatanna apart from her core variation.
What Else Is New About Absolute Zatanna
Image via DC ComicsThe Absolute Universe has done more to reinterpret DC's most beloved characters than offer them a fresh wardrobe, of course. For instance, Absolute Wonder Woman introduces a version of Diana Prince who is raised since birth by the witch-like goddess, Circe, who is traditionally depicted as one of the Amazonian warrior princess' top rogues, as well as an enemy to all kinds of heroes.
Zatanna Zatara is traditionally depicted as an ally to Wonder Woman, so, naturally, the best way to keep things fresh would be to make her a villain, and that is exactly the plan. According to the solicitation text for Absolute Wonder Woman #16, which will kick off the series' "Season of the Witch" arc in Jan. 2026, the sorcerer has it out for Diana, making her an antagonist.
However, her motivations could very likely change, similar to how other dramatically different takes on other characters have been. In Absolute Batman, iconic members of The Dark Knight's rogues gallery are initially depicted, not only as relatively average citizens but as childhood friends of a working-class Bruce Wayne. However, a recent issue of writer Scott Snyder's series saw Waylon Jones officially take reptilian form as Killer Croc.
In other words, perhaps Zatanna's rivalry with Diana could lead to a team-up between them against Circe, who could be the true "Witch" of the arc's title. Anything is possible in the Absolute Universe after all.
Absolute Wonder Woman #14 hits the shelves Nov. 26, 2025
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