> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.rivalryze.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.rivalryze.com/the-shop/cosmetics.md).

# Cosmetics

Cosmetics are visual upgrades for your RivalRyze presence — your profile, your username, your Contest creations. They're purely for flex and personality; they don't affect gameplay or your ability to win Contests.

{% hint style="info" %}
The Shop — including cosmetics — requires a **Supporter** or **Pro** subscription. See [Subscription Tiers](/your-account/subscription-tiers.md).
{% endhint %}

## What's available

Cosmetic categories rotate, but typically include:

* **Profile skins / banners** — custom artwork for your profile header.
* **Avatar frames** — borders around your profile picture across the platform.
* **Username flairs** — colors, gradients, or icons next to your username.
* **Badges** — small icons earned or purchased, displayed on your profile.
* **Theme variants** — light/dark/custom UI themes (some are paid).
* **Contest card designs** — custom backgrounds for Contests you host.

Seasonal cosmetics (holidays, special events) appear and disappear from the Shop on their schedule.

## How to buy

1. Open **Shop → Cosmetics**.
2. Browse by category, or filter by price.
3. Click any item to preview it on your profile / Contest card before buying.
4. Confirm the purchase. Gems are deducted immediately.
5. The cosmetic is added to your inventory under **Profile → Customize**.

## Equipping a cosmetic

Buying a cosmetic doesn't apply it automatically — it adds it to your inventory.

1. Go to **Profile → Customize**.
2. Find the cosmetic in your inventory.
3. Click **Equip**.
4. The change is live immediately for everyone who views your profile.

You can equip and unequip freely — once owned, a cosmetic is yours forever.

## Limited and seasonal cosmetics

Some cosmetics are tagged **limited** or **seasonal**:

* **Limited** cosmetics are available for a fixed window and won't return. If you want one, get it before it leaves the Shop.
* **Seasonal** cosmetics return annually (e.g., holiday themes in December). If you miss one this year, you'll likely see it again next year.

{% hint style="success" %}
Watch the **New Arrivals** filter for fresh additions, and the **Leaving Soon** filter for things about to be removed.
{% endhint %}

## Where cosmetics show up

| Cosmetic type         | Visible on                                                             |
| --------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Profile banner / skin | Your profile page                                                      |
| Avatar frame          | Your profile picture across the platform (battles, leaderboards, chat) |
| Username flair        | Anywhere your username appears                                         |
| Badge                 | Your profile and on Contest pages you're in                            |
| Theme variant         | Your own UI (private — only you see it)                                |
| Contest card design   | Contests you host (visible to all viewers)                             |

## Earned vs. purchased cosmetics

Some cosmetics are **purchased** in the Shop with gems. Others are **earned** through events, Contest wins, or special achievements (e.g., "Winner of the 2026 Season Tournament" badge).

Earned cosmetics are not available in the Shop and can't be bought. They appear in your inventory automatically when you earn them.

## Refunds

Cosmetic purchases are **non-refundable** once the cosmetic is delivered to your inventory. If you bought one by accident and haven't equipped it, contact [support](/help-and-faq/contact-support.md) within 24 hours and we'll usually work something out.

## Trading and gifting

Cosmetics are **not transferable**. You can't trade them with other players or gift them to a friend. They're tied to the account that purchased or earned them.


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