Crafting Anime Cosplay

Selecting a character for cosplay: Your chosen character need not resemble you, nor do they have to share your gender. Utilize wigs and makeup to bridge any gaps. Instead, opt for a character that captivates you and one you'd feel confident portraying. Experienced cosplayers might seek out complex characters for added challenge.

• Struggling to decide? Observe your friends' cosplays and select a character from the same series. This could lead to forming a cosplay group!
• Still uncertain? Consider a character with similarities to—or differences from—yourself. Seek suggestions from friends if needed.

Collect abundant reference images. Your character likely boasts a variety of attire options. Choose the one that resonates most with you, then gather as many reference pictures as possible. If the anime encompasses a manga or video game, consider exploring those realms as well. Action figures and character statues serve as excellent points of reference.

Explore innovative twists for your cosplay. Infuse your character with a unique flair, such as steampunk, post-apocalyptic, or Renaissance elements. Delve into crossover cosplays, like a Sailormoon/Sailorscout fusion with a Disney princess. Alternatively, venture into gender-bent cosplays.

• Gender-bending diverges from crossplay, involving cosplaying as the opposite gender version of a character.

Weigh the investment of time, money, and effort. The complexity of a costume correlates with the time required for its realization. Avoid procrastination. Consider your skill level; if you're new to cosplay or lack sewing skills, opt for simplicity.

• If sewing is unfamiliar territory, still attempt a complex cosplay, but allocate extra time for learning and honing necessary skills.
• There's no shame in purchasing or commissioning intricate pieces for your cosplay.

Contemplate the occasion and environment for wearing your cosplay. Will you primarily be indoors or outdoors? Indoor conventions typically offer climate-controlled settings, granting flexibility in cosplay choice. For outdoor events, select a cosplay suited to the weather conditions.

Compile a comprehensive list of cosplay essentials. This encompasses obvious items like tops, bottoms, and footwear, as well as less evident necessities like belts, shoes, and other embellishments. Additionally, include wigs, makeup, and undergarments on your list.

Determine your approach: make, modify, or purchase. There's no shame in acquiring ready-made pieces, especially simpler ones like belts, dress shirts, or trousers. If an item is close to what you need but not quite perfect, consider modifications such as dyeing, adding patterns, or changing buttons.

• Some items are particularly challenging to make. If you lack the skill or time, consider purchasing them instead.

Acquire patterns. Unless you're adept at creating your own, you'll need to purchase patterns. Sometimes, a basic pattern suffices, while other times you may require multiple patterns to complete all elements of the cosplay. You might also need to tweak patterns to match the character, such as adjusting sleeve or skirt lengths.

Tailor the cosplay to your physique. Anime characters often sport unrealistic proportions. What flatters an anime character might not suit your body type. Fortunately, clever alterations can remedy this, such as adjusting hemlines, waistlines, or collars. These changes are often subtle, preserving the recognizability of your cosplay while enhancing its appearance on you!

• If you intend to wear shapewear, don it before taking measurements.

Select fabric thoughtfully. Aesthetic appeal doesn't always align with suitability for the garment type. Consider real-life clothing fabric choices when selecting fabrics for cosplay. For instance, a military-style trench coat might call for felted wool, while a school uniform skirt could use wool suiting. Silk or satin may be ideal for a formal gown. Most patterns provide fabric recommendations.

Craft your cosplay meticulously. Adhere to the pattern instructions. Remember to trim corners and notch curved edges. After completion, press every seam and hem. Though seemingly minor, these details can elevate your cosplay to a professional standard.

• Not all patterns will perfectly align with your cosplay. You may need to modify or combine some.
• A dress form is immensely beneficial. If unavailable, create a makeshift form using a T-shirt, duct tape, and stuffing.

Enhance with embellishments. Animated film outfits often lack intricate details for expediency. Adding embellishments can render your cosplay more authentic and memorable. If time permits, consider the following:

• For delicate gold or silver details, opt for embroidery over painting.
• When cosplaying a princess, subtly incorporate rhinestones or jewels for added allure.
• Pay attention to buckles and clasps; consider upgrading to fancier options when necessary.
• Utilize jacquard fabric for historical costumes, imparting texture and pattern without excessive coloration.

Prioritize supportive undergarments. Including pushup bras, sports bras, shapewear, and dance belts. Properly fitting undergarments enhance the fit and appearance of your cosplay. Ill-fitting undergarments can detract from your overall look. Below are common types and their purposes:

• For ball gowns, crinolines, hoop skirts, or petticoats are essential. A corset can also be beneficial.
• When crossplaying as a male, consider a sports bra or chest binding.
• Opt for thongs or seamless underwear with form-fitting cosplays. A dance belt is crucial for male cosplayers.
• For added smoothness, try full-body shapewear or high-waisted briefs.

Remember footwear. Often overlooked yet crucial, shoes complete any cosplay ensemble. If suitable shoes are unavailable, consider modifying them with covers or paint. Comfort and fit are paramount, especially for extended periods of walking.

• If character shoes are concealed by a long dress, consider dance heels or character shoes. Customize them with matching fabric or embellishments.

Enhance your appearance with makeup, especially for photographs. Regardless of gender or character portrayal, applying makeup can significantly enhance your look. Begin with a clean face, then apply primer, foundation, concealer (if necessary), and powder. Add eyeliner, mascara, lipstick, and eyeshadow for added impact.

• Further define features with false lashes and eyebrow enhancement.
• For masculine characters, opt for neutral lipstick shades and consider contouring.
• For feminine characters, vibrant lipstick hues and blush can enhance the look.

Utilize wigs when required. Invest in a quality wig from a reputable supplier, avoiding cheap alternatives. Style the wig on a Styrofoam head, securing it with bobby pins after pinning up your hair and donning a wig cap.

• Match bobby pins and wig caps to your wig color, or paint them if necessary.
• For characters with long hair, consider trimming to avoid tangles.
• If your hair matches the color but not the length, consider cutting or adding extensions.

Accessorize appropriately! Accessories play a crucial role in completing your cosplay. These can range from belts and gloves to glasses, pocket watches, and jewelry.

• Replica pieces can be found online, either official or handmade.
• Similar accessories can also be sourced from various online and physical stores.
• You can even craft your own using materials like foam, clay, or Worbla.

Include props for added authenticity. While not mandatory, props elevate your cosplay and enhance photo poses. Consider your character's frequent accessories from their series, whether a simple rose or an intricate fantasy sword.

• Props can be crafted from various materials such as wood, Worbla, or foam.
• Ensure props are lightweight for comfortable carrying throughout the day.
• Check convention rules regarding prop size and prohibited items.

Explore special effects for added character realism. Colored contacts, circle lenses, liquid latex, scar wax, and latex scars can all contribute to achieving specific character traits like eye color or scars. Additionally, fangs can add authenticity to vampire or demon characters.

Embrace the role. While not obligatory, embodying your character can enhance the authenticity of your cosplay. Study the character's movements and demeanor from their appearances in the series, and strive to replicate them during photo shoots.

• If you encounter fellow cosplayers from the same series, consider interacting with them in character. Respect their choice if they decline to participate.

• Worbla, a thermoplastic sheet, can be shaped by heating with a heat gun, hairdryer, or hot water. It retains its form once cooled.
• If sewing isn't your forte, consider purchasing a pre-made cosplay or commissioning one.
• Struggling with wig styling? Seek assistance from a professional!

• Exercise caution when making online purchases.
• Familiarize yourself with your convention center's prop regulations. Certain props like swords or knives may be restricted.