Cosplay, which comes from the words “costume” and “play,” is more than just dressing up. It’s an art form, a way to show yourself, and a way to celebrate fandom. You can bring your favorite anime or superhero characters to life in the real world through cosplay.
However, if you’ve never done cosplay before, the process might seem hard. Don’t worry, though! This guide will show you how to cosplay and give you tips, tricks, and information to help you have a great time with your first cosplay.
How to Cosplay (Steps)
1. Choose Your Character
Pick a figure you love as the first step. You will be more likely to put in the work needed for a good cosplay if you are cosplaying a character you really care about.
Pick a character that you can relate to and will enjoy playing. If you’re not really into a character, don’t feel like you have to pick a famous or trendy one.
2. Research the Character
Once you’ve picked a character, learn about their attitude, history, and clothes. Find picture references of the figure to get an idea of what their outfit would look like.
Knowing what makes the figure special and easy to recognize is important. Also, check out the character’s different outfits. If a character with a stylish everyday look stands out, you might want to cosplay that.
3. Create or Buy Your Costume
It’s time to decide how to obtain each part of the costume. You need to carefully examine each piece of your role play and decide how to obtain it. Generally speaking, there are “make” and “buy” categories.
Make
If you already have some sewing skills, you can easily pick out some parts and make them from scratch. However, don’t feel you only need to work at your current skill level.
There are a lot of videos online that show you how to make your first shirt or style your first wig. For every new outfit you make, push yourself to learn one or two basic skills.
Buy
You don’t need to make every part. You can purchase clothing and accessories or have them custom-made for you. In fact, sometimes it’s cheaper to buy a costume than to make it from scratch.
Finding clothing in an online store and purchasing it this way is perfectly acceptable. However, be sure to check shipping times. These garments are usually made-to-order and take several months to arrive.
4. Practice Makeup and Hairstyling
For cosplay, practicing makeup and hairstyling means studying how your character looks and getting all the supplies you’ll need, like makeup and hairstyling products. You may need to try a few different ones to find the best brand and shade for your skin tone and the character’s look.
Start by learning how your character’s basic makeup would look. That could include contouring, putting on eye shadow, or making special effects with makeup. You might want to use a wig or hair dye if your character has a unique haircut or color.
Giving yourself a lot of time to practice and get better at hair and makeup before the event is important.
5. Learn the Character’s Mannerisms
One important part of cosplay is learning how to act like the figure you’re dressing up as. Pay attention to how they walk, talk, act, and talk to other people. If they use the same facial expressions or movements over and over, pay attention. These are signs that can help your cosplay look more real.
Do these things in front of a mirror or record yourself so you can see how you’re doing and improve. Additionally, knowing your character’s past and why they do the things they do can help you show how they act. Keep in mind that the goal is not just to look like the character but also to have the same attitude and spirit as them.
Cosplay Activity Guide
When you go to a cosplay event, here are some things you should remember:
● Pack an Emergency Kit
This should have band-aids, safety pins, a small sewing kit, extra makeup for touch-ups, and anything else you might need in case your outfit or makeup fails at the worst possible time.
● Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Sometimes, cosplay events are long and hot, especially if you’re in something heavy. Have food and drink a lot of water.
● Respect Others
Remember to treat other people and their costumes with care. Never touch someone’s outfit or props without their permission, and never take a picture without their permission.
● Take Breaks
Don’t push yourself too hard. If you’re feeling tired or overwhelmed, take a break.
● Follow the Rules
Make sure to follow all the rules of the event, including any guidelines about costumes, props, and behavior.
● Enjoy the Experience
Above all, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience. Cosplay is about expressing your love for a character and having a good time.
Cosplay Tips for Beginners
As a beginner, cosplay can be a bit of a stressful experience. The following tips will help newcomers get started:
● Start Simple
Choose a character with a simple costume for your first cosplay. That will help you learn the basics without getting overwhelmed.
● Plan Ahead
Good cosplay takes time. Start planning and gathering materials well in advance of the event you’re attending.
● Budget Wisely
Cosplay can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Set a budget for your costume and stick to it. Look for ways to save money, like using items you already have or buying secondhand.
● Learn to Sew
You can make and fix outfits much easier if you know how to sew. Plenty of tips are available online to help you get started.
● Comfort is Key
If you’ll be in your costume for a long time, make sure it’s comfy. When making your outfit, you should also think about the weather and where the event is.
● Join the Community
People who cosplay can be a great source of tips and help. Meet other cosplayers by joining social media groups or online sites.
● Have Fun
Having fun is what matters most. Do not worry about perfection; the costume is about having fun and showing how much you love a character.
Easy Cosplays（Reference）
If you’re new to cosplay or just want some easy ideas, here are some figures that aren’t too hard to make:
● Spider-man
Spider-Man costumes are easily available. You just need to find the right size.
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● Mario
You’ll need a red hat and shirt, blue overalls, and a fake mustache.
● Harry Potter
Wear a black robe, a Gryffindor scarf, and round glasses, and draw a lightning bolt scar on your forehead. Carry a wand for the complete look.
● Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games
Wear a black shirt, dark cargo pants, and black boots. Braid your hair to the side and carry a toy bow and arrow.
FAQs About How to Cosplay
Do I have to be pretty to cosplay?
Absolutely not!
When you cosplay, you show how much you love a character and have fun. It’s not about how you look. If you want to dress, you don’t have to look a certain way or meet any beauty standards.
The great thing about costumes is that anyone can do it, no matter what size, shape, age, or gender they are. It takes imagination, skill, and, most importantly, a strong desire to live out the role you’re playing. So do it if you want to dress!
Is 40 too old to cosplay?
Certainly not!
Cosplay is fun for people of all ages. No matter what age, anyone can enjoy this sport. Many people of all ages and backgrounds participate in cosplay, including children and adults. Having fun and loving yourself is the most important thing. So, if you really care about a character and want to play them, do it! The cosplay community is usually very friendly and open to everyone.
Is it okay for a guy to cosplay as a girl?
Of course!
Cosplay is all about showing who you are and becoming your favorite figure, no matter what gender they are.
Crossplay is the act of dressing up as someone of a different gender, which a lot of cosplayers do, no matter what gender they are. It’s all fun and creative in costumes.
Making yourself feel good and having fun is the most important thing. Respect and acceptance are very important in the cosplay community.
Smith Nicole R