Cosplaying is a lot of work, whether you choose to make, commission, or buy your cosplay. You need to spend a lot of time researching and putting together your cosplay. Once you have it finished, you still need to add the details, such as hair and makeup. Having a few poses in mind and knowing how to get into character would also be a good idea. Despite all of this work, cosplaying is fun, and the effort is worth it.
Part 1: Planning Your Cosplay
Step 1: Decide Who You Want to Cosplay
Choose a character you can relate to or that you are similar to. Keep in mind that you don’t have to cosplay as your race, body type, or gender; anyone can cosplay. On a similar note, your cosplay does not have to be from anime or anything of Japanese origin. You can cosplay a character from a movie, television show, or even a western animation (e.g., Disney).
- If this is your first time cosplaying, you may want to choose a character with a simpler design.
Step 2: Get Reference Pictures
Get reference pictures of the specific version of the character you are dressing up as. Many characters have multiple outfits or looks that they’re known for.
- Example: Iron Man’s body suit changes a little in each Iron Man and Avengers film. Batman spots a different design with each film as well.
Step 3: Determine Your Budget and Effort
Determine how much money and effort you are willing to put into your cosplay. You don’t need to spend a lot of money in order to have a great-looking cosplay. Some cosplays will also require more than just sewing, such as casting parts in resin or making foam armor.
- The more time you have before the event, the more elaborate you can make your cosplay.
Step 4: Design Your Own Cosplay for Originality
You can put a unique spin on your cosplay, such as a historically-accurate version of a Disney princess or a steampunk version of a character. You can even do a crossover between two costumes.
- Look at pictures of other people’s cosplays or fan art for inspiration.
Step 5: Plan Ahead
Plan ahead and give yourself time to finish your cosplay. Even if you are buying your cosplay, you still need to account for the time it takes to create it and the time it takes to ship it out.
Part 2: Making or Buying Your Cosplay
Step 1: Make a List of Everything You Need
This includes every piece of the entire outfit, down to the belt, gloves, and shoes. It should also include things like wigs (if you are using one), makeup, and any necessary undergarments.
- Example: White blouse: white cotton, white thread, white buttons; Green skirt: dark green twill or wool suiting, matching thread, zipper, hook closure; brown loafers, white knee socks, skin-toned bra.
Step 2: Use Patterns When Sewing Your Cosplay
Use patterns when sewing your cosplay. You can buy a pattern from the fabric store or draft your own. Be prepared to modify them to suit the character and your figure.
Step 3: Don’t Be Afraid to Buy Pieces for Your Cosplay
You don’t have to make everything from scratch. If your cosplay requires an everyday item, it would be easier to just buy it.
Step 4: Consider Buying and Modifying Pieces
Sometimes, you may come across an item that is the right shape, but the wrong color. Instead of making a whole new piece, get the almost-right piece, then modify it.
- Example: If something is the right shape but the wrong color, dye it. If something is too long or has sleeves, cut it. Don’t forget to hem it though (if needed).
Step 5: Do Your Research When Buying or Commissioning a Cosplay
There is no guarantee that the cosplay will fit you perfectly, especially if you buy it from a cosplay shop. Make sure that they are reliable.
Step 6: Don’t Forget the Props and Accessories
While not absolutely necessary, they can really take your cosplay to the next level. A prop can help you come up with more creative poses, while accessories can make your cosplay more realistic.
Part 3: Doing Your Hair and Makeup
Step 1: Plan Out Your Look
Think about how the character’s hair and makeup would translate into real life. Can you get away with using your real hair, or will you need to get a wig? Makeup will help you look better in photos.
Step 2: Use Your Own Hair If You’re Willing to Cut or Dye It
If your hair is almost right for the character, don’t be afraid to straighten it, curl it, or add extensions. Only do this if you actually like the style, however; you’ll be stuck with it for a few months.
Step 3: Use a High-Quality Wig If You Don’t Want to Mess with Your Real Hair
For the best look, purchase a high-quality wig from a reputable wig or costume shop. Wear a wig cap under the wig, which both covers up and conceals the color of your natural hair.
Step 4: Style Your Hair or Wig
Whether you are using your own hair or a wig, you’ll need to style it. Most wigs rarely look like the intended character’s hair, so you’ll likely need to trim it. You will also need to comb your hair or the wig into the right style, then set it with hairspray.
- Use hairspray and styling wax to shape your hair.
- If you are styling a wig, invest in a Styrofoam wig head.
Step 5: Wear Makeup
Makeup is important for cosplay. It makes your skin appear smoother and more photogenic. For most characters, you will need a natural look: basic foundation, neutral eyeshadow, and eyeliner. You can bring more life to your character with lipstick and contouring or blush.
Part 4: Putting the Cosplay into Play
Step 1: Practice Getting into Cosplay Before the Big Event
This includes applying the makeup, putting the wig on, putting in and taking out contact lenses, etc. Make sure that your cosplay is comfortable and durable.
Step 2: Get into Character
Have some poses in mind. People love to take pictures of other people’s cosplays at conventions, so there is a high chance that someone might want to take a picture of yours!
Step 3: Be Respectful of Other People’s Boundaries
There is nothing wrong with getting into character if you see someone from the same anime or series. Be aware that not everyone will want to play along with you.
Step 4: Try Not to Take Things Too Seriously
Cosplay is supposed to be fun. Instead of comparing yourself to everyone else, feel proud of the work you did. Meet up with friends or make new ones.
Step 5: Remember That Cosplay is Not Consent
If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, speak up. Report them to security or con-ops. Your safety is very important.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating and enjoying your own cosplay. Have fun and express your creativity!
