How to Make Anime Cosplay

Making an anime cosplay can be challenging, but with the right attention to detail and construction, you can make it look believable and realistic. This guide will give you the basics of cosplaying an anime character, from deciding on a cosplay to making it, to adding details and accessories.

Part 1: Choosing and Planning Your Cosplay

Step 1: Choose a Character to Cosplay

• The character does not have to look like you or even be the same gender. Instead, pick a character that you find interesting and feel comfortable cosplaying. If you’re seasoned, consider a complex character for a challenge.
• If you can’t decide, see what your friends are cosplaying and pick a character from that series. You could start a cosplay group!

Step 2: Get Lots of Reference Pictures

• Find as many reference pictures as you can. If the anime has a manga or video game, look those up too. Action figures and statues make great references.

Step 3: Consider a Twist on Your Cosplay

• Add a unique spin on your character, such as steampunk, post-apocalyptic, or Renaissance. You can also do a crossover cosplay or a gender-bent cosplay.

Step 4: Consider Time, Money, and Effort

• Complex costumes require more time and skill. If this is your first cosplay or if you can’t sew, consider something simpler. It’s okay to buy or commission complex pieces.

Step 5: Think About the Event

• Consider where you will be wearing the cosplay. Indoor events usually allow more freedom in costume choice compared to outdoor events where you need to consider the weather.

Step 6: Make a List of Everything You Need

• Include obvious items like skirts and shirts, as well as less obvious things like shoes, belts, wigs, makeup, and undergarments.

Step 7: Decide What to Make, Modify, or Buy

• There is no shame in buying some pieces, especially simple ones. You can modify close items by dyeing, painting, or changing buttons.

Part 2: Making the Cosplay

Step 1: Get the Patterns

• Buy or create patterns for your costume pieces. Modify patterns as needed to match the character’s look.

Step 2: Adjust the Cosplay to Suit Your Body Type

• Anime characters often have unrealistic proportions. Adjust the costume to flatter your body type by altering hems, waistlines, or collars.

Step 3: Choose the Fabric Wisely

• Select fabrics that are appropriate for the garment type. Follow fabric recommendations on patterns for best results.

Step 4: Make Your Cosplay with Care

• Follow pattern instructions and finish seams and hems properly. Small details like clipping corners and pressing seams can make a big difference.

Step 5: Add Details

• Add extra details to make your cosplay stand out. Consider embroidering delicate designs, adding rhinestones or jewels, and using fancy buckles or clasps.

Step 6: Wear Supportive Undergarments

• Use pushup bras, sports bras, shapewear, or dance belts as needed to enhance the fit and look of your cosplay.

Step 7: Don’t Forget the Shoes

• Modify shoes with covers or paint to match the character. Ensure they are comfortable, especially if you’ll be walking a lot.

Part 3: Adding the Extras

Step 1: Apply Makeup

• Use makeup to enhance your look. Even male characters benefit from basic makeup to look better in photos. Consider false lashes, contouring, and color-appropriate lipstick.

Step 2: Wear a Wig if Needed

• Purchase a high-quality wig and style it on a wig head. Secure it with bobby pins and a wig cap.

Step 3: Accessorize

• Include belts, gloves, hats, jewelry, and hair clips to complete your look. Look for replicas online or make your own.

Step 4: Include Props

• Props like swords, roses, or teacups can enhance your cosplay. Make sure props are lightweight and comply with convention rules.

Step 5: Add Special Effects

• Use colored contacts, fake scars, or fangs if your character has these features.

Step 6: Act the Part

• Study your character’s movements and mannerisms to make your cosplay more believable. Interact with other cosplayers in character if they’re comfortable with it.

By following these steps, you can create a detailed and realistic anime cosplay that stands out at any event. Enjoy bringing your favorite character to life!