From sporting a T-shirt associated with a favorite superhero to having a performance that encompasses dressing around a fictional character, cosplaying can mean many things to many people.
Whether you choose to buy, commission or make your cosplay costume from scratch, we can all agree it is a lot of work. It can even be more hectic as a beginner.
You would have to spend hours researching and putting together your outfit. Once you are done with putting it all together, you would still have to add the tiny details associated with the character you are trying to cosplay.
How to Get It Right As a Beginner
Following that, having a style linked with the character and trying to get into the cosplay character can also be another hurdle. All in all, cosplay can be hectic, but it is worth it. Below are some of the ways you can do an exceptional cosplay, even as a beginner:
Decide on the Character You’d be Cosplaying
Pick a character you are enamored of or a character that speaks to you. Note that you can cosplay any character regardless of sex, race, or body type. Also, despite popular opinion, your cosplay character doesn’t have to be an anime character. It can be from a superhero movie, a western movie, an animation, or even a TV series.
However, it is vital that your chosen character is one with a simple design or detail as a beginner. You do not want to go overboard and flop while at it.
Also, you do not need to bother about the popularity of your character. No matter how obscure your fictional character might be, there would be one person in the world who can relate to it.
Get a Reference Art of the Character You Would be Cosplaying
Many fictional characters have multiple costumes. For example, Iron Man has different bodysuits in the various Avengers franchise. This is also the same for Batman and some other superheroes.
It is essential to get a reference picture of the specific outfit you would like to cosplay. Places like Google, Pinterest, YouTube, and Instagram can be excellent reference art resources.
Determine If You Want a Cheap or Expensive Cosplay Outfit
Although the meticulous artistry of creating a cosplay outfit can be very expensive, it does not have to be, especially for a beginner. If you are looking to make a foray into the art of cosplay, you don’t have to spend a fortune at the beginning.
However, if you want your outfit to look great even with cheap materials, you must be ready to spend enough time on it. This is because some outfits require more time than others due to the materials used.
Also, choose materials wisely. You do not want to suffer a heat stroke after donning a thick or bulky material.
Do Not Forget the Accessories and Other Paraphernalia
While it might not be crucial, a few props here and there can take your outfit to the next level. You can either develop creative props and accessories that you know would fit the character you are cosplaying or buy the props used initially by the character.
For example, cosplaying as a Disney Princess would have you using fancy jewelry, hairpieces, and a tiara. To cosplay as Queen from “The Bohemian Rhapsody,” you might need a wig, a guitar, and make-shift buck teeth.
Don’t Forget the Makeup
This is a vital ingredient for cosplay. This not only makes you a bit similar to the character, but it also makes your face smoother. Most of the characters require the basics — a foundation, a concealer, lipstick, eyeshadow, mascara, and eyeliner.
You can add a bit of contouring to make your face more feminine or masculine. Your eyeshadow should either be a nude color or any other color associated with the character you are playing. You can also add a blush if necessary.
In addition, you don’t have to use harsh makeup, especially if you have a skin condition such as acne. A light face makeup will do the trick.
Get Into Character Before the Big Day
Practice your poses. When you cosplay, you must become your character. Going as Spiderman? Pretend to shoot webs. Going as Deadpool? Pose like an intelligent nerd.
Also, make sure your outfit and other accessories are in good shape. Try out everything before the day and take out anything that may not make you feel comfortable or hamper your movement.
The Bottom Line
Cosplay can be an enjoyable thing to do. Do not take anything too personally. Don’t compare yourself to others, and be proud of your cosplay.
You should also not be afraid to ask for help or mingle with other cosplayers. Join communities that can be beneficial to your cosplay growth and enjoy yourself every step of the way. Happy Cosplaying!
