At conventions, you’ll be surrounded by fabulous cosplayers. We all know that becoming an experienced costume creator takes time and practice.
But in the meantime, there are plenty of ways to take your cosplay to the next level right away! Think about those little details: proper posture, a well-styled wig, and clothing that’s freshly ironed will make any look become more polished and memorable.
Additionally, it’s important to stay diligent with learning new skills while using what you already know to its fullest potential.
Becoming a master of cosplay is all about mixing different techniques while being attentive to even the smallest detail!
So don’t forget these Pro Tips and standing out from the crowd will be a breeze.
Finishing touches are important
Paying attention to the finishing touches of your cosplay is crucial for achieving a professional look at conventions.
Before you go out, take the time to iron your costume and use a lint roller to get rid of pet fur. When styling your wig, use hair gel or spray to keep it in place, and finish off your makeup with a matte translucent powder.
Lastly, don’t forget to add a glaze over any props you made — this will give them that extra polished touch while also preventing the paint from chipping.
Custom-fit your costume
No matter if you’re buying your costume or making it from scratch, taking the time to make sure that it fits your body perfectly is key. Even if you buy from commissioners or online shops, providing custom measurements can get you a costume that fits like a glove.
And when it comes to crafting with patterns, don’t be afraid to adjust the pieces you cut according to your own measurements – after all, cosplay is about showing off the true YOU!
So take some extra time and make sure your costume fits fantastically! You’ll thank yourself later.
Avoid anything shiny
Steer clear of anything shiny. Shiny fabrics and wigs can take on an unpleasant, cheap look in the bright sun or with flash photography, so opt for high-quality materials that have a more natural sheen.
Also, be mindful of your makeup: glowing or glittery makeup too often results in an unfortunate “sweaty” look in photos. Mattes are a better bet when it comes to face products, but props such as swords or gems can benefit from paints and finishes that add some shine to mimic the real thing.
Wear shapewear undergarments
For a polished and professional look when you’re in cosplay, make sure to have shapewear undergarments on hand.
These are designed to give you smooth curves that look great with any tight superhero suit. To take it even further, consider adding dance tights – they’ll create an even color and shape while also keeping knee-high socks from sliding down!
Plus, they can help prevent chafing during the summer months. Don’t forget this crucial step for your costume!
Touch up your costume and makeup before photos
Don’t let your hard work go to waste! Be sure to bring along makeup and other items for touch-ups throughout the day. Lipstick, foundation, and finishing powder are all must-haves for prepping before a photoshoot.
And if you’re cosplaying in the summertime, don’t forget blotting paper either – it helps keep that pesky sweat and oil away so you can look your best!
Practice posing and facial expressions
Are you always at a loss for a pose when asked to take photos in cosplay? Don’t worry, you can prepare ahead of time by practicing at home.
It may feel strange to stand in front of the mirror and make faces or contort into weird poses, but it’ll help your pictures look so much better.Be sure to practice with your cosplay on as well!
Your costume might limit some of your range of motion – if you squat too far, the pants might rip, or maybe the pauldrons won’t let you lift your arms up high enough.
Trying out poses while wearing your costume will ensure that what looks good on camera also works with the costume itself and showcases all the hard work you put into it.
Facial expressions are also essential – you need to exaggerate your features in photos, so be sure to practice making faces in the mirror to make sure they’re just right for your character.
Too much and it’ll look funny or off-putting; too little and it won’t show up on camera! Get used to a range of expressions that will bring out the best of your cosplay.
Be comfortable in your costume
If you want to give your cosplay an instant upgrade, make sure you’re feeling relaxed and comfortable in it. It’ll help you carry yourself with confidence and look fresh in all your photos.
Plus, taking care of the little details like wearing suitable footwear or planning for appropriate weather can help save you from exhaustion during the day. A winter coat at a summer convention? No thanks! That’s a quick way to drain all your energy.
Always style your wig
If you’re new to cosplay, don’t be afraid to style your wig — it’s the best way to make sure your character looks great!
Start by cutting the bangs so they fall just above your nose and stay out of sight.
Then use products like hairspray, mousse, or gel to keep the fibers in place and prevent any flyaways. If you’re feeling nervous about styling for the first time, try practicing on a cheap wig before tackling the one you’ll be wearing.
With a little practice, you’ll see that it’s not as daunting as it seems. A well-styled wig can really take your cosplay look to the next level!
Learn about fabric
If you’ve got the funds, upgrading to a better grade of fabric will do wonders for your next costume.
Even if you can’t get your hands on top-of-the-line materials, understanding how different fabrics work together to create the look you want is still an important skill and great way to gain experience.
Knowing which types of fabrics work best for a more flowing style versus a more structured piece is key, and you can even play around with various patterns and brocade pieces (like waistcoats) to add contrast and make your creation extra captivating.
Learn new skills
One of the most important steps to take in transforming yourself into a cosplay pro is to learn from those who have come before you.
Follow other cosplayers on YouTube and social media for tutorials on how to tackle challenging builds, see which materials they use, and try out new techniques.
It can be intimidating to start something completely unfamiliar, but with these tips and tricks from experienced cosplayers, you’ll soon feel confident tackling any project!
With practice, you’ll be able to master the art of cosplay in no time.
Plan ahead
Cosplay is like any other skill: it takes time and practice to master. But, with the right planning techniques, you can ensure that your costume won’t be put together the night before you head off to a convention.
To plan ahead, take your expected completion time for each costume and double it; this way mistakes or unanticipated events don’t throw you behind schedule.
As hard as you may try, there’s always a chance that your cosplay will be rushed – but if you’re prepared, even a rush job looks chic! So remember: good planning equals great cosplays.
Prime and set your makeup
Put your best face forward and prime up with a good makeup base! Before you even begin applying your makeup, use a primer to create the perfect canvas for your look.
This will help make sure that your look stays put throughout the long, often hot days of conventions. Afterward, don’t forget to set everything in place with a setting powder or finishing spray.
This little extra step will keep smudges away and ensure that all the hard work you put into creating your cosplay makeup doesn’t disappear by nightfall.
Sand and prime your props
If you want your props to look their best, make sure you sand and prime them. This goes for any material you use for prop creation, from EVA foam to worbla to clay.
It may take some time and effort, but the results are worth it!Start with a light sanding of the prop using regular sandpaper (or better yet, a rotary tool like a Dremel Lite).
Then apply a layer of primer – water it down slightly if necessary – before giving it another round of sanding. After that, add one more layer of primer and voila! Your prop is ready to go!
With these easy steps, you’ll have a smooth surface that will stand out in cosplay photos.
Avoid sweat spots
Beat the sweat spots! Retain your cosplay’s pristine condition by taking a few simple precautions. If it’s hot outside and your costume is close-fitting, try attaching panty-liners to the armpits of your garment for absorbing all that pesky perspiration.
You should also make sure to wear an undershirt or camisole—even if you’re wearing a skin-tight superhero suit—to keep those big, embarrassing sweat stains from forming.
This way, you can be sure that your costume looks as awesome at the end of the day as it did at the start.
So don’t let sweat mar your masterpiece: follow these simple tips and stay fresh while conquering any con!
Battle scars on your props and armor
For an extra touch of realism, don’t be afraid to add some battle-worn details to your props and armor.
You can tear small rips into leather breastplates, give your swords and armor dings and scratches, or even apply paint in strategic areas to make them look like they’ve taken a beating.
Not only will these details stand out from the crowd, but they’ll also bring life to your cosplay and make it look more authentic than ever.
So go ahead and get creative with your battle scars—you never know what kind of unique effect you might create!
Contour your makeup
For the perfect cosplay look, don’t forget to contour your makeup! Contouring can do wonders for high-quality photographs and help bring out the shadows in your face that may otherwise appear flat.
To create a more 3D effect, focus on contouring the sides of your face, under your cheekbones, and on the sides of your nose. With this simple step, you’ll be ready to show off your stunning cosplay in style!
Finish your garment edges
For that extra professional finish, take the time to properly finish your garment edges. Iron all of the seams so they lay flat, and hem any unfinished edges.
You can either roll up the ends or use a fray check to prevent fabric fraying. It’s also a good idea to inspect all of the seams at this stage and make sure nothing is loose or coming undone.
If you’re feeling particularly fancy, some garments might benefit from an inner lining too! Finishing your edges is definitely worth it in the end – it’ll make all the difference!
Make sure your wig stays on your head
Secure your wig in place with combs, bobby pins, and hairpins. Even if you don’t have a small head like me, any wig that has a ponytail or is heavy in the back will tend to slip backward.
To prevent this from happening, start by adding some small combs to the front hairline of the wig so they can catch onto your own hair.
Then use bobby pins around the ear tabs to secure them over the front of your ears. Finally, add 5-10 hairpins along both sides and back for added security.
With these tips, your wig will stay firmly on your head! Better safe than sorry!
Create fake battle scars with makeup
For any warrior, superhero, or soldier cosplay, why not add a bit of character with some faux battle scars? Using rigid collodion can help you create an indented scar.
For the specifics on how to do this, check out my in-depth guide on creating battle scars with makeup.
This way your cosplay will look extra authentic and your character’s battles will be brought to life!
Make sure all attachments are hidden
Construct your cosplay with hidden attachments No one wants to see the inner workings of your costume, so make sure you hide all your attachments.
Whether it’s velcro, elastic, string, zippers or buttons – make sure they are tucked away in places where they won’t ruin the aesthetic of your cosplay.
With a bit of ingenuity, you’ll be able to keep things together while maintaining that anime-inspired look!
Remember to beat the heat
When you’re in for a long day of cosplaying, don’t forget to stay hydrated and beat the heat! Especially if you are wearing multiple layers or bulky costumes.
Invest in a cooling vest or carry around a mini fan with you to keep yourself cool. There’s nothing worse than taking off your costume and being drenched in sweat – so make sure you take all precautions while walking around in the sun.
FAQ
How do I get better at cosplay?
It’s easy to become overwhelmed when you first start cosplaying. There are so many different elements, from costume construction to makeup application and everything in between. But fear not! With the right tips, anyone can become a master of cosplay.
What is the golden rule of cosplay?
Practice, practice, practice! The more you do it, the better you’ll get. So try different techniques, experiment with materials and watch tutorials to learn how to create professional-looking costumes and makeup looks.
What should I cosplay as a beginner?
Start by selecting a character you love and that you know well. That way, you can research the outfit and source materials or products to recreate it. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start with something simple such as a superhero costume.
What are some common mistakes beginners make?
One of the most common mistakes is not budgeting enough time. Many people underestimate the amount of time it takes to construct a costume or apply makeup. Remember, practice makes perfect!
So make sure you have enough time for trial and error before the big event.
Another mistake is not planning ahead. Make sure you research materials in advance so that you can source them easily and don’t run into any last-minute surprises.
Finally, make sure you’re comfortable with your outfit before stepping out in it! This is the most important part of cosplay, so if the costume or makeup isn’t quite right, don’t be afraid to tweak and adjust until you feel confident.
Is cosplay appropriate for 12-year-olds?
Cosplay is appropriate for all ages, however it’s important to remember that costumes should be age-appropriate. For young cosplayers, look for simple and comfortable costume ideas such as cartoon characters or superheroes.
This will help ensure the child stays safe and enjoys the experience without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, make sure any makeup used is designed for children’s skin and always supervise any activities. Have fun!
What advice do experienced cosplayers have?
Experienced cosplayers know that in order to create a great costume, attention to detail is key. Take the time to research materials, watch tutorials and practice techniques to get the most out of your costume.
At what age do you stop cosplaying?
Cosplay is for everyone, regardless of age! As long as you are comfortable and having fun, there’s no reason to stop cosplaying. Some of the most talented cosplayers started at an early age and continue to produce amazing costumes into their later years.
So go ahead and unleash your inner cosplayer – no matter what your age!
What are the deciding factors for choosing a cosplay?
When it comes to selecting a cosplay, there are many things to consider. First and foremost, choose something you’re passionate about and that you know well. This will make researching materials and costume construction much easier.
Additionally, keep in mind your skill level and budget. Start simple and work your way up to more complicated costumes as you develop your skillset. Finally, don’t forget to have fun! Cosplay is all about expressing yourself and enjoying the process.
So find a character or costume that speaks to you and just go for it!
What not to say to a cosplayer?
It’s important to remember that cosplay is a form of self-expression. So when talking with someone in a costume, be understanding and respectful. Avoid making rude comments or jokes about the person’s appearance, as this can make them feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. Additionally, don’t pressure anyone into revealing their identity or posing for photos. Instead, be polite and simply ask permission before taking a picture – it’s the courteous thing to do! Above all, remember that cosplay is supposed to be fun, so make sure everyone is included in the celebration of creativity.
Can you get sued for cosplaying?
No, you can’t get sued for cosplaying. As long as your costume is not an exact replica of a copyrighted or trademarked character or design and does not infringe on anyone’s intellectual property rights, there should be no issue.
However, it’s always a good idea to double-check before proceeding with any costume.
What is the psychology of cosplay?
The psychology of cosplay is complex and fascinating. Generally speaking, it can be seen as a form of self-expression, with people using costumes to express their innermost thoughts and feelings.
Additionally, cosplay can also provide an escape from reality and give individuals the opportunity to explore different identities without judgment.
Ultimately, cosplaying allows people to express themselves in a safe and creative way – something that is invaluable to mental health.
What is the average age of a cosplayer?
The average age of a cosplayer is difficult to determine, as there is quite a bit of variation. Some cosplayers start at an early age and continue into their later years. Others join in their teens or twenties and are just getting started.
Ultimately, age doesn’t matter – it’s all about having fun while expressing yourself creatively.
What safety precautions should be taken when cosplaying?
Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to cosplay. Make sure your costume is well-made, with secure seams and strong materials.
Also ensure that any props are made in a safe manner, as they can pose a potential hazard if not properly constructed. Additionally, be aware of any sharp edges or hazards that may come with your costume.
Finally, make sure to stay hydrated and take regular breaks – cosplay is meant to be fun, not a dangerous activity!
Can pet animals be part of cosplay?
Yes, pets can definitely participate in cosplay! Just make sure to keep their well-being in mind and choose a costume that is comfortable. Additionally, avoid any costumes or props that could harm them in any way.
nd most importantly, make sure your pet has fun – they deserve it!
What is the easiest character to dress up as?
The easiest character to dress up as really depends on your individual style and preferences. If you’re looking for something simple but still eye-catching, try a classic superhero like Superman or Batman.
For a more intricate look, consider dressing up as an anime character or fantasy creature. Whatever you choose, make sure it reflects your personality – cosplay is all about expressing yourself and having fun!
Who is the most Cosplayed character?
There are many popular characters that are often cosplayed, with different favorites in different regions. Some of the most common ones include Marvel and DC heroes, as well as anime or cartoon figures such as Naruto or Sailor Moon.
Additionally, video game characters like Link from The Legend of Zelda series are also extremely popular. Ultimately, the most cosplayed character is whichever one you choose to dress up as – the possibilities are truly endless!
Do cosplayers get harassed?
Unfortunately, cosplayers can sometimes be subjected to harassment and bullying. It is important that all members of the cosplay community stand together against any form of discrimination or harassment.
Additionally, conventions should have clear policies in place about acceptable behavior and the consequences for breaking them. Ultimately, everyone should feel safe when participating in their passion – so let’s strive to make that a reality.
Above all else, cosplay should be a safe and fun experience for everyone involved. With the proper safety precautions and respect for one another, the community can ensure that it stays that way!
So go ahead – get creative and let your imagination run wild with whatever costume you choose to wear!
What kind of people are into cosplay?
People of all ages and backgrounds are into cosplay! Cosplayers come from a variety of different cultures, countries, and lifestyles.
The community is composed of both amateur enthusiasts who enjoy dressing up for conventions or photoshoots as well as professionals in the industry.
Ultimately, anyone who enjoys expressing their creativity through costuming can be considered a cosplayer.
Is cosplaying a hobby?
Yes, cosplay is most definitely a hobby! It can range from casual to serious, depending on how much time and effort you choose to invest in it.
Some people may take part in photoshoots or competitions while others just enjoy creating new costumes for fun. Regardless of the level of involvement, cosplay provides a great way to express your creativity and have a blast while doing so!
Are there rules to cosplay?
In general, cosplay etiquette involves respecting other people’s costumes, not ruining anyone’s experience, and being mindful of any safety risks.
Additionally, conventions may have their own specific rules in place so it is always good to familiarize yourself with them before attending. Ultimately, the main rule in cosplay is to make sure everyone has a good time and feels comfortable – so don’t be afraid to show off your creativity in a respectful manner!
What is the salary of a cosplayer?
The salary of a cosplayer varies greatly depending on the individual and their level of experience. Professional cosplayers may be able to earn money through photoshoots or appearances, while others may make money by selling customized costumes or accessories.
In general, cosplay is not considered a full-time job as most people take part in it as a hobby or passion project.
Who is the highest-paid cosplayer?
The highest-paid cosplayer is not an individual person, but rather a team of individuals: the members of Team Fortress Cosplay.
The team has won various awards in conventions and competitions around the world and they have been able to monetize their craft through photoshoots, sponsorships, and other projects.
Ultimately, they are proof that cosplay is not just a hobby, but also a career for those who are passionate and determined.
Is it cheaper to buy or make cosplay?
It really depends on the individual and their skill level. If you are able to sew, craft, or assemble a costume yourself then it could be cheaper to make your own cosplay.
However, for those who lack the time or skills to do so, buying an already-made costume could be more economical in the long run.
Additionally, there are many affordable costume stores or second-hand shops where you can find great deals on costumes. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which option works best for them.
Conclusion
With these Pro cosplay tips, you’ll be ready to take on any challenge and show off your cosplay like a pro! All it takes is a bit of creativity, attention to detail, and some good ol’ fashioned elbow grease.
Whether you’re at the nearest comic convention or just posing for photos with friends, these tips will help make sure your costume looks its best. Now go forth and conquer – your amazing cosplays await you!