Welcome to Cosplay 101! Cosplaying is an art form that’s perfect for self-expression, having fun, and becoming part of a larger community! Whether you’re new to cosplaying or are an experienced veteran who would like a simple refresher on the art and fun of cosplay, The Life of the Party is your source for everything cosplay related. In this article, we’ll provide readers with an overview of cosplay, from what it is to how to enjoy it and more!
Getting Started
Getting started with cosplay may seem intimidating, but it’s easier than you might think! The first step is to choose a character. Regardless of whether you’re going to a Renaissance-themed event like a festival or you’re going to a cosplay competition, it’s important to choose a character or look that will make you comfortable - both physically and mentally. Also, remember that you don’t have to choose a particular character in mind; you can simply choose to dress for the theme or type of character that would be present at the event in question, like a pirate, fairy, princess, or hunter.
Buy or DIY?
Once you have your look in mind, the next step is to set a budget and decide how you will build your costume, and this also means budgeting time. Cosplay is an incredibly fun activity that can make it easy to lose track of the time and money you’ve spent on a particular costume, so with a budget for time and money in mind, you can choose whether you want to buy your costume or DIY it. Both paths are valid, and have their own perks! Buying a whole costume or even the major parts of a costume will likely cost more money, but can save you a lot of time. On the other hand, DIY-ing the majority of your costume can save you money but will likely require more time invested. Regardless of the path you choose, finding a great supplier for both costumes and accessories, like The Life of the Party, is key!
Planning Ahead
Once you have decided what you’ll be wearing and how you’ll get the materials needed, it will help if you plan ahead. Take into account how long you’ll want to wear the costume, how much mobility you have while wearing it, and what you can realistically carry while you’re in costume. Considering these factors can make a huge difference in how comfortable you are while in costume and can help you prepare, too! For instance, if you’re attending a Renaissance Festival cosplaying as a pirate, you’ll likely be outside in the elements and will need to be able to carry your essentials like money, water, and your phone with you. Choosing to add hidden pockets to your boots or a belt and bags to your cosplay can help you keep your costume on theme without requiring you to leave your essentials behind.
Have Fun and Be Respectful!
Of course, the most important thing to remember when you’re cosplaying is to have fun! Part of that fun is also choosing to be respectful of others by keeping verbal and physical interactions with others in costume appropriate. Always ask for consent before touching or photographing other cosplayers, and remember to keep any negative comments to yourself. Cosplaying is all about enjoying the experience of becoming someone or something other than yourself, and it’s a great way to express yourself artistically, so remember to enjoy becoming a character you love and let others enjoy their experience, too!
At The Life of the Party, we’re proud to be your source for high-quality cosplay supplies and pieces! If you’re building your own cosplay and need SFX makeup, thermoplastics, or clothing and accessories, we’ve got everything you need! We also have full costumes and costume rentals, so stop by to shop for everything cosplay-related today!