Cosplay is short for costume play. Cosplay is the art of dressing up like a movie, TV, video game or anime character. Originally invented in Japan, Cosplay has found its own place in the United States and elsewhere. Where Japan Cosplay participants usually dress as anime characters, participants in the states usually dress up like video game or pop culture characters.
Cosplay has its time and place. You cannot just dress up as a character anytime you want. You would look way out of place. In Japan there are cafes and other venues for cosplay participants to attend while in their anime dress. . Cosplay in America, unfortunately, is limited to movie/video game premiers and conventions.
The costumes are much different from other Halloween costumes. Cosplay is more than just putting on a mask and some clothes in order to pretend to be a character. Cosplay costumes must be nearly identical to the actual character as possible. You have to choose the fabric, the colors, and the accessories that most closely resemble the character you are trying to portray. Because of this, it is best to look for custom made Cosplay costumes.
In addition to the costumes is the attitude. You must portray the attitude of the character. Cosplay is about being the character, not just dressing up like the character. You must know your character very well before you can appropriately cosplay them.
Cosplay is a fun hobby to get into. Some costumes and looks take years to perfect. If you have a favorite character in movies, video games, or cartoons, make it point to try to bring that character to life. Find some Cosplay events near you and have fun.
