What Is Cosplay?

Derived from the English words 'costume' and 'play' cosplay is a rapidly expanding hobby following in the wake of the anime sensation that has taken off in the past two decades. Built on the goal of crafting elaborate and astonishingly accurate costume depictions of fan's favorite Animation characters, the hobby is an incredible and complex source of fun for anime fans all over the world.

In areas such as the Akihabara district in Japan, cosplay has become an extremely popular and commonly exhibited pastime. In public settings such as parties, nightclubs and video games show, cosplay is a common sight. Some areas have even begun to see the emergence of cosplay cafes and venues that cater exclusively to cosplay.

Engaging In Cosplay

Many Otaku events hold contests where the accuracy and attention to detail on a cosplay costume are judged based on their true depiction of the character they were designed after. This is perhaps one of the most important aspects of cosplay. The attention to detail and accuracy of a cosplay costume is the defining element of it. In this way, a players hair and skin are considered part of the costume itself and should resemble that of the character they are depicting.

Cosplay costumes require a myriad of craft skills to perfect. From metal to leather to simple linens the materials needed are varied. Getting the most precise and accurate costumes requires a wide range of creative talents and skills to truly depict the unique and often elaborate costumes worn in anime.

Cosplay trends change on a monthly and yearly basis as pop culture and anime changes. Due to the international success of some major film franchise in the past years some fantasy and sci-fi characters have become very popular cosplay figures. Characters from Star Wars and the Harry Potter series are among some of the most popular non-anime characters to see featured as cosplay.

Within the hobby of cosplay there are even some subgroups. Crossplay is one subset of cosplay in which the player dresses as a character of the opposite sex. Crossplay does not necessarily mean cross-dressing however as many anime characters wear clothing that is not necessarily gender-specific.

Popularity On The Rise!

Cosplay has grown so much in popularity that in its modern incarnation, cosplay has magazines and websites devoted to it. These resources feature detailed instructions on costume making and materials as well as images of costumes from past conventions. Conventions routinely allow 'cameko' or 'camera boy' photographers who dedicate themselves to photographing cosplay events.

With anime being drastically on the rise in the last two decades, cosplay fandom has only increased. The diligent services that cosplay fans put into their hobby as they toil for months on costumes is second to none. With finely honed craftsmanship and a precise attention to detail, Cosplay is a fascinating art form that incorporates many forms of art and culture while providing a fun and social hobby for thousands.