Cosplay conventions are events where cosplayers gather to showcase their costumes, meet other cosplayers, and have fun. With so many different types of cosplay out there, it can be overwhelming for a newcomer to choose the right one. That’s a huge benefit as you can dress in whatever style you feel most comfortable with, and there will be a group of people. Also choosing a style is a great way to introduce an original cosplay character.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 11 types of cosplay you’ll find at a convention and give you tips on how to stand out and make a statement.
Anime Cosplay
Anime cosplay is one of the most popular types of cosplay you’ll find at a convention. The anime genre has given rise to countless iconic characters with unique and colorful costumes that are fun to recreate. If you’re a fan of anime, dressing up as your favorite character from a popular anime series can be a great way to get started with cosplay.
Anime cosplay is a great way to show off your love for anime and make a statement. Whether you choose to dress up as one of the iconic characters from a popular series or create an original character, anime cosplay offers plenty of opportunities for self-expression. You can even explore different subgenres such as shoujo, shounen, and mecha by dressing up in costumes from various series within those genres.
With so many options available, it’s easy to find something that fits your style and personality perfectly. And if you want to stand out at conventions, there are some advanced techniques like combining elements from multiple series into one costume or creating intricate props that will make your outfit even more impressive!
Video Game Cosplay
Video game cosplay is another popular type of cosplay you’ll find at a convention. Video game characters often have intricate and detailed costumes that can be challenging to recreate, but the end result can be very rewarding. If you’re a gamer, consider dressing up as your favorite character from a popular video game to show off your skills as a cosplayer.
This genre is a great way to show off your love for gaming and make a statement. Whether you choose to dress up as one of the iconic characters from a popular series or create an original character, video game cosplay offers plenty of opportunities for self-expression. You can even explore different subgenres such as fantasy, sci-fi, horror, and more by dressing up in costumes from various games within those genres.
You can also find inspiration in classic arcade games or retro console titles that are beloved by gamers around the world. And if you want to stand out at conventions, there are some advanced techniques like combining elements from multiple games into one costume or creating intricate props that will make your outfit even more impressive! Some people have even gone so far as to recreate entire scenes from their favorite video games with custom sets and props—it’s truly amazing what dedicated cosplayers can do!
My favorite part of doing video game cosplay is hearing all the people come up and tell me how much they love the game or how much they hate one specific boss. It’s just a great way to strike up a lot of conversations about a game that you are passionate about.
Movie Cosplay
Movie cosplay involves dressing up as characters from popular movies. Movie characters often have iconic costumes that are recognizable and fun to recreate. If you’re a movie buff, consider dressing up as your favorite character from a popular movie to pay homage to your favorite films.
This is a great way to show your appreciation for the characters and stories in your favorite films. Whether you choose to dress up as one of the iconic characters from a popular movie or create an original character, movie cosplay offers plenty of opportunities for self-expression.
You can also find inspiration in classic Hollywood movies or independent films that are beloved by fans around the world. And if you want to stand out at conventions, there are some advanced techniques like combining elements from multiple movies into one costume or creating intricate props that will make your outfit even more impressive! Some people have even gone so far as to recreate entire scenes from their favorite movies with custom sets and props—it’s truly amazing what dedicated cosplayers can do!
My favorite part of doing movie cosplay is getting recognition for my work; it’s fulfilling when someone comes up and tells me how much they appreciate my interpretation of a character or scene. It’s also just fun getting into character and interacting with other fans who share similar interests.
TV Show Cosplay
TV show cosplay involves dressing up as characters from popular TV shows. TV show characters often have distinct personalities and unique costumes that are fun to embody. If you’re a fan of a particular TV show, dressing up as your favorite character can be a great way to show your appreciation for the series.
TV shows will have a much larger cast of characters which is great if you are looking for someone who may be a background character and you want to make them more front and center. Whether you choose to dress up as one of the iconic characters from a popular TV series or create an original character, there are plenty of options for self-expression. You can even explore different subgenres such as comedy, drama, sci-fi, fantasy, and more by dressing up in costumes from various shows within those genres.
And if you want to stand out at conventions, there are some advanced techniques like combining elements from multiple shows into one costume or creating intricate props that will make your outfit even more impressive! Some people have even gone so far as to recreate entire scenes from their favorite TV shows with custom sets and props—it’s truly amazing what dedicated cosplayers can do!
My favorite part of doing TV show cosplay is seeing all the other fans who appreciate my work; it’s so fulfilling when someone comes up and tells me how much they enjoyed my interpretation of a character or scene. It’s also just fun getting into character and interacting with others who share similar interests.
Historical Cosplay
Historical cosplay involves dressing up as characters from history. Historical costumes can be very intricate and require a lot of research and attention to detail, but they can also be very rewarding to create. If you’re interested in history, consider dressing up as a famous historical figure to pay tribute to their legacy.
Choosing a historical cosplay can be a great way to learn about history and gain an appreciation for the past. By dressing up as famous historical figures, you can honor their legacy while also experiencing life in another period. You can choose to recreate exact replicas of historical costumes or take some creative liberties with your design depending on what type of look you’re going for.
No matter which route you choose, doing research is essential when it comes to historical cosplay. It’s important to understand the context behind each character and their clothing choices so that your costume accurately reflects their era. Doing research will help you create a more authentic experience and ensure that all elements of your costume are historically accurate—from the fabric used down to the accessories! Additionally, researching different eras will give you insight into how fashion has evolved, allowing you to appreciate both classic styles from centuries ago as well as modern trends today.
Steampunk Cosplay
Steampunk cosplay is a type of cosplay that involves incorporating elements of the steam-powered technology of the Victorian era into costumes. Steampunk costumes often have a lot of gears, clockwork, and leather. If you’re interested in the steampunk genre, consider dressing up as a steampunk character to show off your creativity.
Steampunk has a diehard and loyal community. This is a great way to express your creativity and explore different eras of fashion. It involves incorporating elements from the steam-powered technology of the Victorian era into costumes, such as gears, clockwork, leathers, and cogs. Steampunk costumes often feature intricate details that require a lot of research and attention to detail to create an authentic experience. You can choose to recreate exact replicas of historical costumes or take some creative liberties with your design depending on what type of look you’re going for.
When creating steampunk cosplay, it’s important to understand the context behind each character and their clothing choices so that your costume accurately reflects their era. Doing research will help you create a more realistic experience while also allowing you to appreciate classic styles from centuries ago as well as modern trends today. Additionally, researching different eras may give you insight into how fashion has evolved which could be useful when coming up with new designs for your steampunk outfit! Finally, don’t forget about accessories like hats, goggles, and jewelry – all these details can make or break a steampunk look! With enough creativity and hard work anyone can put together an amazing steampunk costume for conventions or other events!
Gothic Cosplay
Gothic cosplay involves dressing up in dark, Victorian-inspired clothing. Gothic costumes often feature corsets, lace, and dark colors. If you’re interested in the gothic genre, consider dressing up as a gothic character to showcase your love for all things dark and mysterious.
Gothic cosplay is a great way to express your love for all things dark and mysterious. Gothic costumes often feature corsets, lace, and dark colors that give off an eerie yet elegant vibe. When creating gothic cosplay, it’s important to pay attention to the details so that you can create an authentic experience. With enough creativity and hard work anyone can put together an amazing gothic costume for conventions or other events!
Superhero Cosplay
Superhero cosplay involves dressing up as your favorite superhero. Superhero costumes often feature bright colors, capes, and masks. If you’re a fan of superhero movies or comics, dressing up as your favorite superhero can be a great way to show your admiration for these iconic characters.
This genre of cosplay is great for people new to cosplay because there will be plenty of completely done-for-you outfits that are available for purchase from Amazon or Etsy. Additionally, there will also be options to buy specific pieces so that you can start on a very small budget.
When creating superhero cosplay, it’s important to pay attention to the details of your costume. Superhero costumes often feature bright colors, capes, and masks that create a bold and powerful look. You can choose to recreate exact replicas of the characters’ costumes or take some creative liberties with your design depending on what type of look you’re going for.
Fantasy Cosplay
Fantasy cosplay involves dressing up as characters from fantasy novels, movies, and TV shows. Fantasy costumes often feature elaborate designs, intricate details, and flowing fabrics. If you’re a fan of fantasy, dressing up as your favorite character from a popular fantasy series can be a great way to bring your imagination to life.
This is a great way to express your love for all things magical and mysterious. When creating fantasy cosplay, it’s important to pay attention to the details so that you can create an authentic experience. Costumes often feature elaborate designs, intricate details, and flowing fabrics in bright colors which give off a dreamy yet powerful vibe. You can choose to recreate exact replicas of historical costumes or take some creative liberties with your design depending on what type of look you’re going for.
Accessories like swords, shields, staffs, and wands are also essential components when bringing any fantasy character to life! But remember any of these items that could be considered weapons need to fit within the show’s guidelines. You will always want to check ahead of time before going to the event only to find out that a major accessory isn’t allowed.
Horror Cosplay
Horror cosplay involves dressing up as characters from horror movies and TV shows. Horror costumes often feature blood, gore, and scary makeup. If you’re a fan of horror, dressing up as your favorite horror movie character can be a great way to show your love for the genre.
This type is great for those who are looking to bring their favorite horror movie characters to life. Horror costumes often feature blood, gore, and scary makeup that creates an eerie yet fun atmosphere. You can choose to recreate exact replicas of the characters’ costumes or take some creative liberties with your design depending on what type of look you’re going for.
When creating a horror costume, it’s important to pay attention to the details so that you can create an authentic experience. Additionally, special effects makeup is also a key component in recreating these iconic looks as it helps give off an even more realistic vibe. You will want to make sure you practice using this kind of makeup before events so that your final look has maximum impact! Finally, don’t forget about adding sound effects or music which can help set the tone and create an immersive environment at conventions or other events!
Gender-Bent Cosplay
Gender-bent cosplay involves taking a character of one gender and presenting them as another gender. This can be a fun and creative way to put a new spin on a character and provide a unique and inclusive perspective. Gender-bending a character can also help break down gender barriers and stereotypes.
We’ve written a full guide to gender-bent cosplay if you’d like to hear more about our take on it.
Tips for Standing Out at a Cosplay Convention
Attending a cosplay convention can be a bit intimidating, but with a little preparation and attention to detail, you can stand out and make a statement with your cosplay. Here are some tips for taking your cosplay to the next level:
Research Your Character
Before you start creating your cosplay costume, make sure you do your research on the character you’re portraying. Look at reference images, watch videos, and read about the character’s personality and backstory. This will help you get into character and make your cosplay more authentic.
Pay Attention to the Detail
The details of your cosplay costume can make a big difference in how it’s perceived. Make sure you pay attention to details like accessories, makeup, and hair. Use high-quality materials and take the time to create a polished look.
Incorporate Unique Elements
Adding unique elements to your cosplay can help it stand out from the crowd. Consider incorporating elements like LED lights, special effects, or custom-made props. Just make sure the elements you add are appropriate for the character you’re portraying.
Practice Your Character’s Personality
To embody your character, it’s important to practice their personality. Watch videos of the character in action, practice their signature moves and gestures, and study their mannerisms. This will help you feel more comfortable in your cosplay and make a stronger impression.
Be Confident
One of the most important things when it comes to cosplay is confidence. Wear your cosplay with pride, and don’t be afraid to strike a pose or interact with other cosplayers. Remember, everyone is there to have fun and celebrate their love of cosplay.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cosplay conventions are a great way to express your creativity and showcase your love for your favorite characters. With so many different types of cosplay to choose from, there’s something for everyone. By doing your research, paying attention to detail, incorporating unique elements, practicing your character’s personality, and being confident, you can make a statement with your cosplay and stand out at the convention.
Also, if you are planning your first cosplay convention, we’ve written a full guide to that too. We recommend scaling back any outfit you are going to wear as it can be tiring to wear it for hours at a time. You can always add more as you get learn more, and you’ll likely see things at the con that you want to upgrade.
