For first timers and veterans alike, it can be hard to stand out from the crowd at Comic-Con. Some of this is simply because of the sheer size of the event — The official Comic-Con International: San Diego site reports that attendance has exceeded 130,000 people in the last few years. So, if you really want to make an impression, here’s how your costume can stand out from the rest:
Before You Start
If you want to stand out from the crowd, you need to pick the right character. Even a casual search online will show you just how many slave Leias are at Comic-Con. Choose a character you like and feel good cosplaying as, and then put your own spin on it. Fortunately, cosplay culture is much more accepting about personal expression instead of slavish attention to detail. If you want to do a Steampunk Deadpool, go for it.
Remember, creating a truly superb costume takes time — so give yourself time. Rushing to make your costume the night before Comic-Con is sure to result in a sloppy costume. Before you start, find good reference pictures of your character from several angles so you can double check some of the details, such as if the Joker’s pants have back pockets.
During Your Creation
Making your costume stand out from the rest is often about subtle differences. If you are sewing your costume yourself, pay attention to the little things. For example, making sure the seams and hems are pressed so they don’t stand out is critical for the average superhero-in-tights costume to look right. But, if you aren’t making your own, find a full costume from a site like MorphCostumes. Either way, make sure the little things are on point without going overboard.
Additionally, if you’re going to use props, they need to be lightweight. You don’t want to be the cosplayer who looks completely exhausted before noon on the first day from dragging around a heavy sword or shield. If you plan to build your own props, consider using Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate Foam, or EVA Foam. This material is cheap, easy to work with and extremely lightweight, considering the bulk it provides. And, don’t worry about matching the foam color to your costume because you are going to paint over it anyway.
At the Event
Cosplaying can be intimidating if you aren’t used to being in a strange costume in the middle of a huge crowd. If you are nervous, have some friends dress up with you. Plus, conventions are always more fun with friends. Don’t be afraid to talk to other cosplayers, either. As a culture, cosplayers are friendly and respectful to one another, and they love to pose for photos. So, if you see someone with a costume from the same universe as yours, strike up a conversation. Convention friendships can last for years and help you to become a better cosplayer through the tips and skills you learn from each other.
No matter what you do at this year’s Comic-Con, have fun nerding out over some of your favorite shows, movies, games and comics.
