If you’re a fan of anime and manga, cosplay is likely a passion of yours. Cosplaying is the art of dressing up as a character from a work of fiction, such as a movie, book, or video game. In this article, we’ll take a look at what it was like to be a cosplayer in the 2010s and hear about some of the struggles and triumphs that people faced during that time.
My First Cosplay Experience
As a young cosplayer, I remember my first experience with cosplaying fondly. It was 2013, and I had just discovered my love for anime and manga. I decided to attend Anime Expo, one of the biggest anime conventions in the United States, and try my hand at cosplaying.
I spent weeks researching different characters that I liked and finally settled on Saitama from One Punch Man. I purchased a costume online and spent hours studying how to put it together. When the day of the convention arrived, I felt nervous but excited to show off my new outfit.
As I walked through the halls of Anime Expo, I was amazed by the creativity and dedication that other cosplayers had put into their outfits. Some people had spent months or even years perfecting their costumes, and it showed in every detail. I felt a little overwhelmed by the talent on display, but I was also inspired to continue my own cosplay journey.
Struggles and Triumphs
Cosplaying can be a challenging hobby, especially when you’re just starting out. One of the biggest struggles that many new cosplayers face is finding accurate reference materials. Anime and manga characters often have unique features and details that can be difficult to replicate in real life. This can make it frustrating when trying to create a costume from scratch, but with some research and practice, it’s possible to overcome these challenges.
Another struggle that cosplayers face is the cost of materials. High-quality fabrics, patterns, and accessories can be expensive, especially if you’re working on a large-scale project. However, there are ways to save money while still creating a professional-looking costume. One option is to shop at thrift stores or online marketplaces for secondhand items that you can repurpose for your cosplay.
Despite the challenges, many people find great satisfaction in their cosplay journey. The sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a complex project and seeing it come to life is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, cosplaying allows people to connect with others who share their interests and passions. This can lead to new friendships and opportunities for collaboration and learning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2010s were a great time for cosplayers to explore new ideas and push themselves to create unique and memorable outfits. Whether you’re just starting out or have been cosplaying for years, there is always something new to discover and learn about this exciting hobby.