How to Cosplay When You're Plus-Sized
Cosplay is a vibrant and inclusive hobby that allows individuals to express their love for characters from various media. However, for plus-sized individuals, the journey can sometimes feel daunting due to societal pressures and limited costume options. This guide aims to provide comprehensive advice on how to cosplay confidently and successfully as a plus-sized individual, including tips on costume selection, customization, and body positivity.
1. Embrace Body Positivity
The first step to successful cosplaying as a plus-sized individual is embracing body positivity. Cosplay is for everyone, regardless of size, shape, or appearance. Remember, the essence of cosplay is about expressing your passion for a character and having fun. Here are some tips to help you embrace body positivity:
-
Follow Plus-Sized Cosplayers: Look up to plus-sized cosplayers like Ivy Doomkitty, Melissa Joy, and others who have paved the way and created a supportive community.
-
Ignore Negativity: Avoid negative comments and focus on the positive feedback you receive. Online communities like Reddit’s cosplay subreddit often emphasize that there is no such thing as being "too fat to cosplay".
-
Self-Affirmation: Regularly remind yourself that your worth is not determined by your size. Positive affirmations can help build confidence.
2. Choosing the Right Character
Selecting a character that resonates with you is crucial. While you can cosplay any character you love, choosing characters that complement your body type can enhance your confidence and comfort. Here are some popular plus-sized cosplay ideas:
Iconic Characters for Plus-Sized Individuals
-
Hagrid from "Harry Potter": Known for his large size and kind heart, Hagrid is a beloved character that plus-sized individuals can cosplay with ease.
-
Choji Akimichi from "Naruto": Choji is a well-loved character whose size is a part of his charm. His ninja costume and love for food make him a fun character to embody.
-
Ursula from "The Little Mermaid": Ursula's bold personality and iconic look make her a fantastic choice for plus-sized cosplayers.
-
Princess Fiona from "Shrek": As a strong and independent character, Princess Fiona offers a great option for plus-sized women looking for a recognizable and empowering character.
Customizing Characters
If you prefer a character that isn't typically plus-sized, consider customizing the costume to fit your body. This can include:
-
Modifying Designs: Adjust the costume design to better suit your body shape. For example, adding extra fabric for comfort or altering the fit.
-
Genderbending: Create a gender-swapped version of a character, which can provide more flexibility in costume design.
-
Alternative Versions: Consider creating a steampunk, modern, or casual version of the character to suit your comfort level.
3. Finding and Creating Costumes
Finding the right costume can be challenging, but there are many resources available for plus-sized cosplayers.
Online Stores
Several online stores specialize in plus-sized cosplay costumes. Some notable ones include:
-
CrazeCosplay.com: This site offers a wide range of plus-sized costumes, including popular characters like Wonder Woman, Kim Possible, and more.
-
Miccostumes: Known for their high-quality plus-sized costumes, Miccostumes offers a variety of options from different genres.
-
EZcosplay and AliExpress: These sites offer custom orders, which can be tailored to fit your exact measurements, though be cautious of return policies and quality.
DIY and Thrift Stores
Creating your own costume or modifying existing clothes can be a cost-effective and rewarding approach:
-
Thrift Stores: Look for pieces that can be altered or combined to create your desired costume. This method allows for creativity and customization.
-
Sewing Your Own Costume: If you have sewing skills, making your own costume from scratch can ensure a perfect fit. Remember to measure multiple times before cutting fabric and include seam allowances.
4. Enhancing Your Cosplay
Once you have your costume, consider these tips to enhance your cosplay experience:
Accessories and Props
-
Wigs and Makeup: High-quality wigs and makeup can transform your look and make your cosplay more authentic. Sites like CrazeCosplay offer a variety of wigs and accessories.
-
Props: Create or purchase props that complement your character. For example, a wand for Hagrid or a trident for Ursula.
Comfort and Fit
-
Undergarments: Invest in comfortable and supportive undergarments like Spanx, corsets, or push-up bras to enhance your silhouette and confidence.
-
Footwear: Choose comfortable shoes that match your costume. If your character wears heels, consider lower heels or flats for comfort during long conventions.
5. Navigating Conventions
Attending conventions can be both exciting and overwhelming. Here are some tips to make the most of your experience:
Confidence and Interaction
-
Confidence: Walk with confidence and own your cosplay. Remember, you are portraying a character you love, and that enthusiasm will shine through.
-
Photographs: Be prepared for photos. Practice poses that highlight your costume and make you feel confident.
Dealing with Criticism
-
Positive Mindset: Focus on the positive interactions and compliments you receive. Ignore any negative comments and remember that cosplay is for everyone.
-
Support System: Attend conventions with friends or join cosplay groups for support and camaraderie.
6. Resources and Communities
Joining cosplay communities can provide support, inspiration, and practical advice. Here are some resources to consider:
-
Reddit: Subreddits like r/cosplay offer a supportive community where you can share your experiences and get advice.
-
Social Media: Follow plus-sized cosplayers on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok for inspiration and tips.
-
Cosplay Forums: Websites like Cosplay have forums where you can connect with other cosplayers and share resources.
7. Final Thoughts
Cosplaying as a plus-sized individual is about embracing who you are and expressing your love for your favorite characters. Remember, the most important aspect of cosplay is having fun and feeling confident in your costume. With the right mindset, resources, and community support, you can create amazing cosplays that reflect your passion and creativity.
Cosplay is for everyone, and your size should never limit your ability to participate in this wonderful hobby. So go ahead, choose your character, create your costume, and enjoy the world of cosplay to the fullest!
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how to cosplay as a plus-sized individual. By embracing body positivity, choosing the right characters, finding or creating costumes, enhancing your cosplay, navigating conventions, and utilizing resources and communities, you can have a fulfilling and enjoyable cosplay experience.
