Kigurumi cosplay is a unique and fascinating form of costume play that has gained popularity both in Japan and internationally. This comprehensive guide will explore the origins, types, and cultural significance of kigurumi cosplay, as well as provide insights into where to find kigurumi costumes and accessories.
Origins and Definition
Kigurumi (着ぐるみ) is a Japanese term that combines "kiru" (着る, to wear) and "nuigurumi" (ぬいぐるみ, stuffed toy). In its broadest sense, kigurumi refers to costumed characters, but it has evolved to encompass several distinct styles of cosplay and fashion.
The concept of kigurumi cosplay originated in the mid-1990s, with roots tracing back to traditional Japanese performance arts like kabuki and bunraku. However, it was the company SAZAC Co. that is credited with popularizing kigurumi as a modern fashion trend, particularly in the trendy districts of Harajuku and Shibuya in Tokyo.
Types of Kigurumi
There are three main categories of kigurumi that have developed over time:
1. Animegao Kigurumi
Animegao (アニメ顔, meaning "anime face") kigurumi is a form of masked cosplay that originated from official stage shows of various Japanese anime. This style involves wearing a plastic mask, typically created through molding or 3D printing, along with a flesh-colored bodysuit known as a zentai or hadatai. The goal is to achieve a highly accurate representation of anime, anthropomorphic, or stylized characters.
Animegao kigurumi performers often portray female characters, though male characters and non-human entities are also represented. Some popular examples include:
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Kenshin Himura from Rurouni Kenshin
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Gundam Wing characters
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Deedlit or Pirotess from Lodoss
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Inuyasha from the manga of the same name
2. Kigurumi Masks
Kigurumi masks, also known as "animegao" outside of Japan, are a subset of kigurumi cosplay that focuses primarily on the head and face. These masks were initially worn at parties but have since become a popular form of cosplay for anime enthusiasts. In recent years, the range of characters represented by kigurumi masks has expanded to include non-anime characters, such as those from Disney's Frozen.
3. Kigurumi Pajamas
Kigurumi pajamas, or "animal onesies," are full-body costumes designed to resemble animals or cartoon characters. This style has gained significant popularity outside of Japan, particularly in North America and Europe. Kigurumi pajamas are often worn as casual wear or for lounging, rather than strictly for cosplay purposes.
Cultural Significance and Popularity
Kigurumi cosplay has become an integral part of Japanese popular culture and has steadily gained traction internationally. Several factors contribute to its widespread appeal:
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Versatility: Kigurumi can be worn for various occasions, from cosplay events to casual outings.
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Anonymity: The full-body coverage provided by kigurumi allows wearers to embody their chosen characters fully while maintaining personal privacy.
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Accuracy: Animegao kigurumi, in particular, enables cosplayers to achieve a high level of resemblance to animated characters.
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Comfort: Kigurumi pajamas offer a cozy and relaxed alternative to more elaborate cosplay outfits.
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Social media appeal: The visually striking nature of kigurumi costumes makes them highly shareable on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Kigurumi in Media and Performance
The influence of kigurumi has extended beyond the cosplay community and into various forms of media and performance art:
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DJ Minami Momochi performs in kigurumi outfits.
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American photographer Laurie Simmons featured kigurumi in a photo series.
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Japanese fashion model Lulu Hashimoto incorporates kigurumi elements in her outfits.
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Kigurumi cafes have operated in Japan, where waitresses dress in full costume.
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Netflix's "Midnight Asia" series featured kigurumi performers.
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Porter Robinson's music video for "Cheerleader" showcased kigurumi cosplay.
Creating and Obtaining Kigurumi Costumes
For those interested in kigurumi cosplay, there are several ways to acquire or create costumes:
1. Professional Mask Studios
As of 2018, there were six mask studios in Japan, as well as studios in Taiwan and the United States. These studios offer both custom and pre-designed masks, with prices ranging from 100,000 to 200,000 yen (approximately $910 to $1,819 USD).
2. Online Retailers
Numerous online stores specialize in kigurumi costumes and accessories. One such retailer is CrazeCosplay.com, which offers a wide range of cosplay costumes, including kigurumi-style outfits.
3. DIY Kigurumi
Some enthusiasts choose to create their own kigurumi costumes. This process typically involves:
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Designing or selecting a character
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Creating or purchasing a mask
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Sourcing or making a bodysuit
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Adding details such as wigs, accessories, and clothing
CrazeCosplay.com: A Closer Look
CrazeCosplay.com is an online store specializing in cosplay costumes, wigs, and accessories. While not exclusively focused on kigurumi, the site offers a variety of costume options that cater to anime and pop culture enthusiasts.
Key Features of CrazeCosplay.com:
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Wide Selection: The site offers costumes from various franchises, including popular anime series, video games, and Western media.
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Custom-Made Options: CrazeCosplay.com provides tailor-made costume services, allowing customers to order outfits fitted to their specific measurements.
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Accessories: In addition to full costumes, the site sells wigs, props, and other cosplay accessories.
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Seasonal Offerings: The store features special collections for events like Halloween, catering to both casual costume-wearers and dedicated cosplayers.
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Trust and Safety: CrazeCosplay.com has a reasonable trust score according to Scamadviser, with a rating of 75 out of 100. The site offers secure payment options and has been in operation for several years.
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Customer Reviews: The platform allows customers to leave reviews, although it's worth noting that these reviews are managed internally and could potentially be curated by the site owners.
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Blog and Resources: CrazeCosplay.com maintains a blog with articles on cosplay tips, DIY costume ideas, and pronunciation guides for cosplay terms.
The Future of Kigurumi Cosplay
As cosplay continues to grow in popularity worldwide, kigurumi is likely to evolve and adapt to new trends and technologies. Some potential developments include:
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Advanced Materials: The use of more breathable, durable, and realistic materials for masks and bodysuits.
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Augmented Reality Integration: Incorporating AR elements to enhance the visual impact of kigurumi costumes.
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Crossover with Other Cosplay Styles: Blending kigurumi techniques with other cosplay methods to create hybrid costumes.
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Mainstream Adoption: Increased acceptance and visibility of kigurumi in mainstream media and fashion.
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Sustainability: A growing focus on eco-friendly materials and production methods for kigurumi costumes.
Conclusion
Kigurumi cosplay represents a unique intersection of Japanese pop culture, performance art, and fashion. From its origins in anime stage shows to its current status as a global phenomenon, kigurumi has captivated audiences with its ability to bring animated characters to life in a visually striking and immersive way.
Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer looking to explore new techniques, a casual fan seeking comfortable and fun costume options, or simply curious about this fascinating subculture, kigurumi offers a world of creative possibilities. With resources like CrazeCosplay.com and other specialized retailers, along with a growing community of enthusiasts and creators, the world of kigurumi cosplay is more accessible than ever before.
As the boundaries between virtual and physical realities continue to blur, kigurumi stands as a testament to the enduring human desire to embody and celebrate the characters and stories that capture our imaginations. Whether on stage, at conventions, or in everyday life, kigurumi cosplay provides a unique and joyful way to express fandom, creativity, and individuality.
