What We Do in the Shadows Cosplay: A Comprehensive Guide
What We Do in the Shadows, the hit mockumentary series about vampire roommates, has captured the hearts of fans worldwide with its quirky humor and memorable characters. As the show's popularity continues to grow, so does the interest in cosplaying its iconic characters. This guide will explore various aspects of What We Do in the Shadows cosplay, from character options to costume sources, and provide insights into the world of vampire-themed costuming.
Popular Characters to Cosplay
The show offers a diverse cast of characters, each with their unique style and personality, making them perfect for cosplay:
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Nandor the Relentless: The former Ottoman Empire warrior with a penchant for elaborate capes and ruffled shirts.
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Laszlo Cravensworth: The flamboyant British vampire known for his ornate waistcoats and witty remarks.
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Nadja: The seductive Romani vampire with a taste for Victorian-era gowns and dramatic accessories.
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Colin Robinson: The energy vampire who drains others through boring conversation, often seen in mundane office attire.
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Guillermo de la Cruz: Nandor's familiar-turned-vampire hunter, recognizable by his glasses and sweater vests.
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The Guide: The Vampiric Council's representative, known for her distinctive headpieces and formal attire.
Nadja Cosplay: A Closer Look
Nadja's character has become a fan favorite, and her cosplay is particularly popular. Her Victorian-inspired wardrobe offers cosplayers a chance to embrace gothic glamour. Here are some key elements of a Nadja cosplay:
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The Dress: Nadja typically wears long, flowing gowns in rich fabrics like velvet or satin. Dark colors such as deep reds, purples, and blacks are common.
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Accessories: Ornate necklaces, rings, and sometimes a belt to cinch the waist are essential to complete the look.
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Hair and Makeup: Nadja's hair is usually styled in loose curls or an updo. Her makeup is dramatic, with dark eye makeup and bold lipstick.
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Fangs: No vampire cosplay is complete without a set of fangs!
For those looking to purchase a Nadja costume, there are several options available online. Amazon offers a "What We Do in the Shadows Nadja Cosplay Dress Victorian Costume Gown Vampire Halloween Gothic Costumes for Women" priced at $59.99. This costume includes a dress and belt, made of stretch gold velvet and satin. It's suitable for various occasions, including Halloween parties, themed events, and cosplay conventions.
When selecting a size, it's crucial to refer to the provided size chart, as sizes may differ from standard clothing measurements. The costume is available in sizes ranging from XS to XXXL, accommodating a wide range of body types.
DIY Nadja Costume
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, creating a Nadja costume from scratch can be a rewarding experience. YouTube tutorials, such as "Making Nadja's costume from What We Do in the Shadows part 1," offer step-by-step guidance for crafting authentic-looking costumes. This approach allows for greater customization and potentially higher quality results, though it requires more time and skill.
The Guide Cosplay
Another intriguing character to cosplay is The Guide. Her distinctive headpieces have sparked curiosity among fans and cosplayers alike. The Guide's hats are unique and vary in style, but they generally fall into two categories:
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A hat resembling a gable hood or Tudor hood, often seen in historical dramas set in the Tudor period.
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A truncated hennin or French hood with a veil, reminiscent of medieval European fashion.
For those looking to recreate The Guide's look, searching for "bishop's cap," "gable hood," or "French hood with veil" may yield helpful results. Some cosplayers have successfully created DIY versions using materials like cardboard, fabric, and tulle.
Crazecosplay.com: A Cosplay Resource
When searching for cosplay costumes and accessories, many enthusiasts turn to specialized online retailers. One such retailer is Crazecosplay.com, which offers a wide range of anime and cosplay costumes, including options for Halloween and cosplay conventions.
Crazecosplay.com has been in business for at least eight years, suggesting a level of reliability and customer satisfaction. The website offers tailor-made anime cosplay costumes, wigs, and accessories[6]. Their product range includes popular categories such as sexy cosplay, anime cosplay, and specific character costumes like the Mandalorian and Harley Quinn.
As of January 31, 2023, Crazecosplay.com had a global traffic rank of 1,299,743 and an estimated worth of US$39,497. The site receives approximately 2,404 unique visitors each day, indicating a steady flow of traffic and potential customers.
However, it's important to note that customer experiences with Crazecosplay.com have been mixed. Some reviews on Trustpilot express disappointment with customer service and product quality. As with any online purchase, it's advisable to research thoroughly and read customer reviews before making a decision.
Tips for Successful Cosplay
Regardless of where you source your costume, here are some tips to enhance your What We Do in the Shadows cosplay experience:
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Attention to Detail: Pay close attention to the character's mannerisms, speech patterns, and unique quirks. These details can elevate your cosplay from good to great.
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Props: Consider adding props like Nandor's sword, Laszlo's witch skin hat, or Colin Robinson's office supplies to enhance your costume.
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Group Cosplay: What We Do in the Shadows lends itself well to group cosplay. Consider coordinating with friends to bring the entire vampire household to life.
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Makeup and Special Effects: Experiment with pale makeup, dark under-eye circles, and even fake blood to achieve that authentic vampire look.
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Character Immersion: Watch episodes featuring your chosen character to perfect their accent and catchphrases.
Cosplay Community and Events
The cosplay community is known for its creativity and supportiveness. Joining online forums, social media groups, or attending local cosplay meetups can provide valuable insights, tips, and friendships. Many comic conventions and horror-themed events welcome What We Do in the Shadows cosplayers, offering opportunities to showcase your costume and meet fellow fans.
Ethical Considerations in Cosplay
When cosplaying characters from What We Do in the Shadows, it's important to be mindful of cultural sensitivities. Some characters, like Nandor, have specific cultural backgrounds that should be respected. Avoid cultural appropriation by focusing on the character's vampire nature rather than stereotyping their ethnic origins.
Conclusion
What We Do in the Shadows offers a rich tapestry of characters and styles for cosplay enthusiasts to explore. Whether you choose to purchase a ready-made costume from retailers like Crazecosplay.com or embark on a DIY project, the key to a successful cosplay lies in attention to detail and a genuine love for the character.
Remember that cosplay is about having fun and expressing your creativity. Don't be afraid to put your own spin on the characters while staying true to their essence. With the right costume, attitude, and a pair of fangs, you'll be ready to join the ranks of the vampire aristocracy – at least for a day.
As the What We Do in the Shadows fandom continues to grow, so too will the opportunities for cosplay and community engagement. Whether you're attending a convention, participating in a Halloween event, or simply sharing your cosplay online, you're sure to find a welcoming community of fellow fans eager to appreciate your efforts.
So, embrace your inner vampire, perfect your Nandor impression, or channel Nadja's fierce attitude. The world of What We Do in the Shadows cosplay awaits, offering endless possibilities for creativity, humor, and undead elegance. Just remember, as Nandor would say, "Fucking guy!" – cosplay is all about having a bloody good time.
