What is Cosplay? Simply explained

What cosplay is all about is not just a flashy costume. Small details like contact lenses, make-up and accessories are especially important when cosplayers slip into the role of their favourite characters

What is cosplay: origin & meaning

This is what is meant by the term cosplay:

• Word origin: The word “cosplay” is composed of the English words “costume” and “play”. The term was coined in the 1980s by the Japanese director and publisher Nobuyuki Takahashi.
• Meaning: Cosplayers slip into the role of fictional characters, mostly from Japanese manga and anime, but also from comics, films or video games. To do this, they create elaborate and detailed costumes based on the appearance of their favourite characters.
• Methods: In order to make the cosplay look as true to the original as possible, a wide variety of manufacturing methods are used. The majority of the costume is usually sewn. Weapons, for example, are cut out of foam and painted, accessories are printed with the 3D printer and wigs are styled with scissors and hairspray. Finally, of course, the right make-up must not be missing.
• Presentation: Once the cosplay is finished, it is usually presented at fairs and conventions. It can be enough to simply walk around the grounds in the costume, but it is also possible to take part in competitions. Here the costume is shown off, for example, through short dances, small films or by re-enacting scenes from the original material.