Someone Else for a Day

Not many people will know about cosplay, however, it has been growing more and more popular over the years. It is something that sparks a great passion within me. I myself am a cosplayer and a seamstress - perfect combination if you ask me. It is such a unique art form, offers an escape from reality, has a strong community, and is excellent for EVERYONE.

Some people may not realize how expressive and artistic cosplay can be. Whether you want to be true to a character's appearance down to the last detail, or even mix it up a little or entirely, you have that freedom. The possibilities are endless when it comes to cosplay, and I absolutely love discovering new characters or designing a new twist to old favorites. There is always so much room for creativity, and as a seamstress, it offers so many opportunities for growth and challenges.

Along the lines of creativity is the theatrics that go along with cosplay. For me, it's an escape from the day to day drudgery. For a short time, you BECOME that character. However, there are those who dress up just for the fun of it, but also those who go that much farther and take on their personas. It's one of the things I love to see and experience at cons; the different characters being portrayed and interacting with them as if they are that character. I know personally whenever I cosplay, I feel like a celebrity. So many people come up and recognize your character. They ask for photos, a famous pose/catchphrase, and are so excited to see you. It warms your heart and feels exhilarating!

I think the thing that I love most though, is the community you enter as a cosplayer. No matter if your a novice or a professional, you are part of something bigger. With any community, yes there are those who will put others down, but I see so many people lifting others up and encouraging them. You can find so much help to increase your skills throughout this community. Not only that, but you find new, amazing friends as well. With these new friends and this community, you can perform group cosplays. Which to me is one of the best ways to cosplay.

Now some of you may be thinking, "I'm too old to be cosplaying, too young or, I don't have the right body type." But you would be incorrect. Cosplay is something for one and all. Whether you're 4-years-old or 90-years-old, tall or short, fat or skinny, dark or fair, it DOESN'T MATTER. Cosplay is for EVERY age, EVERY body type, EVERY skin color. Everyone! I've seen so many people worry about not being good enough for a cosplay, but then they go for it! The happiness and enjoyment on their face is the greatest thing and brings me even greater joy.

So if you have yet to cosplay, I highly suggest you get dressed up and get yourself to a con. I promise you won't regret it. You would be amazed how many different people enjoy cosplaying as they do. This beautiful but different art form will give you a great escape from your reality, even if just for a short time. It's worth every moment you experience.