Cosplay Showcase: Rina as Lara Croft

So this week is Cosplay Showcase with Rina Love as Lara Croft! I think this cosplay is totally kick ass, and I think you guys will think so too!

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider Reborn

Photo by Riamux Creations

Why did you chose this character to cosplay. Why did you chose it for the showcase?

I chose Lara because she is one of my all time favorite action heroines. The costume is functional, easy to wear, and I just really enjoy being Lara. The game is a lot of fun too.

Photo by Riamux Creations

What was your construction process?

I thrifted the pants, found a top at Forever21 which I distressed using paints, oils, and fake blood. I cut holes in it to look like bullet wounds.
For the bandages I used scrap fabrics.
I spent months researching all of the angles, clothing, and accessories. I dyed my hair brown and grew my bangs out and used clip in extensions (human hair) For added length (I proceeded to purchase a wig for conventions down the line).
The boots I already owned.
The gun is an airsoft gun that's been disabled. 

Photo by Riamux Creations

I made the gun holster from a pleather mini skirt I found in the mall, hand sewn by me.
The watch was found on ebay.
The (not shown) walkie talkie was from my dad, who also made my climbing axe.
The bow I found on Ebay (Not shown).

I made my necklace as well.

Photo by Riamux Creations

The things you love about this cosplay.

All of my accessories and it's honestly a lot of fun to wear. It's extremely comfortable.

The things you hate.

Doing the makeup and putting on the wig can take a while.

Photo by Riamux Creations

A general closing statement and where one might find more pictures of this and other cosplays you’ve done.

Facebook and Deviantart! :) 

Photo by Riamux Creations

Man, I love all the details in this one. It looks awesome! And what an epic photo shoot! I hope you all enjoyed this Cosplay Showcase with Rina!

Next week I think it will be a general update. It's crunch time for Anime Oasis. Only a month away! And I have so much to get done! Gah!!

Until next time!

Edward

Cosplayer Interview: Rina

So this week it's Cosplayer Interview time with my friend Rina! I met her at Sakura-con 2012 at a Sailor Moon photo gathering. I saw her Small Lady and Super Sailor Moon cosplays there. I really love her work and she was super nice! We took photos in our princess dresses and now she shall always and forever be Chibi Usa in my mind. Haha. But she's done many other awesome cosplays that I can't wait to share with you guys! So, I'd best get on with it then!

Your name or Cosplay Name:

Katarina (Rina) Love

Photo by Riamux Creations

Age:
20

How long have you been cosplaying?

Since October 2009, so 3-4 years. Sakura Con 2013 marks my fourth year there!

What was your first cosplay?

Sailor Mini Moon! Halloween 2009. I went full out and dyed my hair pink and spray painted heel boots. We were going to a show/concert, but decided to bail because it was way too boring.

Chibi Usa (I love this one a whole lot~Edward)
Photo by Sarah Homeyer

Do you make your cosplays, buy them pre-made online, or have them commissioned?

I make most of mine, sometimes with friends help. I also thrift/shop around for items if it’s a casual outfit/look so I don’t have to make it from scratch! It saves me money.

Why do you cosplay?

Why not? I like attention, I like being creative, and I don’t mind being in front of a camera. I gained so many friends from cosplay that I cannot imagine my life without conventions these days! I started off modeling before cosplay, so with costuming I really got to put my sewing talents to the test and I’m constantly learning new traits. I love the challenges that new costumes can bring.

What is you favorite part about cosplay?

Hanging out with my friends and working on our costumes (or procrastinating on them).
Taking photos and feeling pretty, strong, evil, or however my character acts
Creating the costume and shopping for materials and doing the research.

What is your least favorite part?

Not having time to finish things or getting stressed out and a major break out RIGHT BEFORE CON. UGH. I hate acne. Also, getting ready the day of Con and having everyone else bother me and wanting my help to get them ready too. I am not your mother.

Lara Croft
Photo by Riamux Creations

Who is your favorite character to cosplay?

Lara Croft and Usagi/Chibiusa Tsukino! Those are my top three currently.

What is your favorite cosplay to wear?

Favorite?? Oh goodness. I really enjoy being Usagi Tsukino/Sailor Moon, but I also really enjoy being Lara Croft and getting dirty. I get to really show off my vulnerable and strong side. I love wearing boots and skirts.
WonderGirl is also super comfy, so I won’t be retiring that any time soon.

Wondergirl
Photo by Kindra

What is your least favorite cosplay to wear?

I made a costume for a friend that I only wore for 30 minutes and we never got photos together. I’m not sure I’ll bring it out ever again either. So I guess it would be Mana Ouma. 

What was the most complicated cosplay you’ve worked on?

So far I think Princess Serenity tops the charts on complicated. Oh man… Princess dresses just are so much fun but a pain in the ass. I also learned how to use boning, buttons as closures and it’s a no zipper dress. Lots of hand sewing was involved, and I styled the wig entirely by myself, as well as made the hair pearls. Wearing the wig and dress is also a monster, so I can’t wear it for long sadly.

Princess Serenity
Photo by Estelia Photography

What was the least complicated?

Sookie Stackhouse. It was basically put together by itself. As well as WonderGirl. Leggings and a tank top? YES!

What group cosplays have you been a part of?

Well I am currently a part of a Young Justice group, which is a lot of fun! Everyone is really nice, and they really care about the quality of their costumes. You can follow them on facebook at The Breakers Cosplay.
And I love being a part of really well put together groups without doubles. I also adore my X-Men group that I’m a part of, and we did that for ECCC 2013. 2014 will be even better! :D

What group cosplays would like to be part of?

It would be cool to have a giant functioning Disney group too at some point. As well as a FULL Sailor Moon group without doubles, I really hate doubles. 

Winter Tinker Bell
Photo by Fearless Photoworks

Who are some characters you plan to cosplay in the future?

Time for a list!
Eternal Sailor Chibi Moon and Moon
Angewoman
Gatoman
Super Girl
Nightwing (Genderbent)
Garret (THIEF)
Tinkerbell (all of her cute outfits!)
Megara
Oliver Queen-Green Arrow
Cinderella, and plenty more

What crossplay characters have you done or would like to do?

I did a semi-feminized version of Link for Halloween last year. I wouldn’t mind re-doing him for a convention though. But I tend to genderbend the characters without sexifying them instead of straight up crossplay. I just am not a fan of the whole flattening my boobs to look like a boy thing, and I have a booty!
I plan to do Oliver Queen from Green Arrow genderbent though! I’m really excited for that.

Who is a character people say you should cosplay, but you aren’t sure about?

I have gotten Saria from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Ivy from Soul Calibur 4. Neither of these characters appeals to me, so the chances of me cosplaying them are never.

What is your dream cosplay?

Super Sailor Chibi Moon, It’s not even hard, I just haven’t made it yet!
Otherwise I should probably look through my list and figure out who my dream costume is afterwards. ;D

Hope Summers
Photo by Fearless Photoworks

What is a cosplay you would love to do, but don’t feel you could pull off?

It’s not a matter of not being able to pull it off, as it is the funds to pull it off.
So Big Daddy (Bio Shock), Toothania (Rise of the Gaurdians), anything mascot related I just can not do!

In your opinion, what makes a great cosplay?

A great attitude, a well made costume, and making sure the costume is fit to your body. (Not overly tight or loose!)

At which conventions are we likely to see you?

Sakura-Con, PAX Prime, Emerald City Comic Con, Jet City Comic Show, and probably some others! ;)

Princess Small Lady (Forever my Chibi Usa~Edward)
Photo by Darkain Multimedia

Any advice to other cosplayers?

Don’t treat your cosplay friends like they owe you something or they’re your servants. The first few times they may be okay with letting you know tips, or helping, but don’t be a user. Don’t expect people to make things for you. Actually learn things for yourself and USE THE INTERNET. Google is your best friend.
Don’t have time to learn a new trade? Ebay and thrift shops can offer a plethora of finds if you’re willing to alter things!
When someone offers you a quote on a commission, be kind and respond with “Thank you”, if you decide to NOT go with them, be courteous and say “Thank you for your time, but currently I won’t be needing your services”. 

What are some other hobbies you have, other than cosplaying?

Hitting the gym, thrift shopping, dying my hair, and sometimes I game. I also love modeling and styling for photoshoots and being outdoors during the summer.

Magik
Photo by Darkain Multimedia

Favorite anime/tv shows?

I am a huge ARROW (CW) fan girl. So that’s one of my favorites. Sailor Moon is my favorite anime of all time, so that really doesn’t need to be said.
I also enjoy: Firefly, Supernatural, Adventure Time, and Regular Show, Digimon Adventure. And I watch way too much Disney!

Favorite movie?

Fifth Element. Cinderella, TinkerBell (series), The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. 

Favorite books/manga?

Manga: Sailor Moon. I don’t read much manga anymore aside from this. I read comics, so Uncanny X-Force, Uncanny Avengers, Old Man Logan (Wolverine), Cable and Deadpool. Fables. 30 days of Night. Can you tell I love Marvel?
Books: I haven’t read any in a while, but I really enjoyed the UGLIES series by Scott Westerfield.

Super Sailor Moon
Photo By Darkain Multimedia

Favorite video games?

Tomb Raider (series), Ratchet and Clank (series), The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Dance Central

Favorite color?

My favorite color is pink, but I also like blues!

Favorite food?

This is a hard one since I love a variety of foods! Cream of Spinach Soup and Broccoli and Cheese soup are amazing, and a grilled cheese. I also grew up on cheeseburgers, and love my father’s cooking!

Favorite desert?

Cookies. Seriously. These are my weakness!

Favorite curse word?

Fuck. It’s blunt and honest, just like me.

What are some websites where we can see more of you?

You can follow me on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RinaMeowsir or on deviantArt under Tarinalove. I update facebook before my other websites though!

Bonus pic of Rina and I as Small Lady and Serenity. ^_^

Yay!! See, she does lots more than moonie cosplays. But Small Lady will always by my personal favorite! I hope you guys enjoyed getting to know Rina! Next week is her Cosplay Showcase! And then maybe the week after I'll do an update. But the truth is.... I haven't been doing much cosplay stuff lately.
 But I'll tell you all about that in a couple weeks!


~Edward

CONsent and Sexual Harassment in Our Culture

So, I'm wondering to myself what I shall write about this week. And it seems that the big topic lately is the "CONsent" movement. Which I'm all for. And I think it's awesome that people are trying to bring awareness to this problem. I have experienced some harassment-- cat calls and such-- but nothing like the horrors I've heard about. I know one close friend of my mind that was getting her photo taken and the creeper told her they could go into a corner and she could flash him. She was so horrified she didn't even know what to say.

I think we can all agree that this kind of thing is really fucked up and should cease immediately. But I don't think it's a problem just within the cosplay community. It is a problem that exists within our entire culture. It is the same kind of attitude as "rape culture." That if a person is dressed in a particular way, they deserve a certain kind treatment. And it may be true, that if someone is wearing something revealing, they may want to be looked at sexually. But it is also true that they can wear those things, and not want that attention. One shouldn't assume what someone else wants or what kind of attention they are trying to get. As far as I know, know one is a mind reader. So saying you "know" what they want-- well, you are full of it. But what we CAN assume, is that no one wants to be raped or sexually harassed. Ever.

I can tell you that when I made my Sailor Moon costume, I didn't think about what sort of attention it might attract. I just wanted to be Sailor Moon and I wanted to portray her accurately. Well, 'accurately' means that my ass hangs out. A whole lot. (And just so everyone knows, I do wear a leotard underneath. And I'm fully aware that everyone can see it.) I guess I'm kind of naive, but I really didn't even give it a second thought. It was accurate. And that's what matters to me. So I was kind of surprised how often people would politely let me know that everyone could see under my skirt. And I am grateful that people are concerned and trying to look out for me. I guess they were worried that I would become a victim of sexual harassment. Which, aside from some whistles, hasn't really happened. And I'm grateful for that too.

Anyway, my point is, I didn't make my SM skirt short because I wanted people to look at my butt. I made it short because her skirt is really short. I don't "want" cat calls. I just want to be Sailor Moon. And I think that's what people are "looking for" when they wear revealing cosplays. They just want to portray that character the best way they can and have fun. That's kind of the point.

So, this isn't a cosplay community problem. This is a cultural problem. And a lot of attitudes need to change in our entire country for this problem to end. Cosplay creepers aren't the cause, they are a symptom of the disease. So if you want to see a difference, get political. Let our country know that this problem isn't acceptable. And make a stand. If you see someone getting harassed, speak up. Step in. I promise, you will be a hero to the person being harassed. I plan on going around the con with an eraser board that says "Cosplay =/= Consent." Because it's a small thing I can do to get the word out about this problem.

And if I see you harassing someone, in the name of moon, I will punish you!

I don't want to go on about this topic for too long. Because a lot of folks have already talked about it, and have made good points more eloquently than I can. So I'll end here. Next week I think I shall do a cosplay interview and lighten the mood a bit.

If you would like to share your experiences and have discussions, please feel free to do so in the comments below!


Edward

Tutorial Time: Sailor Moon Wig

Gaaaahhh!!! What is this?!?! It's Wednesday and I have not posted on my blog yet?? I know... I suck. But this week has been all kinds of screwy and I haven't been able to get to this until now. Curse you life!! 

But today I think I will start doing a new type of post. I wanted to start doing tutorials on a regular basis, but I just have yet to do anything that I think deserves a tutorial. And the things I have done, there are already tutorials out there for them. I would know, I used them! So I decided that instead of trying to come up with things to make a tutorial for, I'd just share all the awesome tutorials I've found in the past!

So today I bring you: Tutorial Time!! And we're going to kick it off with a moonie related post. Because Sailor Moon is kind of my thing. XD

This tutorial is on how to create Usagi's wig. It's posted by YouTube user Antiquitydreams. People have asked me several times how I created my Sailor Moon wig and I used this tutorial to create both Sailor Moon and Serenity. I think it's the best tutorial I've found so far.

Part 1

Part 2

I hope that some of you will find this helpful! I plan to post many types of tutorials. Whatever I find helpful. What kind of tutorials would you guys be interested in seeing? Do you have a tutorial you could recommend I post? Leave it in the comments!

And now I must pack so I can go out of town! I'm taking my laptop this time so I can do an update post while I'm away!



Edward

Cosplay Showcase: Narnian as Child Rydia

My wonderful husband got me sick.... again. This is the third time he's gotten me sick and I've about had it! *grumble grumble*
 

But onto happier things! Cosplay Showcase with Narnian!! Yay! If you guys didn't read her interview last week, you should! I hope you all enjoy!

Cosplay Showcase

~Child Rydia from Final Fantasy IV

Why did you choose this character to cosplay?  Why did you choose it for the showcase?  

~I chose to cosplay Child Rydia for two reasons: 1) I love her character. She is a very strong character, even as a child, and is one of the driving forces of the game. In addition, she is one of the best characters to have on your team, especially as a child, since she is both a white and black mage. 2) I love her design. Green is one of my all time favorite colors and her design is full of different greens.  ^_^

What was your construction process?

~Overall, my construction process was very simple. I made the leotard by phenagling my measurements onto the fabric and worked with it until it fit how I wanted. The skirt was made from a scrap piece I measured and cut into a rectangle and gathered on the side.  The sash is self-explanatory since it is just a rectangle knotted at one end. The shoes and bracelets were borrowed from a friend since I did not have time to make my own.  

My favorite part is the cape and beading. The cape was made from two lengths of organza like fabric and a necklace starter with added leafy beads. I burned the edges to keep the organza from fraying and add a worn look to nod to Rydia’s back-story. Afterward, I added beads and beads and beads. There are floral and leaf beads on the leotard, small gold beads on the skirt, and beads on her hair clip. I think the outfit needs more beads once I finish the shoes and bracelets. 

The things you love about this cosplay.

~The variety of colors and the detail work are what I love most about this cosplay.  ^_^ I tried to make it a very colorful cosplay to evoke a sense of childlikeness and festivity since I imagine the people of the marsh were a very festive and colorful people.  

The things you hate.

~To be honest, I do not really hate anything about this cosplay.  I wish the leotard construction was a little better and the outfit as a whole needs more beads.  Other than that, I really love this cosplay.

A general closing statement and where one might find more pictures of this and other cosplays you’ve done.

~Cosplay is about enjoying what you do and sharing that enjoyment with others in a polite manner. Do not be disheartened by looking at yourself and/or others. You will improve. Be diligent and take the time to learn. Remember that cosplaying is about having fun. It is not a popularity contest or competition. There are aspects of competition when you are in a formal contest, but that is not all the time. Cosplaying is about working at your own pace to be your best. You cannot be your best if you are worried about and/or comparing yourself to others.  ^_^

You can find more of my work at the following websites:

www.facebook.com/narniancosplay

www.ever-smiling.deviantart.com

Yay!! How lovely! I hope you guys liked reading about Narnian! I think she's an amazing cosplayer and she really inspires me! I can't wait to do more joint cosplays with her in the future!

Until next time!

Edward

Cosplayer Interview: Narnian Cosplay

So I'm going to start posting my blog Monday evenings instead of afternoons. I think it will work out better for me. So just expect later posts from now on.

Anyway! Back to the fun stuff! Cosplayer Interview!! Today is Narnian! This a friend of mine that I met at only my second convention. She's super talented at cosplay and I respect her skills very much! She's also a really great and sweet person and I am so glad we've gotten to know each other well! So I hope you all will enjoy reading about her!

Your name or Cosplay Name:  

~My real name is Anya (pronounced on-a, on-ya, or a-nn-a), but I go by Narnian among the cosplay community.  ^_^

Age:

~I am currently 20 though I will be 21 come April.

How long have you been cosplaying?

~It depends on how you quantify it.  My first cosplay was is 2008 for the Prince Caspian premiere, but my first con was in 2010 at Fandemonium.  I consider myself a cosplayer since 2010  because that is when I officially started cosplaying.  ^_^  Woo! Almost 3 years!

Belle- Beauty and the Beast (Library dress)
(I picked this photo cus I wuv disney stuff and she did an awesome job. XD)

What was your first cosplay?  

~My first cosplay was Susan Pevensie from The Chronicles of Narnia.  A friend of mine helped me make her battle outfit for the Prince Caspian premiere. It was a lot of fun, but thinking back I realize how much of a noob I was.  I didn't know how to sew so my friend made most of my outfit.  However, I did knit myself a "chain mail" hauberk of which I was very proud.  

Do you make your cosplays, buy them pre-made online, or have them commissioned?: 

~I make most of my cosplays.  Occasionally I will purchaise similar clothing items from the thrift store, if I do not wish to make it myself, and modify it if need be.  ^_^

Why do you cosplay?

~I cosplay because it is fun.  It is a positive way for me to express my natural talents and learned skills in a carefree environment.  For me it is an opportunity to set aside my introverted tentencies for a day or weekend, meet new people, and share my love of a certain character, series, or artist.  I really love it! 

What is you favorite part about cosplay?

~Hmmm...that is a tough question.  I think it is the immense creativity of the community.  Some of the most talented, creative, and unique people are cosplayers, and I love to see the work that springs forth from their efforts. It is a blessing to behold.

What is your least favorite part?

~I would have to say seam ripping, making shoes, and artist block.  I greatly dispise all three.  Also, I dislike having to wake early in the morning to get ready and or take pictures, but it is worth it in the end.  ^_^

Who is your favorite character to cosplay?

~Oh goodness, this is another tough question!  >_<  I like all of the characters I cosplay for different reasons.  For instance, I love to cosplay Toki from Princess Mononoke because she is one of the first characters I really liked and identified with due to her strong yet compassionate spirit. I also love to cosplay Toph from Avatar: The Last Airbender because she is a badass, and I love to cosplay Sheryl Nome from Macross Frontier because I see a lot of myself in her.   I have a special meaning behind and connection with each of the characters I choose.  (Special Side Note: I've noticed that I like to cosplay strong female characters and/or young/small breasted characters.  I have no idea why I choose the latter. >_< )

Toki- Princess Mononoke

What is your favorite cosplay to wear?

~Another tough question!  In all honesty, I cannot choose just one.  >_<  But for the sake of the length of the interview, I will go with Child Rydia since it is a (surprizingly) very comfortable cosplay to wear.  I always have a lot of fun when I cosplay her too.  It's so fun to act like a mature child sometimes!  ^_^

Child Rydia- Final Fantasy 4

What is your least favorite cosplay to wear?

~Hmmm...it is legitimate toss-up between Saria from Orcaina of Time and the Green Mage Viera from Final Fantasy Tactics Advance 2.  I chose Saria because her outfit is (surprizingly) very hot and uncomfortable to wear.  A thick sweater and tight boots do not make for a comfortable outfit.  Also, I chose the Green Mage Viera because I accidentally made the skirt too short so I constantly have to worry about moving correctly and not flashing people.

What was the most complicated cosplay you’ve worked on?  

~It's a toss up between the Green Mage Viera and Child Rydia.  The Green Mage was a complicated cosplay to make due to two factors: 1) I hand embroidered all the designs which took about 3 weeks.  2) It was my first time making boot covers, and I made them from non-stretch fabric of all things so they would match the outfit. So many tears went into those boot covers.  Child Rydia was a complicated cosplay to make due to all the beaded detail I put in it. (Special Side Note: I plan to add more beaded detail to the outfit in time as well as make a special pair of shoes.)  It was also my first time making a swim type suit which was a learning process in itself.  

Green Mage Viera- Final Fantasy Tactics Advance 2

What was the least complicated?  

~The least complicated cosplay I made was Toki from Princess Mononoke.  The hardest part of the cosplay was making sure I wrapped the head band correctly.  ^_^

What group cosplays have you been a part of?

~I love to cosplay with and in groups!  Doing so makes cosplay more fun for me.  ^_^  The groups I have been a part of are as follows: Avatar: The Last Airbender, Bunny Girls! (aka Final Fantasy Tactics Advance 2), ElfQuest, Final Fantasy V, Final Fantasy VI, LOTR/The Hobbit, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Princess Mononoke, Sailor Moon Princesses, and Spice and Wolf as well a original design fairy/fae group and a couple steampunk groups.  

I have plans to be a part of a Disney Dressphere, Monster High, League of Legends, Sword Art Online, Legend of Zelda, Persona 4, Soul Eater, Gerudo, Soul Calibur V, and Star Trek group in the near future. ( I mention that here since most of those cosplays are either in the works or finished and awaiting pictures.) 

Princess Mercury- Sailor Moon (Manga Version)

What group cosplays would like to be part of?

~I want to be a part of way too many groups.  Here are just a few of the ones I can think of at the moment.  Warning, I have a huge list.  ^_^  

Firefly, X-Men, Final Fantasy IV, Final Fantasy X, Final Fantasy XII, Final Fantasy XIII, Macross Frontier, full Princess Mononoke group, Slayers, Paradise Kiss, NANA, The Runaways, Scrapped Princess, Cowboy Bebop, Last Exile, Samurai 7, Wolf's Rain, Teen Titans, Digimon, Code Lyoko, SBFF (Batgirl, Super Girl, and Wonder Girl) and/or a EBFF (Poison Ivy, Harly Quinn, and Catworman) trio, Ah! My Goddess, ARIA, Dragon Age, Dragon Effect (I want a large group!), Mass Effect, Clannad (this will happen!), Otome Youkai Zakuro, Eden of the East, Soul Calibur IV & III, ... I know there are more that are not coming to mind.  What can I say, I love groups

Who are some characters you plan to cosplay in the future?  

~This is another huge list. My current work-in-progress list is as follows: Samurai Mulan, Chie Satonaka, Tsubaki Nagatsukasa, Lisbeth, Ghoulia Yelps, Lux~Lady of Lumonsity, Engeneering Officer, Aveil, Natsu (Soul Calibur not Fairy Tail), Wonder Girl, and Moonshade.

Eventually I would love to cosplay more characters, especially the following: Skuld, Akari Mizunashi, Kitty Pryde and/or Jean Grey, Susukihotaru, Sailor Mercury/ Ami Mizuno, Molly Hayes, Merril (Dragon Age), General Beatrix, Sophia Forrester and/or Lavie Head, Izumi Curtis, Sakuyomon, Kastumi Goto, and many more.  I also plan to make many other versions of Toph Bei Fong and Sheryl Nome in the future. 

What crossplay characters have you done or would like to do?  

~I don't crossplay since 1) it does not appeal to me, 2) it would take more effort than I would want to give, 3) I don't generally like male characters and/or outfits.  I am quite happy to cosplay girls.  ^_^  Howevere, if I were ever to crossplay, which I highly doubt will happen, I would cosplay Heihachi from Samurai 7 since he is among my all time favorite characters and was the first character to convice me to smile as a young teen.  

Who is a character people say you should cosplay, but you aren’t sure about?

~Haruhi Suzumiya from the Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.  Nearly everyone I know has mentioned that I remind them of her in one way or another and should cosplay her.  

Samurai Mulan- Disney Dressphere

What is your dream cosplay?

~I have many cosplay dreams, but my biggest cosplay dream is to cosplay at least one character from each of the main Final Fantasy games.  Another dream of mine is to cosplay Amano versions of Yuna from Final Fantasy X and Aerith from Final Fantasy VII.  

What is a cosplay you would love to do, but don’t feel you could pull off?

~This is an easy question.  ^_^  I would love, love, love to cosplay Fang from Final Fantasy XIII, but I feel as though I am not fit, tan, and tall enough to do her justice. ;_;

In your opinion, what makes a great cosplay?

~Care and attention to detail.  My favorite cosplays are the ones who remeber to add the one or two little details that are often overlooked.  

At which conventions are we likely to see you?

~I regularly attended Anime Oasis, Fandemonium, and Tomodachi Fest.  This year I will be attending Sakura-con as well.  Eventually, I would love to travel to other cons such as Anime Expo, Dragon Con, Comic Con, and many of the midwest conventions. 

Any advice to other cosplayers?

~Be respectful, polite, and courteous of others, cosplayer or not.  We are all here to have fun and let's keep it that way.  ^_^  

It's very, very helpful to give yourself too much time instead of too little when making a cosplay or prop.  Budgeting is very helpful though it may make you cry when you realize how expensive cosplay is every month.  ^_^  Cosplay is very expensive. 

Moss Fae - Original Design

What are some other hobbies you have, other than cosplaying?

~I knit and crochet regularly as well as participate in historical and steampunk costuming.  Occasionally, I will read comics, manga, articles, novels, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and wikis when I have the time.  I love to read more than I love to sew.  I used to have more hobbies, but cosplay keeps eating my time. 

Favorite anime/tv shows?

~Another list!  I love Cowboy Bebop, Samurai 7, Last Exile, everything by Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli, the entire series of ARIA, Princess Tutu, Otome Youkai Zakuro, K-On!, Clannad and Clannad: After Story, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, Lost Universe, Appleseed Ex Machina, Macross Fronier, Gundam Seed, Digimon (Seasons 1-3), Scrapped Princess, and Fullmetal Alchemist.  As for tv shows, I really like Firefly, Avatar: The Last Airbender, The Legend of Korra, Mythbusters, Andromeda, Star Trek, The Guild, and Code Lyoko.

Favorite movie?

~I really like The Lord of the Rings/The Hobbit, The Princess Bride, the Bourne series, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Wallice and Grommet, RED, Bulletproof Monk, the Zatoichi series, the James Bond series, the newest Star Trek movie, Seven Samurai, Serenity, Pixar movies, The Butterfly Circus, Tangled, Dark City, Dr. Horrible's Sing-a-Long Blog, and The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Favorite books/manga?

~I tend to read more books than comics and manga, but here are a few of each I like.  Anything by Steven R. Lawhead and Brian Jacques, The Crown Duel seies, The Runaways, Drama Con, and many individual comics. 

Favorite video games?

~I really like Soul Calibur, Mass Effect, Skyrim (I need to play more elder scrolls), Halo, Dragon Age, Final Fantasy X and IV, Kingdom Hearts (especially the first game), Yoshi's Island, and Super Mario Brothers.

Favorite color?

~I cannot choose one color over the other as they are all wonderful.  However, I am drawn to greens, purples, blues, oranges, red, and varying intensities of black and whites.  

Favorite food?

~Anything with dairy and starch.  I am especially fond of chocolates, pasta, cheese, and potatoes.  

Favorite desert?

~Cheesecake, ice cream/frozen yogurt, chocolate cakes, and eclairs.  

Favorite curse word?

~I tend to use the fabled four (damn, hell, shit, and ass) in various intensities.  I also like to make up incredibly odd and off the wall word conglomerates when I'm very frustrated. 

What are some websites where we can see more of you?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/narniancosplay

Deviantart: http://ever-smiling.deviantart.com/

Cosplay.com: http://www.cosplay.com/member/176572/

ACP: http://www.acparadise.com/acp/display.php?a=64677

World Cosplay: http://worldcosplay.net/member/narniancosplay/

I have a blog too, but I am currently locked out of it since my last email crashed.  You can view the blog here. http://www.costumecrazy.wordpress.com/

She's awesome! Her and I are actually collaborating on a few cosplays we are going to do together. We'll be debuting them at the end of this cosplay season and the beginning of next. I'm excited! I'll be sure to share them with all of you. ^_^

So be sure to come back next week to read Narnian's Cosplay Showcase!


❤Edward