Playing dress-up isn’t just for kids anymore. No longer do we have to put away our desire to be a cowboy, superhero, or princess when we put away our childhood toys. People of any age enjoy the best cosplay events, such as comic-con gatherings and competitions on local, state, and international levels. What better way to enjoy a glimpse into another world than to step into the shoes, boots, or high heels of someone who is very different from us in our everyday lives. For some, after a time, their best cosplay personality may become an alternate persona, and attaching a cape or pulling on a visored helmet starts to feel like putting on a second personality and being our other selves—maybe even our true selves—at least for a time.

There is nothing more fun than joining other like-minded players at a gathering of multi-genre, pop-culture conventions where a medieval dragon queen strolls along beside Captain America and iconic anime characters bring wide-eyed, spiky-haired Japanese animation out of the screen and onto the streets.

When you decide to enjoy dressing up as a fantastical character for the first time or are ready to choose a new character to play at a cosplay event, Halloween, a Renaissance festival, Comic-Con, or just for fun, we’ve got you covered with a selection of some of the best cosplay-ware available today for men and women of all ages, sizes, and interests. Check it out and see whose shoes—or combat boots, or pointy-toed slippers—you are ready to step into next. As you read the following guide, weigh the pros and cons of each product against your preferences. Once you’re finished, you’ll be able to pick one of the best cosplays!

Editors choice

1. Miccostumes Men’s Midoriya Izuku Deku Cosplay Costume

9.25 / 10

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Fans of the manga and anime series “My Hero Academia” have found Izuku Midoriya to be one of the best cosplay characters for any cosplay event, comic-con, or Halloween. With the hero name, “Deku,” this is a hero who fights for justice using the passed-on “Quirk” of the legendary hero “All Might.” This feisty character is perfect for cosplay and playable by both males and females of all ages.

The Miccostumes Men’s Midoriya Izuku Deku Cosplay Costume includes two-piece pants and a top set with a sturdy zippered closure in a durable, sweatshirt-like fabric with comfortable stretchiness. It includes a detachable hood with ears, knee pads, a belt with storage pockets, gloves, ankle straps, and a respirator mask with eight breathing holes. The long kneepads extend to mid-thigh height. Just add a Deku wig to complete the look.

This costume is soft, comfortable to wear, and does not restrict movement. It’s perfect for playing out action sequences and comfortable enough for all-day wear at long events. It is available in X-Small through Large sizes. Unlike typical costumes, this Deku cosplay costume features a sturdy zippered closure rather than velcro, hooks, or snaps so you feel as secure as the hero himself.

This is one of the best cosplay costumes for fans of Midoriya Izuku “Deku” and “My Hero Academia and will be a hit at any event!

Key Features

  • My Hero Acadmemia’s “Izuku Midoriya” costume pants, top, detachable hood with ears and accessories
  • Includes belt with carrying bags, gloves, kneepads, and Midoriya respirator mask
  • Zippered closure
Specifications

  • Type: Costume
  • Material(s): Polyester knit, PU leather
  • Sizes: X-Small to Large
  • Brand: Miccostumes
Pros

  • Hood with ears is removable
  • Easy zippered closure
  • Utility belt has usable pockets
  • Comfortable, stretchy fabric
Cons

  • Not available in X-Large size
  • Wig is not included
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Premium pick

2. CosplayDiy Men’s Suit for The Winter Soldier

9.99 / 10

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One of the best cosplay suits for men is the CosplayDiy Men’s Suit for The Winter Soldier, “Bucky Barnes.” Marvel’s Bucky Barnes, after his transformation into “The Winter Soldier” assassin, is powerful enough to take on any adversary with his super-enhanced strength and cybernetic left arm, making this character a fan-favorite at any cosplay or comic-con event. Any man looks impressive in this fitted, futuristic costume with all of the accessories to complete the look.

The CosplayDiyMen’s Suit for The Winter Soldier is sleek, form-fitting patent leather with pants and a top including silver, super-powered left arm with a red star on the shoulder. The top has utility pockets and detachable chest straps. Gloves, face-mask, and shoe covers are also included so you have everything you need for the complete look for any event or Halloween party.

This high-quality patent leather costume is nearly Hollywood quality, so you will look like the real thing in this tough-looking costume. Best of all, there is one for men of every size. This costume comes in a full range of sizes from X-Small to XXX-Large. Custom-made sizes are also available so no one is left out.

The Winter Soldier is the best cosplay costume for any man who is a fan of Marvel comics. It’s comfortable enough to wear even through full-day events.

Key Features

  • Detailed, realistic “Bucky Barnes” The Winter Soldier costume
  • High-quality patent leather pants and top
  • Includes mask, gloves, shoe covers, and additional accessories
  • Includes utility belt
Specifications

  • Type: Costume
  • Material(s): Patent leather
  • Sizes: X-Small through XXX-Large and custom sizes
  • Brand: CosplayDiy
Pros

  • Full size range from X-Small to XXX-Large and custom sizing available
  • Sizes fit as expected
  • Close to Hollywood-quality costume
Cons

  • Makes a slight crinkling sound with movement
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Best value

3. Anogol Short, Green, Wavy, Cosplay Anime Wig with Hair Net Cap

7.50 / 10

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One of the best cosplay wigs for anime fans is the Anogol Short, Green, Wavy, Cosplay Wig. This wig is perfect for portraying many different anime characters, including Izuku Deku, the fun action hero of “My Hero Academia.” It features short, wavy, dark-green hair with the animated look that we love for cosplay events, comic-con, and Halloween.

Designed by professional cosplayers for wearability, this wig is cool and comfortable. It fits most head sizes with adjustable straps for a snug, secure fit. It includes a breathable hair-net cap to keep your hair neat and confined while you are in costume. Soft, side-padding ensures comfort even during all day-wear. The hair on this cool, quirky wig is soft, lush, and pre-styled so you can wear it right out of the box. The heat-resistant synthetic fibers withstand heat so you are free to style this wig with heat tools such as curling rods and hair straighteners to achieve many different looks.

The Anogol Short, Green, Wavy Cosplay Wig features a part-free style with slightly more length in the back. It has a darker green underlayer with spiked waves, and a spiky top for styling with or without bangs.

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Angol makes a variety of wigs for the best cosplay characters in fun anime style. Choose from 11 different wigs with a variety of lengths, colors, and styles to portray any of your favorite anime and manga characters. It’s adjustable, breathable, and comfortable. Best of all—it’s cool!

Key Features

  • Soft, synthetic wig for cosplay, comic-con, and Halloween
  • Fun, anime-style hair in short, spiky green and dark green shades
  • Includes stretchy net cap for hair
  • Elastic straps for size adjustment and side pads for comfort and stability
Specifications

  • Type: Wig
  • Material(s): Heat-resistant synthetic fiber
  • Sizes: Adjustable, one-size fits all
  • Brand: Anogol
Pros

  • Breathable hair net cap and wig
  • Withstands heat for styling
  • Easy adjustable straps to fit most head shapes
  • Works for males, females, and to portray many characters
Cons

  • Tangles easily
  • May shed hair
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4. Women’s Plus Size Daenerys Targaryen Dragon Queen Costume Bundle with Wig

9.90 / 10

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If you are a full-sized woman of today, the best cosplay costume for you is the shape-flattering Women’s Plus-Size Daenerys Targaryen Dragon Queen Costume. This costume comes in a bundle with the long, blonde, Daenerys-Style wig that makes any woman feel like a Queen.

The black Dragon Queen dress features a silky polyester underskirt and bodice of flowing black with long fitted sleeves with pointed ends. It has a zippered front closure so it’s easy to put on and take off. A black, faux-suede overskirt with outer shoulder pads and a hip-hugging fit flatters any shape. A detachable long red cape comes with a silver cord and O-ring attachment. Sling the cape over one shoulder with the silver cord extending in a cross-body style for a medieval look. Pair with black boots to complete the look. This dress is comfortable enough to wear for long events such as cosplay conventions, comic-con, or Halloween Parties. It’s also a great choice for Renaissance faires and festivals.

Included in this bundle deal is a “Daenerys Targaryen” style wig with long blonde tresses and a double ring of braids pulled back from the forehead and temples for the perfect Dragon Queen look.

This is one of the best cosplay outfits for plus-sized women in a beautiful but powerful Dragon Queen costume that will have you looking as commanding as you feel. It’s available in X-Large through XXX-Large and is sold in two options. You can choose to buy the bundle with the Daenerys wig or the costume alone.

Key Features

  • Women’s polyester and faux suede Dragon Queen dress
  • Detachable cape with silver cord and O-ring attachments at shoulders
  • Zipper-front closure
  • Includes blonde Daenerys wig
Specifications

  • Type: Costume
  • Material(s): Polyester, spandex, faux suede
  • Sizes: X-Large to XXX-Large
  • Brand: Fun Costumes
Pros

  • Exceptionally detailed and realistic with silver cord cape attachment
  • Bundle includes long, blonde, “Daenerys” style wig
  • Plus sizes are fit to flatter today’s women
Cons

  • Not available in small sizes
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5. Amscan Star Wars The Mandalorian Bounty Hunter Costume for Men

8.50 / 10

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Star Wars characters have been long-time favorites for cosplay, comic-con, and Halloween events for people of all ages. Nothing says drama, action, excitement, and beloved characters more than Star Wars. One of the best cosplay costumes for fans of Star Wars “The Mandalorian” is the Amscan Star Wars The Mandalorian Bounty Hunter Costume. This costume is a plus-sized, pull-on jumpsuit for large men. Big guys can stop worrying about squeezing into a tight costume and enjoy the roomy comfort of the Bounty Hunter costume for all-day wear—and look fantastic!

The Amscan Star Wars The Mandalorian Bounty Hunter Costume includes a one-piece suit with padded muscles and printed detailing on the sleeves, cuffs, chest, and pants for realism. The hook and loop closure is simple and comfortable. It features a detachable cape that’s long, well-made and drapes nicely. Also included is a helmet with facemask and crossover-style bandolier belt. The helmet is foam-padded for additional comfort. Just add boots and you are ready for any cosplay event.

The Bounty Hunter costume is hand washable and should be line-dried. The poly-knit muscle fabric is lightweight and breathable for all-day wear at lengthy events.

This may be the best cosplay bounty hunter costume in an affordable price range to please any fan of Star Wars, The Mandalorian!

Key Features

  • Star Wars Mandalorian Bounty Hunter Costume in plus size for large men
  • Muscled jumpsuit with detailed printing
  • Includes detachable cape, cross-body bandolier belt, and face mask/helmet
Specifications

  • Type: Costume
  • Material(s): Polyester
  • Sizes: Plus-Size for large men
  • Brand: Amscan
Pros

  • Easy one-piece jumpsuit-style costume
  • Plus size for comfortable wear for large men
  • Hand-washable
  • Easy hook and loop fastening
Cons

  • Does not include Amban sniper rifle
  • Only in X-large (plus size)
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6. Wish Costume Shop “Puella Magi Madoka Magica Kaname” Costume

9.00 / 10

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The fan-favorite anime series “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” provides some of the best cosplay ideas for women. This anime-culture phenomenon program, and several spin-offs, feature a cast of strong, magical female characters from the Madoka school who fight evil witches with their magical abilities. Each girl has special skills unique to their own personality. “Madoka Kaname” with her pink hair and school-girl style dress is a popular costume choice for cosplay events, Halloween parties, and comic-con gatherings.

This Madoka Kaname costume is surprisingly well-made and complete, with everything you need except the pink wig. It includes Madoka’s pink and white dress with princess sleeves, a decorative button-front bodice with ruffles, side bows, a heart cut-out on the upper back, and a short, fluffy white skirt. Also included is a poofy underskirt, or petticoat, to make the short skirt fluff out nicely. Best of all, the costume comes with all the Magica accessories, including gloves, knee socks, clip-on hair bows, and tie-on bows for the neck and legs. Just add a pink Madoka anime-style wig to complete the look.

The “Madoka Kaname” costume features high-quality uniform material in a durable polyester blend. The socks are nicely stretchy to prevent them from sliding down the calves. It’s one of the best cosplay costume ideas for anime fans and is easy to use and comfortable for hours of wear at any fun cosplay event. It’s available in a wide range of sizes from X-Small to XX-Large and custom-sizing is also available.

Key Features

  • “Madoka Kaname” costume from the Puella Magi Madoka Magica anime series
  • Includes dress, underskirts and accessories
  • Accessories include socks, gloves, and bows for hair, neck, and legs
Specifications

  • Type: Costume
  • Material(s): Uniform cloth- polyester blend
  • Sizes: X-Small -XX-Large + custom sizing
  • Brand: Wish Costume Shop
Pros

  • Hair bows have built-in hair clips for easy styling
  • Runs true to size
  • Petticoats are nicely poofy
Cons

  • Does not include wig
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7. Secret Wishes Women’s Kitana Mortal Kombat Costume

7.75 / 10

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The best cosplay for women who are strong, powerful, and sexy is the Secret Wishes Women’s Kitana Mortal Kombat Costume. Kitana is not only sexy and beautiful, but she is also a powerful defender of justice who uses her steel fans in hand-to-hand combat with her enemies as both a powerful weapon and as a tool for levitation. Kitana has long been a popular choice for the best cosplay costumes for women who want to portray a strong, beautiful woman.

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The Secret Wishes Women’s Kitana Mortal Kombat Costume is also sexy and strong, with sexy blue shorts and an apron with a satiny glow in durable polyester with just the right amount of stretch for a figure-flattering fitted look. The halter-style top with black laces fastens in the back and features a sexy plunging neckline. Also included are Katana’s accessories with a pair of gauntlets, armbands, headpiece, boot-covers that extend to mid-thigh, and a face mask. Not only is this Katana’s signature look, but the face-covering can also serve as a safeguard against airborne viruses.

The Secret Wishes Women’s Kitana Mortal Kombat Costume is a durable polyester fabric that’s sleek and shiny on the outside and includes a comfortable, skin-friendly lining. The costume is an officially licensed product from the Mortal Kombat franchise and is very comparable to the costume worn in the Mortal Kombat video games and movies.

This is one of the best cosplay outfits for any strong, proud, sexy woman to wear to a cosplay event, comic-con, or Halloween. Just add Kitana’s fans to complete the look.

Key Features

  • Costume with shorts, attached apron, and halter-style top
  • Accessories include armbands, gauntlets, boot tops, headband, and face mask
  • Available in sizes X-Small to Large
Specifications

  • Type: Costume
  • Material(s): Polyester
  • Sizes: X-Small to Large
  • Brand: Secret Wishes
Pros

  • Officially licensed from Mortal Kombat
  • Shorts leg length is adjustable by pulling legs up or down
  • Material is comfortably lined on the inside and smooth and satiny outside
Cons

  • Hand-wash only
  • Fastening hook quality on the top needs improvement
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8. Stranger Things “Eleven” Battle Shirt Costume

7.00 / 10

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The series “Stranger Things” has been a huge fan favorite since it debuted in 2016. Fans of all ages love this series for many reasons. It features the frightening supernatural, it includes a ragtag bunch of kids and their stressed-out single mother as well as a local cop, as the show’s unlikely heroes, and it harkens back to what in hindsight appears a simpler time—the 1980s. Characters from “Stranger Things” have been popular for fans of cosplay from the first season, and as the characters have grown and matured in their battles against evil, the costumes have as well. No character of the series is as mysterious and powerful as “Eleven,” who was captured and groomed for use as a weapon before her escape.

This costume features Eleven’s epic ‘80s-style battle shirt in a faux silk and cotton blend with front pocket and bold black on yellow print. It includes Eleven’s black eye mask and a pair of ‘80s-style suspenders. Just pair it with some black pants and you are ready to take on evil from another dimension—or at least look like you are as you enjoy any cosplay event or Halloween.

The Eleven battle shirt costume comes in a wide range of adult sizes from X-Small to XXX-Large. Not only is this one of the best cosplay costumes for coolness, but it’s also the best choice for those who want to be comfortable while they have a great time. It works well for either gender, with no worries about stiff, uncomfortable costumes. Instead, this is a simple, lightweight summer shirt that’s easily recognizable as the shirt Eleven wore when she began her epic battle in season three of the beloved series.

Key Features

  • Yellow and black shirt, eye mask, and suspenders
  • Cosplay costume representing Eleven’s battle shirt
  • Adult sizing in X-Small to XXX-Large
  • Faux silk and cotton blend fabric
Specifications

  • Type: Costume
  • Material(s): Faux silk, cotton
  • Sizes: X-Small through XXX-Large
  • Brand: Dark Paradise
Pros

  • Wide range of adult sizes
  • Suitable for males or females
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Bright, bold ’80s style colors are instantly recognizable
Cons

  • Fabric is thin
  • Pants are not included
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9. MapofBeauty Lolita Cosplay Wig

8.00 / 10

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One of the best cosplay wigs is the fun, flirty, MapofBeauty Lolita Cosplay Wig. A long-time favorite at cosplay and anime conventions as well as Comic-Con, this soft, silky wig with long, curly tresses completes any Lolita costume. It features a wig-cap with long bangs and two clip-on ponytails with exceptional fullness and length. At 28-inches long, the ponytails are thick, soft, and full, with luxurious curls and waves. The synthetic fibers look realistic without the overly shiny look that comes with some synthetic wigs.

The MapofBeauty Lolita Cosplay Wig comes in 21 bold colors from rouge-pink, light purple, and vivid blue to blonde, white, or jet black. Wear this versatile wig with or without ponytails. You can choose from many possible looks and styles. Wear both ponytails, weave the hair into long braids, or clip a single ponytail onto the back or side. You can enjoy a different style every time you use it.

The Kanekalon fiber hair feels soft and natural—more like real hair. Kanekalon is a high-temperature resistant synthetic fiber that can be curled or straightened with heat-styling tools under 248-degrees Fahrenheit. It is also washable. Simply soak in cold water with shampoo for five minutes and then rinse and air dry.

The MapofBeauty Lolita Cosplay Wig is one of the best cosplay accessories for any Lolita-style costume, offering versatility in styling as well as a complete array of color choices.

Key Features

  • Rouge-pink Lolita Cosplay wig with long, clip-on ponytails
  • Available in 20 bold color options
  • Thermostable material can be curled or straightened
  • Long, lush, and curly
Specifications

  • Type: Wig
  • Material(s): Kanekalon fiber
  • Sizes: 28″/70cm length
  • Brand: MapofBeauty
Pros

  • Washable, and withstands heat for curling or straightening
  • Soft and comfortable
  • Resists shedding
Cons

  • May be tangled out of the box
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10. Classic Japanese School Girls Sailor Dress Shirts Uniform

8.75 / 10

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The best cosplays are versatile and reusable for multiple events. The Elibelle Classic Japanese School Girl’s Sailor Dress is perfect for appearing at cosplay events or Halloween as your favorite characters from Sailor Moon, Cardcaptor Sakura, and other popular anime and manga school-based favorites. The sturdy 100-percent cotton two-piece outfit with accessories is breathable for all-day wear. It’s also washable and resists fading, shrinking, and tearing. The costume comes in a wide range of sizes to fit most users. Asian sizes run small so pay careful attention to the size chart details to find your perfect fit.

The Elibelle Classic Japanese School Girl Dress is actually a high-quality shirt and short, pleated skirt, both with easy zippered closure. The skirt has a back zipper and elasticized waist for a comfortable fit. The costume comes with interchangeable sailor-style cravat scarves in red or white. Choose the one you prefer or the color that best matches the clothes of the anime character you represent. A pair of black, over-the-knee schoolgirl socks with white stripes completes the outfit. All the costume pieces are perfect for wearing together as a complete outfit or add them to your collection for mixing and matching with other Japanese anime-style costumes.

The Elibelle Classic Japanese School Girl’s Sailor costume is perfect for all of your favorite dress-up events and comes in a zippered plastic bag that’s perfect for storing or transport.

Specifications

  • Type: Costume
  • Material(s): 100-percent cotton
  • Sizes: Asian sizes XS through 5XL
  • Brand: Elibelle
Pros

  • Available in a wide range of sizes
  • Choose between red or white sailor cravat
  • Zippered closure
  • High-quality fabric for skirt and top
Cons

  • Asian sizes run small so pay special attention to details before ordering
  • Both sock and cravat (scarf) material is a little thin
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When you are ready to choose the best cosplay character to depict at an event, there are many things to consider. Whether you are a fan of anime, Marvel, DC Comics, video games, or other pop-culture icons, there is a costume that’s just right for you—all you have to do is find it.

For many who enjoy cosplay, the fun of an event is not only enjoying a great time with other like-minded fans but also being chosen for photographs. The more people who want to snap a picture of you, the more you know you’ve chosen your character well and done a great job with your costume, makeup, and accessories.

So what’s the best way to choose the best cosplay?

Stay True To You

One of the best parts about cosplay is taking the opportunity to become on the outside, who you feel you are on the inside. Do you feel like you have an inner princess who is dying to come out? Then choose to be a princess for a day. Do you want to display your inner Jessica Rabbit with a sleek gown cut down to there and turn heads while you strut your stuff? This is the way to flaunt your figure without judgment. Do you feel like you could slay dragons—or raise dragons—if only you’d been born into a different world? Then now is your chance to step into the shoes and shields of an alternate persona and live in that world for a day. If you’ve always believed a hero lives inside you, cosplay is the way to bring that superhero out of your dreams, strap on a cape, and live the dream. If anime is your thing, then you can enjoy bringing the large doe-eyes and spiky, exaggerated hair off the flat screen and into full-dimensional reality.

How To Live Your Fantasy

Once you’ve chosen the perfect character, it’s time to find the best cosplay costume and accessories in your price range. You should also consider your own skill level when it comes to hair and makeup and beware of choosing something that you aren’t going to be able to pull off in the amount of time and money you have before your event. Either choose a costume that comes complete with many details and accessories, or something basic that you can add to and embellish to achieve the full effect if you are creative—as most of the best cosplay fans are. Of course, if you are great at dress-up and makeup, then the sky’s the limit, and you can use your talents to really get into character. You will know you’ve succeeded in bringing your character to life if people snap your photo or ask you to pose with them.

Whether you enjoy cosplay because you have a beloved character from a movie, anime, video game, or other pop-culture icons, or because you love to be the center of attention and have your photo taken like a celebrity, a cosplay event is the perfect place for you to live out your fantasy. Now that you’ve finished this guide, you can revisit our list of the best cosplays and find the perfect one for you!

FAQ

Q: What is cosplay?

Cosplay is the popular name for costume play for adults. In the west, the word is a convenient blend of the words costume play, but the term actually derives from the Japanese word, Kosupure. Cosplay refers to the fun and often addictive practice of adult dress-up for special cosplay events, conventions, parties, and Halloween. At the best cosplay events, people dress up in costumes, wigs, and makeup to portray their favorite fictional characters. Characters are often from Japanese anime, manga cartoons, and comics. Cosplay also includes dressing as characters from popular television series, movies, and science fiction books and movies.

Q: Why do some people love cosplay?

You’ll notice people who enjoy cosplay rarely attend just a single event. Many fans of cosplay attend events throughout the year, often traveling to reach the cosplay destination. The fun of dressing up for a day as your favorite character can be an addictive pleasure. Not only do you get to become someone else for the day, but it’s usually someone who is a fantastic fictional hero or an evil villain.

Attending the best cosplay events can make you feel like a celebrity. If your costume is impressive enough, people may want to have their picture taken with you or ask for an autograph. You can also enjoy meeting new people with similar interests as well as reuniting with friends you’ve met at various events.

Q: What are the most popular cosplay characters?

At any cosplay event, you’ll see a huge variety of costumes and character depictions, but there are also some popular favorites you’ll see regularly. Some very popular cosplay characters include Harley Quinn, Spiderman, Deku, Camie, Joker, Harry Potter, Doctor Who, and Wonder Woman. Characters from the Netflix series Stranger Things are also popular.

You can view the number of Instagram hashtags for each character and see at a glimpse how popular these characters have become. Instagram is also a great way to get the best cosplay costume ideas for each character.

Q: Is cosplay only for nerds?

There will always be people who consider dressing up in costumes as either for nerds, a hobby for people with too much time on their hands, or simply childish, but the popularity of cosplay events tells a different story. Dressing up as a favorite character can be incredibly freeing and fun. Many people consider it more than a hobby, but an art form. The work that goes into creating a noteworthy costume includes assembling or making clothing and doing makeup jobs worthy of Hollywood costume designers and makeup artists.

Passionists—as those with a true passion for the best cosplay are known—sometimes make cosplay their lifestyle, traveling to many events throughout the year as part of the cosplay community. Some people even make cosplay a lucrative career either by being a paid performer or by making costumes.

Q: Is cosplay expensive?

Cosplay is as expensive or inexpensive as you want to make it. Passionists may spend a great deal of money on detailed, high-quality costumes, wigs, and makeup, as well as travel expenses and hotel rooms to attend the best cosplay events. Others may buy, sell, and trade costumes to keep their cosplay expenses low and share hotel rooms with other cosplay enthusiasts to cut costs. Some only attend one event per year or only local events.

You can keep cosplay less expensive by dressing up and traveling within your budget. If you spend less on a costume, you can spend more on travel expenses, or work it the other way around, depending on what’s most important to you. 

While everyone wants to be the current most popular character, keep in mind that the trendiest characters often have the most expensive price tags for their gear. Choosing something unique can be cost-saving as well as attention-grabbing.

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