Hey there everyone!
Queen E here with some more ideas for those looking to get started in cosplay. First things first, what is closet cosplay? Closet cosplay is when you use clothing and items you already have to make a cosplay outfit. No extra props or anything, just things you own currently. I’ve done a few and they were well received. A lot of times people forget that cosplay doesn’t have to be a perfect match to the character, getting a few components of the look can be just as good.
My first closet cosplay was Harley Quinn from the Birds of Prey movie. It was originally meant to be worn to Motor City Comic Con in 2020 but with the event being canceled, I decided to do a mini photo set in my living room instead. I had fun channeling her and was happy with the result. I wanted to start getting into closet cosplay more to help break my perfectionist habits in cosplay and it worked. Cosplay can seem intimidating if you think it has to be super detailed or accurate to the character. This isn’t the case. Cosplay, like any other type of art, is open to interpretation. You decide your style.
Closet cosplay is an easy way to start cosplaying because it can force you to think outside the box a little more to get the look you want or come up with your own interpretation of a character. I’ve seen many cosplayers create casual looks for characters outside of their usual costume. I’ve seen someone create a day-to-day look for Raven rather than her usual bodysuit and cloak. It can also be a way to stay within your personal budget. Speaking from experience, buying costumes can add up quickly. You can still be creative with your cosplay without breaking the bank and crafting skills aren’t a requirement either.
I want to encourage anyone interested in becoming a cosplayer to consider closet cosplay as a starting point. It’s a good starting point and can help tap into that creativity to help you begin your cosplay journey. Accuracy isn’t necessary for cosplay. If you make a look you like and the character comes across in some way that’s all that matters. There’s no right or wrong way to create a cosplay. Just make sure you’re having fun.
