This week we’re shining our spotlight on DMV cosplayer Karla, AKA Kay or Karamel._.kappucchino (she/her)!
How long have you been a cosplayer?
I’ve been on and off, but actively I’ve been cosplaying since 2019
What got you into cosplay?
I can’t say there’s any specific thing that got me into cosplay. I was brought up in a family that watched anime so I was always around the media. It was growing up and being able to support the hobby on my own dollar when I really started down the rabbit hole. Been here ever since.
Do you make, buy, or is it a combination?
Combo! There’s nothing wrong with buying cosplay, especially the more intricate ones where skill level isn’t quite there to execute it properly or when you’re on a time crunch. Making them is an art of planning and making sure you have the time and material to do so. I’m telling you con crunching Thursday night in the hotel room will give you a headache like no other.
First cosplay?
Lady Ciel Phantomhive from Black Butler
Latest cosplay?
Hifumi Izanami from Hypnosis Mic (left on desktop, above on mobile)
Favorite thing about being a cosplayer?
Conventions. It’s a wonderful melting pot of talent and I love seeing all the foam builds, intricate makeup, cosplays from all the fandoms, and just being in a space where everyone has a collective understanding of the hobby we partake in. Stepping onto the con floor with a cosplay is one of the best feelings in the world and I hope everyone gets to experience it at least once.
Least favorite thing?
No one ever really talks about the drawbacks and there’s a lot. From predators at conventions, judgmental attitudes, time & money constraints, and the development of drama and internal issues, there’s a plethora of issues that culminate when 45k+ people gather in one place. While I stated that conventions are probably my favorite part of cosplay, I am hyper aware of the people that [sic] go to conventions for less than noble intentions. To harass, harm, or otherwise use the easy access to people as a means to gain fodder for their own interests, it’s an ugly underside that people might not be aware of. Another part of conventions are [sic] the judgement and unsolicited criticisms. It somewhat plays into body image issues. Whether it be artistic interpretation, appearance, and quality, these criticisms can also be internally reflected which can begin to create a sense of comparison which and demotivates people to pursue interest in cosplay.
What do you do for work outside of cosplay?
I’m an aide in a nursing home currently, but I’m taking a leave to swear in for the US military
What are your top 3 fandoms?
Genshin, Nu: Carnival, & Demon Slayer What cosplay are you planning next? Haumea from Fire force, Robin from Honkai Star Rail and Len Kagamine!
What’s one piece of advice for new cosplayers?
Cosplay is an art of time. Don’t be discouraged when things don’t work out the first few times. YouTube and TikToks will be your best friends and speaking of friends, network yourself to the best of your ability! The people you meet along the way will surely give great advice.
Where can people find you on social media?
Karamel._.kappuccino on Insta!
Below is a gallery of some of our featured subject’s cosplays! (All photo credits use the photographer’s Instagram handle.)
