Cosplay 101: Do you have to cosplay at comic con? No!
Alright, creative enthusiasts, let’s have a real talk about something that always sparks a debate in the cosplay world: Do you have to cosplay at a convention?
You know the ones I’m talking about is my cosplay friends who spend months meticulously crafting elaborate costumes for Comic Con and Anime Expo. It’s awesome, but this scenario brings up a question, is it really necessary to have fun? Do you have to cosplay at a convention? Is it a must?
Both experiences have their merits, and it all comes down to what kind of con-goer you are. There’s no specified rule that cosplaying is a requirement in order to get inside of the venue. First things first, we should analyze the pros and cons of cosplaying at anime convention to enlighten you.
Do you Have to Cosplay at Comic Con? Why you might consider to cosplay?
It’s a Creative Outlet Like No Other
Seriously, cosplaying is where your overloading talents will shine in the convention venues. Creative expression is one of the benefits of cosplaying. You get to transform into your favorite character, flex your costume you’ve always dreamed of. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of wearing a costume you made yourself or even you just bought it.
Supportive Community
The cosplay community is hands down one of the most welcoming and supportive groups you’ll ever meet in your life. When you’re in costume, you’ll instantly bond with other like-minded fellow cosplayers to make an eternity friendships.
This is one of the benefits of doing cosplay, a sense of community. Being surrounded by a fellow people that has a shared interests is such a good experience for your social life! Remember that sometimes there’s some toxicity in the cosplay community.
Next-Level Immersion
Cosplaying supercharge your convention experience from “fun” to “unforgettable.” You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world, have a nice conversations with other cosplayers, and create memories that’ll will put a smile on your face for years to come.
The Not-So-Awesome Things About Cosplaying
It Can Get Expensive: Let’s face it, some people doesn’t have an enough budget for recreational expenses like cosplay. Between materials, tools, and those little details that add up, you can easily blow your entertainment budget if you don’t plan your expenses.
Not to mention the time commitment, crafting a good costume takes serious dedication. Those scenarios I stated above is for those who will go through the DIY route. fact, cosplay is a very cheap hobby than what you think.
I gotch you! You just saw that the word ex*p*ns*v* is striked through. In fact, cosplay is a cheap hobby. Making your own cosplay might put a hole in your wallet in some cases (but not always). Thanks to Role Cosplay that motivates me to remove the E bad word and enlightened me that cosplay is not E word!
Fear not my fellow cosplayers. Role cosplay has a flash sale and you can start cosplaying for as low as 10$! By grabbing this great deal, you can cosplay in your next con without complaining about the cost. Use this promotional code: “fandangoblogs” to get 12% discount upon checkout!
The Pressure Can Be Real
As much as the cosplay community is amazing, there can be a bit of pressure to outrank everyone else. Trust me, I’ve been there. Sometimes, it’s nice to just relax and enjoy the con without worrying about having the most elaborate costume.
Comfort Isn’t Always a Priority
Those awesome costumes don’t always equal comfort. Let’s just say I’ve spent my fair share of conventions hobbling around in shoes that were way too small or sweating like crazy in a full-body suit. It’s all part of the experience, but it’s worth considering.
Some convention organizers are not investing for the venue’s air conditioning system. The more heat inside of the venue, the more your body will produce a sweat and make a bad body odor. I don’t bother if organizers that cannot fix the AC system in the venue are searching up the term, “Do you have to cosplay at a convention?”
Other Ways to Have a Killer Con Experience
Casual Cosplay Is Totally Valid
Don’t feel like cosplaying? No problem! Just wear simple cosplay wig and dress up like a normal person. This kind of cosplay style is also known as casual cosplay. This is the most cheapest way dip your toe in the world of cosplay.
Appreciate the Artistry
Even if you’re not cosplaying, take the time to admire the incredible work that other people put into their costumes. Chat them up about their process, compliment their details to make their day.
If you are passionate to support creativity of every people inside of the anime convention, have some time to explore the art alley. You will see a various art works from a talented cosplayers there!
Soak Up the Atmosphere
Conventions are packed with activities that don’t require cosplay. Go to panels, workshops, meet-and-greets, or just wander the exhibit hall and soak up the nerdy vibes. It’s all about having fun, after all.
In conclusion, do you have to cosplay at a convention?
The answer here is no. At the end of the day, cosplaying is a personal choice. Weigh the pros and cons, be honest with yourself about what you want out of your convention experience, and don’t feel pressured to do anything you’re not comfortable with. Whether you’re dressed as your favorite anime villain or just wearing a normal cloth, the most important thing is to have a blast and celebrate the things you love.