What is Cosplay?



Confused about cosplay?  Image by Greyloch

What is cosplay?

Cosplay (which some spell as cos play) is a sort of costume play, which is an activity where people wear a costume of a character.  The characters are frequently fictional. Sometimes the person will take on the persona of the character and act the part, but more often this will only be done infrequently during the cosplay.

Most cosplay happens in large groups or conventions at such events as Comic-Con or Kumoricon, where people with similar ideas and passions go to display their costumes, attend panels/workshops and enjoy time with friends.

Examples of cosplay

Sometimes seeing an example or two is the best way to learn/teach.  That being said, have some examples!

This is a cosplay.
These are also cosplayers, one of whom I went to college with.


This is not a cosplay.  Ever.  Excuse me while I throw up.

Why do people cosplay?

Very simply, it's fun.  Cosplaying gives people the chance to pretend to be someone that they ordinarily are not.  And for one weekend at a convention where most people cosplay, they get to be surrounded by like minded people who share their same passions and excitement for the characters they are dressed up as.

It's an excuse to forgo being an adult for a few hours, and to reactivate the vivid and active imagination of a child.

So it's a hobby and a way to relax.  Some people drink, others cosplay.  Some do both.  At the same time.  It's hilarious.

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