I have loved to dress up since I can remember. My favorite holiday was always Halloween and whether it was myself or my parents choosing my costume, it was always quite the affair. I’m pretty sure without any social norms (those suck by the way), I would be running around in some form of costume on a daily basis (tutu’s are functional, every-day wear). With that said, I am not crafty. Well, I am, but in the way I can use a glue gun and a pair of scissors. I cannot sew, nor do I really trust myself to get near a machine, despite the fact that I own one. You may think this makes me a cosplay failure, and maybe to some it does, but I have embraced my terrible home ec skills and have gone another route: store bought.
Store bought costumes not only save you stress, but also save your wallet! Here are some budget ways to make your store bought costume unique and creative;
1. Accessorize! Many store bought costumes just come with the basics or offer accessories as extras. Take that chance to skip out on the extra bits and find or make your own. For my Babydoll cosplay, I got my swords from Geek Chic HQ. They were extremely affordable, but definitely made a statement. Check out the rest of their swag – you’ll be impressed with their craftsmanship!
2. Use Your Closet! You may find functional pieces in your own wardrobe! Rather than buying a pair of black maryjanes I probably would never wear again, I opted for raiding my collection and finding a much better looking pair of black wedged booties (oldies from ShoeDazzle). They gave the same effect, but flattered the look. Sure, it wouldn’t be considered “accurate,” but these tips are ultimately for a more casual cosplayer like myself.
3. Makeup! Everyone knows the right makeup pulls any look together, and costumes are no exception. Reference character photos and look up YouTube tutorials if need be. For my Babydoll look, I knew I had to go with smoky eyes and a nude lip. Makeup was the last bit I added while getting ready, and I was shocked to see how it all came together the second I “put on my face.”
4. Swag! It’s all about the acting when you don cosplay. Get into character, don’t be afraid to be silly and be confident! Even while taking these shots, my husband was directing me to get into bad-ass-chick-with-swords-and-a-tiny-skirt poses, and at first I felt ridiculous. However, I eventually relaxed and was shocked with the final outcome. When I let go and tried to embody the little ass kicking persona that is Babydoll, I looked legit. I mean, do you see those squats? Hardcore.
5. Pick the right site! Not all costume sites are created equal. Make sure to shop around and find the right one with quality merchandise. My costume came from Costume Super Center, and I loved the product. For the price, it came with a lot of pieces, leaving me with a small laundry list of additional props and accessories. I also loved their selection of geeky costume options. Maybe one day I’ll be brave enough (& ripped enough) to don their iconic Slave Leia piece!
Sponsored post; Very special thanks to Costume Super Center, who provided my costume for me in return for this post. All opinions expressed are my own.
B. says
Since I cant’ sew, a lot of my pieces are bought. I always look for coupons or discounts before I buy anything though which always helps save a few bucks!
Jessica says
Nice costume! I’ve always bought my halloween costumes from stores too 😀 Maybe one day I’ll learn how to sew! Would be lots of fun!
Jessica
the.pyreflies.org
Kelsey | April Sprinkles says
Great tips! While it’s kind of funny to me to sift through all the “sexy” costumes, I think there are a lot of options out there for people who want to cosplay and don’t have the skills. And that’s completely okay! No one should be prevented from doing something they love because they’re not good at sewing. Who cares! You rocked that store-bought costume! 🙂 And you’re right, their geeky selection is pretty good!
Anonymous says
Glad I’m not the only one!
Anonymous says
Whew! I’m not alone 😉
Anonymous says
Isn’t it??
I completely agree about being able to cosplay no matter your expertise level – it’s all about expression and fun!
Nerd Burger says
Loved this post. It great to see all the options available for people. People can get caught up in trying to make everything when for many most of the fun comes from just being able to be a character for the day.