The meaning of cosplay, from the words costume play, is a performance art in which participants called cosplayers wear costumes and fashion accessories to represent a specific anime or comic character. The term cosplay was coined in Japan in 1984. However, the history of cosplay stems all the way back to 1st World Science Fiction Convention in New York City in 1939, where science fiction fans first started fan costuming.
What is cosplay?
What is the purpose of cosplay?
The objective of cosplay is not only to recreate the visual appearance of the character, but also to embody their personality and mannerisms.
Are there any dedicated cosplay conventions?
Yes and yes. While there are dedicated cosplay cons, at any anime convention or comic con show, you can be sure to see the best and most popular cosplayers in their self-created or commissioned cosplay costumes representing their favorite fictional characters. It’s huge, it’s international and it’s a celebrated phenomenon!
How to ask a cosplayer for a picture?
When it comes to taking pictures with a cosplayer, be sure to ask for permission to photograph them and respect their wish if they decline.
Cosplayers
As cosplay becomes more popular, you can also find very creative, talented, and increasingly famous cosplayers on Instagram, sharing their passion and art. Let’s meet the best cosplayers and cosplay community pages around the globe, including exclusive interviews with the best of the best.
More cosplayers
• Conventions dedicated to cosplay
• Cosplay models info
• Star Wars cosplay ideas & inspirations, Ghostbusters cosplay, & Transformers cosplay
• For more casual cosplay, check out our What to Wear Guide.
All the Best Cosplay from San Diego Comic-Con International 2022
Best Cosplay from Anime Expo 2022