My friends and I love to cosplay and have fun themed dress up parties often, but at conventions I feel really self-conscious about being plus-sized. I want to be in costume with my friends at the next convention, but I'm worried about looking like a fool to the other people at the Con.
Should I dress up or just forget it and stick to nerdy t-shirts?
-Jitterbug
Dear Jitterbug,
Always. Just like Severus Snape or Katniss Everdeen, the answer is always.
Worrying about how you look isn't just a muggle problem, self esteem is an issue for grown-up geek girls too. First, remember that half the convention population is overweight and struggles with it. The other half is insecure about dozens of other body issues. You are not alone. Seriously, you're not going to Nerdy-Gras because you won a Miss America Pageant, you're going because you are a SUPER FAN.
That being said, here's how you can rock a plus size costume:
Always. Just like Severus Snape or Katniss Everdeen, the answer is always.
Worrying about how you look isn't just a muggle problem, self esteem is an issue for grown-up geek girls too. First, remember that half the convention population is overweight and struggles with it. The other half is insecure about dozens of other body issues. You are not alone. Seriously, you're not going to Nerdy-Gras because you won a Miss America Pageant, you're going because you are a SUPER FAN.
That being said, here's how you can rock a plus size costume:
1. What makes you feel pretty?
Start with an outfit that you feel good in and boosts your self confidence. Maybe your favorite LBD or killer pair of leggings. Use what makes you feel best and don't focus on the "barely a bikini" costume ideas.
2. Dress for your body type.
There are plus size characters in multiple universes and you already look the part. Work with what your mama gave you! Ursula is not a skinny twig and Velma is not flat chested. Crossplay offers even more character options.
3. Do it well.
You don't roll out of bed for a date or a party, so don't do it for a convention. Wear well fitting pieces and practice your makeup/hairstyle ahead of time.
4. Bigger is better.
Big hair and bold makeup will kick up your costume to the next level. A corset to play up your curves or sleek eyebrows will really really help you get in character. This is your chance to be over dramatic, so really make a strong statement.
5. Act the part.
You probably became a fan of a character because of their tenacity, loyalty, confidence, etc. Emulate that in your cosplay! The Lumpy Space Princess doesn't limp into a room - she stomps in. Fiona doesn't blend in to the background and neither should you!
Hopefully, this helps you get ready to cosplay at your next big event. Please believe that other geek girls will support you. You are not alone. We're with you. Always.
Sincerely,
Your friends at Geek Girl, Inc.
Start with an outfit that you feel good in and boosts your self confidence. Maybe your favorite LBD or killer pair of leggings. Use what makes you feel best and don't focus on the "barely a bikini" costume ideas.
2. Dress for your body type.
There are plus size characters in multiple universes and you already look the part. Work with what your mama gave you! Ursula is not a skinny twig and Velma is not flat chested. Crossplay offers even more character options.
3. Do it well.
You don't roll out of bed for a date or a party, so don't do it for a convention. Wear well fitting pieces and practice your makeup/hairstyle ahead of time.
4. Bigger is better.
Big hair and bold makeup will kick up your costume to the next level. A corset to play up your curves or sleek eyebrows will really really help you get in character. This is your chance to be over dramatic, so really make a strong statement.
5. Act the part.
You probably became a fan of a character because of their tenacity, loyalty, confidence, etc. Emulate that in your cosplay! The Lumpy Space Princess doesn't limp into a room - she stomps in. Fiona doesn't blend in to the background and neither should you!
Hopefully, this helps you get ready to cosplay at your next big event. Please believe that other geek girls will support you. You are not alone. We're with you. Always.
Sincerely,
Your friends at Geek Girl, Inc.
