How to Approach Cosplay as a Beginner
1. Choose a Character You Love
Start with a character you feel connected to—whether from TV, games, comics, or books. This makes it more fun and motivating, especially if you’re new to crafting or performing.
Good beginner picks:
- Characters with simple outfits (e.g. Doctor Who’s Tenth Doctor, Star Trek uniforms, anime school uniforms).
- Casual or “everyday” versions of complex characters (e.g. “casual Leia” or “beach Loki”).
- Group or duo costumes with friends.
2. Decide on Your Level of Involvement
There’s no “right” way to cosplay:
- Closet Cosplay: Combine existing clothes + accessories (e.g., trench coat + Converse = Doctor Who).
- Ready-Made Costume: Buy a full outfit online or in-store.
- Custom or Handmade: If crafty, sew or build your own (start small).
3. Where to Buy Ready-Made Costumes (UK-Based or UK-Friendly)
Here are some beginner-friendly sellers with reasonable prices:
| Supplier | Description | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Escapade | General fancy dress but includes high-quality cosplay | www.escapade.co.uk |
| Coscraft | Great for wigs, accessories, and fabric—not full outfits | www.coscraft.co.uk |
| Etsy (UK sellers) | Good for custom-made pieces, wigs, or parts (filter by UK location) | www.etsy.com/uk |
| Amazon UK | Convenient for basics and quick delivery, but quality varies | www.amazon.co.uk |
| Morph Costumes | Costumes for adults and children | www.morphsuits.co.uk/ |
| Parkin Fabrics | Supplier of fabrics for experienced cosplayers and newbies alike | www.parkinfabrics.co.uk/collections/cosplay |
| Cosplay Supplies | From beads to bodysuits, and everything inbetween | https://cosplaysupplies.com/ |
| Rubies Masquerade | Costuming for kids and adults | https://uk.rubiesmasquerade.com/ |
Price Range for Ready-Made Cosplay
- Budget options (Amazon/fancy dress style): £25–£50
- Mid-range costumes (Cosplay.co.uk, Etsy): £50–£100
- High-quality/custom made: £100–£300+
Wigs, props, and shoes may add another £20–£100 depending on detail.
4. Small Upgrades Make a Big Difference
Even if you buy a budget costume, consider:
- Wig styling: Makes even a cheap outfit pop.
- Tailoring: Basic adjustments can massively improve fit.
- Makeup: Even light character makeup enhances immersion.
- Props: Simple items (sonic screwdriver, blaster, spellbook) help sell the look.
5. Cosplay Etiquette & Comfort Tips
- Wear comfy shoes – even under a costume!
- Bring a repair kit – safety pins, glue, spare thread.
- Ask before taking or posing for photos (and expect people to ask you too!).
- Don’t stress perfection – people admire effort and creativity at all levels.
- Check con rules on props and weapons – especially size and material restrictions.
Join Online UK Cosplay Communities
Find support, feedback, and secondhand costumes:
- Facebook Groups: “UK Cosplay Community”, “UK Cosplayers Buy & Sell”
- Reddit: r/UKCosplay, r/cosplay
- Discord servers: Many UK cons have official or unofficial servers