Cosplay refers to wearing costumes in public for fun.
Many anime, science fiction and video game fans like to dress up in costumes from their favorite shows and games, especially at conventions. This activity is called "cosplay," which comes from a combination of the words "costume" and "play."
Character Choice
If you need a cheap and quick cosplay idea, start by choosing a human character from one of your favorite shows, games, books or movies. In general, it is easier to dress as a more or less average character than to come up with a costume for a god, a mascot or a military character. Consider characters like undercover cops and students in fictional schools.
Costume Essentials and Helpful Items
If you build up a wardrobe of cosplay basic items, it will be quick and inexpensive when it comes time to add props and finish off a costume. Men can often use white, long-sleeved shirts and jeans as the basis for cosplay ideas, while women often find crinolines and pleated schoolgirl skirts handy. Other helpful items include wings, animal ears, scarves, jewelry, leotards and other dancewear and wigs.
Quick and Easy Cosplays
Inexpensive cosplay ideas that can be pulled together at the last minute, especially if you have some basic elements on hand already, include superheroes in disguise, with hints of the superhero costume peeking through ordinary clothes; students from Harry Potter; and Pokemon trainers.