Above all else, the costume makes up the overall look of a cosplayer. And regardless of the design and intricacy, costumes should be safe for you and for everyone at the cosplay convention.
One of the most popular character genres that cosplayers love to portray are superheroes. This article will show you how to design a superhero costume step by step. This article also shows that creating superhero costumes can be easy.
How to design a superhero costume: step by step
Creating a superhero cosplay costume can be tricky—it usually has to be visually interesting, but should not go overboard as it could look awful.
Choose the color scheme of the costume
Superhero costumes usually have only one or two colors. The colors should complement the powers of the hero.
Decide on the design of the costume
First think about and decide the overall fit before thinking of the other parts such as capes, logos, and mask. Will it cover the entire body? The final design of the costume will serve as the blank slate which you can work with.
Design the mask, if any
If the character you are trying to create wears a mask, the colors should go along with the costume body. Will it cover just the eyes or will it cover the whole face?
Work on the utility belt, if any
If you have decided on a character who wears belt, decide how will it look and what it will hold. Batman, for example, carries his signature weapon and tools on his utility belt.
Work on the superhero’s gadgets too.
Most superheroes have gadgets that they use in fighting evil. So, also create the gadget and include it in your costume.
Tips in designing a superhero costume
Creating a superhero costume is challenging. Experienced cosplayers understand this agony so they give tips to fellow cosplayers, especially beginners, in designing a superhero costume.
Be bold
You might be afraid that you are doing too much on your costume. Don’t be. Let your creativity flow so that interesting ideas can easily come out, without compromising the budget and functionality. For first-time cosplayers, it is recommended to start with outrageous superhero costumes.
With these kinds of costumes, you will be able to play with colors, styles, layers, patterns, etc., without having too many small details.
Look from the creator’s point of view
Putting yourself in the shoes of the creator, while designing a superhero costume, will make ideas come easier; it is a good jumpstart in designing your superhero costume. Also, consider the equipment of the character, the abilities of the superhero, and more.
Use extreme or excessive design with caution
Superhero costumes with excessive design elements such as bulky, pointy, wide, tall, etc. items, should be avoided or at least utilized carefully. These elements might get you stuck in doorframes or make you look ridiculous.
Leave accessories that won’t serve any purpose
Some superheroes have accessories that actually do not serve any purpose and can be left behind. These kinds of accessories should not be used because they don’t add to the overall costume. This way you can save time and effort, and give more time to work on the more important details of the superhero costume.
Have some reference pictures while doing the costume
Another tip when creating superhero costume, and any cosplay costume in general, is to have reference pictures of the character you are working on. Not just one, but have more reference pictures so you will be able to compare them and have more accurate details. Some pictures have different colors or designs than others.
Conclusion
There you have it! Creating your own cosplay costume is really challenging. It will take time, effort, and creativity, but it is most important to have fun while doing it—that’s the purpose of going to cosplay conventions.
Particularly in designing a superhero costume, the abovementioned steps and useful tips will help you get started. As a beginner, you might be intimidated by the challenge, but experienced cosplayers are always willing to give a helping hand and moral support. While you are having fun making your costume, you will find yourself immersed in the world of cosplay.
