Picture this: You have successfully created a cosplay and are wearing it around a convention. You’re having a good time, buying some merchandise, seeing old friends, when someone asks for a photo. You happily oblige and put down your bag to pose. The photo is taken so you bend down to retrieve your bag when you hear a *RIIIIIIIIIIIIPPPPPPPPP*. Uh oh. Here’s some advice on what to do when a cosplay literally falls apart.
Can You Fix It?
Cosplay Crisis Kit
Something you should take to every convention; think of this as a first aid kit for your cosplay. Bobby pins, a needle and thread, makeup wipes, safety pins and any other extra supplies you have for quick cosplay fixes should go in here. Empty pill bottles are commonly used as containers since they are see-through making finding what you need easier. Even if your cosplay stays intact throughout the con, having this on you can put your mind at ease.
Find a Cosplay Repair Person
Some cosplay creators are content just fixing their own cosplay. Others want to help fix yours. You can find this person due to the huge sign they carry or shirt they wear that conveys “I Fix Cosplay!”. These people carry more serious repair supplies; duck tape, hot glue guns, velcro etc. They are also useful if you have no idea how to fix what broke. Creative solutions are cosplay creators middle name.
Go to a Cosplay Repair Station
The best conventions have an entire stand or room devoted to this type of emergency. Check the map or ask a worker for directions. Here is where the heavy-duty supplies are; sewing machines, clothes irons, hairspray, zip-ties, and so much more. And if you still have no idea how to fix that cosplay? You have now found a room full of people to ask for ideas.
If You Can’t…
So nothing in the cosplay repair kit worked, the cosplay repair person was all out of the material you needed, and even the cosplay repair station didn’t have that you need? Don’t give up. It’s time for plan B:
Replace It
You are literally at a convention. If your cosplay is popular and simple enough a vendor is most likely selling it. This goes for wigs and props as well. Head to the con floor and peruse the vendors for what you are looking for. You’ll have to pay but at least you can keep cosplaying.
Casual Cosplay/ Day Wear
Let’s say your wig and core accessories are still intact Try putting together a quick casual cosplay. Using any clothes you and your friends brought to the con, put together an outfit the character you’re portraying would wear. Then add the accessories and wig and ta-da! You still get to cosplay your character, just on their day off.
Mash Up!
One of the most unique and creative types of cosplay is when a cosplayer combines two characters into one. Look at the other cosplays you brought (or bought) at the con. See if you can combine what survived of the ruined cosplay with other elements and costume pieces. Combos that combine similar characters, like archers or crazy people, work pretty well.
The best piece of advice I can give you; take a deep breath. Sometimes what looks like a hopeless situation can be easily solved with some creative thinking, some patience, and a little glue.
