Going to a convention can cost a pretty penny. Going to a convention in cosplay can cost you even more. Just as there are many ways to make a cosplay, there are many more to save money on them. These are a few ways that have worked for me:
Think Ahead
Budget
Go into your cosplay with a plan. Figure out the total price of the costume by tallying up how much each item will cost. That means everything– the costume, wig, makeup, and props. Certain pieces will likely be generic so you can shop around for the cheapest version. The more specific and unique the item, however, the more expensive.
Sales
If the convention is several months out, that gives you time to take advantage of sales. Check to see which holidays are coming up before the con. Then, cross reference that with websites and stores you need to buy pieces from. There should be some overlap. Buy the items on sale to save your self a little bit.
Re-Use, Reduce the Cost!
Planning out future cosplays you can reveal some overlap in simple costume pieces. Wigs, shoes, accessories, and leggings often fall into this category. Buy a basic but high-quality piece; Basic so it works with any cosplay. High quality so it does not rip the 2nd time you wear it
When Shopping…
Coupons and Coupon Codes
Craft stores like Michaels and Joanns have coupons you can easily find in the newspaper. If that’s not your style both these stores have apps you can download which list coupons and when they expire. For online shopping, try coupon code apps like Honey.
Compare Prices
All retailers are not created equal. When shopping online, compare different websites that carry the same or similar items. Often times, the first search result is more expensive than the one a few links down. Many sites also have the “List Prices Low to High” option on their search page. This can help ensure you didn’t miss a less expensive version of the item you want.
Go Generic Brand!
Yes, it is great to support big name brands, but generic brand costume pieces and materials cost less. Don’t do this on items you need to be sturdy like glue and safety pins. But for simple pieces or construction materials, basic is better. This goes for online shopping as well. Amazon has a lot of items but you can often find less expensive versions on sites like Wish or even the Google Shopping tab.
Get Creative
Dollar Stores
For those making cosplay from scratch, this can be a great place for basic construction materials that literally cost pennies. Didn’t know what you were going to make that belt buckle out of? Maybe you’ll find the material you need here. And if it doesn’t work? You only lost a dollar.
Let’s Go Thrift Shopping
This is very handy for pieces you could buy in a department store but don’t want to spend a fortune on. Suit jackets, long dresses, or any vintage clothes can bed found here for a fraction of the cost. This is a great place for finding inexpensive shoes or odd props. Even fabric! Go to their tablecloth section and see if they have one in the color you need.
Did I miss anything? Do you have a secret trick that saves your hard earned cash when cosplaying? Let me know down below!