Is Cosplay Fashion?

Kimono Version of character Sinon of anime Sword Art Online, done by Ely Cosplay

Cosplay, the act of creating (or in some cases, buying) a costume to replicate an already-existing character as accurately as possible for an occasion other than Halloween, has risen in popularity over the past few years with the acceptance of "nerd culture". Cosplayers often create all aspects of their costume by hand, including: sewing their own garments, crafting armor from foam plates or cardboard, assembling jewelry, styling wigs or their natural hair, and applying makeup to change the appearance of their facial features. Some will then participate in professional photo shoots as their character or wear the completed look to a conference to meet others who share their interests and share cosplay tips and tricks. As a cosplayer myself, I have a great appreciation for the work and dedication it takes to make a complete and precise costume that is also wearable and functional, but looking beyond the craftsmanship, is it fashion?

Gladiolus from video game Final Fantasy XV, done by Leon Chiro

Google dictionary defines fashion as "a popular trend, especially in styles of dress and ornament or manners of behavior." According to this definition, it does seem to fid the category, but costly is not considered popular by all. Many people I have encountered in person and online discount it as juvenile, a waste of money and time, and abnormal to want to "play dress-up" when no longer a child and beyond Halloween. 

In my opinion, fashion is a statement of self-expression, a way to tell the world about yourself without opening your mouth (unless, of course, to show off a piercing or some grills), and for me, cosplay is self-expression. I'm a theatre major and a definite character nerd. That being said, if a character in a book, movie, TV show, or video game stands out to me as compelling, well-designed, or I simply like their look, I would like to embody them for a while, often at a convention. Then, I can meet people who also like that character or the media he or she (the character) came from, as well as share my passion for crafting and beauty. Because of this, I would say yes, cosplay is a form of fashion.

Weiss Schnee from the anime RWBY, by cosplayer Akaba Ritsu and photographer Lolita Ribeiro

What do you think? Have you ever cosplayed or know someone who has? I'd love to hear all of your opinions on this and look forward to any responses!


Photo links:
https://worldcosplay.net/photo/5695957
http://fashionablygeek.com/costumes/final-fantasy-xv-gladiolus-cosplay/
https://worldcosplay.net/photo/1286436