Rejoice, Star Trek fans everywhere, as convention season is now upon us! From Star Trek cruises with your favorite actors to gatherings large and small, there are many ways to immerse yourself in the fandom experience. Cosplay is one exciting way to get into the spirit, and whether you’re looking forward to your first convention or you’ve decided to add the element of cosplay to honor a favorite character, the following tips can help you navigate the fun and fascinating world of choosing, making, and wearing your costume.
Embrace your cosplay
No matter what kind of costume you want to wear, embrace your ideas and don’t worry about what other fans and fellow cosplayers might think. This escape is often pretty personal, so make it about you and what you love instead of tailoring it to what’s popular. No matter your size, shape, or age, cosplay is for everyone, so wear your costume with pride!
Create a cosplay budget
One of the most startling aspects of cosplay for those new to it is the projected cost of a costume. Some require more parts than others; for example, a Star Trek: The Next Generation uniform will likely cost less than a Borg cosplay, which includes many details. As you plan your cosplay, begin with a list of items you need, their cost, and what you can afford to include. Creating a budget can prevent overspending, and you’ll need some spare cash for the merchandise floor!
Consider the venue
The size of the convention’s venue, wait times in line, and temperatures inside a venue can have a huge impact on whether you enjoy your cosplay experience. Some Starfleet uniforms, such as the “Monster Maroon” style that first appeared in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, have multiple layers that could make walking the convention difficult and uncomfortable. In my experience, the smaller the venue, the simpler the costume is a formula that prevents embarrassing sweat issues and leads to a better experience overall.
Venturing into the world of cosplay is both exciting and daunting, but keeping these tips in mind can help you feel more confident about taking the plunge. Remember, stay true to what you enjoy, cosplay for yourself, not to impress other fans, and most importantly, have fun!