Choosing Your First Character

Choosing Your First Cosplay: Find What Feels Right

​

Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone.

​

It can feel like there's a mountain of options when you're picking your first cosplay—and no clear trail to follow. Maybe you're not sure where to begin, or you're feeling pressure to "get it right." Breathe. That’s what this resource hub is here for.

​

The truth is: your first cosplay doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to feel right for you—your energy, your budget, your comfort zone.

​

Before you dive into characters or costumes, let’s figure out what really matters most to you.

​

What’s Most Important to You? (Choose Two)

​

What will make you feel your best in cosplay?

When choosing your first cosplay, focus on the things that matter most to you. Everyone’s priorities are different, and that’s okay. Below are some important factors to consider. Pick two that feel like your top priorities right now:

•  Staying budget-friendly

•  Accuracy and detail

•  Building it myself

•  Buying something ready-to-wear

•  Using what I already own

•  Feeling comfortable in my body

•  Feeling connected to the character

•  Wanting to look great in photos

•  Standing out at a con or online
   

Whatever you choose—these are your guiding lights. Keep them in mind as you go forward. Your priorities matter just as much as your inspiration.

​

Budgeting for Your First Cosplay

​

Cosplay on Any Budget? Yes, You Can.

Whether you’re spending $20 or $200, cosplay is possible. Budgeting isn’t about limiting your creativity—it’s about choosing where to focus it. Here’s how to make the most of whatever you’ve got:

​

💸 Low Budget Tips (Under $50)

• Closet cosplay: Start with what you already own

• Thrift stores are your new best friend

• Modify basics with accessories or DIY touches

• Skip the wig—style your own hair if you can

• Borrow costume pieces from friends or local cosplay groups
   

💸💸 Mid-Range Tips ($50–$150)

• Buy costume base pieces, add custom details yourself

• Invest in a versatile wig that you can use for future cosplays

• Combine online shopping with local thrifting

• Prioritize comfort—spend on shoes or underlayers if needed
   

💸💸💸 Flexible Budget ($150+)

• Commission a cosplay or buy high-quality pieces

• Splurge on accurate props, detailed wigs, or pro makeup

• Consider investing in a high-quality base that you can reuse

• Don’t forget travel, badge, and con costs in your total!

✨ No matter your budget, your creativity is what brings cosplay to life.

​

Still Feeling Stuck? Take the Quiz!

​

Discover your cosplay energy.

​

Sometimes the best place to start is with how you feel. Our quiz will help you uncover your cosplay archetype—a vibe-match to guide your first costume.

​

[Take the Quiz: "What’s Your First Cosplay Vibe??"]

At the end, we’ll give you a description. Ask yourself: What character comes to mind when you read your result? That’s your first cosplay.

​

Let your creativity lead the way.