Logan Voss
Cosplay is a fun activity for any entertainment fan. Whether it’s with movies, shows, or video games, cosplay allows anyone to express their creativity and make an authentic costume of their favorite character. Given that, these best cosplay ideas for beginners will make anyone want to check out their local convention and show off their flair. All of these are great ideas for anyone on any sort of budget.
Belle, from Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Belle is the principal character from the hit 1991 Disney film Beauty and the Beast. Belle travels to a castle in 19th century France where a beast holds her father captive. Throughout the film, Belle takes on many outfits, but her two most notable are her initial farm girl attire and her evening gown. The farm girl outfit consists of a blue dress, white shirt, white apron, and white bow. On the other hand, her dress is a full-length, yellow gown.
Ash from Pokémon (1997)
Ash Ketchum is the main protagonist in the hit video game and anime series Pokémon. As a young Pokémon trainer, it’s Ash’s dream to be the very best. He trains with his main Pokémon/sidekick/best friend Pikachu, an electric type. The success of both series has made Ash a notable figure in both Japanese and American popular culture. To replicate his look, one should look at the anime character rather than the video game character. The anime character wears red shoes, blue pants, and a blue-and-white-striped shirt. He also has black gloves and a red hat. While you can omit Pikachu from your costume, you can also throw him in as an accessory.
Chihiro from Spirited Away (2001)
In the 2001 film Spirited Away, 10-year-old Chihiro enters a mysterious spirit world after moving into a new neighborhood. It’s up to Chihiro to save her parents after a witch turns them into pigs and to return them all to the human world. Today, the movie holds critical acclaim, and many consider it one of the best-animated movies ever made. Fortunately, Chihiro’s design is simple. All you need is a white t-shirt with a green stripe across the middle and pink track shorts. Later in the movie, she wears a pink kimono suit with white shoulder straps.
Harry Potter from Harry Potter (2001)
This is another highly influential book and film series in the United States and worldwide. Harry Potter is a young boy who—to his surprise—discovers he is a wizard chosen to attend the specialized Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. It’s up to Harry and his friends to defeat the evil Lord Voldemort, who tries to kill Harry after previously killing his parents, and then attempts to take over Hogwarts. To create an authentic Harry Potter cosplay, you’ll need to get creative. An authentic Harry Potter costume includes a white button-down shirt, black pants, tie, and a black robe over it. Keep in mind, Harry had a Gryffindor emblem over his heart in the movies and books to symbolize his school house.
Rey from Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2007)
Lastly, Rey is the main protagonist for Episodes 7, 8, and 9 of the Star Wars film series. She originated as a scavenger from the planet Jakku who later trains to become a Jedi and serve with the Resistance against the First Order. Since her inception, moviegoers have praised the character for being a strong, female protagonist. Her costume is fairly simple: brown or tan pants, blouse, shoulder guards, and leather boots and gloves. You can even wear a leather belt and wrist wraps to further accessorize the costume.
