Cosplay is receiving increasing recognition as an art form. It is also becoming a great profession for more and more people who make convention rounds with some of them even getting celebrity status as “professional cosplayers”. People who have brought this art form into limelight are indeed praiseworthy. However, some beginners and part-timers may feel a bit inferior against the pros though they have spent thousands of bucks and a number of hours in perfecting their look. The Las Cruces Anime Days convention is held every winter in New Mexico State University which attracts a horde of manga, anime and gaming enthusiasts, many of whom appear in full cosplay grandeur to participate in the manga costume contests, karaoke, “pose-offs”, dance contests, prop-making, a masquerade ball and dance, makeup workshops and cosplay. The following costuming tips are for the aspiring cosplayers from the participants of this 5-year old event.   1. Pose-off   Not only your costume but your pose is also important. Study different poses of the character you want to play and decide your posture. Visit FastCosplay for inspiration.   2. Think Overall   Don’t get pressurized with a thought of looking exactly as your character. Look at the character’s image and try to get an overall resemblance rather than thinking of perfectly matching every detail.   3. Go for Minimal Makeup   Don’t focus much on body makeup. As far as makeup is concerned, the less the better. If you try to layer it too much, it’s going to crack.   4. Materials for Props   When it’s about props, materials make a dramatic difference. Silver paint and PVC pipe are fine for getting a real good metal look. Remember that certain types of metals are not allowed in some conventions. Therefore PVC is a best choice. But even bakeable clay can also be your good friend.   5. One-size Larger Clothing   Skintight clothes will make you uncomfortable. So, always buy pants one-size larger than you wear every day.   6. Experiment with Your Looks and Have Fun   Instead of getting stressed up with whether you are looking perfect or not, experiment and play around with your look. That will make you enjoy the process which is the main aim behind cosplaying. So, have fun!   7. Pricey is Not Always the Best   Commercial,...