Borrowing Skins: A Cosplay from Abroad By Indigo Mapa

Those who know me personally know that I’m a huge Satoru Gojo fan. From my two tattoos to my plethora of figurines to my Gojobubu that I got from eBay, everyone who knows me knows that my love for the character knows no bounds. Now, picture 21-year-old Indigo, abroad in  Germany, in the height of December’s biting winter. Then, imagine her entering her first European Comic Con in Stuttgart. I had high expectations because Europe had already exceeded all of the expectations I had beforehand. I was dressed as my own version of Mikasa from Attack on Titan, and brought my little Eren Funko Pop with me everywhere. Jujutsu Kaisen is a global sensation; most people who enjoy manga and anime know this. Even those who aren’t into either of those interests have probably heard of JJK. During my convention preparations, I figured that I would run into cosplayers dressed as characters from the series.

What did that mean? 

It meant that I made it my goal for the day to take a picture with as many Gojos as I could during my time at the convention. I was with my study abroad friends at that time, and they made sure to support my endeavor with zero judgment.

I was lucky enough to stay in contact with one of the Gojos. I wanted the scoop on the cosplay mindset and experience of someone outside of the United States. What I got in return was a raw, honest, and vulnerable interview from 16-year-old Riah. Here’s what she had to say…

What does the word “cosplaying” mean to you? How do you define it?

R: To me, cosplay means jumping into a character’s role you look up to or admire. You can be whoever you want and experience a whole other world. 

When did you start cosplaying? Do you remember your first cosplay? How long have you been cosplaying? 

R: I have been cosplaying since 2020. I think my first anime cosplay was Hinata from Naruto or Kenma from Haikyu!!, and now it’s been 6 years. But I first took it seriously last year. 

What made you start cosplaying? 

R: I love fantasy, and the thought of being someone else whom I look up to just made me really happy. I like dressing up and making things by hand; it’s been like that since I was a little kid. 

Do you have a favorite cosplay you’ve done? Explain the process of choosing that character and how you went about becoming them. 

R: Yes, I have a favorite cosplay. It’s my Izuku Midoriya cosplay from the Anime My Hero Academia. I made it by myself, it took a while - 4 months exactly - and I worked pretty hard on it. I’ve also spent a lot of money on the material, fabric, and stuff. It is very dear to me, and that’s probably because he’s my favorite character of all time.

Do you ever cosplay as a character you’ve created? 

R: No, I don’t cosplay characters that I have created. At least not yet, I’m thinking about making a Viking cosplay with a dragon, but it’s also inspired by Game of Thrones and How to Train Your Dragon. So I'm not sure if it's right to call it that way then. 

Do you make your own cosplays, or do you outsource to other artists and designers? R: I make my own cosplays. Costume - wig and props. All handmade. 

Have you gained any skills from your time cosplaying, such as sewing, makeup, wig styling, etc.? 

R: Yes, definitely, I got a lot better in makeup and a lot better in things like sewing and wig styling. I was horrible at the beginning, but it takes time.

What’s the best part about cosplaying to you? 

R: The best part is showing my handmade costumes to my family and friends. They’re all so proud of me and call it a special talent. Also, I love meeting other cosplayers and sharing our experiences to help each other. It’s just so cool seeing other people do the same thing - it doesn’t matter if they’re better or not - and it’s amazing what an amount of work they put into their outfits. It’s amazing. 

Do you feel connected to the characters you cosplay? If so, why? 

R: I have a deep love for my favorite shows, and I feel a connection indeed. But no romantic or strange one, I'm just glad that I found this side of the world because without it, I wouldn’t be me. 

Any favorite fandoms to cosplay from? 

R: My favorite fandoms? I’m not quite sure, but I have most cosplays from bigger anime like Jujutsu Kaisen, MHA, Haikyu!!, Death Note, etc. But I don’t care about the population, if I like an anime, then I do a cosplay - that’s how simple it is.

Do you have any rituals or routines that you go through when getting ready? R: Not really, perhaps that my friends are always staying over the night because they can’t drive home that late. But besides, I guess I always stand up way too early, so I have enough time to get ready and no stress. 

How has cosplay helped you navigate identity and confidence? 

R: It doesn’t, I’m not feeling confident at all, and I always, I mean always, think I am not enough. That my cosplay doesn’t look as good as I think it does, that my wig isn’t even, and that my makeup is crusty - I can’t change my mind on that. But honestly, meeting all these people that compliment me, that’s the reason I don’t give up. 

What do you think people misunderstand about cosplay? 

R: Most people think it’s cringeworthy and childish, that dressing up is only for little kids. My answer is, just let people do whatever the hell they want. That’s someone’s life, and they can decide what to do with it. If cosplaying is what makes them feel happiness, then let it be. It would be such a waste if everyone would be and like the same. 

Do you think there’s a difference between U.S. cosplayers and European cosplayers? R: No, every country has cosplayers, and they are all perfect the way they are. The only difference I’ve noticed is the number of conventions and their size. In my country, Germany, they don't have as many conventions as other countries. Sometimes I wish I could travel over to them just to be there for one day, that would be so cool!

What advice would you give to those interested in and starting in cosplaying? Especially for those who feel shy or embarrassed to do so. 

R: I would advise them to be themselves no matter what. Some people like you and some don’t, but it’s your life. Don’t be afraid of messing up, and don’t be afraid of trying something new. Cosplay needs time, and with each day, you get better at it. Everyone starts with nothing - if you really want it, then you will work for it. Don’t give up and follow your dreams!

Future cosplay plans that we should look out for? 

R: Future cosplay plans? I’m still working on that, and I can’t really see into the future because my ideas change pretty quickly. 

What are you currently watching, listening to, and/or reading? 

R: I’m watching Jujutsu Kaisen, the new season is really crazy, and the second season of the live-action of One Piece. Both are good series and full of fantasy. 

Any closing words or advice you’d like to share? 

R: For me, cosplay is also a way to escape reality. I am head over heels for fantasy and unrealistic things like dragons, fairies, elves, and a lot more. Our world is boring and pale; it doesn’t have what fantasy has– it’s something I can’t describe in words, but if I get the chance to leave this world, I would definitely take it. 

FOLLOW RIAH: 

https://www.instagram.com/raiyax._/

 By Indigo Mapa