Worthy of Cosplay?
You’re standing in the middle of the San Diego Comic Convention, surrounded by a dazzling array of cosplayers. Everywhere you look, there’s a Harley Quinn, a Deadpool, an Iron Man, and of course… Slave Leia. Now, ask yourself, would your character be among them?
It’s a question worth considering for any scribbler. Creating a character that not only lives vividly on the page but also translates into real-world recognition is a sign of powerful storytelling. If your character can inspire someone to spend hours (or even months) crafting their costume, you’ve done something right.
So, what makes a character visually unforgettable?
A Distinct and Memorable Look
Take a step back and analyze your character’s appearance. If someone were to describe them in just a few words, would they be able to conjure up a clear and specific image?
Some characters are instantly recognizable based on silhouette alone. Think of Darth Vader’s imposing helmet, Batman’s cape and cowl, or Captain Jack Sparrow’s braided hair and trinket-laden pirate ensemble. Lara Croft, anyone? Their looks aren’t just random. They’re carefully designed to be striking and iconic.
If your character’s visual identity feels generic, it might be time to revisit their design. Could you give them an accessory that becomes a signature? A hairstyle that defies expectations? A color scheme that makes them pop?
An Eccentric Personality That Shines Through
A truly iconic character has a personality that jumps off the page and onto the convention floor.
Beetlejuice and Willy Wonka have strong visual styles, but their eccentricity makes them stand out. They’re unpredictable, larger-than-life, and full of quirks that make them unforgettable. A great character doesn’t just wear their personality—it seeps into their every action, movement, and expression.
Does your character have a unique way of speaking? A mannerism that makes them unmistakable? A personality so bold that fans can embody them in a way that feels instantly recognizable?
The Proof Is in the Cosplay
San Diego Comic-Con is a great litmus test for which characters have made a lasting impression. Here are just a few of the icons who consistently dominate the convention floor:
Harley Quinn – From her jester outfit in Batman: The Animated Series to the roller derby look of Suicide Squad, Harley’s colorful aesthetic and playful (yet dangerous) attitude make her a cosplay staple.
Deadpool – The red-and-black suit, expressive mask, and irreverent personality make Wade Wilson a favorite among cosplayers looking to bring humor and chaos to the convention floor.
Lara Croft – Decades later, Tomb Raider’s leading lady remains a cosplay favorite with her simple yet striking outfit: a tank top, shorts, and dual pistols.
Iron Man – Tony Stark’s high-tech suit, glowing arc reactor, and sleek red-and-gold armor make him a larger-than-life presence at any convention.
Jon Snow – The fur cloak, the sword, the brooding stare—Jon Snow’s look is both simple and instantly recognizable, making him a go-to for Game of Thrones fans.
Make Your Character Stand Out in the Crowd
If your character were dropped into the halls of San Diego Comic-Con, would they turn heads? Would they inspire fans to bring them to life? Get this right, and they might give that harem of Slave Leias a run for their republic credits. Start thinking beyond the page. And remember, you’re not facing the blank page alone. You have your scribbler’s toolbox. So — ABS. Always. Be. Scribbling.
PS: If you’re a creator at SDCC and don’t want to get “stink-palmed,” keep walking, keeping your hands in your pockets, smiling, and looking around, but don’t make eye contact. :)
