Need Help With Rainbow Dash Crossplay

[Sketchbeam 4]

I just need some tips on what type clothing I should buy and where I should get it that resembles Rainbow Dash's Equestria Girls blue jacket/outerwear. I've got ideas on all of the other parts already. Any help would be appreciated.

[Fhaolan 4,483]

That's actually kinda tricky, now that I'm looking. Most jackets *like* that one are either long sleeved and/or are hoodies, or are stupidly expensive (in the $100+ designer range).

If you're willing to do some modifications on your own, I would recommend going to a bigger thrift shop like Value Village or the like, and seeing what you can find with long sleeves, and shortening them. From the look of the thing, and Rainbow's style, I'm thinking a light fleece jacket will get you most of the way there.

[Sketchbeam 4]

Thanks. I found what you suggested, but wouldn't tailoring it be expensive? I have no skill in that myself; this would be my first cosplay. 

[Fhaolan 4,483]

As your first cosplay, I would recommend aiming for 'close' rather than 'precise'. Give the impression, rather than the image. Because of that, if you can get a long-sleeved jacket that looks reasonably close otherwise... just push the sleeves up.

 

Are you planning on the bicycle short/skirt combination?

 

Honestly, the hardest part of any costume where you're replicating a specific look is always the shoes. And the silly ultra-hightop boots all the EqG characters wear make it tough. You're probably going to have to compromise with regular blue converse high-tops, and rainbow socks.

[Sketchbeam 4]

I am planning on the short/skirt combo. Any tips on the cross play with the skirt? I found one that that resembles RD's online but I don't think it'll fit. Last time I went into an actual store to try on clothing, people shot me dirty looks. And as for the shoes, I found these silly looking converse sneaker boots online, so I think it will fit well. But the shoes are only women's, so is there a men's to women's size conversion or something?

Edited May 4, 2016 by Sketchbeam

[Fhaolan 4,483]

Technically there are conversion tables for shoes, but they're not much use as shoe sizes aren't consistent between manufacturers, or even between styles for the same manufacturer. The rule of thumb is that Women's Sizes are two number higher than the equivalent in Men's. So Women's Size 12 = Men's Size 10. However, a lot of running shoes are 'Unisex', meaning in that example they'll say Size 11. And then there's UK vs US sizing...

 

And it just get worse with other clothings, as the sizes marked on them are effectively meaningless due to Vanity Sizing. Clothing manufacturers discovered that many women will pay more for clothes that say they are smaller sizes than they actually are, so what 'size' any particular piece of clothing is, is mostly irrelevant. You have to try them on to know if they fit.

 

I recommend doing a websearch for "crossdressing sizing help". Most of those sites will go into more detail about sizing and whatnot than we can deal with here. Depending on your area, there might also want to search for 'costuming guilds', as their members will likely also deal with stage productions and the like. It's one of those rules, if you're an actor you will eventually have to dress in alternate gender clothing. It's just a part of the job.

[Sketchbeam 4]

Thanks for the sizing info and where to go for more info. Also there is one, awkward thing I wanted tto ask. I have breast forms. Should I wear them as part of the cross play? I'm going to Kansas City for Midwest Brony Fest and I'm wondering if I might get weird stares like in that store. I could just lose the skirt and go as gender bent RD, but I like cross dressing. Just wondering if anyone at the con might make it not so fun.

Edited May 4, 2016 by Sketchbeam

[Fhaolan 4,483]

I've not been to the Midwest Brony Fest, so I can't judge the audience there very well. Brony cons I have been to seemed to be very accepting across the board, but that isn't a guarantee for *all* Brony cons.

 

In general, however, as the Main 6 cast are meant to be a young teenagers and RD is meant to be sport-orientated, I wouldn't go with anything large in that area. Curves, yes, but not anything *too* big.

[Sketchbeam 4]

Good point; I'll have to consider that when assembling the costume. Thanks for the help. I'm just wondering if you've done cosplays? Are there any general pitfalls or things I should watch out for?

Edited May 5, 2016 by Sketchbeam

[Fhaolan 4,483]

Oh, heh. I'm what's called a 'Journeyman Costumer'. Meaning I've won enough regional costume contests that I am judged at a slightly higher level than a Novice, but I haven't won enough to be classed as a 'Master Costumer'. Mainly because I don't enter the competitions very often. I just like making stuff and dressing up funny.

 

Just recently I did Starswirl the Bearded at BABSCon. That went over well.

 

Okay, general tips and tricks: Remember that at Cons you'll likely be wearing the cosplay for extended periods of time. So if the cosplay is uncomfortable or restricts your vision or movement in any way you'll need to be able to cope with that for the several hours you will be wearing it. That's why many people with really elaborate cosplays have to have someone else with them at all times to help deal with things like stairs and doorways, as well as get them in and out of the costumes for things like going to the bathroom...

 

Costumers usually bring with them what's called a 'crash kit'. Basically it's a collection of bits and pieces necessary for emergency repairs if something goes wrong. At bare minimum, have a selection of safety pins available. Other things that end up in crash kits are things like crazy glue, extra buttons, needle & thread in neutral colors, touch-up makeup, a nail file, wrap bandages, tiny but sharp scissors, and so on depending on the elaborateness of the costume.

 

Oh, and because you'll be in the costume for extended periods, and many cons run for multiple days... make sure to have a bottle of febreeze or similar odor-neutralizing stuff that wont damage or discolour the material of the costume. For costumes that can't be properly cleaned for whatever reason, I tend to bring an electric kettle or steamer and put 50/50 vodka and water in it. The steam usually will kill odors and bacteria and rarely damages the material of the costume.

 

A lot of cosplayers like to be 'in character' all the time, but not all do. It depends on their personal preferences. Try to play along if someone is being in character, but don't be offended if they aren't.

 

Don't feel obligated to enter any cosplay contests. If you do want to do that, know that they often consume a great deal of time as you have to deal with a special registration process, judging, often a stage walkthrough, and then the actual going up on stage in front of an audience, etc. Bigger costume contests will sometimes also encourage some kind of skit or for you to provide a music intro/extro for your performance. This is all optional, and is often fun, but it will eat up con time.

 

Finally, most cons now have an announcement they do at the opening ceremonies or in the con booklet where they list all the panels. The announcement usually says something along the lines of 'Cosplay does not mean Consent'. It's unfortunate that it's necessary to make that announcement. If someone is being far too touchy-feely or trying to monopolize you, remember you can say 'No!' and call for con security for help if they get insistant. Just because you're dressed up doesn't mean you are there to entertain others.

[cuteycindyhoney 13,306]

Here's a tip. Most dry cleaners (on the east coast, anyway) will also do basic tailoring. It shouldn't cost too much to alter sleeve length. If you're adventurous, it's not that hard. If you can't sew, get yourself a tube of fabric glue. It can really simplify cosplay! You just have to measure out the length you want, and leave about an inch to make an inside cuff. This you just glue in place with the fabric glue. It's very easy!

 

As for breast forms. I don't think you'd need them to cosplay RD. I personally think it wouldn't look right with her high power sports persona.

 

*SNIP*

I haven't cosplayed in a while (anime only, no MLP) but it's good when cons lay down the ground rules.  People do get a little carried away. I always went with someone as back up, even though I never went so elaborate that I needed help changing or for bathroom breaks. Having a guy along sure cuts down on the touchy feely stuff!

Edited May 5, 2016 by cuteycindyhoney

[Sketchbeam 4]

All great advice. I just didn't realize there was so much to the art, then again please don't be offended by my inexperience. Although, should I invest in some makeup? From what both of you said before, and from what I know, I don't think it suits RD, but since I'm a guy, would it make the cross play look better?

[Fhaolan 4,483]

All great advice. I just didn't realize there was so much to the art, then again please don't be offended by my inexperience. Although, should I invest in some makeup? From what both of you said before, and from what I know, I don't think it suits RD, but since I'm a guy, would it make the cross play look better?

 

Nah, no offense. Makeup is a tricky thing, because in cases like RD it would help but you really have to know what you're doing. The idea is enhance things without making it look like you're wearing makeup at all.

 

Personally, it's one of my own weak points with respect to cosplay. I can do really basic concealer and eyeliner for stage purposes (to even out what the intense stage lights do to you), but I have to rely on my wife and friends who do stage makeup semi-professionally if I need to do anything more elaborate.

 

Again, for your first foray into this I wouldn't bother. However, it's a great conversation starter with other cosplayers at the con itself. It's one of those things that's easier to trade tips and tricks in person rather than online. Once you're at the con, see if they have what is often called the 'Headless Room'. That's where many cosplayers will retreat to to fix/adjust things so they don't have to go all the way back to their own rooms. 

[Sketchbeam 4]

Here's a tip. Most dry cleaners (on the east coast, anyway) will also do basic tailoring. It shouldn't cost too much to alter sleeve length. If you're adventurous, it's not that hard. If you can't sew, get yourself a tube of fabric glue. It can really simplify cosplay! You just have to measure out the length you want, and leave about an inch to make an inside cuff. This you just glue in place with the fabric glue. It's very easy!

 

As for breast forms. I don't think you'd need them to cosplay RD. I personally think it wouldn't look right with her high power sports persona.

 

Thanks for the tailoring tip, I was wondering how I might be able to alter clothes without commissioning people. The dry cleaner thing didn't even cross my mind--it's been so long since I've visited one. I'll also take your advice on your other tip; the reasoning definitely makes sense and I agree with it after reading it, I was just wondering since I've seen people do that for certain characters. And it would be cheaper too. 

[cuteycindyhoney 13,306]

Thanks for the tailoring tip, I was wondering how I might be able to alter clothes without commissioning people. The dry cleaner thing didn't even cross my mind--it's been so long since I've visited one. I'll also take your advice on your other tip; the reasoning definitely makes sense and I agree with it after reading it, I was just wondering since I've seen people do that for certain characters. And it would be cheaper too. 

Glad I could help. Don't forget to update us on your progress.

[Sketchbeam 4]

Glad I could help. Don't forget to update us on your progress.

Sure. I hadn't thought of it, but I don't see why not.

 

 

Honestly, the hardest part of any costume where you're replicating a specific look is always the shoes. And the silly ultra-hightop boots all the EqG characters wear make it tough. You're probably going to have to compromise with regular blue converse high-tops, and rainbow socks.

 

 

The idea I had in mind for these shoes probably isn't going to pan out anymore. I know you mentioned converse high tops, but would sneakers work as a cheaper alternative? I'm hoping it makes sense considering sneakers/tennis shoes are what athletes would wear. What do you think?

[Fhaolan 4,483]

 

 

The idea I had in mind for these shoes probably isn't going to pan out anymore. I know you mentioned converse high tops, but would sneakers work as a cheaper alternative? I'm hoping it makes sense considering sneakers/tennis shoes are what athletes would wear. What do you think?

 

 

I don't see why not. Hightops are basically just tall sneakers. Converse just happens to be the manufacturer I know that has them in multiple colors.

[Sketchbeam 4]

Glad I could help. Don't forget to update us on your progress.

 

There's a dry cleaners that does alterations within biking distance; thanks for that tip again, and so far I've ordered all of the items for the crossplay. I've just got to wait until they get here, within two weeks or so.

[cuteycindyhoney 13,306]

There's a dry cleaners that does alterations within biking distance; thanks for that tip again, and so far I've ordered all of the items for the crossplay. I've just got to wait until they get here, within two weeks or so.

You are very welcome! I really am glad my post was of help.

[Sketchbeam 4]

Well, it turns out that my idea for shoes actually does fit me. I'm pretty happy about that, and the socks, sweatbands, bike shorts, and sunglasses all have arrived. It's coming together. 

[Sketchbeam 4]

Glad I could help. Don't forget to update us on your progress.

 

Well, I have assembled the full costume. Would you want to see a picture so I could get tips? Also, I know that I wore the skirt wrong. : )

 

Just recently I did Starswirl the Bearded at BABSCon. That went over well.

 

You were are BABScon? I was at BABScon too! I wish I saw you, but then again I kept to the card game rooms. Is it possible to see a picture of your cosplay?

[Justin_Case001 4,881]

Hey there, @Sketchbeam!  Your topic was very interesting to me because I'm male and love feminine clothing.  I started off gradually a few years ago, and slowly got bolder and bolder, and now anyone who saw me would consider me a full fledged crossdresser.  (Although, I advocate that there is no such thing as crossdressing, but that's a whole separate topic.)  Anyway, I find it fun and exciting every time someone goes against social norms and experiments with fashion.

 

It sounds like you've got this costume all figured out, but for a general future tip, Amazon is my go-to place for most of my feminine wardrobe.  I find that, for the most part, if Amazon doesn't have it, then it doesn't exist.  The problem, of course, is not being able to try stuff on.  They have great return policies, but I've actually had amazing success with sizing.  I've bought multiple dresses and boots and never had to return anything.  It's a great resource.

 

Would you want to see a picture so I could get tips?

Well, I certainly would, anyway!  I'm curious how it turned out.

 

 

I know that I wore the skirt wrong. : )

   I didn't know that was possible.  How many ways are there to wear a skirt?  Lol.

 

 

Last time I went into an actual store to try on clothing, people shot me dirty looks.

Aw, see now that really sucks.  That pisses me off.  I actually haven't shopped much in physical stores for that very reason, but I want to, partly because I actually want to look for something to buy, but partly because it's just fun to walk around and shop in a store, rather than just sit here at my computer.  (Why buy the clothes at all if I'm not going to go anywhere?) For my whole life, I've always wished I could browse the women's departments and stores because I love the clothes so much, even if I'm not in the market to buy.  But I've always been afraid to, and figured I'd just get looked at sideways.  Now that I have a pretty substantial feminine wardrobe from Amazon, complete with lots of cute stuff, I'm hoping that I can shop around in stores while wearing some of this stuff, and maybe women won't mind.  My instincts tell me that if I'm wearing baggy cargo pants and loose t-shirts, women probably either find me threatening or think I'm just there to hit on them and such.  Perhaps if I'm wearing one of my feminine outfits, they'll feel more at ease.  (Oh, I'm growing my hair out to look like Snow from FF Lighting Returns.  That outta help, too.)  Or maybe it will all have the reverse effect and blow up in my face.  Idk.  Or maybe women will just think I'm gay, which wouldn't bother me, as long as they don't mind me shopping in their dept.  I'm sorta banking on the fact that I have a fairly effeminate, delicate look to begin with, a fact I'm quite thankful for.  I just wish that we didn't have these unfair double standards and stigmas at all.  Anyway, thanks for listening while I went off on a sort of rant, there.  Best of luck to you!

[cuteycindyhoney 13,306]

Well, I have assembled the full costume. Would you want to see a picture so I could get tips? Also, I know that I wore the skirt wrong. : )

I'd really love to have a look. Post the picture here if you feel comfortable, or you can PM it to me.

   I didn't know that was possible.  How many ways are there to wear a skirt?  Lol.

Skirt zippers mostly go to the back, or to the side. If the skirt is slacks fashioned, the zipper will look like a fly, and it goes in front. 

Edited May 20, 2016 by cuteycindyhoney

[Sketchbeam 4]

Well, I certainly would, anyway!  I'm curious how it turned out.

 

I'd really love to have a look. Post the picture here if you feel comfortable, or you can PM it to me.

 

Well, here you go. What do you think?

 

[Justin_Case001 4,881]

Well, here you go. What do you think?

 

Stuff 011.JPG

Damn, that's not bad at all.  That's really, really good, and I'm not just saying that!  Great job, and thanks for sharing!  And see, that doesn't look like so called "crossdressing" to me.  It just looks awesome and totally normal.  Well, not normal, but interesting and better than normal.  You know what I mean.  But that looks like something you could just wear around every day.  It's a shame society has such stupid double standards regarding fashion.  Anyway, you look great and I'm sure your costume will be a hit!