Who would you dare to be?

MANILA, Philippines - Whether it’s for an attempt at cosplay or a heady Halloween night, cosplayers Kune and Sese give tips to trick and treat your way into an alternate identity that’ll amaze.

1. Research! Research! Research! To be someone or to be in character, you need to do a lot of research. Watch and observe how your chosen character acts and talks, as well as any gestures or facial expressions they evoke. Practice and imitate them in front of the mirror. Study the characters he or she interacts with so when you see a character from the same series, you can interact with them!

2. No monetary damage was incurred during this dress-up.

There are ukay-ukays where you can find clothes you can deconstruct and reconstruct. Divisoria is a must-go place for fabrics, wigs and accessories. Juan Luna and Pasilios are the best places to get fabrics that would not cost you more than a happy meal. Take a trip along Tabora St. for wigs and the decorative accessories and trinkets you need like feathers, buttons, extensions, etc. It is also convenient and cheap to buy stuff online at eBay and Multiply stores — a trip’s cost saved for a welcome treat at your doorstep.

3. Be an attention whore.

To get noticed, you have to ham it up and muster enough courage and put yourself out there. Join a cosplay competition if you’re brave enough and you know you have the guts to do it. If you’re not the competitive type, just roam around the convention hall or just linger outside and be as confident as you can be. If your costume is really good and you play the character well, you will definitely get the attention of a number of fans and get photographed a lot too.

4. Dress up, party down.

Have your friends come over in costume and get that Halloween party on. This is the perfect time to just wear any costume, especially those you can’t wear at cosplay conventions. Be any of the mythological creatures, fairytale characters or just about anything you can think of. Even if you’re in a slutty animal costume, not being yourself can be a whole lot of fun.

5. Pose like a pro.

Practice in front of the mirror; watching modeling shows like America’s Next Top Model really helps a lot in getting new ideas for your poses. Check out fashion magazines as well for ideas on how to look good in photos. And don’t forget, a little vanity goes a long way. Stare at yourself in the mirror and know your angles. Work it!