Hi Luka it is a pleasure to feature you on SimplySxy. Please share with our readers a little about yourself and where you’re from?
Hello everyone, My name is Luka and I’m a Swedish cosplayer. I would describe myself as a pretty straightforward, open minded and creative person. I know my friends would describe me as childish and geeky and I guess that’s also true haha. Hmm what more.. I study the arts program and I think that says a lot too right.
What inspired you to cosplay?
I started watching anime, read manga and listened to a lot of Japanese music when I was twelve. I remember my biggest inspiration was YOHIO, who is a Swedish Visual Kei artist haha. Through that interest, I met others who liked the same series and so on. A few friends of mine cosplayed and since I already was a part of the “nerd” community, I knew right away which characters I wanted to cosplay. So yeah I would say my friends inspired me since I thought it looked fun dressing up as your favorite characters and I just wanted to try it too.
Which characters have you loved cosplaying most so far?
That’s a hard question haha. Yuri Plisetsky has been my favorite to cosplay for a while now. All my friends says he resembles me so much and that our personalities are very similar haha. I think it’s so much fun when you can relate to the characters you cosplay since it makes it easier to bring the character to life.
What are some of the challenges you face when creating a costume?
Well, I don’t make a lot myself and when I do it’s just some details. I can’t sew for shit and I always try to be clear about that. Believe me, I have tried to sew and It’s just not my thing. The things I do for the costumes are usually just stuff like I sew on a ribbon to a hat, I paint shoes and glasses, I make flower crowns and I make jewelry. When It comes to cosplay I love the makeup, the wigs and the photoshoots. I’m productive when it’s about learning new makeup styles for a new character or styling a brand new wig. some people enjoy the whole progressing part when it’s about cosplay, some are all about the wigs and some are all about the makeup. There’s no right or wrong way to cosplay. Do whatever that makes you happy.
Have you experienced a funny or embarrassing cosplay moment before?
When people think I’m a girl haha.. I mostly cosplay boys but sometimes I cosplay girls too. I’m very short and have a pretty feminine face I guess? There’s always guys who are like “wait you’re not a girl?” and so on. That is usually pretty funny. I don’t take it as a bad thing since girls are pretty right? I take it as a compliment.
If you can travel anywhere in this world, where will you go?
A place I haven’t visited like Japan or Russia.
What do you find attractive in the opposite sex?
Confidence and knowledge.
Lamest or weirdest attempt a guy has hit on you?
I can’t really come up with anything worth mentioning haha. I don’t get hit on by guys that much to be honest. It’s mostly girls but they can be kinda weird too.
Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Luka. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”?
An inner passion for being playful and not caring about what others think about you. If you think you are sexy then damn you sure are sexy. And hot anime guys … are also my definition of sexy.
Hi Whitney, thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Please share with our readers a little about yourself and where you’re from?
I feel like I’m kind of from all over the place. I was born in Idaho, grew up in Montana, lived in Los Angeles, France and Germany and have now found myself based in the Chicago area! I am kind of a nomad.
When and how did your interest in cosplay start?
I was always that kid who was putting together costumes out of my closet. I lived for Halloween and any chance to dress up. I suppose that may be why I was so heavily involved in Theater. But in Montana we didn’t have comic cons and cosplay wasn’t something on anyone’s radar but I was performing as characters at birthdays and events since the age of 16. I only recently in the past 3 years began taking it super seriously and began making my own cosplays.
Do you have any quotes or mottos that you live by?
“Do or do not, there is no try.“- Master Yoda and “We all must face the choice between what is right and what is easy.“- Albus Dumbledore
Is there something you can never get enough of?
Guacamole….I suppose it’s a good thing it’s good for you! And TRX workouts.
What is a typical day like for you?
Generally I get up and go to the gym because it’s a great way to get energized for the day. I also have a 4 year old at home so between teaching him letters and numbers, I’m either making patterns for costumes, sewing or creating props, or doing a photoshoot. On weekends most likely you will find me on a film set acting or doing a charity event as a character.
How much of a foodie are you?
I’m allergic to a lot of things so I don’t get to try as much as I would like to, but I will admit I’m a bit of a food snob. That doesn’t stop me from chewing down on some sinful foods every so often though. Sometimes there isn’t anything better than a corn dog or pizza. My favorite food however is sushi and love to go to those all you can eat sushi places. I also just discovered Chinese Hot Pot…I may have a new addiction!
If you could learn anything in this world, what will it be?
I would love to learn all of the languages so no matter who I meet I could always communicate. I feel bad when I’m in a character and a child sees me and they speak a language I don’t. There is nothing more magical than inspiring another person.
Have you ever had a bad date experience to share?
I once was taken out to a typical chain restaurant where my date had not only some bad gas he didn’t excuse but paid for the entire date with coupons. In a way I have to commend him because he was who he was and unashamed to show it.
It is a pleasure to feature you Whitney. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”?
I feel sexy is defined by ones own confidence. Being comfortable in one’s own skin no matter the shape is what makes a person sexy.
Hi Tara it is a pleasure to feature you on SimplySxy. Please share with our readers a little about yourself and where you’re from?
Hi there! so excited to be featured! I’m an actress, model, filmmaker and cosplayer. I’ve been acting basically all my life, since I was 4 years old. I just recently added professional modeling to my list of things I do and I’m completely loving the experience! I live on the West Coast now…BUT…I’m originally from the East Coast! I’m quirky, nerdy and very much a homebody. Partying is not my thing. I much prefer a good book or an episode of Star Trek TNG. I’m also the host of “Nerdtabulous” on YouTube! People in the acting world know me as Tara-Nicole Azarian, but the cosplay world and YouTube know me as Tara Cosplay.
How did you get started into cosplay?
Well, I was THAT kid who always had to be a princess or a fairy every time we went to Disney. Mom would help me deck out in complete princess attire including facepaint. So, cosplay has always been in my blood. I began to do “grown up” cosplay when I was about 12.
Which common misconceptions about cosplay still exists today?
Oh I think the biggest one is that some people think that the cosplay community is a bunch of weirdos…and they are very, very wrong! Cosplay is a form of art and artistic expression and the cosplay community is full of outstanding and talented people. Yes, lots of us are kind of shy in person, but just say, “hi” we’ll talk back to you, I promise!
What is the best compliment you have received?
Honestly the nicest thing I hear is that I’m kind. When someone comes up to my table at a convention, I give them my full attention. I’m very protective of my nerd community and I want every fan of mine to feel special. I’m human and I’m sure I fail on this sometimes, but I try very hard to make every Tarabyte (fan) feel special.
What do you enjoy most about acting?
Ohhhhh acting is amazing. It allows me a socially acceptable outlet for behaving ways that normally would not be okay. I love to play against my natural personality type. Playing mean or crazy is a ton of fun and helps keep me normal in my real life…I get all my funk out on set.
If you could change one thing about the world, what will it be?
I’m going to sound like a pageant queen here, but “world peace.” I hate to see people suffer…especially children. I just really wish that the powers that be could stop the whole who’s junk is bigger contest and just negotiate like evolved humans. Hate is taught. We need to see the similarities in one another and come together to make a safe and peaceful world. That’s what I’d like to see anyway.
What song would you say best describes you?
“Why Not” by Hilary Duff. I feel like life is short and whatever goals or dreams I have I should jump in with both feet and just go for it. Go big or go home.
What do you find attractive in the opposite sex?
I like a tall man. As far as looks go, that’s the only thing that catches my eye. What attracts me to a man is if he is kind. Kindness is so undervalued in our society, but it’s a deal breaker for me. If you are arrogant and full of yourself, I will have zero interest in you. If you are a gentleman, open doors for me, listen to me, respect my feelings, connect with me every day (even if I’m away working) then we’ll hit it off.
Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Tara. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”?
I think intelligence is sexy. I graduated High School early and run my own business so I am attracted to intelligence. A smart man knows what he wants, how to get it and how to keep it. That is very sexy!
Yes! I have been cast as “Carol” (one of the leads) in the new feature film, “Candy Corn” by director Josh Hasty. I also just wrapped a short film called, “The Best Words” which is now doing the film festival thing!
Hi Raquel it is a pleasure to feature you on SimplySxy. Please share with our readers a little about yourself and where you’re from?
Hi guys, thank you so much for having me. I’m from a country named Macau, I’m part Chinese, part Portuguese and currently living in Melbourne, Australia working as a Graphic Designer. I escape the real world via video games, comic books and reading too much /nosleep on Reddit.
Darth Talon by Te-Elle Cosplay
When did your interest in cosplay begin?
I’ve always loved dressing up and Halloween was definitely a day in the year I’d look forward to the most. But what really sparked my interest was when I went to my first convention named Manifest in 2013. I quickly put together a “closet” Tifa cosplay and I had a blast at the convention. I was able to be 100% myself and not to be judged by anybody and that was great! Being a Graphic Designer, I’ve always been into arts and crafts, so I started looking into armour making and came across Kamui Cosplay, she is and will always be my inspiration and cosplay goals!
Thor by Trung Do, edit by SteveDesignsThings
Which characters that you have cosplayed before are you most proud of ?
I would say my Thor, Aquaman and Darth Talon were my biggest achievements. I always aim to get better though!
High Elf by Snap Happy Ian
What is the most common misconception you hear about cosplayers?
“Is that what you do for a living?” I hear that all the time! I wish honey, I wish.
Which is the craziest thing you have done or experienced so far?
I wouldn’t call this one crazy but an experience that really stood out for me, which was definitely moving to Australia on my own at the age of 18. I’ve met so many people and had so many experiences in this country I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m so glad I live here now.
Psylocke by SLDixon Photography
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
Watching horror shows on Netflix/YouTube and eating in bed all day, singing out loud to Disney songs and otome video games (Japanese dating games, yep.)
If you could describe yourself as a flavor, what will it be?
A strawberry sour skittle! You know how you don’t know how sour it is, then you have to get that over that super sour coat and then get the sweet part of the candy? I’m like that, I’m actually quite shy and can come across cold or even… “standoffish”? But once you get to know I’m quite bubbly and hard to get me to shut up!
Connor Kenway by Snap Happy Ian
What is the lamest attempt a guy has tried to hit on you?
I was at the beach with my girlfriends and there comes this guy, “Excuse me, but you know what’s missing in your life? My number.” Smooth, sir, smooth.
Yennefer by Ben Warden
Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Raquel. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”?
Sexy is confidence. A state of mind, an euphoria which determines how you speak and your body language. Being able to talk to someone that is sure of what they believe is super duper sexy!
Hi Termina, thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Please share with our readers a little about yourself and where you’re from?
I’m a full time prop maker, cosplayer, and model from Indiana.
Photo: Vordigon Photography
What do you enjoy most about cosplay?
The thing I enjoy most is making things and then admiring them when they’re done. I guess that’s probably the artist in me talking, but there’s just something magical about making something from scratch and then seeing it in all its glory when finally finished.
How long does it take you to create a costume from scratch?
It really depends on the costume. Somethings could take only a few hours and some things can take hundreds of hours. For example, I made my entire Meme Chan cosplay from Me!Me!Me! in under 24 hours, but my Aranae Highwind from Final Fantasy xv has taken months worth of work.
Photo: Eurobeat Kasumi
Have you ever had a bad cosplay experience?
Absolutely. No matter what your choose to do in life, you’re bound to have a bad experience with it eventually. It’s just the way life works.
Which fictional character do you wish was real?
Oh, there are plenty I wish were real, but I’m always going to be partial to Spike Spiegel from Cowboy Bebop.
If you could have a superpower, what will it be?
Does not having to sleep count? Not sleeping would be great. I’d get so much more done!
Photo: Vordigon Photography
What item at home can you use as a weapon if there is a zombie apocalypse?
I live in the same place I work, so there are tons of tools/weapons around I could use in a zombie apocalypse. The choices are nearly unlimited!
Are there any characters which you will love to cosplay in the near future?
The next thing I’m working on is a genderbent Kimahri Ronso from Final Fantasy X. its going to involve wearing stilts, facial prosthetics, and full body makeup, so I’m really excited to challenge myself with the design and transformation!
Photo: Voridgon Photography
It is a pleasure to feature you, Termina. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”?
That’s a tough one. What is “sexy” doesn’t really have a set definition, so the answer will be different depending on who you ask. Personally I find badass anime guys sexy, but to each their own!
Hi Rowan, thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Please share with our readers a little about yourself and where you’re from?
Rowan Rayne here, and I am a Cosplayer from the Detroit, Michigan area! I got into costume design about 7 years ago and began cosplaying officially about 4 years ago. I currently work full time at a law firm, but in whatever free time I can find I am either working on costumes, hitting the weights at the gym, writing horror fiction or being a part of my awesome web series, The BAM Show! If you guys haven’t checked it out, the link is in the social media section. It is a ton of fun!
Photographer: Amaleigh Photography Editing for Cyclops: Breathe Again Magazine
What do you love most about cosplay?
I think what I love most about cosplay is probably the sense of community. You don’t even have to know anyone going to a convention, but you’re totally surrounded by people with similar interests to yours and you make friends no matter what. I think it’s also a really positive, open minded community which is really great.
Is there a misconception you still commonly hear about cosplay?
I can think of a couple misconceptions honestly. The first one I think is probably more directed toward female Cosplayers. Many times it is assumed that we are essentially “booth babes” and don’t actually know anything about the characters we are dressed as. While I have no issue at all with booth babes, and have done it for other style conventions in the past, I would say every Cosplayer that I am familiar with legitimately loves and knows a lot about the character she is dressed as. I’ve been a sci-fi/fantasy nerd since I was a little kid and yes I do read comics. I think that a lot of time there is this assumption that you’re just a hot girl in a costume looking for attention and that’s simply not true. I spend a lot of time and effort and money honestly working on a costume for a character I love and/or relate to, and I know most of us do!
I know you asked for one conception but I am going to throw a freebie in here too. I come across so many people who really wrinkle their nose when I say I’m a 30 year old who dresses up as a superhero and hangs out with other people who dress up like superheroes. I know a lot of people think it’s really weird and immature. I think the best way to relate it is to take football for example. People have fantasy football teams, they go to games, they dress up in their team colors, they paint their faces, they yell and cheer with other fanatics. It’s really no different than that. I think people don’t really understand how similar hobbies/passions really are to that end.
Photographer: Breath Again Magazine
Which is your most memorable cosplay experience so far?
One of my most memorable cosplay experiences actually didn’t happen at a convention. I Cosplayed the DC Character Deathstroke (a female version) a couple years ago and tweeted the photo to Manu Bennett, who plays Deathstroke on the CW’s adaptation of Arrow. Not only did he respond, he reshared the photo on his own page and followed me back. Like getting that stamp of approval from the person that you basically are dressing as is super exciting. I know it sounds super cheesy, but I swear I totally cried.
Photographer: Amaleigh Photography Editing for Zatanna: Breathe Again Magazine
What is a typical day like for you?
I have to say that my “typical” daily schedule is fairly boring. I pretty much work all day, head to the gym after work and then do a little bit of Netflix binging in the evenings. My typical convention days are a lot more fun. I usually wake up really early to begin working on getting dressed and doing makeup. Depending on the costume the makeup could take a really long time. For example, this season I am doing both She Hulk and Lady Death, which require full body paint, so that will take several hours to complete before I get changed. After I am ready, I usually go grab a bite to eat before the con with my fellow Cosplaying friends.
We do get a lot of strange looks from people, but its fun when there is a full group of you. I am not one of those people that gets to conventions as the doors open normally, as the lines are always crazy. I show up normally an hour or two after the doors have opened and there’s never a line. Then it’s basically walking the conventions floor, checking out art, saying hi to people I know. I get stopped for pictures a lot. You might not think it, but that in itself can get pretty exhausting. I tend to take a few breaks each day and have found most conventions are connected to a hotel so popping by the hotel bar for a drink during a break is always a good idea. The rest of the day is spent walking around, getting autographs or pics with celebs and usually at least one night of the weekend there is a really fun after party. That’s basically a typical convention scene day.
Photographer: Will Williamson
How long do you think you’ll survive a zombie apocalypse?
Oh good question. I like to think my logical way of thinking and ability to remain calm under pressure; along with the fact my personality is extremely true neutral would let me survive for a pretty long time. I’m a fighter and a survivor and I definitely would do what it takes to survive as long as possible. In the end though, maybe I would become a zombie, because that also could be pretty cool.
Photographer: Amaleigh Photography Editing for Enchantress: Paco L Leyva
If you could go back in time to live in a historical period, which will you choose?
I think that if I had to pick it would have to be sometime during the time of the Vikings. The Viking culture is just so badass and those women were warriors. I actually think they were one of the more progressive peoples when it came to equality and I really respect that. As much as I love the fashion of Victorian England, I know I couldn’t survive a life like the ones women then lived. Give me an ax and some enemies to conquer!
What is the funniest or lamest pickup line a guy has tried on you?
Do the numerous photos in my inbox of male genitals count as lame? They seem pretty lame to me. Tip from me to all men everywhere, IT DOES NOT WORK. Well if you’re trying to get reported and blocked it does work, but if you’re hoping to open up some kind of communication with a girl online, that’s not the way to do it. That being said, I honestly don’t have a lot of stories with pick-up lines. Usually if someone wants to talk to me they just come up and say something like “hey I like your shirt” or “cool tattoos.” It’s usually not necessarily a line.
Photographer: Breath Again Magazine
It is a pleasure to feature you Rowan. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”?
So for me, sexy is all about confidence and being comfortable in your own skin. Like self-love is sexy. Whether I’m in a skimpy Lady Death costume and full makeup and a good push up bra or I’m sitting at home in sweats and a tee with no makeup, it’s all about feeling good about who I am no matter what. I think sexy means something different to every person, but to me it’s not about a look or an outfit, it’s about the way you feel about yourself. Sexy is s state of mind.
And played 4 times on the coffee cup, twice on Dumbo the Flying Elephant, 3 times on the merry go around……Felt very giddy …but had to smiled for the shoot…~so funny~
Where do you like to shop from?
I like to go to Mongkok Sino Center, buy some ACG’s products (Anime、Comic、Game)
What is your beauty regime like to looking so gorgeous?
Because I like to draw, so when the face is of a canvas, it’s my makeup style.
Which type of food do you love?
um…tea and fish, the Japanese type?
What kind of music are you into?
Japanese anime songs.
If you could learn anything in this world, what will it be?
English. Because English is rare for me to learn.
How will you describe an ideal day?
Um…having a nice job, or being at home the whole day.
It is a pleasure to feature you Easter. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”?
Hi Jane, thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Please share with our readers a little about yourself and where you’re from?
Hello! Thanks for having me. I’m a 26 year old Cosplayer based in SoCal. When I’m not working on cosplay I’m either at work, the gym, or playing games and cuddling with my cat Lola.
Photo by Alive Alf Photography
When and how did your interest in cosplay start?
I’ve always enjoyed making things, so I think it was only a matter of time before I merged that interest with my anime/game interests. A friend of mine encouraged me to make a cosplay with her 3 years ago, and I’ve been addicted ever since.
Photo by Alive Alf Photography
What is a typical day like for you?
I usually start out the day at work (I currently work in a genetics lab), answer emails and post on social media when I remember to. When I get home I’ll eat dinner, do chores, and then gym, play games, or work on cosplay. On weekends I try to work on cosplay as much as possible along with errands or photoshoots/cons. Admittedly it can be tough to juggle my projects and spending time with my friends, family, and SO.
Photo by Extra Noodles Co.
Which cosplay character do you wish was real?
Can I wish all of them to be real?? I love them all for different reasons it would be really hard to pick just one!
Photo by Indiglue
How much of a foodie are you?
I’m usually not picky at all; I could go for a fancy hipster fusion place or Del Taco (their turkey tacos are pretty good). I don’t think I’m a great foodie haha. Although I do love cafes, donut and dessert places. Breweries are always nice too!
Photo by Indiglue
Are you a morning person or night owl?
I found a meme that describes me perfectly; I’m neither! I’m a perpetually exhausted pigeon of some unknown species. I feel like I need to sleep 12 hours a day or something to feel fully rested.
Photo by Indiglue
If you could time travel, where will you wish to go?
Most definitely the future! Maybe a few hundred years from now. I want to see what kind of robots and cyborgs are around.
Photo by Indiglue
What is the funniest or lamest attempt a guy has tried to know you?
I’m not really sure about this one. I think I can recall someone trying to start conversation at a shuttle stop by saying I look a lot like his ex girlfriend. Needless to say that was a very awkward shuttle ride o_o.
Photo by Indiglue
It is a pleasure to feature you Jane. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”?
I think it is much more than outside appearance; it’s also an attitude and an internal confidence. When you really accept yourself and develop that internal confidence and comfortability, it definitely shows in how you carry yourself and how you react to people around you.
Hi Morgan it is a pleasure to feature you on SimplySxy. Please share with our readers a little about yourself and where you’re from?
Well, I’m a college student in Wisconsin, who was raised in a small Minnesota town. I am trying to get into a Game Development and Design major. I love cats so much that I cry over how cute they are, and I love eating sweets and watching kids movies. I love abstract, strange and avant garde style games and anime the most but I still enjoy other genres. I love to go for walks and I love to spend time on my own, but I’m still very social.
Asuka Langley Soryu from Neon Genesis Evangelion Photo by YGKphotos
How did you get started into cosplay?
When I was 14, back in 2010, I was googling L from Death Note and I stumbled on a cosplay of him, and then a few months later a friend of mine invited me to come to an anime convention. My first cosplay was actually L, too! Since then I became addicted, and I’ve done over 50 cosplays since then. Last year alone, I did 30! For me, cosplay making is an anxiety reliever as well, so I used it last year to cope with a lot of the anxiety I had and it kept me very happy.
Madotsuki from Yume Nikki
Which common misconceptions about cosplay still exists today?
One misconception I run into frequently is people assuming cosplayers have no idea about anything surrounding the characters they cosplay. This is not always true, and people can cosplay for a variety of reasons: loving the franchise they are cosplaying from, loving the character, being in a group cosplay or just loving the character design. As long as they’re having fun that’s all that should matter.
Arris Fern from Vindictive Drive Photo by YGKphotos
What is the best compliment you have received?
If someone calls me canon when I cosplay a character I feel a strong connection to, that’s the best compliment I could ever receive from anyone regarding cosplay. That, or when I see someone using my images for their cover photo. It’s happened a few times that I’ve seen, and it’s really flattering.
Aya Drevis from Mad Father Photo by E Martin Photography
Do you have any other hobbies?
I like to write stories, create art, play video games (especially horror games and RPGs), watch Disney and Barbie movies, aspiring to be a singer and songwriter, makeup, wig collecting, working on game development (slowly), going for walks and bike rides, lying in bed too much, and making kitties happy as can be.
Daria Morgendorffer from Daria
If you could change one thing about the world, what will it be?
I would work to better education, because the root of many problems, mainly from the US, is poor education. Fixing education would fix many of society’s issues. Sadly, I don’t see too many people advocating for making positive changes in education.
Star Guardian Lux from League of Legends Photo by Eye of a Panda // Photography
Papyrus from Undertale Photo by E Martin Photography
What song would you say best describes you?
This is actually a really tough one..because it changes often. I actually just shuffled my playlist and went to choose the one I feel fits most! Fallen Angels, the ending theme for Panty & Stocking, fits pretty well for me at this current time, I see it as being about trust and it’s very positive and sweet. Another one would be Duvet by BoA, the opening to Serial Experiments Lain, it’s a bit sadder but that one fits me at a few points in my life. Also I just love Lain, a LOT.
Sabitsuki from .flow Photo by Sun Suki
What do you find attractive in the opposite sex?
I’d say, someone who is filled with love and respect for you and someone who wishes your happiness. I’m actually demisexual so I don’t have many preferences on appearances, and my preferences don’t limit me. But, I’d say, average body weight and size, I love dark hair and I really love graying hair a lot, and sweet eyes. And long eyelashes!
Luna Herz from Vindictive Drive Photo by YGKphotos
Shiro from Deadman Wonderland Photo by E Martin Photography
Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Morgan. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”?
To me, sexy is about confidence. If a girl or boy is confident in themselves and their bodies, that’s what I find sexy. But to me, it’s more about the attitude and personality.
Hi Anastasia, thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Please share with our readers a little about yourself and where you’re from?
Hi there! I’m Anastasia August, I’m a costume designer, cosplayer, and model. I’m really passionate about things like art, cat ears, and not wearing pants.
My favorite superhero is Spider-man, but I’m absolutely arachnophobic. My favorite female super is Poison Ivy. If I had a superpower it would be to transform into any animal. I currently live in Nebraska, but I’ve lived in Indiana, Washington and South Africa previously. Traveling is one of my favorite things, it’s so exciting for me! In recent years I’ve been heading to further and further away conventions.
Going to a brand new con is the best. I love meeting new people with similar interests and just totally geeking out! I really hope some day I’m able to make it to more conventions more frequently!
When and how did your interest in cosplay start?
I’ve been sewing since I was old enough to sit in front of a machine. My mom is a seamstress and taught me a lot of what I know. I’ve also just always put on thematic outfits and pieced together new costumes and characters. I remember when I was just a lil’ bab still and I first discovered that people would actually dress up as their favorite characters and go to conventions! I was like, WHAT?! Eventually there was one nearby (Anime Nebraskon) and my sister and I called in sick to school and went with one of our friends. The funny thing is, our parents made fun of us. They made fun of us for so many years, now my dad has a screen accurate Darth Vader costume. Haha, I was Tohru Honda from Fruits Basket for that first legitimate cosplay. That was almost 8 years ago, and it’s been an absolutely magical time. I’ve done 70+ costumes in that time, I’ve won some awards, I’ve made some AMAZING friends, and I’ve been able to challenge myself and grow in so many ways. I literally couldn’t imagine what my life would be like without cosplay.
Do you have any quotes or mottos that you live by?
“I don’t like sand. It’s coarse and rough and irritating and it gets everywhere.”
Is there something you can never get enough of?
Star Wars, Game of Thrones, Nicolas Cage, and Xena Warrior Princess. I have tattoos from the first two, but I’m slacking on my Xena ink. I’m debating what to get next and I can’t get a tattoo of my future husband, that would just be silly. I’m such trash for all of those things, haha. I sleep with Nicolas Cage pillows every night, I have this ridiculous obsession with him. My whole aesthetic is Nouveau Shamanic.
What is a typical day like for you?
Oh jeeze, it changes from day to day! I’m just starting at a new job where I get to use my experience with tinkering and leather working in how I pay the bills. It’s kind of amazing to get to do something I’m passionate about, I’m really lucky in that aspect. I really wish there were more hours in the day, I always find myself either at the gym, working on a project, trying to clean up my mess, managing business stuff, binge watching everything I can get my paws on! I try to keep busy, and it’s not hard when your dreams are as ambitious as mine. Haha. On my days off, I live for sleeping in. It’s the best, seriously. I’m sure you understand.
The only thing that makes it better is PUPPY SNUGGLES! Sadly, I don’t have a dog so that’s not an every day thing in my life.
How long do you think you’ll survive a zombie apocalypse?
That totally depends on who I end up with for my initial group. I can totally see myself trying to be the hero and doing something to get myself killed. If I don’t do that, I’d make it quite a while! I’m a massive nerd for all things zombies! I’ve read a ton of books, seen countless films, played a ton of games, and watched *most* of the Walking Dead. I’ve had a constantly evolving plan since I was like 13. These days with awesome pop culture representations making zombies much more mainstream everyone is kind of prepared for it in some capacity. It makes it really fun to factor things like that in when I discuss it over Sunday dinners.
If you could go back in time to live in a historical period, which will you choose?
Medieval/renaissance FUR SURE! I’ve always had a love for the whole era. Ideally I would live in a fantasy realm where I would be able to wield magic as well as a sword. And a bow….and axe! I’d like to think I’d be some Robin Hood type of character, I’m very into the whole vigilante hero sort of thing.
Is there something in this world you wish would change?
I just wish we could all get on board with being decent to one another. I really feel like it isn’t difficult. We aren’t 100% perfect beings but we shouldn’t go out of our ways to hurt another person….. Unless it’s your roommate and you have a super good burn on the tip of yo tongue (@kellyelldanger)
It is a pleasure to feature you Anastasia. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”?
It’s been a pleasure to be featured! Thanks so much for the fun questions. To me, sexy is when I feel confident and am totally loving myself. Sexy is being unashamed to laugh out loud. Sexy is busting a move, little kicks and all. The sexiest thing…Is Nicolas Cage.
