What is Cosplay Flashback? Cosplay Flashback is a blog series where I’ll revisit my older costumes and discuss how I made them and how I would make them differently if I was making them today. I’ve been cosplaying over 10 years and I’ve learned a lot in that time. It’s fun to go back and revisit older costumes with new knowledge. I hope you enjoy!
Stats
Character: Orihime Inoue
Series: Bleach
Version: School Uniform
Debut: Shiokazecon
Year: 2006
Construction
My first Orihime costume was 90% thrift store finds. I took the hem up on a grey pleated skirt and added a pocket to a white button up blouse. I made the neck bow and hair pins. I didn’t even use a wig for most of the time I wore this costume.
But Why?
Because it was fast and it was easy. When I made this costume I had seen 4 episodes of Bleach. I picked it because I wanted a new costume and I didn’t have a lot of time or money. Thats it, that’s the only reason… BUT It’s probably because I made this costume that I ever decided to watch the series which lead to reading the manga which lead to a fandom I’m still in to this day. Yes, it’s still going 10 years later.
What I Would Do Now?
FUN FACT! I actually remade this costume. You can check out my updated Timeskip version of the school uniform here. When I made my first school uniform I just ruled out even bothering with the jacket because I was too intimidated by it. While I was working on the new uniform I reflected a lot on how easy it was for me to make that jacket now and how scared I was all those years ago. It’s a pretty interesting experience remaking an older costume.