Cosplay Spotlight: Maka Lee

Come and see, the spectacular Maka Lee, in our COSPLAY SPOTLIGHT!!!!!

Why do you cosplay?

I love how you role play as the character. I have always enjoyed painting, drawing, and pretty much anything that involves crafts. At my first anime convention I saw everyone dressed up and I thought, I could definitely do that! I really enjoy designing my outfits and deciding on how I am going to complete my costume. I like creating jewelry pieces and weapons, and piecing together the costume to sew.

What was your first cosplay?

My first costume was Misa Amane from Death Note.

Do you make your own cosplay costumes, if so, which ones, and how long does an average costume take to make?

I have made all of my costumes except two. I usually try to make my costumes myself because I can really put time and love into each one.

It usually takes me at least two months to make one, including gathering the materials. I have one I am working on right now that I have been building for 5 months, it really just depends on how complex the costume and accessories are going to be.

What is your favorite character to play?

My favorite character is a draw between two. I grew up watching Inuyasha the anime, it’s a classic, and have such a crush on his character. I have seen almost every episode and own some of the movies. I also really love my Demon Stocking costume from Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt just because I feel so cute and mischievous in it.

Amongst animation, comics, movies, or video games, what is your biggest inspiration for cosplay?

My main inspiration would definitely be anime. I have a large collection of DVD’s, manga, posters, figurines and plushies. I really enjoy Japanese based video games as well, I am cosplaying Rachel from Blaz Blue soon, it’s one of my favorite fighting games.

Have you ever made any mistakes that you’d warn a first timer about?

I left my wig in the car during summer from one of my first costumes, and it melted together from the heat in my car. I was so sad and upset because I didn’t have a backup one and I was at a convention. It’s really not a good idea to leave any costume piece in the car if its hot outside, better to be safe than sorry.

Are there certain characters that are easier to play than others?

I think I cosplay with characters I relate to in some way. It makes the experience more fun, and you can experience their story. I always want to be comfortable wearing my costume.