Name: Blikku
Location: Atlanta, GA
Twitter: @blikku
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blikkucosplay
Photographer(s):
Esmeralda – Benny Lee
Ayane – Dim Horizon Studio
Namie Amuro – J-Pop Artist Tobias Roybal
Elektra – Tobias Roybal
Bonne Jennet – Lionboogy
Zoe Washburne – Eurobeat King
Rikku – Maboroshi
The Bride – Maboroshi
Black Cat – Lionboogy
Tifa Lockhart – Maboroshi
What was your first Cosplay experience?
My first cosplay experience was at a local convention (which no longer exists) called Kunicon. It was the first time I wore a costume and competed in a contest. It was a really fun experience, and pretty addictive considering that I have been cosplaying ever since!
How long have you been Cosplaying?
I have been cosplaying since 2004 although I didn’t attend an actual convention until 2005.
Who or what inspired you to take up Cosplaying?
After making my first costume and feeling that sense of accomplishment, I wanted to continue cosplaying. There isn’t one specific person that inspired me to start cosplaying because I wasn’t even aware it was a hobby when I made my first costume. Although, I do have to thank my friend Aleathia for encouraging me and giving me all kinds of advice when I was a rookie seamstress. What motivates me is now being able to express and share my love for various genres through such a creative and personal way.
If you had to pick a favorite Cosplay you have worn, or have seen someone else wear, what would it be?
My favorite cosplay is definitely Rikku. She’s such a fun character and I feel like I have a lot in common with her. I also love that her costumes range from casual to elaborate, which means I have a lot of options! So as I develop my skills, I can tackle some of the more challenging ones!
As for a favorite cosplay I’ve seen someone else wear, I would have to say Yaya Han’s Midnight Wings costume. It’s probably not as well known as some of her work, but I saw it in person at a photo shoot back in the day. Gorgeous! It was pretty intimidating because of the epically massive wings and not to mention the craftsmanship. I was a newbie at the time so I guess it’s somewhat sentimental to me because it inspired me to step it up!
If you had unlimited funds and resources, what Cosplay would you create?
If I had unlimited resources, I would make Samantha Byrne from Gears of War. Anyone that knows me can tell you that Gears of War is my favorite video game franchise. I loved her character so much in Gears of War 3. I’ve done a casual costume for her, but I would love to make her CoG armor…and I will someday!
What advice would you offer to those who are aspiring Cosplayers?
Just go for it and have fun! Try not to be overly critical of yourself in the beginning, because we all had to start somewhere. A victory is a victory, no matter how small it may be!
Like anything else, sewing and crafting take time, patience, and lots of practice. Hang in there! Take advantage of the knowledge from resources and people that are available to you. If you’ve researched and still can’t find the answer, then ask questions! Cosplay because you love it, not just for the attention. If you develop your craft properly, the notoriety will come to you because of the quality of your work.
Surround yourself with positive people who will encourage you and be supportive. Try to do the same for others!
To learn more about Blikku, feel free to follow her on Twitter: @blikku and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blikkucosplay
If you or someone you know would like to have a gallery featured on Geeks With Wives, please email Casey at gwwcapescrew@gmail.com!