Existing Projects Research¶

References: Projects, research papers, expos, performances, and industry practices¶

In traditional cosplay design, costumes are typically worn over shapewear, with structural elements, electronics, and decorative components attached directly to the outer costume layer. While this method allows for elaborate visual presentation, it can create significant challenges—particularly in terms of comfort, mobility, and weight distribution.

Many cosplayers rely on external belts, harnesses, or straps to secure heavier components such as battery packs, wings, or large armor pieces. While functional, this solution often results in bulky, restrictive outfits that can hinder movement, cause discomfort during extended wear, and make it difficult for the wearer to sit or change poses naturally. This is especially problematic for cosplayers with mobility needs or those who spend long hours in costume at events.

A more innovative and inclusive approach involves integrating shapewear, structural supports, and electronics into a single, multi-functional bodysuit. By anchoring key components directly to the body rather than layering them onto the outer costume, this method reduces the need for additional rigging and dramatically improves wearability. It enhances freedom of movement, lightens the overall build, and allows for more intuitive, modular construction.

One well-known figure in the cosplay community, Svetlana Quindt (also known as Kamui Cosplay), is known for her masterful craftsmanship and use of shapewear-like underlayers in costume building. Her designs often emphasize durability and structural elegance, and she has popularized techniques for integrating LED lights, armor, and props. However, like many high-level cosplay builds, her costumes are typically tailored for standing presentations and action poses. As a result, they can be difficult to wear while seated, limiting their accessibility and comfort for cosplayers who use wheelchairs or need adaptable seating-friendly designs.

This observation highlights a broader gap in cosplay design: while there is significant innovation in materials, lighting, and fabrication techniques, few projects prioritize seated use or inclusive mobility. By building on existing research and evolving the costume from a layered outfit into an integrated wearable system, there is a clear opportunity to make cosplay more inclusive without compromising on visual impact or character accuracy.

Key Takeaways:

Traditional cosplay methods often attach heavy or rigid elements directly to costumes, causing mobility limitations and discomfort.
Belts and straps add bulk and restrict natural movement, especially during long-term wear.
Integrating shapewear, electronics, and structure into a single suit eliminates external rigging and simplifies the design.
Bodysuit-based builds improve comfort, mobility, and ease of assembly—especially important for seated or low-mobility cosplayers.
Svetlana Quindt (Kamui Cosplay) is an example of high-level cosplay that incorporates shapewear and electronics, but her designs remain geared toward upright presentation and may not accommodate seated performance.

This research informs the direction of this project: creating a functional, inclusive, and visually striking bodysuit that merges shapewear, electronics, and structural support—designed from the ground up with seated use and full mobility in mind.

Websites Research & References