Comic-book conferences and dressing up offer a break from reality for teens

Dressing in the costumes of their favourite characters at comic-book conventions is a creative outlet for teens, says Arlene Harris.

COSTUMES were for ‘fancy dress’ parties and Halloween, but now teenagers at comic book conventions, or cons, are donning elaborate costumes in homage to their favourite characters. Passions for sci-fi and Japanese comics are just parts of what ‘cosplayer’ Amy King (29) says is a huge creative outlet for young Irish people.

“For me, cosplaying {costume playing} at the conventions is about the arts and crafts of making your own costume. You can portray a character from 2D to 3D. It’s similar to impersonating someone, but your look is based on fictional characters. It’s a very creative hobby,” she said.