FINEJO Dress Review

I'm back! Time for another dress review~

Today I will be reviewing a dress I found on Amazon, titled "FINEJO Women's Slim Lace Tight Waist Long Sleeve Mini Skater Dress"! Sound sketchy? It kinda is! But you'll find out more in a sec.

Link is here

Get it? Haha, Gaby's funny.

-♥-

So I'm just going to come out and say it; I was an idiot for ordering this dress. But I'm naive and broke so that causes people to do stupid things. I think I have common-idiocy-syndrome. Like when I tried to glue my eyebrows yesterday. :')

Anyways, here's what the dress was supposed to look like:

:')

So this dress was $14.33 and free shipping, which is a red flag right there. But it looked so cute I just had to get it. As I said before, I'm broke and naive. It comes in beige, too.

It was supposed to come by end of June - mid July and it got here June 16th, so that was very fast. I'm pretty sure it came from China.

-♥-

*DISCLAIMER: Belt sold separately, I don't remember where I got it though*

Filtered

Original

 It come in sizes M - XL, but I heard it ran small so I thought I'd be okay (I'm a size 0). Boy, was I wrong! This one ended up looking terrible on me, although I'm not sure if it was my body type or the size difference. But you win some and you lose some, right? :)

It was really short as far as the skirt, and went to above my knees. Good thing I was wearing shorts underneath too, because the skirt was a little see-through. O.O

On the flip side, the sleeves were a little too long and the corset-esque thing in the back had to be done up as tight as it could go. and even then it was big. Hence the belt I tacked on.

-♥-

Cri ;-;

There was one ribbon, but I folded it.

The material was uncomfortable, but not itchy. It kinda felt like a Halloween costume. The lace was poorly cut. The ribbon for the back was a cheap, wrinkled velveteen, but it didn't fray. The brackets looked like they'd stay on, but were poorly shaped in some places. Overall, the details were all sub-par.

-♥-

~Final ♥ Score~

Cost/Shipping Time: 8

Quality: 7

Accuracy: 8

Material & Fit: 6

Overall: 7

Bottom Line: I don't ever think I'll wear this dress again. There are a lot of things that could've been worse, but this company fell short when they made this dress. Overall; you get what you pay for.

-♥-

I know today's review wasn't the most interesting, but I should have more posts up soon so stay on the look out!

Bai,

~Tenshi

Hot Topic Dress Review!

So if you didn't already know; today I got my dress I had ordered for my school dance Friday! So, even though it's not strictly anime-related, I like reviews and by the page view I get I'm assuming you guys do too. So let's get started!

-♫-

So I ordered the dress on about Thursday night, and it arrived today. It was shipped after about a day or two. The original dress looks like this; and the link to order can be found here.

It was about $32, shipping was $5. You can also get it shipped to your nearest store for free, but that takes around 2 weeks and even longer if you live outside the continental US. I don't have any information on international shipping.

I'd say it's pretty reasonably priced for a dress. It was originally $50, but Hot Topic can be kinda pricey so I guess that's expected. It's not a guarantee, but I'm pretty sure you can find some in stores, as I've seen this dress around often at my local one.

-♫-

No Filter

Filtered

One of the reasons I could see someone not getting this dress is the size. Currently, the only size available on the website is XS. There isn't a plus-sized option for this one either, unlike a lot of Hot Topic's dresses.

Luckily for me, who hovers between a XS and a S (In numbers, I'm a size 0), it fit perfectly. The neck strap is adjustable, and you could argue the corset-style ribbon in the front is too, although I don't think that'd do much. There's a zipper in the back to get it on.

-♫-

Although I was worried the color wouldn't look good on my skin tone, I don't think it looks all too bad. The skirt was a little puffier than the picture, but I was happy with that. I wouldn't call the fabric smooth, but it wasn't something unpleasant to feel. The dress wasn't itchy or uncomfortable either.

It was a little weird sitting down, because I didn't want to crush the netting underneath. That's really the only problem I have though, and it's nothing too major to stop me from wearing it.

It was great quality, and showed no signs of being cheaply made.

-♫-

~Final ♫ Score~

Cost/Shipping Time: 9

Quality: 8

Accuracy: 10

Material & Fit: 8

Overall: 8.75

Bottom Line: I'd get this dress, even if you don't necessarily think it'll look the best with your skin tone. It looks better than in the picture, but overall doesn't stand out. But for $32, I'd say it's worth it.

Cya next time!

~Tenshi

*EDIT [6/16/15]: I take back my earlier comment about this not standing out; because when I wore it to my school dance I ended up getting a ton of compliments on it! Like, people I don't usually talk to were coming up and telling me they loved it. So I guess it is pretty unique?

How To Become A Cosplayer! *PART 1*

I wish I could've come up with a more creative name for this, but idk maybe I'll change it later. X_X

So how does one start off a blog post as big and general as this one? I guess I'll just share why I wanted to do such a general post.

I always thought cosplaying was out of reach. The world of brightly colored wigs and intricate outfits all seemed so far away. Honestly, when I thought of cosplay I thought of all those professional-quality photos with beyond amazing cosplayers. Little did I know, the world of cosplay was well within reach and reason for a *normal* girl like me! ^O^

I decided to do my first cosplay when me, my friend Hannah, and my sister Becca, dreamed up the idea of being the cast of  Fairy Tail for Halloween. We quickly got our friend Christine on board, and with close to two months to go, we started our first cosplays!

So what are you waiting for? Get ready to discover your inner cosplayer, in a way that's much easier than you think!

Kiss Kiss Fall In Love! -With Cosplay, Obvi

~♥~

Step 1: The Idea

Some simple questions need to be answered first, before you start any sewing or web-shopping. (Wow that was a really bad term. Web-shopping? Tf Gaby) Get you pencil and paper out, because this is stuff you don't want to forget!

-Who do you want to cosplay?
-When or what do you want to cosplay to? (Halloween, a con, a meetup?)
-Do you want to do a group cosplay?
-Would your friends be willing to do a group cosplay? (For those of you with non-otaku friends, I'd try to make some real quickly bc you'll probably need em'!)
-Do you have the money? (More on this later)
-Do you have the time? (Especially important if you're sewing your own cosplay)
-Do you want to make or buy your costume? (More on this too later)

Take as much time as you need. After all, this stuff ain't easy.

Convincing your non-otaku friends to cosplay can be a challenge

Now that you have your idea, let's pursue it!

~♥~

Step 2: The Motivation

This step is very important. Without any exterior motivation, it's likely you'll fall into a slump of the classic "I-don't-feel-like-cosplaying". Even with motivation, this will probably happen, but I think every cosplayer has their moments. *shrug*

Some GREAT forms of motivation I have in my cosplay life include:

-A Cosplay Group

A cosplay group is a great way to step up your cosplay game and get more involved in events! It makes group cosplaying easier to organize and carry out, and it gives you a tight-knit group of friends to visit conventions with! Starting one is as simple as asking your friends if they want to start a squad with you where y'all cosplay together. (Gaby, stop you're being too weird.)

Focuses On: Group Cosplays, Visiting Conventions

*Cue snazzy music*

-Social Media For Cosplay

Obviously, I have my instagram (@the.otaku.diaries). Being committed to an account and posting often isn't easy, but it sure motivates you to get off your couch and cosplay on a daily basis! Plus, knowing you have people that support you is a great feeling. Getting compliments on your cosplay on a day-to-day basis, when you don't have to get out and about to cosplay, is perfect to keep the cosplay snowball rolling!

Focuses On: Day-To-Day Cosplay, Boosts Self-Esteem

I've always loved this picture. If you have artist credits or know who does, please inform me!

-Going To (And Planning For) Conventions

Even before we had our first costumes done, my friends and I decided to go to an anime convention! For some reason I picked one out that was really far away (Zenkaikon), but as soon as I pitched the idea to my friends they were on-board! Getting our parents to take us and pay for some of the stuff was a little harder, but they agreed (Big thanks to the parents who took us and helped with the money, btw.), and with about 6 months to the convention, we started planning who we'd cosplay. So we had gone from one cosplay planned out to about three each. I actually ended up with four cosplays, haha.

Focuses On: Getting More Cosplays Done, Group Cosplays

Friendship is a beautiful thing (◡‿◡✿)

There are many more ways you can find motivation, but it really helps a ton! :)

~♥~

Step 3: Make It Rain

This title = dead X_X

Okay, I know you're getting impatient and you just want to cosplay already, but if your broke you can't do that hun. So let's finance!

Write down every element you'll need for your cosplay. I'll show an example with Natsu.

Pink Wig:

Natsu Scarf:

Vest:

Arm Band:

Tattoo:

Belt:

Weird Skirt-Thing:

White Pants:

Black Sandals:

Happy Plush:

Now, decide what'll you'll make and what you'll buy. Remember that buying something doesn't make you and less or worse of a cosplayer, and vice versa with making. I honestly buy a lot of my cosplay elements.

For my example, I said: "Alright, I'll make the skirt thing. I'll also add the trim to the pants and vest. So I now need gold ribbon and black fabric."

Then, do some online searching and figure out how much everything will cost. Remember, it's better then to have extra money than to not have enough.

Pink Wig: $15 

Natsu Scarf: $10

Vest: $20

Arm Band: $25

Tattoo (Red Sharpie): $5

Belt: $5

Black Fabric + Gold Ribbon: $10

White Pants: $25

Black Sandals: $10

Happy Plush: $20

Total: $145

In retrospect my mom paid for a lot of this so I wasn't as cheap as I usually am. My basic cosplays usually cost around $80-$100? But more detailed cosplays are around $90-$200, depending on the detail and quality you want.

~♥~

Will be updated soon!~ Please be patient with my turtle slow pace owo

-Gaby

How To Create A Genderbent Cosplay

Hello all! Today I will be posting about the steps to make a genderbent cosplay, based on my experiences with genderbent Hiro Hamada. This works for the two main types of genderbends; male → female / female → male.

I honestly thought this picture was so cool it has to be included

If you will be cosplaying the opposite gender, you might need to take extra steps such as getting a binder or vice versa. (Excuse my ignorance, I have no idea what steps guys take to cosplay girls.)

But before we begin; I'd like to address a fairly sensitive topic in order to later avoid offending anyone: gender stereotypes. This is all up to the cosplayer, but this post will center on genderbends that use gender stereotypes and play off of them to convey the point more clearly. I do not enforce gender sterotypes, I will just be referencing them so your cosplay can be more clear that it's genderbent. I believe in more than two genders and equality for all genders and sexualities. Please keep this in mind as you read. Thank you. 

~♂↔♀~

Step 1: Pick Your Character/Gender & Find Inspiration

So, decide who'll you'll be genderbending first of all, and the gender you'll eventually be cosplaying. The more well known the character, the easier it will be to convey your point across.

Next, try to find some good examples of fan art or other genderbent cosplays for that character. But just remember: don't copy. It'll be so much more fun to come up with your own design instead of just using the design of some fanart. And might I add, that could very easily turn into stealing if you don't give proper credit and/or contact the artist beforehand.

Step 2: Create A Design

Depending on how complex your character's outfit is; you might need to sketch this out. For Hiro, it was fairly simple so I really just mapped it out in my head and with Cosplanner.

This is the part where you can incorporate gender sterotypes in order to convey your point. Yes, of course I know not all girls just wear skirts and dresses, some don't even wear them at all. But it helps get the point across that it's a genderbend. Not all girls have long hair; but it tells the viewer that you're not just cosplaying the original character.

Other things you can do for a male to female genderbend are lots of jewelry, heels, and a lot of makeup.

As for a fem. to male genderbend, try short hair, shorts or pants, and looser clothing.

Step 3: Get Your Materials & Assemble

Try to find things that fit your design as closely as possible, or better yet; make your outfit from scratch. Since Hiro wears fairly normal clothes, I got all of my cosplay from Amazon.

Work out the little details and get your final cosplay together. There's not much to say at this point, really.

Step 4: Rock Your Cosplay & Be Ready To Explain What A Genderbend Is To Your Parents

What a cheesy title, but now it's really up to you. Behave like the character, but incorporate masculine/feminine traits as you see fit. Maybe change your walk, voice, or posture, Just don't go too far and lose the original personality of the character you're portraying. And if your parents ask "What character is that?" and eventually, "What's a genderbend?" be prepared to explain.

~♂↔♀~

Over all, a lot of genderbending is up to you. Have fun with it and don't be afraid to change a few minor details. As long as you don't lose sight of the character, you'll be fine. ☻

~Tenshi

Double Review: Wigs [Hiro Genderbend + Miyuki]

Hello, everyone! Today I'm back and reviewing two of the news wigs I just got; my Hiro Hamada genderbender and my Miyuki Takara wigs. I will also be including things relating to their companies, MelodySusie and Cosplay House, respectvily.

 Let's get started!~ \(^0^)/

-♥-

MelodySusie Black Curly Wig Review

This one can be found on the MelodySusie website, but I ordered from this link on Amazon, where it was a few dollars cheaper and included free shipping.

So I ended up being frugal on this cosplay, which ended up backfiring for different reasons unrelated to this wig. But for about $15 I was very surprised by the quality and packaging of this wig.

When I opened up the cute lil' box, I got 4 items: the wig, a "professional wig comb", a wig cap, and this weird bookmark. The box had instructions on how to take care of the wig, and honestly it's one of the best packaged wigs I've gotten and the cheapest. The only problem I had was that the comb's package was halfway opened when I looked in the box. Honestly though, I used it anyways, and it's great for combing curly wigs. The wig cap wasn't anything special, it was standard quality.

The wig itself was like the product picture, plus it was easy to run my fingers through and had no tangles. Excellent quality. Below's a picture of the wig I took the other day.

I really can't say much more about this wig, because it was excellent quality. It got to my house within a week. It fit nicely, other than the wig cap hurting a little. On the packaging it says curling wands and straightening irons aren't recommended.

Pros: Great Quality, Low Cost, Nice Extras/Packaging
Cons: I honestly can't think of any. You get well beyond what you pay for with this wig.

~Final ★ Score~

Cost/Shipping Time: 10

Quality: 10

Accuracy: NA (It's up to the cosplayer on this one, really)

Material & Fit: 9

Overall: 9.5

-♥-

Cosplay House Miyuki Takara Wig

Can be found on Cosplay House's website.

Unlike the last one, I got this one for about $35 plus around $10-$12 shipping. The reason was because all the other Miyuki wigs looked inaccurate.

I got it after about two weeks, as advertised. It also came pre-styled like the website said it would be. It was great quality, but I was paying a lot so that was expected. I'm happy with the wig, there's really not a lot more to it.

Another thing worth noting is the wig cap it came with has been the first comfortable wig cap I've really worn. Very good quality on that too. ^.^

It was accurate, too. Great job done on the styling. Here's a picture:

Pros: Comfortable Wig Cap, Pre-Styled, Good Quality

Cons: $$$

~Final ★ Score~

Cost/Shipping Time: 8

Quality: 10

Accuracy: 9

Material & Fit: 10

Overall: 9

-♥-

So which wig is better?

I'm not here to answer that, because they're both great quality wigs in themselves. But I will say that if you want to get a wig from one of these two companies, go with MelodySusie. The reason is just simply that you get around the same quality for 25% of the price. It's true that MelodySusie doesn't have a lot of cosplay-oriented wigs, so if you can't find what you're looking for, consider Cosplay House. It's expensive, but if you're looking for excellent quality you really can't go wrong on that one.

I'm very happy with both of my wigs, and am looking forward to ordering from both of these companies again! Thank you all so much for reading, and be sure to check out my new gadget with my IG feed and if you have an IG, check out my acc at @the.otaku.diaries!

Until next time,

~Tenshi

The Con & Spring Break

It feels like forever since I've written a post, but maybe that's just me. I'm glad to be back though~

Me At Zenkaikon 2015

Zenkaikon 2015 was amazing, first off. It was one of the best weekends of my life, and I'm honestly so grateful I had the experience. There are so many memories I made with my friends, but I'll share them another day. ^-^

-♥-

So, since I have to go away for Spring Break *sigh*, and I can't bring my cosplays with me *double sigh*, I'll be doing something a little different next week. Instead of full on cosplays, I'll being wearing an outfit each day inspired by a character. I'll use my real hair of course. I'll need a mix of casual, swim, and formal outfits, so it should be pretty interesting. It'll be warm, too.

I'll probably be leaving my computer at home, so expect shorter blog entries, if any. I'll try to stay updates. 

That's all for now!

~Tenshi

Zenkaikon 2015 Lineup

Friday
Mirabelle Haywood
from Magical DoReMi

I'm back for my second blog post: my Zenkaikon lineup!

If you don't already know from my instagram feed, Zenkaikon 2015 will be my first con I'm attending! I'm super pumped, so here's the characters I'm being:

I'm also including a secret cosplay for the ball Friday! Which cons are you guys going to this year?

~Tenshi

Sunday
Kagami Hiiragi
from Lucky Star

Saturday
Natsu Dragneel
from Fairy Tail