fbpx
Home › Get Involved › Costuming

Costuming

Costuming and Cosplay are a cornerstone of CONvergence culture, but are NOT mandatory.  You do not need a costume to enjoy the convention, but should you choose to wear one, this page will help you make the most of your costuming at CONvergence! Be sure to also check out Art of the Dress, CONvergence’s costume runway show, the Hall Costume Contest, and the Masquerade, CONvergence’s costume contest!

Types of CostumingConnie as Doctor 5 and Mark 2 as Master 3 - prev

Most costumes at CONvergence fall into one of two general categories:

  • Hall Costumes: These are costumes worn just for fun while attending the convention, often for long spans of time. They vary in scope and craftsmanship, from lifelike recreations of characters to costumes bought off the rack at Halloween, and pretty much everything in between. There is no right or wrong when it comes to hall costumes!
  • Masquerade Costumes: These are costumes that are worn in the Masquerade, and are usually held up to competitive craftsmanship standards. Often Masquerade costumes are only designed to be worn for short periods of time, favoring the “Wow!” factor over practical considerations.

Of course, there is some crossover between the two types of costumes. A member may choose to enter their hall costume into the Masquerade, just as they may choose to wear their Masquerade costume in the halls!

Photos of Costumes

CONvergence Photography has many, many photos of costumed individuals available on the official CONvergence Flickr. While you’re at the convention, be sure to stop by the Photo Booth to get your photo taken!

Things to Consider

Here are some things to keep in mind while planning your costume for CONvergence:

  • Connie as Batgirl - webPockets/Storage: You’ll want a means to carry your ID, money, phone, and possibly more. If your costume does not have room for pockets, figure out an alternate way to carry your things ahead of time, such as a bag that goes with your costume.
  • Footprint of Costume: CONvergence can be crowded, so much so that large costume elements such as wings or hoop skirts will become cumbersome. This is especially true in the party areas. Making these things collapsible or with smaller alternatives for the more crowded times is a very good idea to ensure you will be able to move around easily!
  • Comfort: July in Minnesota is downright balmy, and despite air conditioning, parts of the hotel can get awfully warm when the crowds are large. Keep this in mind when designing your costume so that you don’t overheat!
  • Shoes: Heels may seem like a great idea, but your feet will be sore before the end of the day. If you are set on wearing heels, invest in some high quality insoles and bring along some flat shoes that would work with your costume just in case.
  • Repairs: It’s a good idea to pack some basic things to repair your cosplay in the event it gets damaged during the fun, such as needle and thread, glue, markers, duct tape, or anything else that would be useful for a quick fix. If your costume needs something you didn’t think to pack, there is a Target close to the convention hotel at 900 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403-2530
  • Federal, State & Local Laws: It’s important to adhere to Federal, State & Local laws regarding what needs to be covered. The Minneapolis, MN Code of Ordinances prohibits “the indecent or lascivious exposure or use of the human body, or any part thereof.” See the CONvergence Costumes/Clothing Policy for more information. If you have any questions about how these laws and policies are respected and enforced at CONvergence, please contact CONvergence Operations.
  • Props: Make sure to get your props peace-bonded by visiting The Bridge when you arrive at the convention. If you have any questions about props at CONvergence, please consult the CONvergence Props Policies or contact CONvergence Operations.
  • Masking: Depending on COVID-19 safety policies, CONvergence attendees over 3 years of age may be required to wear a mask covering their nose and mouth in all public areas unless they are actively eating or drinking. This includes people wearing costumes, unless specifically stated otherwise (e.g. during your Masquerade entry.) We encourage you to incorporate your mask into your costume! If you have questions about what sorts of masks are acceptable, we direct you to the CDC guidelines for face covering.

Costumes are not Consent!

In 2012, CONvergence launched an awareness campaign to remind everyone that wearing a costume is not an invitation for harassment of any kind. Read over the CONvergence Harassment Policy for more information on the campaign and what to do if you are feeling harassed.

The Masquerade

Many costumers choose to enter the CONvergence Masquerade, an annual costume contest and chance to show off your work on stage! Costumers of all skill levels are welcome and encouraged to participate in the Masquerade! Check out the Masquerade page for more information!

Art of the Dress

For 2019, there will not be an Art of the Dress Runway show.

Hall Costume Contest

See the CONvergence Hall Costume Contest page for details on how to enter!

 

Connie reclining