Every month our staff combs the cosplay community for up-and-coming cosplayers who deserve to have a broader audience for their work, taking into account not only costuming skills and photogenic presence, but also how they use that ability in service to others. Through this, we've not only met some talented cosplayers, but also some fine human beings.

This month our search takes us to Texas, where we meet up with a cosplayer who is in a league of her own when it comes to realizing League of Legends characters. Top this with her work helping people in her real world job and the time she spends doing cosplay for a number of local charities, and we couldn't be more pleased to introduce you, our readers, to our...

Critical Blast Bombshell, June 2021

Paris Cosplays

Jinx (League of Legends)

Photo: Jorge and Jordan

What is your interest in cosplay?

My interest in cosplay started with my fandoms -- and I have a lot of them, haha! I really enjoy showing my own take on some of my favorite characters and bringing them to life! I definitely get “con energy” and feel like a hyped version of myself when I’m in cosplay. Honestly, I think it’s just me in “final form!” All of that said, I have been so appreciative of the opportunities that cosplay has brought me. I have to say that my favorite part is the friendships I’ve made and the community. I believe in community over competition and am always looking for new ways to engage and meet new people! Costumes and makeup are fun, but building connections and sharing ideas has always been my favorite part.

How did you get into cosplay, and what was your first cosplay experience?

I have always had a passion for dramatic costumes and makeup! In high school I was on the drill team and had an FX makeup phase which was a ton of fun. I went to my first convention in 2016 dressed as Harley Quinn and was instantly in love!

How has your cosplay evolved since you began?

My cosplay has evolved a lot since I began! I didn’t wear wigs with my first cosplays and now I LOVE wigs and wig styling. I have gained a lot of new skills, tips, and tricks over the years and I can definitely see an improvement.

Seraphine (League of Legends)

Photo: J.A. Vilches

What is your "secret identity" outside of cosplaying?

Outside of cosplay, I am a full time therapist. I have a passion for helping others and am specializing in children and adolescents.

What kind of social or charity activities do you get involved in with your cosplay?

One of the many ways that I participate in the community is through philanthropy. With Houston Hero Headquarters, I have had the opportunity and privilege to donate my time to charitable causes such as Tim Tebow's Night to Shine, Texas Children’s Hospital, March of Dimes, Autism Speaks, Angel Tree Mission, Michael Ayden’s Miracle Heart Warriors, and many more! 

Nezuko (Demon Slayer)

Photo: Paris Cosplays

Do you make as much of your own costume as possible or rely on purchased materials -- and is that important overall to cosplaying? 

I purchase costumes to customize and alter to my liking! I don’t think making your own costumes is a requirement for cosplay, but I have a lot of respect for those who do! I work 40 hours a week and struggle to find time to complete a full cosplay from scratch, but it is a goal of mine for this year!

What's your favorite cosplay, your "go to" look that you just love to put on and act out?

Currently my favorite cosplay is Seraphine from League of Legends! I weirdly have a lot in common with the character and I also main her in the game. 

Where can people go to find you online?

Instagram: Pariscosplays

Tik Tok: Pariscosplayss 

Youtube: Paris Cosplays

Facebook: Paris Cosplays 

Twitch: Pariscosplays