April. It's the month of fooling (as the weather is capable of doing lately, tricking us into believing it will be warm only to surprise us again with a quick chill), as well as the month of baskets of sweet things and pretty outfits. Well, we can't deliver any colored eggs your way, but we can deliver some sweet cosplay which, not necessarily coincidentally, involves pretty outfits. And be sure about our latest cosplayer -- she's certainly not fooling around with her skills!

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. If you got inspired to cosplay, click here for more cosplay ideas.

So let us waste no more time in introducing you to Tess-- also known as Ready Cosplayer One. And believe us, she's definitely ready to be the...

Critical Blast Bombshell, April 2021

Ready Cosplayer One

Donna Troy (DC COMICS, REBIRTH)

 

What is your interest in cosplay?

Cosplay is my creative outlet. I love the craft and photography aspects of it. Plus, who doesn't want to be their favourite superhero?

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

I've been a comic book reader and TV/movie lover since I was a child. Back in early 2018, I started looking more and more into cosplay and decided to give it a shot, starting my Instagram account and buying my first wig and suit.

How has your cosplay evolved since you began?

When I started out, I used Photoshop and pretty heavy composites - which I still like. However, now I alter my photography and editing styles based on the character I'm cosplaying and the vision I have for them. I've also improved massively with my crafting e.g. using foam to create armour. I'm in the middle of my next big build now - Wonder Woman.

Black Widow (MARVEL CINEMATIC UNIVERSE)

 

What is your "secret identity" outside of cosplaying?

I have a 9-5 office job which isn't currently too creative, which is why I have my creative outlet in cosplay and art.

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

Social activities have been super limited due to the global pandemic. However, prior to the pandemic I'd attend Comic Cons as much as possible - I love conventions. I plan to attend conventions when it's safe to do so again and hopefully get involved with some charities going forward. Giving back would be amazing!

Donna Troy (DCEU, TITANS)

 

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

I do a bit of both. I'll purchase an item for cosplay if it's something I know I couldn't make to the standard I want. Generally though, I'll try to make what I can. The first prop I made was my shield for Donna Troy and I'm still so proud of it. I believe cosplays made or bought are equally valid in the community. It's all about loving the character and art!

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

Black Widow - there's something about cosplaying her that makes me feel super powerful. Like I can do anything. Donna Troy would be my next choice.

Where can people go to find you online?

Instagram: @ReadyCosplayerOne
Twitter: @ReadyCosplayer1
TikTok: ReadyCosplayerOne