EDITS: OK, I’ve found some more places to get things, so I’ve updated the information on where to find coats, Axel’s wig and Zexion’s wig, as well as more general wig-getting places, and the one thing I forgot to throw into the mix–black gloves!
When I first came up with the idea to post this, it was with the intent of providing an easy Cosplay route for people who don’t want to spend a great deal of time getting a cosplay costume together. I think I’ll be able to accomplish that, but at the same time I may even have something to offer you cosplayers with a little more time and experience, so please read on!
One of the hard truths of cosplay is that it’s going to generally either cost you time or money—or both. I’m one of those who’s more willing to spend money than time, so I tend to commission costumes rather than make them myself. This post is generally geared in that direction.
The Cosplay spotlight today is fixed firmly upon Kingdom Hearts II’s Organization XIII. If you’re not familiar with them, I suggest checking out Wikipedia.
The nice thing about cosplaying one of the members of the notorious Organization XIII is that you can either stick to the basics or go all out, and convention goers will generally still know who you’re dressed up to be. The base of ANY Organization XIII costume is, of course, the characteristic black coat (with the GIANT ZIPPER).
There are about a billion different versions of this coat available on the internet now. This ebay seller is my favourite, as she makes a cotton version of the coat I haven’t found anywhere else—AND it’s made to the measurements you specify!
There’s also a pleather version of the coat available from the same seller. I have owned the cotton one for four years running now and love it—it makes a great coat for normal wear!
There are people in the States who make these coats as well, and I was lucky enough to stumble across these guys yesterday. They do custom coats as well, and have the advantage of speaking English and not having to ship overseas! I’ve not been a fan of the faux-leather coat, but these guys–they make it look GOOD. Be ready to spend a little more, but it seems to be well worth it.
The next main part of the outfit is the black boots. I wear a pair of English riding boots, but any low-heel black boot will do. Remember that you may end up walking a good distance in these—pick something comfortable!
The next basic piece is a pair of black gloves. Personally I prefer leather, but various fabric options work as well. Vinyl is also a good second-fiddle to leather.
If you’re not too concerned about being a specific character, guess what—once you have the coat, gloves and boots, you’re set! Off to the con you go! For the rest of you who are interested in being a specific member of the original Organization XIII, this next part will cover each character in more or less depth.
I would like to point something out, however, before we start: character designers are all guilty of the suspension of reality. It’s all fine and good to doodle out a character and his insane, gravity defying hair or absurd weapon, but translating it into real life is sometimes extremely difficult, if not downright impossible. What I’m trying to achieve here is not necessarily an EXACT likeness, but rather enough of a resemblance to provide verisimilitude to an already convincing costume.
Number I: Xemnas, the Superior of the In-Between
The fearless leader of Organization sports long luscious silver locks, styled in a fairly gravity defying manner. He weilds two lightsaber-esque laser swords that seem to sprout from his palms and is generally a giant pain in the butt without even the shreds of a sense of humour.
A specifically styled Xemnas wig is available from Cosplay Station:
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