Cosplay and its impact in fashion design

This thesis explores the phenomenon of cosplay within the context of fashion design, aiming to reveal its potential as a means of personal expression as well as its influence on the fashion industry. By examining the definition of cosplay and distinguishing it from theatrical costumes, the study emphasizes that cosplay is not merely a form of stage wear but also a creative practice involving character embodiment, identity exploration, and social interaction. The research investigates the historical development of cosplay, its transformation into a sector, and its relationship with advertising. It also focuses on cosplay events in Turkey and the experiences of Turkish cosplayers, providing insight into how this global subculture has been adapted and interpreted within a local context. Cosplay's impact on street fashion is particularly evident in the stylistic choices and aesthetic preferences of younger generations. Collections inspired by films, TV series, and video games, as well as practices within Fantasy Role Play (FRP) and Live Action Role Play (LARP) communities, demonstrate the multifaceted influence of cosplay on contemporary fashion. Furthermore, the thesis includes examples from various countries such as Japan, the United States, South Korea, and France to illustrate how cosplay has integrated with and influenced street fashion across different cultural landscapes. Themes such as cultural hybridity, digitalization, and social media aesthetics are shown to play a critical role in shaping cosplay as not only a fan practice but also a contemporary art form and visual language within fashion. By analyzing cosplay from multiple perspectives, this study contributes to the academic literature by highlighting its transformative role in fashion design and its potential as a platform for aesthetic, cultural, and social expression.