June 18, 2023
The highly anticipated event has finally arrived! But amidst the excitement, our dedicated cosplayer found themselves in a last-minute frenzy. You might wonder why, considering we had been given a two-month extension. Well, unexpected changes are not uncommon in the world of cosplay. Initially, my partner had been working on a Monster Hunter costume, but he wasn't satisfied with the outcome and decided to switch gears just a week before the event. The new character of choice? Vocaloid's Bottle Miku. However, even that didn't feel competition-worthy, so he made yet another change and ended up creating a unique Ball Joint Doll cosplay of his own design.
RUSHING TO GATHER MATERIALS AND PREPARE MAKEUP
With the sudden shift in cosplay plans, we found ourselves scrambling to gather the necessary materials and makeup just two days before the event. We hurriedly visited malls and stores like Mr. DIY to find everything we needed.
The dress had been chosen well in advance, with the intention of creating a Ball Joint fashion ensemble. Finally, the day had come to bring that vision to life. However, we felt that something was missing from the overall look. So, my partner decided to incorporate cat ears as a headpiece. I suggested bringing cat paws as well, but he hesitated, and in the end, we regretted not having them.
 |
| Swatching Revlon Colorstay in Natural |
As for makeup, we bought most of the products at SM North, and they were all brand new, except for my trusty LA Girl concealer, which unfortunately wasn't available at the time. Even the HD foundation I needed wasn't in stock, so I had to make do with my previous one. Unfortunately, it started to clump up later on, which became a source of concern. Thankfully, the new Revlon Foundation proved to be a lifesaver. I'm immensely grateful for the lipstick freebie they gave me, which came in handy at that crucial moment.
On the final day, we ventured to Victory Mall, but we were disappointed with what we found. The shoes I had been looking for were no longer available. However, our spirits lifted when we decided to explore SM across the street, where we stumbled upon various interesting stores, including a Korean photobooth on the top floor. It was there that we found the perfect leggings for the cosplay. After our shopping spree, we grabbed a bite to eat at the mall's food court and indulged in some Sinigang.
THE DAY OF THE COSPLAY COMPETITION
I did my primary makeup at home and wore a hairnet to keep my hair in place. Since it was a Sunday, we were fortunate enough to get a reasonably priced Grab ride, costing only 300 instead of the usual 500 on weekdays. The journey was smooth, but we encountered a long line upon arrival. Knowing we needed ample time to prepare, we managed to bypass the line, fully aware that we would register later.
The Malabon Sports Complex was vast, with vents and fans ensuring a pleasant airflow. However, I couldn't help but worry about the temperature once I donned my costume. I knew it had the potential to become uncomfortably hot.
PREPARATION
As soon as we arrived, I hurriedly changed into my costume in the Women's C.R., conveniently located near our seating area. The venue was already abuzz with cosplayers in their gowns, makeup stations, and a stage set up for the competition. A photo booth and 360 booths also awaited our arrival.
Taking a closer look at the stage, I realized that despite its appearance, walking on it could be quite precarious. It had been three years since I last wore heels and walked confidently, so I silently prayed to avoid any embarrassing stumbles.
PHOTOSHOOT TIME
Getting my makeup ready took some time, but once it was done, I rushed to the photo booth. This was the highlight of the day for me—I absolutely love photoshoots! However, as someone who had become a Hikikomori during the pandemic, I struggled with posing. I knew I needed to work on that aspect of my performance.
CATWALK COSPLAY
The schedule was adjusted, causing some changes, and our performance was slated for around 3 or 4 pm.
Once everything was sorted, the atmosphere changed completely. The tension and anxiety dissipated as each cosplayer took the stage, and vibrant energy enveloped the venue. It was a delightful transformation, and everyone wore smiles of joy. Backstage, I was feeling a bit weak due to my ongoing fasting, which made walking in heels a challenge—except for the time I had to strut in the middle. At one point, a mother asked if I could help make her child fall asleep. However, the child's bewildered expression upon seeing my cat ears made it clear that sleep would be elusive.
I struck up conversations with the cosplayers beside me backstage, and it turned out to be a super fun experience. I was told that my eye makeup looked good and I told her thank God for LA Girl, but I realized she was referring to the diamonds that I placed, chuckles, Thank you for noticing!
One of the many makeup artists, and designers shook a Eureka with my style and eye makeup inspiration and before you know it, Helene Budol has the same eye style makeup like mine!
 |
| After the event where Makeup artists and Designers the eye makeup of Herlene Budol resembles that of my Ball Joint Doll Cosplay Fashion Ensemble |
It seems like my eye makeup is not the only thing the designers were inspired with, see this post from another Netizen that was also the inspiration for her gown.
Since I wasn't fully prepared for the performance, I only posed briefly in front of the cameras.
We decided to head home early, around 4 pm, after taking a few photos with other attendees and models.
We were among the first to leave the venue, as we needed to return to reality swiftly. Nevertheless, I couldn't help but wish I could have stayed longer, basking in the dream-like atmosphere of the event.
I have a vlog about this, let me know if you'd like to see it and I'll attach the link
%20with%20signature.jpg "GuaPhotog") |
| GuaPhotog |
 |
| From Joseph Tañega |
 |
| Buan Sonz |
 |
| Buan Sonz |
