SMASH! 2016

I can't believe it has been 5 years since I last went to SMASH! The first time I went to SMASH was back in 2008, it was held in UNSW's roundhouse and I was still in high school. I have now completed my tertiary studies (older, not necessarily wiser haha), I thought I would feel a bit out of place, but seeing all the amazing cosplayers around, I still feel really inspired by the dedication, detail and creativity people put in to dressing up. Some people find cosplay weird, or even childish, but I cannot disagree more! Cosplay is an art form- it is a way people express themselves, and to recreate a 2D character into a breathing, moving being.

SMASH! 2016 at Rosehill Gardens

My friends and I arrived at around noon. We didn't have pre-purchased tickets so we bought the Saturday day pass at the door for $40.

This is my Waloli outfit! Waloli is a lolita fashion style which combines elements of wa (Japanese) with lolita fashion. I wasn't cosplaying as a particular character, but I wanted to portray a stereotypical anime girl with pig tails and neko mimi (cat ears).

Here are my friends and I in various styles of lolita dresses.

From left to right: Sweet lolita, Gothic lolita, Waloli

Alphonse from Fullmetal Alchemist

This has got to be one of the most impressive cosplays I have seen. The costume is made by Japanese guest cosplayer Goldy who is known for making mecha suits like Gundam. This Alphonse armor was amazing! It even lit up when he clapped his hands together.

I saw about 5 Roy Mustangs, 2 Edward Elrics and a Hughes. I even saw Armstrong (with an inflated muscular body lol). I wish I could take a photo with the whole Fullmetal Alchemist gang!

Hayao Miyzaki (Studio Ghibli) and No Face (Spirited Away)

This cosplay combo is epic! The founder of Japanese animation powerhouse with one of its most recognisable characters, No Face, or Kaonashi from Spirited away.

I have not seen many cosplayers dress up as a real life person, but this person did a pretty good job as Hayao Miyazaki!

For no face, apparently the cosplayer put on a helmet and a basket to make the head taller.

Saw the whole Ghibli gang later! There was also Lune from The Cat Returns?, Chihiro and Haku from Spirited Away, and Howl <3

Left: I am not sure who this character is, but this was a beautiful cosplayer with a stunningly elegant gown.

And of course, what is an anime con without Vocaloid superstar Hatsune Miku!

The J-fashion/lolita show at the lolita show, the outfits were so cute :3 Too bad that it was a bit hard to see because the models weren't on an elevated platform

#japan #sydney #event #anime #cosplay #fashion #lolita