Cosplay has leapt from niche fandoms into the mainstream, and nowhere is that more obvious than at Comic Con Africa, which kicks off in Joburg this week. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming your favourite anime hero, a Marvel icon, or even a mash-up of characters you love, cosplay is all about fun, creativity, and community.
Here’s your ultimate starter guide if you’re planning to dress up for the con or if you’ve been itching to try it out for the first time.
Pick a character you love
Start with someone you genuinely connect with. Your passion for a character will shine more than picture-perfect accuracy. At Comic Con Africa, you’ll see everything from Spider-Man squads to anime ensembles, so there’s no wrong choice.
Budget smartly
Cosplay doesn’t need to break the bank. Decide early what you want to spend, then get creative: thrift shops around Joburg can be treasure troves for costumes, and local fabric stores can help you DIY the details.
Prioritise comfort
Remember: you’ll be walking convention halls, queuing for panels, and snapping photos all day. Make sure you can actually sit, breathe, and move in your outfit. Bonus points if you can sneak a snack into a hidden pocket.
Forget the “accuracy police”
Someone will always have opinions about costume details, but cosplay is about joy, not perfection. Put your spin on it, whether that’s gender-bending, adding African flair, or creating a budget-friendly version.
Join the community
The best part of cosplay is the people. Joburg’s scene is warm, inclusive, and always buzzing online. Comic Con Africa is the ideal space to meet like-minded fans, show off your outfit, and cheer others on.
Cosplay resources in Johannesburg
Fabrics and materials
- Chamdor Fabrics (Randburg) – A favourite for quirky fabrics and trims.
- Oriental Plaza (Fordsburg) – Great for affordable materials and accessories.
Wigs and make-up
- Glamour Hair (Sandton) - Offers a wide selection of styles, colours, and lengths, catering to everyone from first-time casual cosplayers to seasoned pros.
- Dischem/Kryolan - For stage quality make-up.
Props and accessories
- Masquerade Costumes & Novelties (Bryanston) - a must-visit spot for cosplay props and accessories, offering everything from wigs and masks to fun gadgets that bring your Comic Con character to life
- La Lunary - offers stylish, anime-inspired merchandise and cosplay items, and also creates custom clothing designed to suit your unique style and character needs
Communities to join
- Cosplay South Africa - The biggest local cosplay group.
- Comic Con Africa Cosplay Central – Panels, competitions, and meet-ups during the con.
At Comic Con Africa, cosplay isn’t just a sideshow; it’s the beating heart of the festival. Every expression is celebrated, from fans who’ve spent months building intricate armour to those who simply throw on a cape, a quirky hoodie, or a pair of themed glasses. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned veteran, there’s a space for you to shine.
Casual cosplay competitions
If you’re dipping your toes into cosplay, the daily Casual Cosplay Competitions are the perfect entry point. No pre-registration is needed; just sign up at Cosplay Central on the day, then take your moment on the Main Stage.
There are two sessions per day, so plenty of chances to show off your look, and kids under 13 even have their own dedicated round packed with fun and prizes. No pressure, just pure joy (and a little friendly competition).
The ultimate cosplay competition
For those who take cosplay to the next level, the Comic Con Africa Cosplay Champs is where passion becomes art. Think late-night sewing, foam cutting, airbrushing, LED detailing, every detail counts. In 2025, the competition will be refined to include more skill levels, so everyone can enter and be celebrated.
Categories range from Novice to Journeyman, Masters, and ultimately the Overall Champion, with two main divisions: Needlework and Armour. Expect high stakes, big prizes, and jaw-dropping creativity.
Also read: What not to miss at Comic Con 2025
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