Xiao Yu
Boasting a whopping one and a half million followers across her social media platforms, professional cosplayer and content creator Xiaoyu is no new face in the scene. Her interest in cosplay was sparked from an early love of anime, games and storytelling. “I have always been fascinated by the creativity and emotions displayed by these fictional characters, and cosplay felt like the perfect way to bring them to life,” shares Yu.
“The first time I saw cosplayers at a convention, I was amazed at how they could transform into someone straight out of my favourite stories—it was truly magical.” Yu’s cosplay repertoire is extensive and varied, taking inspiration from a wide range of characters. Her recent works include The Herta from the popular video game Honkai: Star Rail, Goddess Madoka from the Japanese anime series Puella Magi Madoka Magica and Yinlin from the action role-playing game Wuthering Waves.
Yu describes her style as one filled with vibrant designs and strong personalities. “It’s not just about wearing the costume but also embodying the character’s spirit—portraying their strength, vulnerability and charisma. It is an art form filled with vigour, represented by the energy, passion and enthusiasm that is poured into each cosplay experience.”
Yosuke
A 13-year veteran within the industry, Yosuke’s claim to fame stems from her charming Crossplay works—a subgenre of cosplay in which a person dresses up as a character of the opposite gender. “In Singapore, many of the bigger cosplayers tend to focus on female character portrayals. This has naturally given me a niche within the community, as I specialise in male characters and enjoy exploring different styles within that realm,” notes the 27-year-old.
A self-proclaimed introvert, Yosuke shares that cosplay has helped her to break out of her shell and find her voice. “I always found it hard to express myself growing up, and cosplay has given me the confidence to open up while also providing a safe space where I can unapologetically revel in my interests.”
Outside of her personal endeavours, Yosuke is also deeply involved in expanding the local community through her newly launched podcast series Cossip and sustainable flea market initiative Cosset. “With these ventures I wish to promote sustainability, circulation and growth within the industry, all while continuing to inspire and support young emerging cosplayers.”
MAORU
With a background in drawing and graphic design, MAORU’s introduction to the world of cosplay came from selling fan merchandise at a local cosplay event booth. “I saw a bunch of teens dressed to the nines in intriguing costumes, mingling with one another,” she reminisces. “It looked like a lot of fun, to be able to be part of a community with so many like-minded people. I bought my first wig the very next week, and the rest was history.”
Now one of the emerging faces to watch, versatility is the name of the game for MAORU. “I cosplayed as many male characters when I was just starting out, but over time I have gained equal confidence in cosplaying both genders.” Her interests lie in primarily Korean and Japanese media, evident in several of her most notable cosplays to date such as Red Hood from the sci-fi game Goddess of Victory: Nikke and Sabito from the acclaimed manga series Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
“Just like any other creative avenue, there have been numerous ups and downs. I have experienced severe burnouts in the past, but it is the ongoing pursuit of excellence and vigour within me that has allowed for the art of cosplay to remain a big source of joy in my life.
Photography Zantz Han
Styling Nicholas See
Hair Ken Hong using Goldwell Professional
Make-up Kimberly using NARS Cosmetics
Manicure Ann Lim
Producer David Bay
Photographer’s assistant Rong Qiang
Stylist’s assistant Nurul Firdousee
Vogue Singapore’s March ‘Vigour’ issue is now out on newsstands and available online.
