In July of last year, I was in RTX with Kiogenic. It was her senior trip.  I had registered for the convention, but never actually went in- the line to pick up badges was CRAZY, and I had too much fun talking to cosplayers in line.

(It was a lesson: cosplayers are super happy to be interviewed when they are stuck in line! I used this lesson in Mexico as well: equally true!)

As I worked my way down the miles-long, winding, cast of thousands waiting to register, I was struck by the amazing cosplay of these two:

Labinak and Mangoloo Borderlands RWBY cosplay at RTX 2017

This cosplay was exquisitely made, ultra-detailed and eye-catchingly different. A beautiful example of creative cosplay, in this case, of melding two franchises.  The young woman on the right, Mangoloo was the artist in this case, and was kind enough to talk to me about her enthusiasm and process.

I’m grateful, as her willingness to share was also extremely useful in the academic cosplay work that I’ve completed since as well! Therefore, I hope she’ll forgive me for this profile taking so long to post.

Name:  Mangoloo

Age:  24 years old

Do you have a “day” job?: I definitely do!

How long have you been cosplaying?: I’ve been cosplaying for about 5 years now.

What’s your home base? :I’m based in Vienna, VA.

How do you choose your characters? What appeals to you about them? Do you identify with or aspire to be like them?:

There are many different factors that I consider when choosing a character to cosplay. A big factor is if I can relate to the character. For instance, Ruby from RWBY – I can easily relate to her sweet derpy personality.

I also look into the design – I particularly like challenges so I tend to choose more difficult cosplays, for instance, Final Fantasy’s Serah Farron. Overall my love for the character is what motivates me to make the cosplay for it. I think more often I identify with my character because I spend so much time doing character studies and trying to get into the head of the character so I can accurately roleplay as them by the time the cosplay is done.

Do you have a signature or favorite cosplay?:

I think most people know me from my RWBY Ruby Rose cosplay. Although if I personally had to choose a favorite – I can’t say that I necessarily have one because I love all my cosplays differently. Each cosplay came with different challenges that I had to figure out how to overcome and new techniques that I had to learn. I am proud of the outcome of all my cosplays; therefore, each cosplay has a special place in my heart.

Do you make, or buy your cosplays?:

Primarily I make my cosplays because I enjoy the challenge. Although I have bought/modified a few more causal ones.

What’s the best things someone has said to you about your cosplay? What’s the worst?:

The best thing someone could say about my cosplay is complimenting my detail work. I take huge pride in the small details. As for the worst – I would say if someone makes a comment that isn’t constructive. I am all for constructive criticism.