Who hasn’t dreamed of seeing Fist of the North Star’s Kenshiro walking through Times Square, or Makoto Kusanagi from Ghost in the Shell roaming the halls of the Orange County Convention Centre?
Anime cosplay has turned conventions from simple fan gatherings into full-blown pop culture catwalks, where every costume tells a story and every character interpretation becomes performance art. But beyond the colourful wigs and intricate accessories, which anime are truly inspiring the new generation of creative cosplayers?
Anime have always been part of Psylo’s DNA: since the early days, we’ve created prints inspired by the worlds of Japanese animation, recognising mangaka as artists of extraordinary talent and finding in their stories a vision that reflects our values of creative rebellion and individuality.
Our cyberpunk collection was born precisely from this passion for universes where the concepts, aspirations, and fears of our societies are pushed to the extreme—free to express their full potential and leave their mark on our skin, as well as on fashion.
Cyberpunk and Rebellion: The New Classics
Lucy cosplay from Edgerunners via Pinterest
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners tells the story of David Martinez and Lucy, two outsiders fighting against an oppressive system. For cosplayers who love complex characters, these protagonists offer a chance to explore themes like resistance to power and the pursuit of freedom. Their costume design perfectly captures the street-tech aesthetic shaping today’s cosplay trends.
Attack on Titan cosplay via Pinterest
Attack on Titan has redefined what it means to be a hero. Eren Yeager undergoes a powerful evolution that challenges the boundaries between justice and revenge.
For those seeking characters with narrative depth, this series offers protagonists who subvert traditional anime roles.
The Classics That Still Inspire
Lain Iwakura cosplay via Pinterest
Serial Experiments Lain remains a key reference for those exploring digital identity. Lain Iwakura is ideal for cosplayers who appreciate introspective characters and minimalist design. Her simple yet iconic look still draws attention at conventions worldwide.
Motoko Kunasagi cosplay via Pinterest
Ghost in the Shell and Major Kusanagi provide inspiration for futuristic cosplay that goes beyond aesthetics. Themes of artificial consciousness and human identity make these characters especially meaningful. Their sleek bodysuits and cyberpunk accessories even anticipated the techwear style now prominent in alternative fashion.
Haruko from FLCL cosplay via Pinterest
FLCL captures the wild energy of adolescence through characters like Haruko Haruhara.
For cosplayers drawn to chaotic, unconventional roles, the series offers memorable designs and distinctive personalities.
Btw...how about checking out our cyberpunk-inspired collection?
The Series Shaping Cosplay in 2025
Chainsaw Man cosplay from Puerto Rico Comicon 2022 via Pinterest
Chainsaw Man brought a breath of fresh air to the anime scene. Denji isn’t your typical hero—he’s not trying to save the world, just to live a better life. Cosplayers are embracing these more "human", imperfect protagonists with relatable flaws and goals.
Jujutsu Kaisen cosplays via Pinterest
Jujutsu Kaisen continues to dominate cosplay competitions thanks to characters like Gojo Satoru and Nobara Kugisaki. The series offers a compelling mix of action and emotional development—ideal for both visual impact and meaningful interpretation.
Demon Slayer cosplays via Pinterest
Demon Slayer has changed how antagonists are portrayed. Tanjiro Kamado embodies a new kind of hero—one who tries to understand his enemies.
He’s a favourite among cosplayers looking to embody characters with emotional nuance. The geometric patterns of his cloak and the haori worn by the Pillars provide countless creative opportunities for blending Japanese tradition with modern design.
Naruto cosplay via Pinterest
Naruto remains popular with new generations—not only for its powerful coming-of-age story but for its richly detailed traditional costumes. From Itachi’s elegant robes to ceremonial ninja wedding outfits, the series offers a unique fusion of authentic Japanese culture and contemporary cosplay. For fans of traditional garments with a modern twist—like us at Psylo—Naruto provides a playground of creative expression.
Tips for the Perfect Cosplay
Psylo Cosplay by @catinawitchhat
Must-Attend Cosplay Events in Summer 2025
Convention season is on the horizon, and each event is the perfect stage to showcase your next cosplay character.
- Anime Expo 2025 (July 3–6, 2025, Los Angeles Convention Center): the ultimate West Coast gathering, known for its epic cosplay competitions and meet-ups focused on underground anime.
- Comic-Con San Diego (July 24–27, 2025, San Diego Convention Center): where anime cosplay and global pop culture collide, attracting thousands of cosplayers worldwide.
- London Film and Comic Convention (July 5–6, 2025, Olympia London): Europe’s hotspot for creative, high-quality cosplay.
- World Cosplay Summit 2025 (August 1–3, Nagoya): the most prestigious cosplay event globally, where craftsmanship and character portrayal reach professional levels.
Each convention brings a unique vibe and crowd, ideal for testing multiple interpretations of a character or discovering new anime inspirations for future projects.
Which anime character inspires your next cosplay?
Share your vision using #PsylopeopleSouls and tag us in your convention photos—we want to see what you're bringing to life!
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