The photo set is out! Let's talk about this Azur Lane Cheshire Cosplay New Year Qipao look.
The visual core of this outfit lies in combining the festive New Year atmosphere with the character's traits. For the hairstyle, we used the iconic silver-gray hair color with cyan-blue gradient highlights, paired with a custom large bow on top and fluffy orange-red beast ear decorations on both sides. The hair texture and flow are spot on, offering plenty of volume while adding a touch of playfulness to the overall look.
The costume features a modified modern Chinese Qipao design. The upper portion is a halter neck style with a black-and-white trim design across the chest, complemented by delicate gold embroidery. The large plush shawl over the shoulders is a major highlight of this outfit, looking visually warm and fitting the winter Spring Festival theme nicely. The lower half is a high-slit red long skirt, also adorned with gold thread embroidery. Paired with White stockings and red patent leather high heels, it elongates the body proportions while maintaining clean, sharp lines within the overall red and gold color palette.
The team put a lot of thought into the props and set design. The background was decorated with pink artificial peach blossom branches and a Chinese screen with bird patterns, paired with a vintage wooden armchair to max out the atmosphere. As for props, the biggest test was actually the large gold ingot. Although it looks shiny and polished in photos, it is actually solid metal and very heavy. To appear light and effortless on camera, it required technique to adjust muscle tension during shooting. In addition, some golden bamboo scrolls and paper scrolls were used as accents, fitting the auspicious and culturally rich concept of "Good luck back to work in the New Year."
Regarding lighting, a warm and high-saturation light source was used this time, emphasizing the soft texture of the plush as well as the reflections on the ingot and shoe surfaces. The red velvet backdrop of the venue, echoed by golden broad-leaf plants, allows the final images to instantly catch the eye visually. Considering the common saying that "it's still New Year until the Lantern Festival," releasing this set during the first lunar month perfectly matches the New Year blessings of "good luck returning to work, attracting wealth and treasures."
As a piece of Anime cosplay photography, producing this set was no easy task. From makeup setting and light testing to posing adjustments, whether standing or sitting, one had to stay mindful of posture and eye contact at all times. Maintaining specific angles for extended periods in White stockings and high heels demanded stamina and control. However, I believe that it is precisely because of solid preparation and immersion during the shoot that the character's traits and New Year elements blended so naturally, delivering a festive photo set that meets everyone's expectations.
I hope this Azur Lane Cheshire Cosplay New Year Qipao look brings everyone the enthusiasm and drive for the new year!