[Jeanne d'Arc (Alter) cosplay] Greatsword with Qipao: Convention Photos Are Here!

It is no exaggeration that my entire body aches after the con, especially when wearing this Jeanne d'Arc Alter qipao—the soles of my feet and my lower back are still sore. Yet seeing the finished Convention photos makes every ounce of exhaustion worthwhile. Today I'm releasing these photos to share the styling details and my on-site con experience with everyone.

First, let's talk about the design of this Jeanne d'Arc Alter qipao. It is crafted from a matte black fabric tailored closely to the silhouette. The sleeveless mandarin collar combined with the chest cutout and black metal chain accents draws visual focus directly to the upper body. What captivates me most are the crimson flame motifs across the shoulders and flanks, edged with delicate red piping that breaks the monotony of pure black and injects a sense of aggression and mystique. The thigh-high side slit is a feature I adore; when walking or posing, it naturally accentuates the leg lines. Paired below are black over-the-knee Stockings with garter straps, complemented by black chunky-heeled leather shoes with metal buckles. This ensemble visually elongates the legs and the Stockings offer a sleek fit; though walking the convention floor all day was punishing on the feet, the visual impact on camera was undeniable.

The props posed another major physical trial. The cross greatsword features a metallic finish and feels hefty in hand, accompanied by the massive banner with black script against a white field, supported by an exceptionally long pole. Posing on-site required planting the sword with one hand while hoisting the flag with the other, often maintaining a single-leg balance or a raised-knee stance. Balancing the body while regulating facial expressions to project Jalter's cold, haughty demeanor pushed my core and arm strength to the limit. The photographer was also fantastic at directing, adjusting the flag's angle and sword positioning to achieve frames brimming with visual tension.

Hair and makeup demanded equal care. The long white wig needed generous volumizing, while the headpiece adorned with black horns and red accents required rock-solid fastening to prevent it from slipping during the walk. To embody the character's disposition, I wore red contact lenses and drew a sharp, winged eyeliner flicked upwards. Paired with a darker crimson lipstick, the makeup stayed crisp and defined, harmonizing with the dark wardrobe to radiate a chilling, glamorous presence.

The convention atmosphere was electrifying. Although the hall was packed and muggy, attendees' passion for the characters was palpable. Walking through the exhibition zones, photographers often approached asking for photo ops. Scouting spots with great lighting and backdrops—such as an industrial area with rolling shutter doors and exposed steel trusses—lent the shots a grim, epic quality. I also encountered many fellow cosplayers, snapping commemorative two-shots and swapping notes on costume craftsmanship and prop building; that kind of offline connection is irreplaceable online.

By late afternoon, I was running purely on willpower: high heels had my arches burning, and my arms felt weighed down from holding heavy props all day. Yet when the photographer sent over these Convention photos—seeing the dramatic lighting sculpting the contrast between the black qipao and white locks, with the crimson lenses projecting fierce determination—most of the fatigue evaporated instantly. I personally love this modified aesthetic blending traditional elements with a combat-ready edge.

With a packed con itinerary and an exhausted body, gathering with so many passionate peers who love ACG culture to do what we adore brought deep, authentic fulfillment. Sharing these frames from various angles serves as a beautiful memento of this demanding yet rewarding con journey.