This time, I challenged a Fanon design for Flandre Scarlet from Touhou Project, combining it with the swimwear theme to attempt a summer fairytale-inspired cosplay outfit. Let's talk about the costume first—it is packed with intricate details and accessories. The massive ruffled sun hat on top is the main highlight; not only are multiple handmade fabric flowers sewn onto it, but an oversized red heart-shaped sunglasses accessory is also secured with a ribbon, instantly shifting the visual center of gravity upward with strong anime flair.
The main dress features a color-blocked patchwork of wine red and pure white. Extensive pleats and lace trims wrap the upper body, adorned with a prominent beaded necklace and colorful beaded chains at the chest. The arms feature semi-sheer puff sleeves that offer a wonderful sense of lightness. The waist is accented with an iridescent laser-sheen bow, while the hem boasts cascading layers of white tulle and pink mesh lace. The skirt is extraordinarily fluffy, adorned on the right with a plush teddy bear and flower ornaments, creating explosive layered depth. Although shot indoors, this multi-layered design gave body movements much more dynamic energy.
The red apple appearing repeatedly throughout the photos is a core prop that harmonizes perfectly with the overall red-and-white palette. The black metal frame behind me hanging rainbow-colored geometric prisms serves as the finishing touch—a DIY prop I crafted myself using origami and a structural skeleton. Although adjusting its position on set was physically demanding, the vibrant colors suspended in mid-air in the final photos brought out Flandre Scarlet's fantastical aura impeccably, echoing the vivid colors of sunlight.
For eye makeup, I selected red contact lenses paired with matching lip tint and slightly heavier warm-toned blush, aiming for an exquisite doll-like look. The hair was styled into fluffy, slightly curled blonde locks, matching the character's cuteness as well as the volume of the hat and dress. The venue on the day was ComiDay 30; overhead lights against the dark convention ceiling formed gorgeous bokeh circles in the background. The photographer captured dynamic snaps skillfully—especially in the final standing shots lifting one leg, where the wide spread of the skirt paired with strappy sandals elongated the leg lines, making the silhouette appear light and playful in stark, wonderful contrast with the relaxed languor of holding the apple.
Besides holding the apple, I also really adore the shots squatting down while hugging the teddy bear—that expression conveys the character's innocence blended with a hint of mystery even better. The beauty of Fanon designs is the creative freedom to incorporate elements you love, like the summery wide-brimmed hat, intricate lace, and candy-colored accessories. Although the props and skirt were quite heavy and required careful walking during the shoot, bringing to life the dreamy anime vision in my mind made it completely worthwhile. In post-production, we prioritized preserving costume textures and color saturation without excessive skin smoothing, retaining authentic skin details. Looking at these photos brings back that feeling of complete character immersion at ComiDay 30; every finished cosplay shoot is a truly treasured experience.