【Hei Xiazi Cosplay】Divination for Fortune: This Outfit Fits the Wanderer's Aura Perfectly
Choosing to do a Hei Xiazi cosplay was largely drawn by his unique aura of wandering between antique markets and underground explorations. This time, photographer Mengmeng, makeup artist and post-processor Yunhe (@LittleCraneCake), and I agreed on a Zhongshan photoshoot booking to present this blend of traditional yet modern uninhibited charm.
First, about the costume: this all-black jacquard dark-patterned robe is the visual core of this styling. The fabric surface features subtle dark patterns that reflect different sheens under indoor spotlights and outdoor natural light—subtle, yet rich in detail. The standing collar, combined with wide sleeves and traditional crossover collar tailoring, creates a silhouette that perfectly fits the wanderer and hermit aesthetic. To keep the black from feeling monotonous, we added plenty of accessories. Red and black beaded necklaces were layered around the neck, the black wine gourd at the waist was wrapped in a hemp net, along with hanging metal pendants and jade tassels. Incorporating metal, knotwork, jade, and colored glass, these details sway gently when walking, enhancing the dynamic layering of the character.
For makeup and hair, the layered messy hair styling creates a strong sense of dimension, with bangs softly covering the eyebrows to evoke a relaxed, mysterious atmosphere. Chinese style makeup and styling emphasized eye depth, paired with black sunglasses as a facial signature. Without sunglasses, the gaze appears cool and composed, with very clean and sharp complexion and contour handling. The white round fan with black ink calligraphy and landscape paintings in hand was specially prepared, adorned with calligraphy, painting, and red seal stamps, forming a striking visual contrast with the pure black outfit to enrich the prop's texture.
For shooting locations, we chose streets and indoor spaces in Zhongshan. The outdoor scenes featured slightly damp bluestone paths and greyish-white old walls, with a chilly post-rain air that truly matched Hei Xiazi's vibe of wandering urban streets. In the alleys, I tried poses leaning against stone walls, hand gestures, and standing quietly with the round fan. Light reflecting off the walls cast a soft warm glow onto the black garments, while the overcast background gave the visuals a narrative quality, evoking a sense of detachment from someone accustomed to the world's hustle.
The indoor setting created a different atmosphere. Floor-to-ceiling glass lattice doors and retro patterned walls blended modern elements with early 20th-century architecture. Here, we used natural light from windows and warm hanging lamps to build depth, having me sit on wooden chairs or stand by the window, relying on body language to convey composure. The shots of taking off sunglasses and playing with them captured a playful, nonchalant expression perfectly.
In capturing his demeanor and spirit, I didn't deliberately force a tough or fierce look, but chose an understated, relaxed, almost subtly smiling attitude. The core charm of Hei Xiazi from The Grave Robbers' Chronicles lies in his ease and leisure to enjoy life even in complex environments. The gourd and round fan weren't just props, but an external extension of his life philosophy—both wandering and grounded in everyday life.
From initial concepts to costumes, makeup, and actual shooting, the whole process went smoothly. Special thanks to photographer Mengmeng for light control and Yunhe for fine adjustments. Though the environment was complex, great teamwork resulted in a heavier, richer texture than expected. For Cosplay photography, a great photo set requires team effort across makeup, styling, and photography. This experience gave me a deeper immersion into Hei Xiazi's character.