[Sunna cosplay] Zenless Zone Zero KFC collaboration tote DIY-ed into a crop vest: Expanding original XS to M-L

Deconstructing the KFC collaboration tote bag to draft a whole new garment pattern was truly one of the biggest tests of my sewing patience lately. The original collab bag fabric is structured and stiff with zero stretch, measuring out visually to only an XS; trying to squeeze into it without alterations would leave the shoulder straps and side seams choking you for air. To make it fit properly, I seam-ripped the bottom and both sides entirely, re-drafting allowance around the underarms and waist. The leftover matching lining fabric was repurposed perfectly to finish the inner hems. Wanting to protect the integrity of the original graphic prints, I kept the three most prominent cartoon characters centered across the chest, while rounding off the lower hemline with a subtle curved cut.

During stitching, I used a fine elastic thread with a tightened stitch length so the seams wouldn't snap while putting it on or taking it off. Binding the collar and armholes proved tedious; without an industrial coverstitch machine, I had to fold and topstitch millimeter by millimeter, ripping the seams twice to get it right. For side seams, I used French seams to prevent raw edges from fraying. Trying it on after finishing the costume modification was deeply rewarding—it transformed from a restrictive XS into a relaxed M-L silhouette.

Styling-wise, I paired it with a light green twintails wig and a cat-ear headband. For bottoms, I went with black athletic shorts with white piping, layered over White stockings. On my feet, white clogs completed the look, striking a balance between sporty loungewear and adorable anime charm. Makeup emphasized defined eyes and flushed blush, matched with bright green contact lenses to cleanly echo my hair color.

The photoshoot took place around the locker room zone near a sports gymnasium, framed by metal lockers and volleyball carts under natural, effortless lighting that avoids the rigid feel of a traditional studio. Another series of close-ups was captured inside a car to highlight the chest graphic details and fabric texture. Honestly, the toughest challenge with this kind of DIY rework is the strict size limitation of the raw materials. When official collab garments aren't available in fitting sizes, making it yourself is not just the only choice, but also an incredibly fulfilling creative journey. Wearing it to conventions or outdoor shoots guarantees a faithful theme without the worry of matching outfits with anyone else. The rework took roughly two evenings. My biggest takeaway: always double-check your body measurements before cutting fabric and leave ample seam allowance, or you truly won't be able to fit into it once sewn together. Adjusting strap placement to your exact shoulder width also prevents slipping, and if the outer fabric isn't breathable, layer it over a featherweight base. If another collab tote comes along, I might try tailoring it into an A-line skirt or a crossbody bag next time!