This Sakuya Izayoi fitting prepared for Chengdu Comiday represents one of the most effort-intensive ensemble coordinations I've undertaken recently. I had long wanted to try a Touhou Project character infused with a rich Lolita aesthetic, so the moment I saw the design sketches for this outfit, I decided to wear it as my featured look for the convention.
Today's focus was primarily a thorough test of the overall silhouette and styling harmony. The garment is exceptionally layered: the bodice features a dark base fabric adorned with blue rose patterns, paired with a classic high-collared neckline trimmed generously with white lace. To heighten visual depth, the chest incorporates a white crisscross lace-up design reminiscent of a corset bodice, requiring a bit of time to cinch to the most comfortable tension. On the left side of the waist sits an oversized grey ribbon bow accented with black roses and delicate cascading chains; these gothic elements lend a sharper edge to the entire ensemble.
The sleeves are elongated bell sleeves edged with wide white lace cuffs that drape beautifully whenever I raise my arms. The skirt structure on the lower half is undoubtedly the centerpiece. Supported underneath by a well-fitted petticoat to hold its bell shape, the outer printed fabric is pieced with multiple cascading tiers of white lace, black lace, and a knife-pleated hem, creating dynamic layers that flutter distinctly with every step.
To complement such an ornate costume, I wore a long white wig topped with a white lace mob cap. The wig was trimmed to flatter my facial contours, with long sideburn locks framing the face cleanly, while the bonnet completes the authentic head maid silhouette. On my legs, I wore patterned black Stockings paired with black lace-up platform shoes. While platform footwear visually elongates leg proportions, it certainly tests your stamina after standing for extended periods. The jacquard patterns of the stockings and the crisscross shoe laces echo the lace motifs of the dress seamlessly.
Taking mirror selfies was primarily to assess visual proportions from every angle; covering my face with the phone simply means full makeup isn't complete yet, as I wanted to document the wardrobe styling progress first. The wall behind me is covered with collected merchandise and postcards—the very backdrop where every Cosplay fitting takes place.
After trying it on, the garment's tailoring offers great silhouette versatility. The lace-up ties provide plenty of room for adjustment, and the petticoat's volume is balanced without appearing overly bulky. On the actual event day, I'll likely add supplementary accessories based on this setup, such as a matching choker or earrings. This look demands maintaining an upright, poised carriage, while the hair and makeup will be calibrated to match the gothic maid aesthetic. Moving forward, I'll continue practicing walking steadily in the platform shoes to ensure I present the character in prime condition on the convention floor.