[Iochi Mari cosplay] Blue Archive Swimsuit Mari, having fun and joking around while playing in the water

For Iochi Mari's swimsuit look this time, I specially chose this outdoor pool with blue mosaic tiles and a parasol. Swimsuit Mari's setting naturally carries a sense of summer coolness, so the choice of scene was crucial. To ensure the photo results, I started organizing the props and costumes needed for this shoot a week in advance.

Let's talk about the wig and styling first. Mari has light orange twin braids. To make them look light and neat by the water, I used a lot of styling spray, and actually added thin wires into the braids so that they would have that natural curve when pulled during photos and wouldn't be easily blown apart by the wind. The halo on top of the head is the soul of the entire styling. This time it's made of EVA foam and acrylic board, sprayed with golden paint. To prevent it from being blown away by the water by the water or falling off due to big movements, three layers of hairpins were pinned inside, making it extremely secure. The fluffy kemonomimi ears on both sides and the tail behind are also handmade, using orange-and-white faux rabbit fur, with gradient white fluff at the tips of the ears, giving an instant cute little orange cat vibe upon wearing.

Regarding the clothing, this light blue one-piece swimsuit features white ruffles along the edges, paired with a white translucent long-sleeve cover-up on the outside. The material of the cover-up is very light, and the knotted fixing method at the chest can both flatter the figure and create a natural flowing feel when walking. The left leg is matched with a white lace leg garter, and the feet feature beige platform sandals with white lace ribbons tied around the ankles. This combination retains the cute attributes of the character while adding some visual layering.

The weather on the day of the shoot was fantastic, with ample but not blinding sunlight. The pool's surface reflected the color of the sky, presenting a gorgeous light blue. To match the post theme of having fun and joking around while playing in the water, I put a lot of thought into the action design. Standing on the circular stepping stones requires great balance, especially the pose of lifting one leg to pull the braid, which requires tight core engagement while keeping the expression relaxed and playful, without showing a trace of strain. Making a hand heart, raising a hand to shade from the sun, standing on one leg, and spreading arms—these actions are all meant to showcase Swimsuit Mari's lively and slightly seductive traits.

Although it's a water-playing scene, the rigor of cosplay cannot be lost. During shooting breaks, I repeatedly checked the position of every stray hair, the symmetry of the cover-up's knot, and the height of the leg garter through the camera screen. Shooting by the water actually tests physical strength a lot; not only do you have to prevent slipping, but you also have to watch out for moss underfoot to avoid falling and getting the clothes and props wet. Although the whole process was hard, seeing that lively little orange cat in the finished photos made me feel that all the preparation was worth it. I hope everyone can also feel the summer coolness and Mari's cuteness from this set of photos.