Bringing Chii to life has been brewing in my heart for a very long time. From the initial planning stages to preparing the wardrobe, wig, and props, I strived to stay as faithful as possible to the canon design. For many anime enthusiasts, Chobits was their very gateway into the subculture, and the same holds true for me. For this photoshoot, I dedicated extensive time to fine-tuning the makeup and garment nuances in advance.
Let's start with the wig and hairpieces, which took the most care. I selected a pale, light blonde wig with lengths cascading gracefully behind my shoulders. The bangs and side twintails were trimmed with razor-sharp precision, tied at the base with petite pink hair rings. The mechanical persocom ears on both sides of my head were custom-crafted with a white base and pink trim; to ensure they retained three-dimensional pop under studio lights, internal supports were added. For the makeup, I blended reddish-brown eyeshadow paired with hazel-brown colored contacts to capture that innocent, subtly mechanical gaze, applying blush high beneath the lower lash line to enhance a porcelain-doll finish.
As for the wardrobe, it is a white-and-pink Lolita fashion dress. The halter-neck top features cold shoulders, tiered lace along the neckline, delicate pink crosses and bows accenting the bodice, and corset lacing at the waist. The detached sleeves are made of semi-sheer tulle adorned with ruffled pleats and cross motifs at the elbows. The bottom is a tiered ruffled mini skirt trimmed with pink satin ribbons along the hemline. The layered ensemble is remarkably dimensional yet complex, requiring careful adjustments while putting it on.
Hosiery and footwear were equally crucial. I wore semi-sheer White stockings fishnets with criss-crossing strap details, accented with delicate pink bows at each intersection. These were paired with white chunky-heeled lace-up leather shoes. Sitting for shots in this combination showcased the leg lines beautifully.
The studio set featured two distinct backdrops. The first utilized a vintage golden armchair set against deep red velvet drapes. The vibrant clash of crimson and white was striking, and folding my hands while seated delivered an aura of poised, dignified elegance. Later, we transitioned to the floor onto a white plush rug against the dark studio backdrop. On the floor, I explored side-seated, knee-hugging, frontal-seated, and seiza kneeling poses. When hugging my knees or kneeling, the ruffled skirt fanned out softly over the plush white rug, catching the studio lighting to accentuate garment textures and overall ambiance.
The entire shoot was more exhausting than anticipated—balancing in high heels and kneeling on the floor proved a true test of physical stamina. Yet, bringing my childhood goddess Chii to life and capturing these frames filled me with immense fulfillment. Enormous gratitude to the photographer for capturing these beautiful moments in this Anime cosplay set.