With the release of Niantic’s Pokémon Go, it seems like pokémon fever has taken the world by storm. Cosplayers across the world have taken note, with the rising popularity of the latest trend called pokemon gijinka. Gijinka refers to the Japanese meaning of humanoid or personification, where fans will create an anthropomorphic representation of a character. Simply put, diehard cosplayers dress up as their beloved pokémon characters, in human form! Who says you can’t rock a Venasaur cosplay? Let these cosplay queens show you how it’s done.
We took a closer look at the trend, finding some of the most cute and edgy pokémon gijinka cosplays at Otakon last month using latex, leather and other DIY friendly materials. Sarah Fong (@sarafongcosplay on Insta) created an adorable Squirtle cosplay using latex fabric. Sarah created a fitted bodysuit, complete with flirty frill accents and thigh high stockings for an eye-catching look.
Cosplay cutie Maki Roll (@makiroll90) slayed with an amazing Charmander cosplay out of latex. With a deep v-cut romper, cropped bustier, over the knee latex stockings and platform booties, it’s undeniable that this costume is h-o-t! In similar suit, Skyjuu (@skyjuu) rocked a fierce cosplay of Ninetails with a leather wrap skirt and matching crop top. Photographer David Ngo captured a totally sweet version of Butterfree, created by cosplayer @chettthekid, while E7 Photography snapped a beautiful, lolita-inspired version of Sylveon
Pokemon gijinka cosplay can also incorporate armor, too. Raksmey Prak (@raksmeyprak) made a big statement with samurai renditions of Gyrados and Alakazam. Misa Lynn Cosplay (@misalynnclp), Ravra Cosplay (@_themad_) and @mommymoemii were the definition of squad goals, rocking bad ass renditions of the three legendary bird pokemon, Zapdos, Articuno and Moltres.
The three kept true to the theme of each pokémon, fire, electric and water, and mixed things up with tough and edgy armored cosplays. Feeling inspired? Use the pokemon’s base colors to start out with, then use leather or latex fabric to accent different parts of the armor.
We love all these unique, one of a kind pokémon gijinka cosplay! It’s just so cool to see fans using different combinations of fabrics, like latex and leather, to create humanized versions of their favorite pokémon characters.
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That samurai take on Gyarados and Alakazam was a cool reminder that gijinka isn’t just fashion-focused, it can lean into armor and storytelling too.
The mix of materials stood out, especially the Ninetails leather wrap skirt and crop top alongside the latex-heavy Charmander look, which felt cohesive but still totally different in vibe.
The tip about starting with base colors and building with latex or leather is actually practical, especially after seeing the legendary bird trio translate fire, electric, and ice into distinct armored designs.
I liked how you highlighted Sarah Fong’s Squirtle with the latex bodysuit and frills, it really shows how gijinka can lean cute without losing the character’s identity.
The Squirtle isn’t Sarah Fong. She is the Bulbasaur. The Squirtle is Byndo Gehk! D: