Cosplay is for everyone, no matter your age. Whether you’re revisiting beloved characters from your gaming days or discovering new favourites, there’s something magical about stepping into a costume and bringing a character to life. For those of us over 40, why not embrace costumes that balance nostalgia, practicality, and easy recognisability? Even better, many of these can be done as a closet cosplay, meaning you can put them together using items you may already own! And remember—you don’t have to be a guy to cosplay a male character! Cosplay is about embodying the character you love, regardless of gender.
1. Super Mario Bros. (Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Bowser)
Nothing screams “classic gaming” like these characters. Mario and Luigi’s outfits are simple—overalls, caps, gloves—and instantly recognisable. Add a fake moustache, and you’re ready to jump on some (imaginary) Goombas!
Closet Cosplay Tips:
- Mario or Luigi: A pair of jeans or dungarees with a red or green long-sleeve shirt can easily work. A red or green cap from a discount store can work wonders. Sneakers in brown or white complete the look, and gloves add authenticity.
- Princess Peach: A pink dress, white gloves, and a paper or foam crown will do the trick.
- Bowser: A yellow hoodie or shirt with a DIY paper shell, a spiked choker, and wrist cuffs can make for an easy and fun Bowser cosplay.
2. Tomb Raider (Lara Croft)
Lara Croft is an enduring icon of adventure, strength, and intelligence. While her earlier outfits (think tank top and shorts) are great for warmer climates, her newer versions include cargo pants, jackets, and tactical gear, making her a more practical choice.
Closet Cosplay Tips:
- A simple tank top, cargo pants, and boots instantly transform you into Lara.
- A toy gun or Nerf gun in a thigh holster or belt pouch adds an extra touch.
- Fingerless gloves and a makeshift utility belt (made from an old belt or bum bag) enhance the look.
- Don’t forget her signature braid – a quick and easy way to make the cosplay more recognisable!
3. The Witcher (Geralt, Yennefer, Ciri, Triss)
The Witcher series offers some of the most visually stunning characters to cosplay. Geralt’s silver hair and battle-worn armour are instantly recognisable, while Yennefer’s all-black sorceress attire and Ciri’s white hair and leather tunic are equally iconic.
Closet Cosplay Tips:
- Geralt: A black or grey long-sleeve shirt, leather gloves, and dark pants work well. Silver or grey hair spray adds the finishing touch, or sport your own! 🙂 A toy sword or wooden dowel painted silver makes for an easy Witcher sword.
- Yennefer: A black dress with a fur stole or black leather gloves makes an elegant yet simple option.
- Ciri: A white blouse, brown belt, leather gloves, and brown pants can easily replicate her look.
4. Resident Evil (Lady Dimitrescu, Leon S. Kennedy, Jill Valentine)
If you love gothic elegance, Lady Dimitrescu is the perfect choice. Her striking white gown, wide-brimmed hat, and gloves make for an unforgettable look. Meanwhile, Leon’s tactical police gear and Jill’s blue combat outfit are excellent choices for action fans.
Closet Cosplay Tips:
- Lady Dimitrescu: A long white dress, a wide-brimmed black hat, black gloves, and a pearl necklace easily transform you into Lady D. A DIY brooch (made from gold fabric or a button) completes the look.
- Leon: A navy blue button-up shirt with a fake police badge and black cargo pants can work.
- Jill: A blue tank top, black cargo pants, and a black vest give her classic look without too much effort.
5. The Legend of Zelda (Link, Zelda, Ganondorf)
The Zelda franchise has some of the most beloved characters in gaming. Whether you go for Link’s green tunic, Zelda’s elegant gown, or Ganondorf’s regal yet menacing armour, you’re guaranteed to turn heads.
Closet Cosplay Tips:
- Link: A green long-sleeve top, brown belt, and a toy sword will get the job done. Bonus points if you add elf ears! A makeshift shield can be created with cardboard and paint.
- Zelda: A white or pink dress with gold jewellery makes a stunning casual cosplay.
- Ganondorf: A black or dark red robe with gold accents works for a simple version of his look.
6. Metal Gear Solid (Solid Snake, The Boss)
Solid Snake’s military-style outfit, bandana, and tactical gear make for a rugged and stylish cosplay. The Boss, his legendary mentor, is another great choice with her white sneaking suit.
Closet Cosplay Tips:
- Solid Snake: A navy blue or grey jumpsuit with black gloves and a toy gun holster can create an easy Snake look.
- The Boss: A fitted white top, black belt, and an eye patch can work for a casual version of her costume.
7. Final Fantasy VII (Sephiroth, Cloud, Tifa, Aerith)
Sephiroth’s long silver hair and black coat make him a dramatic and striking choice. Cloud’s spiky blond hair and Buster Sword are equally iconic, while Tifa and Aerith offer strong female character options.
Closet Cosplay Tips:
- Sephiroth: A long black trench coat, black gloves, and a toy sword complete the look.
- Cloud: A black turtleneck with dark jeans and a homemade shoulder guard can resemble his look.
- Tifa: A white tank top, black skirt, and red gloves work well.
- Aerith: A pink dress and red bolero jacket bring her look to life.
8. Pac-Man (Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, Ghosts)
A simple yet fun choice, Pac-Man and Ms. Pac-Man are instantly recognisable.
Closet Cosplay Tips:
- A yellow T-shirt with a printed Pac-Man face is a simple and comfy way to represent the character.
- For the ghosts, a poncho with cut-out eye holes makes an easy, comfortable option.
9. The Last of Us (Joel, Ellie, Tess, Abby)
For those drawn to a more modern, dramatic look, Joel and Ellie’s post-apocalyptic outfits are perfect. Their rugged and practical attire makes them an easy cosplay for those who prefer subtle costumes. And there’s an added element of fun, in just getting dirty!
Closet Cosplay Tips:
- Joel: A plaid or denim shirt, jeans, and a fake rifle or backpack complete his look. Adding some dirt makeup can give a weathered, survivalist feel.
- Ellie: A red or green flannel, jeans, and a backpack. Add fake blood for a more battle-worn appearance.
- Abby: A grey tank top and cargo pants combined with a fake prop hammer make an easy yet effective cosplay.
10. Street Fighter (Ryu, Ken, Cammy, M. Bison)
Street Fighter characters are bold, energetic, and instantly recognisable, making them a great choice for cosplay. Whether you prefer a classic hero like Ryu, a villain like M. Bison, or the fierce Cammy, there’s something for everyone.
Closet Cosplay Tips:
- Ryu: A simple white sleeveless karate gi with a black belt and red headband will do the trick.
- Ken: A red gi and black belt create an effortless Ken cosplay. Add a blond wig if needed.
- Cammy: A green leotard or tank top with olive cargo pants and black combat boots can work as a simple Cammy look.
- M. Bison: A red jacket with gold trim, black pants, and a matching military-style cap create a great casual version of his outfit.
Endgame Thoughts
Cosplay is about fun, creativity, and connecting with others who share your interests. Whether you go for a nostalgic classic like Mario or something bold like Sephiroth, you can make it as elaborate or simple as you like. The best part? Many of these can be done with items you already own.
So, suit up, get creative, and remember—cosplay is for everyone because #funisageless!
# Fun Is Ageless 