Nicole Wzorek, a local fashion designer based in Westfield, Massachusetts, specializes in crafting custom, handcrafted bridal and formalwear gowns. In addition to her bridal expertise, Nicole dedicates herself to designing one cosplay outfit annually, showcasing her exceptional talent in bringing fictional characters to life. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship set her apart in the world of cosplay. To gain deeper insights into Nicole's creative process and her genuine passion for cosplay, we had the privilege of speaking with some of her clients.
Rose Flynn
Why do you like cosplay?
I stumbled upon cosplay almost by chance, and my friend played a big role in sparking my interest. She was always eager to organize group cosplays, and I was truly inspired by how she could completely transform into someone else. I'm usually a bit nervous when trying new things, but the first time I wore a cosplay to a convention, all my worries vanished. I felt more confident and, in a way, in character. I choose my characters by exploring new games; every new game I play makes me want to become a new character.
How long have you been into cosplay, and how do you choose your cosplay characters?
I've been cosplaying for about two years now, and my character choices are often influenced by the games I play. Each new game I explore sparks a desire to become a different character.
What was your favorite part of the process working with me to design your costume?
My favorite part of the process was the fittings and witnessing how everything was coming together.
Emily Harper
How long have you been cosplaying?
I've been involved in cosplaying since my high school days back in 2009. However, it wasn't until 2016, when I embarked on my first armor build as Sumia from Fire Emblem Fates (video game), that I became more serious about crafting. While I did more buying than making cosplays myself in 2020, I'm getting back into crafting with my current project, Kaveh from Genshin Impact (video game). When it comes to choosing characters to cosplay, I base my decisions on the character's overall aesthetic and my personal enjoyment of the game or media they originate from. I particularly enjoy cosplaying characters from video games due to their intricate designs. I absolutely love cosplaying as part of a group with friends, where we strive to assemble the entire cast of characters from the chosen game.
What advice would you give to someone interested in getting into cosplay?
For anyone just starting their cosplay journey, it's essential to think about why you're getting into it. Are you looking to express yourself through modeling, makeup, and fashion? Are you interested in tackling a complex build? Or perhaps you want to cosplay with friends as part of a group? Regardless of your reasons, remember to have fun with it! There's a wealth of resources available for cosplayers, whether you're creating your own costume or commissioning a designer like Nicole Wzorek Designs for specific pieces. The choice of fabric is crucial, as you'll likely be wearing your costume for extended periods. Even in a small town like Westfield, there are plenty of resources within the cosplay community, including access to public sewing machines or the option to commission skilled designers like Nicole.
Nicole Wzorek is an accomplished local designer who dedicates her exceptional talents to creating one to two custom cosplay commissions each year. These creations are characterized by their meticulous craftsmanship, accuracy to the source material, and custom tailoring to fit each client's unique measurements. Nicole collaborates closely with her clients to breathe life into their cosplay visions, whether they stem from films, TV shows, books, or video games. Her bespoke designs incorporate top-tier fabrics, artistic embellishments, and structural elements that allow her clients to fully embody their chosen characters. Those considering a commission from Nicole can anticipate a collaborative process, including concept sketches, fabric selection, multiple fittings, and her expert sewing skills. The end result is a truly one-of-a-kind wearable work of art. Keep an eye out for Nicole's distinctive cosplay pieces making their debut at conventions in the coming year!
76 Court St, Westfield
www.nicolewzorekdesigns.com