Every month the staff at Critical Blast combs the cosplay community for up and coming cosplayers who deserve to have a broader audience for their work, taking into account not only costuming skills and spirit, but also how they use that ability in service to others. Through this, we've not only met some talented cosplayers, but also some fine human beings.

This month our quest carries us across the pond, to meet a cosplayer who's super -- and a little bit crazy! Displaying not only skills and talent, but also an outstanding attitude, our Bombshell of the Month has banded together with other cosplayers to be a part of a fun-filled charity group. Intrigued? Then read on, as we proudly present to you our...

Critical Blast Bombshell, October 2019

NatileCosplay

What is your interest in cosplay?

I love to make people smile, and seeing how people react to their favourite character come alive in original or new cosplay designs, I love how my cosplays are able to do that. Knowing that I've made someone smile is worth all the time and care I put into all my designs.

How did you get into cosplay, and what was your first cosplay experience?

Halloween is my favourite time of the year, and I've always dressed up for it. It was definitely the start of my passion. I always loved the idea of attending conventions, but never got the chance till four years ago. London Comic Con was where I cosplayed for the first time as Nami from ONE PIECE, which is by far still one of my favourite animes. I remember staying up all night working on the cosplay and ending up super gluing my fingers together. On the day, seeing it all come together, I was so proud of what I had created -- and the con itself was incredible, seeing so much work everyone had put into their cosplays is amazing and inspiring. It sparked my love for the world more, and it grows with every con I attend.

How has your cosplay evolved since you began?

Over time, I've gotten more confident in my sewing skills, and I've started experimenting in new materials such as EVA foam as well as creating my own designs of a character's outfit. I started by buying and making parts, and combining them to create my cosplays. Since I got my sewing machine, I have been making them from scratch, as well as creating my own patterns to work from. Using EVA foam was very challenging, but a lot of fun, and I cant wait to use it more in future cosplays, as it was an extremely useful material to create the look I had intended.

Emily (CORPSE BRIDE)
Photo: kaminfocus

What is your "secret identity" outside of cosplaying?

I'm a barista, and I have been for 7 years. The best part of it is latte art: I've learned how to create swans, dragons, teddies bears and more within a coffee. It's always a fun surprise to the customers that come into the cafe. I am also a part of being a background extra for tv shows. So far I've been in ACKLEY BRIDGE, and it was an incredible experience. I would definitely recommend doing it.

What kind of social or charity activities do you get involved in with your cosplay?

I attended a charity event earlier this year, where I met incredible cosplayers. Together we've set up our own charity group, called The Cosmaniacs. We raise money for different charities at each event, so we can help as many as we can. Along the way, an amazing photographer joined us to capture all the special moments and joy that happens. I love how when someone sees their hero, they light up with happiness; or sometimes they go shy and you're able to bring them out of their shell by talking to them. These moments are what I love most about being a cosplayer. I'm happy to be able to help.

Batgirl (DC COMICS)
Photo: kaminfocus

Do you make as much of your own costume as possible or rely on purchased materials -- and is that important overall to cosplaying? 

It depends on the cosplay if I buy parts, as there would be times I am unsure on how to make them yet. I try to make as much of my costume as possible, as I enjoy seeing it take form from the beginning, and learning better ways to make them, along with gaining new abilities and techniques each time. I dont think it's important whether you buy or make your cosplay, because as long as you enjoy it and love it, no matter who you are or what you do, what costume you wear or where it came from, we are all cosplayers.

What's your favorite cosplay, your "go to" look that you just love to put on and act out?

Batgirl is my favourite cosplay to wear. It's comfortable and the most fun. It's easily recognizable by everyone of all ages, apart from a few parents thinking I am Batman or Batwoman. I dont tend to act out in cosplay; I always stay who I am as a person, because when I do try, I always mix up my words.

Where can people go to find you online?

Facebook: natilecosplay
Instagram: natilecosplay