Fight for Pride With This Xena: Warrior Princess Closet Cosplay
We’re discovering the secrets behind one of the most iconic gay icons in pop culture with this Xena: Warrior Princess closet cosplay!
Xena is one of the most nostalgic characters of my childhood. She’s one of the major reasons I grew up with unrealistic expectations in my dating life, and why I think that leather is a CRUCIAL part of any wardrobe. If you’ve put down your obligatory copy of The Big Book of Lesbian Horse Stories long enough to read this article, we celebrate you. Grab your Gabrielle action figure (the perfect partner for any Xena cosplay) and your chakram–it’s time to become the best Warrior Princess your closet can afford!
Xena is known for her badass fighting skills, her tortured past, and her uncanny ability to find EVERY small village that is plagued by some mythical beast or rampant warlord. She never goes anywhere without her sword or her chakram, and rarely anywhere without her Gabrielle. We’ve assembled an interesting array of ideas for a closet cosplay build, and booooy was that a ride!
Xena: Warrior Princess Closet Cosplay: The Underdress
I’m actually shocked that I didn’t think a piece like this would exist online. You can use a base skirt and corset set as the foundation for a Xena cosplay. It’s sleek enough that it mimics the underdress Xena uses beneath her leathers. Either add layers of paint or stitching to make it more Xena-centric or keep it simple and let the accessories do the talking.
If you’re a fan of your friendly neighborhood renaissance festival or a steampunk junkie, odds are you’ve at least THOUGHT about owning an outfit like this. You could easily do a steampunk version of Xena, or find a way to dress this base item up like a warrior. Separates are always an option if you can’t find a complete piece.
Xena: Warrior Princess Closet Cosplay: The Overskirt
If you find a basic piece and really want to commit to the Greek vibe, here’s a basic gladiator-style skirt. Layer it on top of one of the previous skirts, and you’ve got yourself a battle dress.
Xena: Warrior Princess Closet Cosplay: The Boots
Here’s where the cosplay gets tricky. Xena has a pretty specific leather boot situation going on, and it’s not likely you have THOSE boots sitting in your closet. (I mean if you do, why aren’t you already cosplaying Xena?!?!) Go with any leather boot that’s comfy and convenient. Bonus points for above-the-knee cut.
Xena: Warrior Princess Closet Cosplay: The Armbands
Bracers are a pretty standard accessory for the ren faire, SCA, or 501st crowds. Repurpose some you’ve got, make some out of fabric, or buy a set online and call it a day!
Xena: Warrior Princess Closet Cosplay: The Wig
Xena’s iconic bangs really define her look. With the right wig, any face shape can read Xena and draw Aries’s attention. Her down-do is easy to style, just throw in a heat-resistant wig and whip out that hair straightener. You’ll be ready to ride into battle in no time.
Oh hey! BoLS might make some drachma if you click these links. All contributions to the BoLS fund will go directly to our initiative to teach swordwork to our entire staff. Larry’s not that great at it yet, so we need more lessons for him. Thanks for contributing!
~Join us next week for more Cosplay Coverage~
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