Leona for day 3 of Ikki

Hey everyone! I'm still buzzing from IkkiCon, and I wanted to share a bit more about my Leona Kingscholar cosplay. You know, Leona is such a fan favorite from Twisted Wonderland, and I absolutely adore his laid-back yet powerful vibe. This year, I decided to really challenge myself with his signature look, especially those distinctive lion ears. Creating the lion ears was probably the most crucial part of this costume. I started by getting a good base headband, then sculpted the ear shape using EVA foam. It was a bit tricky getting the right curve and thickness to make them look natural, but also recognizable as Leona's. After shaping, I covered them in a faux fur fabric that matched his hair color – finding the perfect shade was surprisingly hard! I then added some subtle shading with airbrushing to give them depth and make them pop, just like in the game. It's those little details that really make a cosplay shine, don't you think? Beyond the ears, I focused on other key elements. Finding the right black vest that felt authentic to his style took some searching. I wanted something that looked both casual and a bit rugged, fitting his Savanaclaw dorm leader persona. Paired with comfortable jeans, it gave off that perfect 'I woke up like this, but still look cool' vibe that Leona has. And let's talk about the accessories! The Scar-like plushie wasn't just a random prop; it was a nod to his dorm's inspiration and added a fun, playful touch to the character, even though Leona himself can be pretty serious. I absolutely loved posing with it. For the photoshoot, leaning against that fireplace with the brick wall in the background really helped set the mood, giving it that rustic, slightly regal feel that suits him. If you're thinking about cosplaying Leona Kingscholar, I'd definitely recommend focusing on comfort, especially if you're going to a convention like IkkiCon all day. My biggest tip is to really invest time in his hair and makeup, and of course, those iconic lion ears! Don't be afraid to experiment with different materials and techniques until you get them just right. It's incredibly rewarding to see your favorite character come to life through your own hard work. Walking around IkkiCon as Leona, getting recognized and sharing smiles with other Twisted Wonderland fans, made all the effort completely worth it. The atmosphere at IkkiCon was fantastic this year. There was such a great energy, and seeing so many incredible cosplays was truly inspiring. It’s always a joy to connect with fellow fans who share your passions. Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer or just starting out, conventions are such a wonderful place to express yourself and celebrate the things you love. I’m already planning my next project, but Leona will always hold a special place in my heart. Can't wait for the next con!