Cosplay, Lolitas, and Gyarus, oh my — Anime Expo is underway in L.A., and it’s so incredible, I just can’t find the right nerds to describe it
Okay, okay… You definitely don’t need to be a nerd or a derp to enjoy the 2013 Anime Expo being held at the L.A. Convention Center right now. This annual 4-day event is basically a celebration of Japanese Animation, but the key just seems to be dressing up. In addition to Cosplayers (participants in homemade costumes who dress up like anime characters), the halls are filled with girls who worship the Japanese Street Fashion called “Lolita” or “Gothic Lolita,” as well as girls who are into the Gyaru fashion. Gyaru translates to “Gal,” if you were wondering.
This show is one of the biggest of its kind in the entire Country, and the venue was packed all day long. Luckily, I get in for free, as a member of the Entertainment Industry. Too bad ComiCon doesn’t offer the same deal, because after my experience today, I think I might enjoy the larger, San Diego convention as well.
At Anime Expo, or “AX” as it is called, they have tons and tons of comic books, videos, outfits, jewelry, pillow cases with sexy girls or guys painted on them, and just about anything you can think of related to Japanese cartoons. They also have a huge Artists Alley, where independent creative types display and sell their drawings and crafts that are also anime-related. In addition, there are fashion shows, panels, gaming, and all sorts of other activities, plus a whole bunch of gourmet food trucks to keep everyone well-fed.
It’s a whole world of fun, even if you don’t recognize any of the anime characters being emulated and saluted. And after you see the 50 photos below, I think most of you will understand.
