The hakama broke two sewing machine needles, it took me seven weeks to find the right bra, and because my car needed repairs (who knew that windshield wipers cost $600?) I wasn't able to get the contacts, but even so, I am very pleased with my first full-sized anime costume.

Sandals: made from Pier 1 grass placemats, clear-drying silicone caulk, baling twine, and fishing line, these were easily the most difficult part to put together.

Hakama and Haori: made from cotton broadcloth to match my friend's, fairly time consuming but not too difficult. I did 'cheat' and only line the black haori with white trim instead of making two separate shirts and layering them. Perhaps this wasn't the smartest move, since it's debuting in January in Ohio, but I am also planning to wear it in the summer.

Obi, Lieutenant's Badge: I chose to make the obi and sash for the badge out of a patterned fabric rather than stark white. I feel that Matsumoto's character would never settle for something so plain. She'd need to jazz it up a bit. I used a patterned white-on-white quilter's cotton. The pattern shows up more in the photo than it does in person- I purposefully chose something subtle.

Pink shawl: This was made out of a nicer fabric than plain cotton broadcloth. Again, I felt that Matsumoto wouldn't settle for something so plain. I don't know exactly what it is because it was in the clearance bin. It's smoother than cotton, and cool to the touch, but doesn't have more shine.

Most difficult: making the shoes, which I am not wearing in this picture because it was raining outside. Those are just regular flip flops.

Biggest pain: dying my hair, which came out what I refer to as 'tawdry whore' red instead of strawberry blonde. It is being re-dyed this evening, so hopefully, I'll get close to the color I want.

Easiest: socks, I guess, since I bought them. The necklace was also very simple.

Biggest disappointment: I was unable to find any who could cut out the Haineko I had designed. I've got the wood sitting under my couch right now. Maybe I'll get it done eventually.

Time: 27 hours before hair re-dye. That's what you get for sewing most of your stuff by hand.

Cost: $69.10, ($50 of that was the bra!)

I decided to retire this costume after it's second wearing, not because I don't love the character, but because that bra is so incredibly painful to wear that I can't stomach the thought of putting it on again just so people can take pictures of my cleavage.