Wow ... I can't believe it's been so long since I last wore my original sleeves, or even worse, how long it's been since I started working on the new version (about winter 2007), though it's probably spent more time stuffed in a bag in my closet than actually being worked on. Oops ... I'm hoping to rectify the problem though by working on it more this month. Hopefully I'll finish it soon ... even though it takes so damn long to finish each strip.

Why did I think this was a good idea again?

Anyway, a little background on the costume: it's from Ayumi Hamasaki's 2002 Arena Tour, and was probably the first costume of her's that really started my addiction to Ayu cosplay (I think it was mostly because I was very new to cosplay and was looking for something I could make that I wouldn't need a wig for). A reference photo collage can be found here (http://pics.livejournal.com/kesteral/pic/0018s91a). I've always really loved this costume, as well as the performance it was worn for. I'm really looking forward to finishing this sucker and finally getting photos of it. ^_^

I'm also having problem with the "fringe" that is really the focal point of the costume. I chose my stretch cotton fabric purposely so that parts of it would curl, just like the original costume, but unfortunately it wants to curl too much, which is making the fringe look really thin and stringy. It's actually about twice the width that you can see. If anyone has any suggestions about how to fix this (without ruining the sequins that I've already spent hours upon hours sewing) I'm all ears. ^_^

Left to do:
- finish the other sleeve (currently about 40% done)
- finish off neckline and bottom of shirt (both are too high/long right now)
- find a pair of jeans to decorate
- decorate said jeans
- wig crap

Also, thanks to Calico for taking the pictures for me. ^_^

Character: Ayumi Hamasaki Series: Ayumi Hamasaki's Arena Tour 2002 Photo Views: 126 Upload Date: 01-05-2009

Photographer: Cosplayers: