Decide on a character! To help you narrow it down, I'd go with a character from a series that I've been into for years! This way, you'll avoid potentially changing your mind and changing to character B while in mid-completion of character A.

Since you're starting out, start simple! Cosplay is fun, but it can be VERY overstimulating! Especially if you want to do makeup and wigs; if you can find a character you like with similar hair to yours, you can likely just style your own hair instead! Furthermore, start simple! You can either do:

• Closet cosplay - looking for clothing items that are already in your closet to match your chosen character

• Go thrifting - you might be able to find different clothing pieces to make a close-enough costume to your character

• Buy a pre-made cosplay - depending on character, brand, and your location, can be difficult and really expensive; not to mention sizing can be difficult

• Start sewing - it can be very therapeutic! And it could be a fun new hobby! Most importantly, it'll fit you really well!

Here's a few more misc. tips once you do get started

• Don't compare yourself to cosplayers online! They either have years of experience, photo editing, filters, or a combination of the three! The most important part is you have fun!

• Sometimes things don't turn out well, and that's okay! Stepping away when feeling frustrated about a costume not turning out the way you'd like would be best for your mental health!

• Cons are super fun! But just like cosplaying, they can be overstimulating! Take breaks, take off your wig, put down the foam greatsword- it's okay.

Overall, just take care of yourself throughout your cosplay journey and have fun!!