I was lucky enough to be invited to attend this year’s Wanderlust Ball, a fantasy photography event held in the St George Ballroom, hosted by Guitarpug (https://www.instagram.com/guitarpug/) and Zaraelina Lee (https://www.instagram.com/zaraelina.lee/). Themed around a fae masquerade, a group of cosplayers could get posed photos, video, and candid interactions within this magical space. It was a highlight of my year, everyone brought their A-game and I was so honoured to be invited.

Two sessions were run, and Katy (https://www.instagram.com/whatkatydidcosplay/) and I ended up in seperate ones. We had such contrasting looks that I was thrilled she was able to join me for a second studio shoot with Tay (https://taybassi.com.au/), where we really leaned into the dark fantasy vibes.

You will be loved. You will be hated. You will be brilliant. Within two years, you will be dead.

I knew very early on I wanted to use my existing skirt from my previous Fae look for this, largely for time purposes. This allowed me to focus on some more detailed construction for the bodice, as well as beading and applique detailing. I loosely based my theming around the Morrigan, particularly her depiction in the comic series The Wicked + The Divine. The shoulder piece absolutely cemented the design and look, and is a testament to how far my sewing has come. I adore it.

The headpiece was a lucky find from Verdessa Fairy (https://www.instagram.com/verdessa_fairy/), which worked so incredibly well to match with my partner for the ball shoot, A (https://www.instagram.com/madeup.and.marauding). This truely was a collaboration of cosplayers, makers, and photographers, the peak of what this community can be.

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2025 - Penelope