Yaya Han Cosplay Interview

For nearly a decade, Yaya Han has traveled to conventions all over the world, adorned in some of the most intricate costumes ever designed. Yaya was able to spare some time from her busy schedule to share with us some insight to the brains behind the beauty.
To give a bit of background, Yaya Han has lived in all corners of the world: China, Germany, and various parts of the US. Growing up, she’d always had an affection for anime and manga. It wasn’t until one fateful con that she was introduced to cosplay and has since built an extensive career of realizing her favorite characters. Every year, she attends several events around the world, posing for photo shoots in fantastic, outfits.
Best of all, she’s truly one of us–a genuine geek.
Here’s what she had to say:

We’ll start with the easy stuff: What are your favorite characters, either personal or to go as in costume?

Yaya Han as Ada Wong from Resident Evil

It’s hard to pick favorites because I feel attached to all the costumes I’ve made, but some are indeed more fun to wear, such as: Lady Deathstrike – because it is so fun to take fighting photos with everyone at conventions!
Ada Wong – because it’s easy to pose in this costume, and it’s so comfortable.
My Peacock costume – because I had so much fun with the design and creation of this outfit
Gothic Princess – because I love Nene Thomas and her artwork!

What are the most difficult parts of making or wearing your costumes? Are they as comfortable as they are beautiful?
For me the most difficult part is time. I don’t have much of it. And I also have moved a lot in the past three years so there have been months where much of my equipment has been in storage in another State, or I just didn’t have the proper set up to make the sewing and prop making as easy as I’d liked.
I also anticipate more difficulties ahead, because I want more practice in sculpting and casting props, and using new materials, so I can continue to challenge myself. But then again, experimenting blindly while making a costume is my favorite part of this artform. :)
As for comfort… well, most costumes are not that comfortable lol. The more elaborate they are, the less comfort there is to be had. But as women, we are already used to “Beauty is Pain” so cosplay is just a part of it… I mean come on, 5 inch stilettos and curling irons? Dangerous!

On the web, there isn’t a site or message board about cosplay that doesn’t include photos of your work. What do you think about the popularity you’ve generated?
I feel very lucky to be included, and grateful that when people talk about cosplay, they would think to use my photo for an example. I try to use my name recognition to represent this hobby in a very positive way, to educate people who are not familiar with cosplay, and to help other cosplayers with whatever knowledge I have. At conventions, I try to get involved with the programming as much as time allows, such as doing panels, Q&As and work shops. So if you ever have questions about cosplay, look for me at a con near you! I’ll be happy to answer them to the best of my abilities.


Along with designing extravagant costumes, you also have passion for graphic arts, photography, singing, theater, and dance. Does artistic talent run in your family?
Yes, mainly from my dad actually. He used to draw and paint, and is a very good singer. My mom has become more crafty lately as well and now makes jewelry!