Top 10 Female Movie/TV Character Cosplays

“Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi” (1983)
Though some contemporary fans take issue with the Slave Leia costume, arguing that it sexualizes this powerful character while in a subservient position, there’s no denying its iconic status and enduring popularity with cosplayers. At any given convention, be it Star Wars-centric or otherwise, Slave Leias abound. Same goes with Halloween-time. The costume is so popular that it’s been worn by a number of celebrities, including Amy Schumer, Olivia Munn and Melissa Joan Hart. And who could forget when Rachel wore it on “Friends”? Though not for the overly self-conscious, this outfit is easy to find online, and usually at a low cost too.

Various DC Films & TV Series
Another classic, this DC villain/antihero is the perfect costume for anyone with a taste for leather or latex. With so many variations of the costume, there is plenty of room to make this look your own. You could take the minimalist ‘60s Batman approach or the gray number from Batman: The Animated Series. Of course, if you’re looking to inspire maximum purr, you really can’t go wrong with Michelle Pfeiffer’s look from “Batman Returns”. With the character’s adolescence being explored on “Gotham”, younger fans can also get into character, minus the sexuality. Basically… they’re all good, except the Halle Berry look.

“Supergirl” (2015-)
Given her poor performance both with critics and at the box office, 1984's “Supergirl” film likely isn’t serving as an inspiration to many contemporary cosplayers. With the character’s success on the small screen however, Melissa Benoist has made Supergirl a character worth emulating. Pairing the iconic “S” logo, cape and color scheme with a tasteful gold belt, skirt and knee-high boots, you’ve got a powerful look on your hands that’s both empowering and sure to turn heads. Supergirl has long been a sexy staple of Comic Con cosplay. This, on the other hand, is a Supergirl for a different generation of fans.

“X-Men” franchise (2000-) & “X: Men: The Animated Series” (1992-97)
The long-running Fox film franchise has given us plenty of outfits over the years, but with the exception of Storm or Psylocke in X-Men: Apocalypse, few of them feel that inspired due to the tendency towards dark, leathery costumes. Thankfully, the '90s X-Men cartoons never shied away from the source material, and are therefore rife with brightly colored numbers worthy of a comic book convention. Though there are many great options to choose from, the classic Rogue look is just so much fun. If you’re a ‘90s chick, why not where it proudly with this loud outfit and hairdo?

“Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens” (2015)
There’s a new hero in the world of Star Wars, and it’s got little girls and women alike itching for an excuse to dress up. The central character and hero of Disney’s Star Wars sequel trilogy, Rey, as played by Daisy Ridley, wears a distinct but functional outfit that perfectly suits her personality and lifestyle. Depending on your own taste, you can choose to follow Rey’s Jedi path and wield a lightsaber, or pay homage to her roots as a scavenger by carrying her quarterstaff. Either way, you’re sure to feel the power of the Force flowing through while cosplaying as this breakout character.

“Sailor Moon” (1992-93)
A staple of Halloween in the ‘90s and into the early 2000s, Sailors Moon, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter and Venus, alongside the later Sailor Scouts, all continue to inspire cosplayers at conventions. Though Sailor Moon is clearly the most popular choice, there’s something to be said for getting a group of girlfriends together to really bring the Sailor Scouts to life in all their glory with a team cosplay. You’ll want to be sure to include someone who’s got hairstyling skills or else invest in some good quality wigs.

“Game of Thrones” (2011-)
Who wouldn’t want to pose as Daenerys Stormborn of the House Targaryen, First of Her Name, the Unburnt, Queen of the Andals and the First Men, Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, Breaker of Chains, and Mother of Dragons? With her head full of beautifully-braided, shockingly blonde locks and tendency towards loose flowing gowns, you can look great, intimidate, and feel comfortable all at once. The outfit is easy to put together - you’ll even have time to find a dragon outfit for your dog! Of course, you could always opt for her more rustic Khaleesi garb or her more authoritarian number from later seasons.

“Stranger Things” (2016-)
She may be a girl of a few words, but she manages to speak volumes - and has connected with a whole generation of devoted fans both young and old. Thankfully for cosplayers, she’s been through a couple of iconic outfits for you to choose from. The hospital gown always works, but the most popular costume is without a doubt her blonde wig, pink dress and blue jacket combo. You can now also opt for season two's curly brown hair look with overalls, or, if you’re feeling bold, rebellious Eleven. Of course, Eleven isn’t the only character worthy of your attention. RIP Barb!

“Wonder Woman” (2017)
In 2017, the film industry got something it had hereto never experienced - a female-led superhero movie that was a true blockbuster success of the same level as its peers. Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman was fierce, powerful, likable and an undeniable star. Little girls around the world were given a newcharacter to look up to, and you better believe that a lot of parents got requests for Wonder Woman costumes come Halloween. Wonder Woman isn’t just an inspiration to younger audiences though. DC’s leading lady has always been a cosplay staple, but with this rejuvenated popularity, Wonder Woman is now all over conventions.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions:

Hela
“Thor: Ragnarok” (2017)

Wednesday Addams
“The Addams Family” franchise (1964-

Lexa
“The 100” (2014-)

Various DC Films & TV Series
She may have started out in the Joker’s shadow, but from her humble beginnings on “Batman: The Animated Series”, Harley Quinn has become one of DC’s most popular characters. Maybe it’s her zany personality or her unique fashion sense. Maybe people just love a strong female character that refuses to play by the rules. Whatever the reason, people have identified with Harley Quinn, and they’ve expressed their love by dressing up as her at every opportunity. You can’t set foot in a comic convention without seeing someone rocking one of the various animated or live action Harley outfits. Congratulations Dr. Quinzel, you’ve made it!