Alice in Borderland is close to ideal for cosplay on a budget, because its characters dress like real people who got stranded mid-errand: utility jackets, gym clothes, office shirts, resort wear and the odd game uniform. With three seasons out, you can pick from the original players, the face-card citizens and the newer Season 3 cast, including Ryuji, Rei, Shion and Natsu. Most of these looks come together from thrifted jackets, athletic basics, workwear, a simple wig and a homemade playing card. As a stylist, I'd chase each character's colour, hair and outline rather than the exact screen pieces; that's what people read first. Below are thirty looks, solo and paired, with what I'd buy, what I'd make and what I'd leave at home.
Playing Cards and Game Collars You Can Make in an Evening
Nearly all thirty looks lean on two props: an oversized playing card and, for the game players, a metal-look collar. Both are quick to make and both have one way they usually fail.
The oversized card
Cut the card from foam board, not cardboard, so it stays flat and light all day. Round the corners with scissors; real cards have rounded corners, and square ones look homemade. Print or paint the suit and number on both sides, because you'll be holding it and turning it constantly. A clear matte sealer stops sweaty hands from smudging the ink. Keep it to roughly the size of a tablet so it fits in a tote bag between photos.
The collar
Make it from silver craft foam or card wrapped in silver fabric, with a gap at the back closed by a strip of hook-and-loop tape. It should sit loosely on the collarbones with room for two fingers between it and your neck. Never close it with anything you can't undo in one pull, and skip lights or batteries inside it. Paint a few small dark rivets around the band and it reads as metal from a distance.
1. Arisu Green Jacket Cosplay
Arisu's early outfit is where most people start, and it's mostly a jacket. A relaxed green utility jacket over a dark crewneck, straight black jeans or charcoal cargo pants and worn black sneakers are the base. Look for a jacket that's a muted army green rather than a bright one; a bright green reads as a different character. A medium dark wig with uneven layers and loose bangs gives his slightly unkempt hair, and a little brown shadow around the eyes makes him look tired and thinking. Carry an old phone with a blank game-screen image and a large playing card cut from foam board. Fabric chalk rubbed on the elbows and hem adds wear that brushes out afterwards.
2. Usagi Climbing Outfit Cosplay
Usagi's climbing outfit is the athletic pick, and it needs almost no sewing. Wear a fitted gray tank with dark green or charcoal cargo pants and flexible hiking boots or trail sneakers you can actually walk in all day. Pull dark hair into a loose low ponytail with a few pieces left at the face. Fresh, minimal makeup with defined brows and a touch of bronzer suits her outdoorsy look. Fingerless climbing gloves, a coiled prop rope and an empty carabiner on the waistband tell her mountaineering story. Real climbing gear is heavy and clanks against everything, so I'd use a light rope and a single carabiner for show. A dusting of washable gray powder on the pants and boots finishes the survival feel.
3. Chishiya White Hoodie Cosplay
Chishiya is all white, which is why people spot him so easily and also why he's tricky to keep clean. A long white zip-front hoodie or light jacket over a plain white tee, white or pale gray joggers and clean white sneakers are the whole outfit. The hair carries the character: a chin-length platinum wig with dark roots, straight, lightly layered and tucked behind one ear. Subtle liner and a cool contour give his calm, watchful look. A collar cut from silver craft foam adds a game detail, and a phone or a single diamond card is the prop. Keep everything a little oversized; a fitted white hoodie loses his slouch. I'd keep makeup well clear of that white collar and carry a stain wipe.
4. Kuina Beach Cosplay
Kuina's Beach outfit mixes resort colour with an athletic, confident shape. Start with a bright blue fitted crop top or a full-coverage swim-style top, open a tropical-print shirt over it, and add loose white beach pants or light blue trousers. Flat sandals or clean low sneakers keep it easy. The wig matters: long and dark with lighter ends, worn straight with a centre part. An ombre wig is easier to find than dyeing the ends of a plain one. Glowing skin, softly defined eyes and a neutral lip suit her. A friendship bracelet, a simple pendant and a card prop connect it to the Beach. If you'd like more coverage, a fitted blue tank swaps in for the crop top without losing the look.
5. Ann White Tank Top Cosplay
Ann is about precision, so I keep the look sparse and sharp. A fitted white tank, high-waisted black trousers or slim cargo pants, a structured black belt and polished ankle boots are the base. The straight black bob with an exact centre part does most of the work, and narrow rectangular sunglasses add her cool, analytical edge. A bob wig needs its ends trimmed straight after you put it on; most come slightly uneven from the packet. Matte skin, softly sculpted cheeks, thin liner and a muted lip finish the face. Carry a small notebook, a clear evidence bag or a diamond card. A light black blazer works on cold days. Skip extra jewellery, because clutter undoes her.
6. Mira Purple Dress Cosplay
Mira's Queen of Hearts look is the dressy one, a welcome change from all the survival wear. Look for a flowing lavender or deep purple midi dress with soft ruffles, gathered sleeves or a high neck, and pair it with simple white or nude flats. A long dark wig in smooth waves with a centre part, luminous foundation, rose blush, defined lashes and a calm pink lip give her composure. Her croquet theme suggests a hoop prop; I'd paint one from foam pipe insulation rather than anything rigid, so it stays light. A large heart card works too. Pearl earrings and a slim bracelet are plenty. Choose a dress that moves when you walk, since her stillness looks best against a skirt that sways.
7. Hatter Red Robe Cosplay
The Hatter is for anyone who enjoys a big personality. A red satin robe or light printed kimono over a white tank and matching red lounge pants is the base, with slip-on loafers or clean sandals for the resort mood. Sweep dark hair back, with a little temporary gray wax at the sides if you want his age. Round tinted sunglasses, stacked costume necklaces and a handful of cheap rings bring the flash. Keep makeup natural but groomed, with tidy brows and a warm complexion. A homemade Beach membership card is a fun prop. Satin over two other layers gets hot indoors fast, so I'd choose a viscose or cotton robe with a sheen rather than polyester satin.
8. Aguni Tactical Vest Cosplay
Aguni's look is military in shape, but there's no need for anything that looks like real combat gear. A sleeveless black utility vest over a fitted dark gray tank, black cargo pants, a broad webbed belt, wrist wraps and sturdy lace-up boots build him. Carry a folded Beach map or a foam card marker instead of anything weapon-shaped; most venues will ask you to check realistic props. Push short dark hair up with matte clay, add a little contour at the cheekbones and dust the clothes with washable powder. A red fabric armband marks him as Beach. The sleeveless line is part of the character, though a fitted black tee underneath adds coverage. Keep the vest pockets empty so it lies flat.
9. Niragi Patterned Shirt Cosplay
Niragi is recognised by that loud black-and-white shirt and his chaotic styling. Find a loose monochrome geometric shirt and wear it half buttoned over a fitted black tank, with slim black trousers, a black belt and rugged combat-style boots. A medium dark wig with heavy layers and messy volume at the crown is next; tease the crown with a comb rather than heat, since cheap wigs frizz near a hot tool. Smudged black liner, defined brows and a cool contour make the face intense without anything graphic. Swap his weapons for a phone, a Beach card or an oversized diamond card in craft foam, add a dark wrist cuff, then crumple the shirt and roll the sleeves unevenly so it looks lived in.
10. Tatta Mechanic Jumpsuit Cosplay
Tatta's mechanic jumpsuit is comfortable and friendly, and easy to find secondhand. A navy or royal blue work jumpsuit with chest pockets and a front zip is the base, with a white or gray tee under it and black work boots or dark sneakers. A rectangular name patch and a small emblem cut from removable fabric vinyl add the detail. Short dark hair with a tousled fringe, natural makeup and a smudge of washable dust on the cheeks and sleeves finish him. Tuck work gloves into a pocket and carry a folded shop cloth rather than heavy tools. Jumpsuits get warm, so for a hot venue tie the sleeves round your waist and wear the tee on top; mechanics really do this.
11. Karube Bartender Cosplay
Karube's bartender clothes are subtle, and fans of the show still catch them. Wear a fitted black button-down with the sleeves rolled neatly to the forearm, straight black trousers, a dark waist apron and comfortable black non-slip shoes. Push short dark hair up and slightly back with some texture. Simple skin makeup and lightly defined brows are enough. A plain bar towel over one shoulder and a plastic water glass or empty tray make the props. Leave off drink branding and anything alcohol-related so it suits a family event. A small photo tucked in the shirt pocket is a quiet nod to his loyalty to Arisu and Chota. It's an easy cosplay built entirely from workwear basics.
12. Chota Office Worker Cosplay
Chota's first-episode outfit can come from any office wardrobe. A pale blue or white dress shirt, dark trousers, a slightly loosened navy tie, a plain black belt and comfortable brown or black dress shoes are the base. A light messenger bag and an old phone suggest his rushed dash across Tokyo. Short dark hair in a neat side part that's coming loose at the front, natural makeup, a little powder and soft shading under the eyes show stress without theatre. The details that sell it are small: one sleeve rolled higher than the other and the shirt half untucked by the time you arrive. A red heart card in the shirt pocket ties the everyday outfit to the Borderland.
13. Shibuki Red Dress Cosplay
Shibuki's early look stands out because it's so polished against everyone else's utility wear. Choose a knee-length red dress with a tailored shape and a modest neckline, add a light black blazer, sheer neutral tights and black pumps or pointed flats. A shoulder-length dark wig in smooth waves with a side part, a polished base, defined liner, rose blush and a deep red lip that matches the dress give her the office-to-chaos feel. Match the lip to the dress in daylight, not under a bathroom bulb, or the two reds will clash. Carry a structured black handbag with an old phone visible and a heart card on the case. If you'll walk a lot, choose cushioned flats over heels.
14. Momoka School Uniform Cosplay
Momoka's school uniform is simple, which makes it handy for a group. A white collared blouse, navy pleated skirt, dark knee-high socks and flat black loafers are the base, with a fitted school-style blazer or cardigan and a neat ribbon tie in a dark shade. A straight dark wig with soft bangs, or your own hair in a tidy shoulder-length shape, works. Keep makeup youthful: light blush, tinted balm and soft lashes. A plain school bag holds an oversized card or a folded game map. Make a small ID patch with removable fabric tape, and design your own rather than copying a real school crest. Loosen the tie a little and look worried; that's what moves a plain uniform into the story.
15. Asahi School Uniform Cosplay
Asahi pairs with Momoka, so the job is to make her clearly different while still matching. A cream blouse, a dark plaid or navy skirt and a charcoal cardigan are her base, with black crew socks and sturdy loafers that can handle hours of walking. Medium dark hair with a centre or soft side part and natural texture, muted pink cheeks and a neutral lip keep her understated. A small backpack, a phone and a game-dealer badge made from card stock, plus a folded red fabric strip tucked in the bag, add the clues. Wrinkle the cardigan and skirt by hand instead of distressing them. As a duo, share the bags and card props but keep hair, neckwear and cardigan colours visibly apart.
16. Heiya School Survivor Cosplay
Heiya mixes a school uniform with things she'd need to survive. Wear a white short-sleeve blouse, a dark pleated skirt and a loosely tied ribbon at the collar, with fitted black shorts underneath so you can move and sit freely. Knee-high socks and supportive dark hiking boots replace the dainty school shoes, which is the detail that tells her story. A long dark wig in a high ponytail with wispy bangs, strong brows, subtle liner and washable dust on the cheekbones give a determined face. Carry a phone, a folded map and a large spade card. A small backpack with a water bottle and fabric bandages adds resourcefulness. Fray a spare ribbon rather than the real blouse, and use gray chalk on the hem.
17. Kyuma Colorful Stage Cosplay
Kyuma, the King of Clubs, suits anyone who loves loud colour. For a version you can wear in public, layer a vivid open vest over a fitted neutral tank, then add flowing purple trousers, a wide fabric sash, colourful wristbands and metallic or white sneakers. A long dark wig with soft waves, a glowing complexion, softly smudged liner and an easy smile capture his stage energy. Stack light necklaces and carry a large club card or a foam speaker prop. Stretch fabrics matter here, because he's a character you'll want to move and dance in. Long wavy wigs tangle under a sash and necklaces, so spray the lengths with a little detangler before you go out and carry a wide-tooth comb.
18. Kuzuryu Black Suit Cosplay
Kuzuryu is the cosplay for people who like a clean, tailored line. A well-fitted black two-piece suit, a crisp white shirt, a narrow black tie, polished black lace-ups and a plain dark belt are the whole outfit. Fit is the costume, so if you're thrifting the suit, take it to be hemmed and have the sleeves shortened; a suit that pools at the ankle looks borrowed. Short black hair in a clean side part, matte makeup and a serious expression finish him. Carry balance-scale symbols cut from gold card stock, a legal notebook or a large diamond card. A metallic costume collar references his game. Keep the shirt buttoned and the tie centred, since his whole character is order.
19. Banda Striped Cardigan Cosplay
Banda's Jack of Hearts outfit has a retro look that thrift shops are full of. A striped knit cardigan in muted brown, green, cream or rust over a plain collared shirt, relaxed brown trousers and simple dark loafers are the base. Medium dark hair with an uneven fringe and messy texture, pale matte makeup and soft under-eye shading give him his unsettling calm without anything graphic. Make the game collar from silver foam or painted card and keep it loose; a collar of any kind should slip easily over your head and never sit tight on the throat. Carry an old phone and a heart card, add a vintage watch or plain ring, and choose a slightly faded cardigan for that worn, ordinary feel.
20. Matsushita Pastel Shirt Cosplay
Matsushita is quiet and hard to read, so the styling should be just as soft. A pale pink, lavender or light blue button-down, beige trousers, a narrow brown belt and white sneakers or loafers make the outfit. Short dark hair in a tidy bowl-shaped cut with light texture at the ends, even skin, straight brows and a muted lip keep him unassuming. The loose silver craft-foam collar is the main game detail, with a small notebook, a phone and a heart card as light props. His pastels set off Banda's darker cardigan, so the two make a strong duo. Hold a reserved posture in photos; a big grin breaks the character faster than any wrong piece of clothing.
21. Yaba Patterned Suit Cosplay
Yaba is calculated and a little unusual in how he dresses. Choose a dark patterned blazer with subtle checks or a tonal texture, layered over a black or burgundy shirt, with matching dark trousers and polished leather-look loafers. Short dark hair with volume at the crown and smooth sides, natural matte makeup with a sharper cheek contour and well-defined brows finish him. The silver collar marks the Jack of Hearts game, and a phone and oversized heart card are the props. A muted red pocket square adds one controlled flash of colour. The blazer must fit through the shoulders; that's where his authority comes from. Beside a Banda or Matsushita, vary the patterns so each stays distinct.
22. Kotoko Neutral Cardigan Cosplay
Kotoko's Jack of Hearts outfit is the gentlest everyday cosplay here. A light beige or dusty rose cardigan over a plain cream blouse, a calf-length neutral skirt or relaxed trousers, and low-heeled ankle boots or flats are the base. Long dark hair worn straight with a soft centre part, natural skin, light lashes, pink blush and a muted rose lip suit her. The collar can be silver fabric over a soft foam strip, which sits more comfortably on a knit than stiff card. A small shoulder bag, an old phone and a heart card make the game clear. Slightly oversized knitwear gives her that cautious, vulnerable look, and the layers come off easily if a room warms up.
23. Risa Blue Athletic Cosplay
Risa's Queen of Spades look is built from clean athletic lines in blue. A fitted royal blue athletic jacket or long-sleeve performance top, black running leggings or streamlined cargo pants and light training sneakers are the base. A high, secure ponytail keeps hair out of the way. Sweat-resistant makeup with defined brows, subtle contour and a soft neutral lip will last; a setting spray helps on a warm day. Fingerless fitness gloves and a large spade card are the props, and white athletic tape around the wrists adds detail. Everything should let you move freely, because her physical energy is the point. A fitted blue vest swaps in for the jacket when it's warm. Pose in a running stance for photos.
24. Ryuji Professor Cosplay
Ryuji brings a more academic look into Season 3. A dark overcoat or relaxed charcoal blazer over a fine-knit sweater and collared shirt, tailored black trousers and dark leather-look shoes make the outfit. Medium dark hair in a slightly loose shape, rather than a sleek one, natural makeup, soft under-eye shading and defined brows give him a tired, thoughtful face. Carry a slim notebook of harmless diagrams, a pen, an old phone and a Joker card tucked inside the notebook, which points to the Season 3 story. Keep the palette muted and the layers gently rumpled. Since it's built from an overcoat and knitwear, it's one of the best choices here for a cold night outside.
25. Rei Graphic Artist Cosplay
Rei's Season 3 outfit is for fans who like playful street fashion. Start with an oversized jacket covered in abstract patches or hand-painted shapes of your own design, over a colourful fitted top and loose black cargo pants, with chunky sneakers. Dark hair with contrasting coloured streaks or sharp face-framing layers gives the energy; clip-in coloured strands save dyeing your own. Graphic liner, a glossy lip and one bright shadow finish the face. Carry a sketchbook of your own game-inspired drawings, some markers and a Joker card. I'd paint the jacket with fabric paint and heat-set it with an iron so it survives a wash, or use removable patches if you want the jacket back.
26. Shion CEO Cosplay
Shion's Season 3 costume is sleek businesswear with an edge. A tailored gray or black pantsuit over a fitted neutral top, pointed flats or low block-heel ankle boots, and shoulder-length dark hair with smooth volume and an exact side part make her look. Luminous skin, defined lashes, sculpted brows and a neutral pink lip keep the makeup polished. A slim tablet case, a phone, a minimalist cardholder with a Joker card, small silver earrings and a structured tote finish the executive outline. Then loosen the blazer slightly and rub a little gray fabric chalk along one cuff. Those two small changes are what make a plain suit read as someone who's been through the games.
27. Natsu Dancer Cosplay
Natsu was a dancer, so her costume should move. A cropped athletic jacket over a full-coverage fitted tank and high-waisted track pants, with white dance sneakers or cushioned trainers, makes the base. A high ponytail or a half-up style that swings naturally suits her. Fresh makeup, glowing cheeks, soft liner and a tinted balm keep it youthful. Fabric wristbands, a small crossbody bag and an old phone with a fan-made game graphic add the story, with a Joker card clipped to the bag. Secure every accessory before you dance or pose; a bag strap sliding off mid-move is the classic problem. Bright red, blue or purple accents keep the athletic outfit from blending in.
28. Season 3 Arisu Brown Jacket Cosplay
Later Arisu needs to look clearly different from the green-jacket version, so I go darker and more worn. A weathered brown shirt jacket or light work coat over a charcoal tee, dark utility pants and black trail sneakers or lace-up boots are the base. A medium dark wig with loose, uneven bangs and less volume, subtle skin makeup, brown under-eye shading and a determined look give him the later mood. Carry an old phone, a folded map and a Joker card. A fabric bandage around one wrist adds survival detail without anything graphic. Leave the jacket open and rumpled, with washable chalk along the seams. In a group, this lets two people play Arisu at different points in the story.
29. Arisu And Usagi Couple Cosplay
Arisu and Usagi are the pair everyone who watched the show knows, and you don't need elaborate props for it. Arisu wears a green utility jacket, a dark tee, black cargo pants and rugged sneakers with messy medium-length hair. Usagi wears a fitted gray tank, olive utility pants and trail shoes with a loose dark ponytail. Both keep makeup natural with a little washable dust. Matching phones, wristbands and a heart and a spade card tie you together. A light coiled rope hangs from Usagi's backpack while Arisu carries a folded city map. Stand close, alert and facing forward in photos, so both outfits and their different survival skills show at once.
30. Alice In Borderland Group Cosplay
Four people as Arisu, Usagi, Chishiya and Kuina cover the show's most familiar colours: green, gray and olive, white and the Beach blue. Arisu wears the green utility jacket and black pants, Usagi the gray tank and olive cargos, Chishiya the white hoodie, pale trousers, white sneakers and platinum wig, and Kuina the blue top, tropical overshirt, loose white pants and long dark wig with lighter ends. Give everyone natural, lightly weathered makeup and comfortable shoes. Different card suits, old phones and fabric wristbands make matching props. Go easy on the distressing so the line-up stays bright. Stand side by side, each holding a different card, and keep Chishiya off the end where his white blows out in flash photos.
Survival Grime That Comes Out in the Wash
Nearly every character in this show has spent days in an empty city, so a little wear makes a costume believable. The catch is that most people want the jacket back afterwards. These methods all come out with a brush or a normal wash.
- Brown and gray eyeshadow, brushed on with a big fluffy brush, gives the softest dust. Concentrate it where real dirt collects: knees, cuffs, elbows and the hem.
- Fabric chalk or plain sidewalk chalk works on dark cotton and denim. Rub it in, then tap off the excess so it doesn't come off on a car seat.
- Strong tea or coffee in a spray bottle dulls bright whites and creams. Test it on an inside seam first, since it can stain synthetic fabric for good.
- Rumpling is free. Scrunch a shirt into a ball and leave it overnight, rather than ironing, for that lived-in look.
Leave Chishiya's white and Mira's purple almost untouched. Characters defined by a clean colour lose their outline the moment you add grime, and a dusty white hoodie just looks like a dirty hoodie.
Chishiya's Dark Roots on a Plain Platinum Wig
Platinum wigs with dark roots are harder to find than plain ones, but you can add the roots yourself. Put the wig on a head form, part it where you'll wear it, and press a little dark brown eyeshadow or root-touch-up powder into the first finger width at the part and the crown with a small brush. Blend the edge down with a clean brush so there's no hard line. It rubs off slightly over a day, so pack the powder. Avoid permanent markers or paint, which stiffen synthetic fibres and can't be undone.
A Jacket, a Wig and One Card
Every look here comes down to colour, outline, hair and one or two well-chosen props. You don't need screen-accurate clothing to be understood: a green utility jacket says Arisu, and a white hoodie with a platinum wig says Chishiya. Athletic layers suit Usagi, Kuina, Risa and Natsu, while tailored pieces carry Ann, Kuzuryu, Shion and Ryuji. Put your effort into shoes you can stand in, breathable fabric, light card props and makeup you can wear for hours. Then wear the whole thing at home for an afternoon before the event, and fix anything that slips, rubs or itches while you still can.
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