It remains that hardcore levels of costume play unsettle me. But I am also a massive Harry Potter fan/expert, so I am not sure where I am on this one.
I am sure Professor Sprout would not be seen in any of these costumes and would instead use the floo network to avoid the situation entirely. Nor would these outfits be suitable for trips down Daigon Alley.
Regardless, it is clear that there is an active Harry Potter costume play community for adults. It is amusing me that people would dress like this but still buy the books with the 'adult' cover on rather than the illustrated version meant for kids.
Hogwarts Fashion for Adults
Harry Potter Costume Play
Trend Themes
1. Adult Harry Potter Costumes - The rising popularity of Harry Potter costume play among adults presents an opportunity for apparel companies to create licensed clothing lines and accessories for a long-standing fanbase.
2. Nostalgia-inspired Fashion - The resurgence of interest in Harry Potter-themed clothing and accessories signals the potential for more nostalgia-inspired fashion in the future.
3. Crossover Appeal Costumes - The popularity of Harry Potter costumes for adults suggests that there is crossover appeal, so other popular franchises from books, movies, and games may provide opportunities for costume sales.
Industry Implications
1. Apparel - The trend of adult Harry Potter costume play creates market opportunities for apparel companies to expand licensed clothing lines and accessories for fans.
2. Entertainment - The enduring popularity of the Harry Potter franchise serves as a case study in successful marketing and building a large, dedicated fan base in the entertainment industry.
3. Events and Conventions - The growth of adult costume play for Harry Potter and other franchises indicates opportunities for event organizers and convention planners to attract a broader audience by promoting activities related to cosplay.