Few cosplayers could so perfectly capture the bubbly spirit of League of Legends Demacian sorceress Lux, then turn around and nail the serene regality of Princess Zelda. But Regina D, also known as RikkuGrape, makes it happen, with an upbeat attitude that matches the host of characters she portrays.

To find out more about this seamstress-slash-cosplayer and her first-rate craft, we asked Regina to tell us a little bit about herself. We think you’ll find that there’s a cheerful genuineness behind her adorable smile…

Photo credit: silenceral

Regina D: The very first time I cosplayed, I think I must have been 12 or 13? I was in middle school, and I cosplayed to my friend’s birthday party which was costume-themed. I was Edward Elric.

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RD: Cosplaying is fun for me. I don't really take it "seriously," you know? For me, cosplay is not a competition. I'm a really creative person, and I use cosplay as a way to expend all my creative energy. And what a plus that I love it too! I love to portray my favorite characters, and to create so cosplay is the perfect hobby for me!

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RD: It depends on the time of year. I’ve only been seriously cosplaying since last March. Usually, I make one costume per year and wear it to all of the conventions I attend. But, since last March, I've made at least four costumes! It's crazy! But I love it. It certainly is a commitment, though, and I try to work a little bit a time so I don't have to spend days and days working. I think more than a time commitment, it's a space commitment! I find myself taking over many rooms of the house whenever I’m making something. >w<

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RD: Oh man. I’ve used lots of things for the sake of cosplay! I think the strangest thing I have ever used is probably the end of a martini cup. It was some weird martini-style cup I picked up from the dollar store, and instead of having the typical triangle shape, it was like a half-circle on a stick. It ended up being perfect for molding the shape of my breastplate for Lux!

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RD: I worry a bit. I do think that accuracy is an important part of cosplay, but I also think there’s room for interpretation. I'm more concerned about getting the attitude, or aura, of the character down, rather than getting every seam or every nit-picky detail right.

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RD: The Legend of Zelda series, of course! I'm a sucker for that series. <3

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RD: I pick the characters I like, honestly. That's just it!

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RD: So far, I think my Twilight Princess: Zelda costume is one of, if not, my favorite. It was my first serious cosplay. It was a huge stretch in detail and it really tested my abilities than all the costumes I had made before. For me, it was the costume that showed me I could really make some cool things, even if they seem daunting to me. Not only that, but Zelda is one of my favorite princesses as well. When I was little, I wanted to go to sleep and wake up in Hyrule. When I realized that wasn't possible, I decided someday I was going to cosplay Zelda. And this costume just has a special meaning for me, I guess. I love wearing it. Or maybe I just love being a Princess? Either way, I do love it!

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RD: My biggest tip that I give people is to pick your favorite, and remember that everyone starts somewhere. All cosplay is good. As long as you’re having fun, go for it! All that being said, don't be afraid to make a cosplay that's a challenge, but know your limit--otherwise you could end up very disappointed. And, even if you don't make your own cosplay, you aren't any less of a cosplayer. Like I said, cosplayers come from all different places and have all different kinds of skills, so choose your favorite characters, have fun, and think outside of the box! :3

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RD: I am always changing my mind! There are so many costumes I would love to make. Right now, I really want to cosplay as Samus Aran.

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RD: Lord of the Rings!

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RD: Thanks so much for your interest, and for the interview! It's really an honor :)

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To see more of Regina’s righteous cosplay, you should definitely check out her Deviantart page, Facebook page, Tumblr page, and even her Etsy page where she sells homemade cosplay items and gifts. Because, after all, ‘tis the season to give your Zelda-loving pals a Lon Lon milk bottle for the holidays. We’ve included more of our favorite shots of Regina’s delightful video game and anime cosplaying, rife with her winning smile.

For more amazing cosplays, check out the Monika Lee Cosplay Spotlight and the Rainer Tachibana Cosplay Spotlight.

Photo credit: angiechuu

Photo credit: smokypixel

Photo credit: angiechuu

Photo credit: angiechuu

Photo credit: angiechuu

Photo credit: angiechuu

Photo credit: angiechuu

Photo credit: Ashley Anderson Photography

Photo credit: Cloud City Photography

Photo credit: Cloud City Photography

Photo credit: Kindra Nikole

Photo credit: Kindra Nikole

Photo credit: silenceral

Photo credit: silenceral

Photo credit: smokypixel