Do you think it is acceptable to modify a cosplays design for a competition? For instance, I want to compete as a character that has a completely open backed top...unfortunately, I have a size FF chest and really don't feel comfortable building in a bra...I would much rather just wear one. Would it be completely frowned upon for me to give her top a back? :(
This is somewhat of a catch 22 question when it comes to craftsmanship competitions, so I am going to explain it as well as I can.
You will lose points in accuracy for thisDepending on the competition, you will TECHNICALLY lose points for it in accuracy. If there is no panel and there isn’t supposed to be one, then you will lose points in that.
The good news is, you’ll gain good favor if you can explain why correctly'Artistic License' is something that is also considered in the competition outside of the accuracy section. If you are able to implement a back panel, possibly in a skin color to yours, you can explain to the judges: 'I do not feel comfortable with boob rash or floppy boobs and finding a bra in order to support my breasts without any waist support is difficult. I decided it would be in my best interest to instead add that panel in order to allow me to wear a bra while still somewhat keeping the panel open like in the costume.' Tell them without going TOO deep since you have 5 minutes why this was important to you, but more or less figuring out how to do it while still keeping as accurate to the design as you could in order to feel comfortable.
Remember that part of the judging isn’t just about accuracy, it is being able to prove you can make something that fits your body while also taking a character who is PROBABLY not very average to you and make a relative balance between you and that character.
If you’re lucky you might find a judge who will also have better ideas for you and help you learn. Those are my favorites :D (I try to be one.)
Also 34G feels your pain *fist bump*