From Batman to Bellatrix: 15 Best Cosplays of 2016

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 28: A cosplay enthusiasts dressed as Slender Man seen on Day 2 of MCM London Comic Con at The London ExCel on May 28, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Ollie Millington/WireImage)

12. Slenderman

Slenderman—or Slender Man, if you prefer—has been a hot topic since his origination in 2009. While this simplistic yet terrifying creature was inspired by many other horror icons, Slenderman has become an icon in and of itself. His mythos usually involves stalking and traumatizing children, but series like Marble Hornets widened the pool of victims to adults. Although Slenderman has been part of popular culture for less than a decade, his influence on aspiring storytellers continues to thrive.

No matter the nature of the many different stories in which he’s featured, Slenderman’s appearance remains the same. After all, it’s his signature look that contributes to his bone-chilling nature: Unnaturally tall and slim, and dressed in a plain black suit. His lack of distinguishing figures renders his physicality mannequin-esque, so a morph suit is a must for cosplayers. This cosplayer has nailed all the requirements, and his solitude lends to the gravitas of the character. If you’re looking to scare, you can’t go wrong with a good Slenderman get-up.

Side note: As someone who’s never worn a morph suit, I can’t say how easy it is to see, breathe, or talk through a morph mask. But a lack of communication will only add to the Slenderman mystique (although vision and breathability might be something to look into).

Next: The Toy Gotham Needs