I've seen many Klingons that look fabulous but aren't Klingon beneath the vinyl and greasepaint. This isn't to advocate the obsessive fan activity that doesn't remember that you're acting a part, but if you don't act the part you might as well be a cardboard stand-up. You need to get the proper attitude to do Klingon well, a bit egotistical, somewhat p.o'ed and thoroughly outrageous. I've seen short Klingons tower over people because they have the proper 'tude.

On costuming and makeup! Well costumes can be pretty simple; if it's leatherish or the right colors (black, grey, or red) you can pull it off. I've seen folks look pretty good in a black martial arts top with black jeans. There's an important point, Klingons are very oriental in dress and attitude, they seriously cribbed from the Tibetans for the look and Samurai for the attitude. If you find or make something Chinese or Japanese you can look good. Whatever you wear, if you wear it with the proper spirit, you'll be fine. If you want to look more like someone that walked off the Series, well, we can help you find the right patterns (if you feel like doing your own) or the best sources of Costuming if you have more money than sewing skills.

Accessories make the Klingon! You can look really good in a black turtleneck if you have a sash, set of gauntlets and a belt. We have patterns for these things as well. Also keep your eyes open when you go to Cons or to thrift shops and you can find nifty pins and things to add touches to your ensemble.

Makeup can be simple too, if you want to do what we old-timers call "fusion" all you need is some dark makeup (start with "light Egyptian" pancake, or try a dollar store) and a soft black eyebrow pencil and with a little practice you'll look like Kang or Mara from the Original series. More work makes for better results though and if you're ready to get ridgey, there are many skilled genetic engineers, or you can go to your local fun shop, personally I think a custom made piece is better.

Finally, I can't say too often that this is not as daunting as it might seem, all you need is the will to jump in and a little creativity to become a truly impressive Klingon warrior.
 

Cmdr. Qob sutai-Hurric

CO - Cold Death Quadrant

Artwork contributed by Kheyra