原文：
Croft Couture #11: Noelia
The Tomb Raider fandom is full of talented artists, entertainers, and perhaps most notably, phenomenal cosplay talent. “Croft Couture” aims to showcase these lovely and dedicated ladies, and give Lara costumers a spot to share their experiences while dressed as gaming’s leading lady.
I first discovered Noelia’s work after meeting her in person at GamesFest in 2011. At the time she was dressed as Catwoman, but when we reconnected after the show I found a profile full of Tomb Raider tributes in her cosplay portfolio. Considering the quality of her work up to this point, I can’t wait to see here 2013 ensemble!
Fast Stats
- Name: Noelia
- Country: Spain
- Occupation: Graphic Design Student
- Fan Since: Since the first PlayStation!
- Favorite Tomb Raider Game: Tomb Raider: Legend & Anniversary
- Favorite Non-Lara Tomb Raider Character: Amanda Evert
- Favorite Tomb Raider Villain: Doppelgänger
- Number of Lara Croft Costumes: 10
- First Lara Croft Cosplay: Classic
- Favorite Lara Croft Cosplay: Legend
- Future Lara Croft Cosplay: New Lara (2013)
What first drew you to the Tomb Raider franchise, and what initially inspired you to cosplay as Lara Croft?
I had always admired Lara since I was a small and first saw it. Who does not admire a woman so beautiful, so smart, and so strong as she? Since I was little, I liked to emulate her. It was not until years later when I decided to dress up for the first time. Lara is a strong woman and independent. Live your life to the limit. Travel, jump, shoot, enjoy…She is wonderful, awesome.
What Lara Croft costume did you tackle first?
Classic Lara. I always wanted to dress as Lara, but it was not until I was comfortable with my body. I had weight problems; I was a girl very VERY “strong” (laughs). Lara helped me to fight for something I wanted. And when I got it, I felt ready to take the plunge. I remember the first time I looked in the mirror dressed as Lara. I cried. It was very special to me.
What is your favorite Lara Croft ensemble?
The Tomb Raider: Legend outfit. I remember that photo shoot with special affection. I met what would become one of my best friends and now photographer Jonathan Duran. This cosplay opened the door to recognition of my work. Although I also remember fondly my first costume, the classic, and the photos that I did that day. It was a prologue to what would come next. I must pick the Underworld suit. With that costume I made one of the most important events. People knew me and it opened several doors.
What Croft costumes are still on your roster?
The outfit of the new Lara Croft. I have everything ready; it only remains to take the plunge.
Which Lara costume was the most difficult to construct? Was it due to a particular garment or prop?
The suit of the new Lara Croft. It has been difficult to create the accessories.
Lara Croft’s lifestyle is full of intrigue and adventure. Do you have any memorable photoshoots or convention appearances that pay tribute to Lara’s lifestyle?
I truly felt like Lara at the photoshoot of Tomb Raider: Legend. Jonathan Duran knows how to create a wonderful climate, and people took photos of me nonstop. It was great. I also felt like Lara at “Gamefest,” a very famous videogame event here in Spain. The press recorded me, interviewed me, I went in magazines…It was amazing! Those were the two most special times I felt like Lara.
Along the same lines, what’s the most exotic location you’ve traveled to?
Unfortunately I could not travel outside Spain yet. I hope to soon! But here in Spain we have hidden places that are wonderful, exotic, and mysterious…A delight for any adventurer! I invite you to come and discover them!
What about Lara’s physical strength or mental prowess most inspires you? Has this, or your desire to cosplay Lara, influenced your daily life?
Of course! As I said before, Lara helped me take an important step in my life. I started exercising and eating a healthy diet. Lara has been a wonderful gift in my life, a source of inspiration. She helped me to be a new girl. Lara is like my big sister!
Photos by Hécthor Sánchez | Samuel Lancha | Jonathan | Arual
