Croft Couture #30: Francine
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 women, and give Lara costumers a spot to share their experiences while dressed as gaming’s leading lady.
Relatively new to the Tomb Raider cosplay community, Francine has managed to knock out several stellar costumes in just a year! Photos above, interview below.
Fast Stats
- Name: Darya Croft (Francine)
- Country: Russia
- Occupation: Accountant
- Fan Since: 1997
- Favorite Tomb Raider Game: The Last Revelation
- Favorite Non-Lara Tomb Raider Character: Doppelganger
- Favorite Tomb Raider Villain: Amanda
- Number of Lara Croft Costumes: 4
- First Lara Croft Cosplay: Tomb Raider Reborn
- Favorite Lara Croft Cosplay: Tomb Raider Reborn
Q&A
What first drew you to the Tomb Raider franchise, and what initially inspired you to cosplay as Lara Croft?
I’ve always admired Lara! She is such a fearless character. I’ve always wanted to be similar to Lara, but obviously I can’t run on graves and shoot people.
What Lara Croft costume did you tackle first?
My first costume was “Reborn.” I already had the chance to shoot withAlexander, the best photographer in the world! I’m very grateful for the support and the help.
What is your favorite Lara Croft ensemble?
Reborn! For me it was my first experience tailoring and my first experience performing!
What Croft costumes are still on your roster?
Legend! I very much want to make everything.
Which Lara costume was the most difficult to construct? Was it due to a particular garment or prop?
Reborn. I spent a long time on this costume. I even bought theatrical dirt and blood, spent a long time on the axe, the arrows – everything is made manually. It was heavy…
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?
It would be very desirable to test my costume on adventures, but unfortunately I have the quiet life of an office worker. Although I try to bring adventures to life somehow…I like to travel.
Along the same lines, what’s the most exotic location you’ve traveled to?
In Turkey I was struck by the mountains. I would like to look at everything in the world!
What about Lara’s physical strength or mental prowess most inspires you? Has this, or your desire to cosplay Lara, influenced your daily life?
I would like to be able to do everything that Lara does! She is clever, beautiful, and strong physically and spiritually… Lara really motivates me. She gives me faith in myself… When things are hard I repeat the phase: “You can do it, Lara. After all, you’re a Croft.”
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