If you think cosplay is all about schoolgirls in short skirts and heroic pretty boys with oversized swords, think again.

These cosplayers show that they do not shy away from the strange, often opting to don the looks of less well known characters, and often ending up looking somewhat ridiculous

The pictures below are said to have been taken at Comiket 81, one of the biggest gatherings of cosplayers in Japan.

The contributer who sent in the photos said the festival is held in winter, hence, the usual skimpy outfits are not a good idea.

Click on thumbnail to view the odd creations (Photos: Stomp)