How to Cosplay as "2B YoRHa" from NieR: Automata

NieR: Automata's 2B YoRHa is one of the most iconic video game characters in recent years. With her striking design and mysterious, stoic personality, 2B has become a favorite choice for cosplayers around the world. Whether you're drawn to her gothic-inspired outfit, her complex character, or the futuristic world she inhabits, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to bring 2B YoRHa to life through cosplay.

Costume Components

Outfit Overview

2B’s signature black dress, with its elegant yet combat-ready design, is the heart of her look. It combines gothic fashion with sci-fi elements, creating a truly unique silhouette. If you’re planning to make the costume from scratch, you’ll need black velvet or satin fabric for that rich, luxurious texture, and patterns that mimic her form-fitting bodice and puffed sleeves. Alternatively, many online shops offer pre-made 2B costumes that can be altered for a perfect fit.

Top and Sleeves

The top portion of 2B's outfit features a high-neck, black bodice with white floral embroidery on the chest. The long sleeves are puffed at the shoulder with cutouts that expose the upper arms. For DIY enthusiasts, this means some sewing and detailed embroidery work, which you can either do by hand or with lace appliques. The top should fit snugly, but keep comfort in mind as you’ll likely wear it for hours at a time during events or conventions.

Skirt

The skirt is an essential part of 2B’s outfit. It should have a certain flow and volume, often achieved with a petticoat or structured fabric underneath. The skirt is short in the front, allowing her to move freely in combat, and longer in the back for that elegant, sweeping look. Pay attention to the white details along the hem—these are a key part of 2B’s design and can be added with fabric paint, embroidery, or pre-made lace.

Props and Accessories

Blindfold/Visor

2B’s black blindfold (or visor) is one of her most recognizable features. It's sleek, minimal, and adds to her mysterious aura. You can easily make this from a simple strip of black fabric, ensuring that it fits securely around your head without being too tight. While it might obscure your vision, some cosplayers opt for a sheer material so they can still see while wearing it. Remember to prioritize comfort and safety if you’ll be wearing it for long periods.

Gloves and Boots

2B’s long, black gloves add to her sophisticated yet fierce look. These can be purchased from most costume stores, or you can make your own if you want something custom-fitted. Her knee-high boots are another must-have accessory. Black, heeled boots with subtle detailing will work perfectly—just make sure they’re comfortable enough for long walks at conventions. You may need to modify a simple pair of boots by adding some faux leather or buckles to match 2B’s style.

Weapon: Virtuous Contract Sword

No 2B cosplay is complete without her trusty sword, Virtuous Contract. If you’re into prop-making, this can be a fun project using materials like foam, Worbla, or wood. The blade itself has a sleek, futuristic design, and you'll want to pay attention to the white and silver color scheme. Once you've shaped the sword, give it a smooth coat of metallic paint for that shiny, polished look. If you’re not into making props, many cosplay shops sell pre-made versions.

Cosplay Wig and Makeup

Hair

2B’s silver-white bob haircut is a key part of her look. You can find wigs in this style from various online cosplay stores, but you’ll likely need to trim and style it to get the perfect match. The wig should have a side part, with the bangs slightly covering one eye for that dramatic effect. If you’ve never styled a wig before, there are plenty of tutorials online to help you achieve 2B’s iconic look. Be sure to use hairspray or gel to keep the shape intact throughout the day.

Makeup

For 2B’s makeup, you’ll want to go for a soft, porcelain look that emphasizes her android features. Start with a pale foundation to give your skin a smooth, flawless finish. For the eyes, use black eyeliner and mascara to create a bold, defined look, even if you're wearing the blindfold. If you plan to take the blindfold off during your cosplay, adding some grey or silver eyeshadow will complement the character’s overall color palette. Don’t forget to add a little contouring to define your cheekbones and jawline, mimicking 2B’s sleek, robotic appearance.

Cosplay Contacts

2B has light-colored eyes, typically depicted as grey or blue. Adding contacts can enhance the realism of your cosplay, though they are optional. When choosing contacts, focus on shades of grey, silver, or blue that match the game’s depiction of her eyes. Always prioritize safety—make sure to use contacts specifically designed for cosplay or special effects, and follow proper hygiene practices to avoid discomfort or injury.

Poses and Mannerism

To truly embody 2B, you’ll need to channel her calm, stoic demeanor. She’s composed, even in battle, and rarely shows emotion on the surface. Practice her neutral expression and refined body language—minimal movement, poised posture, and deliberate actions. If you plan to pose with her sword, look up reference images from the game or watch videos to get a feel for her fighting stance. Signature poses like standing with the sword planted on the ground, or holding it ready for battle, will make your cosplay photos even more striking.

Where to Buy vs. DIY

You have the option of purchasing a full 2B costume or creating it from scratch. If you’re short on time or crafting skills, many online shops offer high-quality versions of her outfit. However, if you enjoy the process of making your own cosplay, you can find patterns and tutorials that guide you through each part of the costume. The DIY route lets you customize the outfit to your exact measurements, and it can be more cost-effective depending on the materials you use. Websites like Etsy, AliExpress, and specialized cosplay stores often carry the accessories, boots, and wigs needed for 2B’s look.

Final Tips

Cosplaying as 2B can be both rewarding and challenging. Her intricate design and unique silhouette require attention to detail, but with the right preparation, you can pull it off. Remember to balance comfort with accuracy—conventions and events can be long, and you’ll want to stay comfortable throughout the day. Always have a plan for transporting your props safely, and consider bringing a sewing kit for any last-minute repairs.

Cosplaying as 2B YoRHa is an opportunity to bring one of gaming’s most iconic characters to life. With her gothic-inspired outfit, sleek sword, and android elegance, she’s a character that continues to inspire cosplayers worldwide. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating an authentic 2B cosplay that’s sure to impress. So grab your sewing kit, get those boots ready, and embrace the world of NieR: Automata!