Zhongli Cosplay Guide (Genshin Impact)

Character Overview: The Geo Archon

Zhongli is the 7th Archon of the Genshin Impact universe, known as Morax, the Geo Archon, and the ruler of Liyue. Throughout his story, Zhongli is portrayed as calm, composed, and wise. Despite his ancient status, Zhongli is humble and dedicated to the people of Liyue, serving as a consultant for the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor. His wisdom, knowledge of the world, and powerful Geo abilities are matched only by his stoic and dignified demeanor. Zhongli is a beloved character for his kind nature and powerful abilities tied to the element of Geo.

His appearance combines royal elegance with a fantastical and traditional aesthetic, featuring an outfit that reflects his connection to Liyue and his position as the Geo Archon. Cosplaying Zhongli involves recreating his regal yet grounded style, complete with intricate detailing and accessories that highlight his Archon status.

Key Visuals: Iconic Features of Zhongli

Zhongli’s look is a beautiful blend of traditional Chinese clothing, royal flair, and the earthiness of his elemental power. Below are the key features that define his appearance:

• Outfit: Zhongli’s costume consists of a long coat with elaborate gold and black accents, which speaks to his royal status as the Geo Archon. His outfit blends traditional Chinese robes with elements that represent the power of stone, including detailed embroidery.

• Hair: Zhongli’s hair is dark brown, styled in a short, flowing cut with bangs, adding to his noble appearance. His hair is sleek, with natural waves that contribute to his calm and collected demeanor.

• Eyes: Zhongli’s amber-colored eyes give him a deep, contemplative look. His gaze is often intense yet kind, reflecting his vast knowledge and wisdom.

• Accessories: Zhongli wears several key accessories that emphasize his regal status, such as the crystal Geo Vision and detailed golden patterns on his outfit. These accessories help further solidify his identity as the Geo Archon.

Costume Breakdown: Regal, Elegant, and Geo-Inspired

Zhongli’s costume is an essential part of his look, reflecting both his royal status and his connection to the Geo element. Here’s a breakdown of his outfit:

Top/Upper Wear

Zhongli’s upper attire features a long, high-collared coat adorned with gold details. The coat is dark in color, reflecting the earthy tones of the Geo element, while the intricate patterns give it an elegant, refined touch.

• Material: Use a dark fabric like deep brown, black, or maroon satin or velvet for the coat. The material should have some shine to reflect his royal status while still feeling grounded and earthy.

• Details: The coat features elaborate gold embroidery, symbolizing his position as the Geo Archon. The intricate patterns and designs should be replicated with fabric paint or embroidery to add authenticity to the look.

• Tip: Consider using foam or craft materials to create raised, textured details that mimic stone patterns, adding an extra layer of depth to your outfit.

Lower Wear

Zhongli’s pants are a continuation of his regal yet functional look. The dark trousers are simple yet tailored, reflecting his understated elegance.

• Material: Opt for black or dark brown tailored pants that are made from cotton, polyester, or a similar fabric. The pants should be comfortable and complement the long coat.

• Tip: Pair the trousers with a belt that has subtle details or accents to enhance the look. You can also create small, stone-like details around the waistband for extra authenticity.

Gloves and Accessories

Zhongli wears long gloves and a few accessories that highlight his noble status. His gloves are typically black with gold accents, adding an extra touch of royalty and formality to his outfit.

• Gloves: Choose black gloves made of faux leather or spandex that extend to the elbow. Look for gloves with gold detailing or accents to match his royal aesthetic.

• Geo Vision: Zhongli’s Geo Vision is a defining accessory. It is a crystal that represents his elemental power. You can create this symbol with a crystal pendant or foam, painted with gold details to resemble the official design.

• Tip: If you’re creating the Geo Vision symbol, use craft foam or plastic to shape it, then paint it gold. Attach it to your outfit using a simple chain or clasp to mimic how Zhongli wears his Vision.

Hair, Makeup & Eyes: Calm, Wise, and Powerful

Zhongli’s hair and makeup should reflect his composed, dignified nature. His look focuses on simplicity with an emphasis on natural beauty and elegance.

Hair

Zhongli’s hair is styled into a short, flowing cut, with bangs falling naturally over his forehead. It’s sleek and slightly wavy, reflecting his calm personality.

• Style: For Zhongli’s hair, use a dark brown wig that is cut into a short, slightly layered style. The hair should have some movement to give it volume, but it shouldn’t be too messy.

• Tip: If you’re using your own hair, apply a little bit of pomade or hair gel to create sleek waves. The key is to make the hair appear natural but styled, matching Zhongli’s effortless elegance.

Makeup

Zhongli’s makeup is minimal, as his character relies on his natural beauty and dignified appearance. His features are sharp and defined, and his skin is flawless.

• Base: Use a medium-coverage foundation to create a smooth, even complexion. Zhongli’s skin tone is fair, but it’s important to maintain a natural, healthy look.

• Eyes: Zhongli’s amber-colored eyes are one of his most distinctive features. While you can’t change your eye color, you can use amber-colored contact lenses to bring a more authentic look. Add some light brown eyeshadow to bring out the eye color, and apply mascara for definition.

• Brows: Zhongli has well-groomed, natural eyebrows. Use a brow pencil to fill them in lightly, creating a sharp, defined arch.

• Lips: Zhongli’s lips are naturally a soft shade of pink. Use a lip balm or a light nude lipstick to keep the look natural yet polished.

• Tip: The goal of Zhongli’s makeup is to create a calm and noble appearance. Avoid heavy contouring or dramatic eyeshadow.

Nails

Zhongli’s nails are simple and clean, reflecting his understated elegance. His nails should be well-maintained, but not overly flashy.

• Nail Art: Keep your nails trimmed and neat. Opt for a neutral nail polish, such as beige or light brown, to match Zhongli’s calm and refined aesthetic.

• Tip: For added detail, you could use a subtle gold accent on your nails to match the gold detailing on your costume.

Materials List

Here’s everything you’ll need to assemble your Zhongli cosplay:

• Dark brown, black, or maroon satin or velvet fabric (for the coat)

• Gold fabric paint or metallic thread (for embroidery detailing)

• Dark brown or black tailored pants (cotton or polyester)

• Black faux leather or spandex gloves (with gold accents)

• Geo Vision crystal pendant (made from craft foam or plastic)

• Dark brown wig (for Zhongli’s short, flowing hairstyle)

• Amber contact lenses (for his signature eye color)

• Medium-coverage foundation (for smooth skin)

• Brown eyeshadow, mascara, and eyeliner (for natural eye definition)

• Nude or light brown lipstick (for a soft, natural lip color)

• Beige or light brown nail polish (for simple nails)

Skill Level & Tips

Zhongli’s cosplay is ideal for intermediate to advanced cosplayers, especially those who are comfortable with sewing, crafting accessories like the Geo Vision, and applying makeup. The most intricate parts of the cosplay are the detailed gold accents and crafting the accessories, such as the Geo Vision.

Tips:

• Outfit: The coat should be the centerpiece of the cosplay, so focus on achieving the intricate gold embroidery and stone-like detailing.

• Hair: If you don’t have short hair, a wig is essential. Zhongli’s hair should have a sleek, flowing look with volume.

• Makeup: Keep the makeup subtle and elegant, focusing on natural tones that enhance Zhongli’s noble appearance.

• Geo Vision: Crafting the Geo Vision symbol with foam or plastic is key to Zhongli’s look. Be sure to paint it with gold accents to create an authentic look.

Attitude & Poses: Embodying Zhongli’s Calm and Dignified Nature

Zhongli is known for his composed, regal demeanor. When posing as Zhongli, channel his wisdom, calm, and dignified presence. Here are some ideas for posing like Zhongli:

• Heroic Pose: Stand tall with your posture straight, one hand gently placed over your chest or at your side, reflecting Zhongli’s dignified leadership. His pose should exude calm strength.

• Wise Pose: Stand or sit with a thoughtful, contemplative expression, as though you are reflecting on the history of Liyue or the state of the world. This represents Zhongli’s wise nature.

• Commanding Pose: Place your hands together or one hand extended in front of you, as if you’re making a point or guiding others. This captures Zhongli’s sense of authority.

Group Cosplay Potential: Genshin Impact Characters

Zhongli makes an excellent addition to any Genshin Impact group cosplay. Pair him with characters like Ningguang, Xiao, or Childe, or team up with other Liyue characters to create a cohesive and powerful look. His calm demeanor will complement other characters’ personalities, creating a balanced and visually striking group cosplay.

With this Zhongli cosplay guide, you’re ready to bring the dignified, wise Geo Archon from Genshin Impact to life. Whether you’re cosplaying solo or as part of a group, this guide will help you embody Zhongli’s elegance, wisdom, and strength.