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At some events, shock is part of the appeal rather than an unintended consequence.
Here's an example: Guests at this weekend's Motor City Comic Con are invited to "dress up as your own favorite superhero, pop culture icon or anime character" and compete for a $500 individual prize or separate $500 group award.
Like some comic artists, entrants will try to push taste boundaries without overstepping. Being risqué and winning can have a cause-effect relationship.
Still, the costume parade starts at 4:30 p.m. Saturday and some parents bring kids. So organizers of the three-day Novi event post tips on avoiding offense, disqualification and possilbe ejection:
- "No nudity. . . . Skintight bodysuits are allowed. However, they should be in good taste."
- "No profanity allowed on stage. That includes messages on signs or clothes."
- "No political or religious statement during the catwalk."
- "No pyrotechnics, explosive devices or similar special effects."
- "No functioning projectile weapons – including water pistols, silly-string guns and ping-pong pistols. . . . Any weapon used in an offensive manner will be confiscated."
After the rules abut fireworks, firearms ad fiery language, the cosplay (costume play) contest page ends on a bubbly note: "Most importantly, HAVE FUN!!!"
Just keep those curve-hugging Catwoman bodysuits tasteful.
