Tears of the Kingdom took us along with Princess Zelda back in time to a different era of Hyrule: The founding era of Hyrule. On this new yet old journey, Princess Zelda adorned a white and green dress with numerous beads and embellishments fit for one of the royal family. Popular artist Hannah Alexander, famed for their unique art style and detailed redesigns of popular characters, was struck again with inspiration to take this new aesthetic of Wild Era Princess Zelda and created a piece fit for a goddess.
Hannah Alexander crafted two designs for Princess Zelda: One of a warrior, and one of a princess. The princess-like design heroes the white and green layers of the original design, transforming the layered dress into a two-piece top and skirt, joined together with a similar green patterned sash as seen in the game. The sleeves and the skirt flow down to the floor with a wave of elegance and grace, detailed with patterning gold and beading of the founding Hyrule fashion. Zelda’s crown was also given an upgrade with dangling white beads and white flowers pinned in an arch atop her golden hair in homage to the nature and beauty of Hyrule she always adored. Hannah transforms Princess Zelda into a girl not only fit to be a princess of wisdom but also a goddess with powers over time. A fit that was then brough to life by talented cosplayer MissKuruta.
A detailed design like the one of Hannah Alexander’s is a challenging piece to bring into realisation. There are high amounts of detail that all require different skills and techniques to replicate. MissKuruta doesn’t disappoint, adding a third dimension to the redesign by adding her own creative flare. The clothing looks as if it stepped right out of Alexander’s illustration and wrapped around MissKuruta’s body. Not a single detail was missed.
To tie it all together, MissKuruta’s makeup work adds that final sparkling touch to transform into the legend herself. Two Hylian length ears blend seamlessly beneath the golden wig styled with the short bob and braided crown. The makeup itself is subtle yet impactful. A touch of glitter glimmers around the dynamic eye liner, making her eyes pop. A simple choice yet one that enhances the regal nature of Hannah’s design.
Many thanks also have to go to the several photographers that MissKuruta collabed with. Whether posing amongst the trees, holding the Master Sword skyward or spinning in the water of a creek, MissKuruta steals the spotlight of every shot. A.Z. Production, malimoria, NicaJupiter, and Valerio Pugliani are just a few of the photographers that worked with MissKuruta to showcase this character design. What started as one redesign and new outfit for a beloved character, filtered inspiration from one creator to another which goes to show just how much impact these characters have on our community.
