Look, I get it.
You want to nail a Levi Ackerman cosplay, but you’re staring at reference photos thinking, “Where do I even start with all this gear?”
I’ve been there myself, scrolling through Attack on Titan episodes trying to figure out which jacket goes where and how that whole harness thing is supposed to work.
Here’s the truth: Levi’s look is actually more manageable than it seems at first glance.
Yeah, there’s a lot of pieces involved — the Survey Corps uniform isn’t exactly a hoodie and jeans situation — but once you break it down into bite-sized chunks, it becomes way less intimidating.
I remember my first attempt at putting together a Survey Corps outfit.
I bought random tan pants thinking they’d work (they didn’t), forgot about the cravat entirely, and ended up with boots that looked more pirate than soldier.
But after some trial and error and actually paying attention to the details, I figured out what works and what’s just a waste of money.
So let me walk you through everything you need for a killer Levi cosplay — the stuff that matters, where to find it without breaking the bank, and how to avoid the mistakes I made.
Why Levi’s Costume Is Trickier Than Most Anime Cosplays
Contents
Real talk?
Levi’s outfit has layers.
Like, literal layers of clothing plus all that 3D Maneuvering Gear strapped everywhere.
Most anime characters wear one or two signature pieces and you’re done.
But Levi? He’s got the jacket, the harness, the boots, that leather apron thing, and about five other components that all have to work together.
Plus, people KNOW this character.
Attack on Titan fans will spot if something’s off — like if your harness is sitting weird or your jacket’s the wrong shade.
The good news is that once you know what each piece is supposed to be, it’s actually kinda fun putting it all together like a fashion puzzle.
The Core Costume Pieces You Can’t Skip
Alright, let’s break down the essentials.
These are the non-negotiables if you want people to recognize you as Levi and not just “random anime soldier guy.”
1. The Jacket
This is probably the most important piece of the whole costume.
Levi wears a short, cropped jacket in a tan or khaki color — kind of like a military-style crop jacket.
It’s got the Wings of Freedom emblem on the back (that’s the Survey Corps insignia with the blue and white wings).
The jacket should hit right around your waist, not go down to your hips.
I made the mistake of buying a regular bomber jacket my first time and it looked all wrong because it was too long.
You can find these on eBay, Etsy, or through cosplay-specific sites.
Some people even make their own if they’re handy with sewing, but honestly? For the price and effort, buying one pre-made is usually the smarter move.
2. The Pants
Levi wears white or cream-colored pants that are pretty fitted.
A lot of cosplayers use white jeggings because they’re stretchy, comfortable, and they tuck nicely into boots.
Regular white jeans can work too, but make sure they’re not too baggy or loose — Levi’s whole vibe is clean and sharp, not sloppy.
I’ve seen people try to use off-white or beige pants and it just doesn’t hit the same.
Go for actual white if you can.
3. The 3DMG Harness
Okay, this is where things get a little complicated.
The 3D Maneuvering Gear harness is that whole belt-and-strap system that wraps around the body.
It’s got leather straps, metal buckles, and it’s supposed to look functional (even though, ya know, we can’t actually fly around on cables).
Most people buy this piece pre-made because constructing it from scratch is a whole project.
You can find 3DMG harness replicas on eBay, Etsy, or cosplay retailers.
Some are super detailed and expensive, others are more budget-friendly but still look good in photos.
If you’re just starting out, don’t stress about getting the most screen-accurate version.
A decent mid-range harness will do the job.
4. The Leather Apron/Skirt
This piece confused me for so long.
It’s basically a brown leather apron or skirt-like piece that sits over the harness around your hips and thighs.
It’s not a full skirt — more like connected panels that hang down in the front and back.
Some harness sets come with this included, which is awesome.
If not, you can buy it separately or even DIY it with some brown pleather fabric if you’re feeling crafty.
5. Button-Up Shirt
Under all the gear, Levi wears a simple light gray or tan button-up shirt.
The sleeves should be long, and in most scenes, they’re rolled down (not up).
You don’t need anything fancy here.
Honestly, thrift stores are perfect for finding a plain neutral-toned shirt that’ll work.
Just make sure it’s fitted enough that it doesn’t bunch up weird under the harness.
6. The Boots
Levi’s boots are dark brown, knee-high riding-style boots.
They should look a little worn and military, not shiny and new.
This is one area where you can sometimes find good stuff at thrift stores or even regular shoe retailers.
If you’re ordering online, look for knee-high riding boots in brown or tan leather (or pleather).
Make sure they’re comfortable because conventions mean a LOT of walking.
7. The Cravat
Levi’s signature white cravat is that folded necktie thing he wears.
Some people make their own by folding a white cloth or scarf in a specific way.
Others buy pre-made cravats online.
Honestly, this is one of the easier pieces to improvise.
Just make sure it sits neatly at the neck and doesn’t look too bulky or too thin.
The Wig: Getting Levi’s Hair Right
Let me tell you, the wig can make or break this cosplay.
Levi’s hair is short
