Well, after much deliberation, I've decided to plunge myself into the cosplaying world... unfortunately, I MIGHT be a touch too ambitious with my intended design: Moran Shetfield, from Last Exile (The soldier in the musket line).

My main problem isn't so much the uniform (I've got the hookup with regards to uniform patterns and such) as it is with his dag-blasted shako. It's not exactly what one would term as a standard pattern (i.e. not the typical "stovepipe" arrangement that you see on most band uniforms), but is instead a rounded top with a crest, more along the lines of a British "bobbie" helmet with a twist.

I was wondering if anyone might know where I could find something along those lines, or if I'm going to have to fake the funk and make it from scratch.

It's a shame, because I REALLY like his character, and he's one of the few that I actually RESEMBLE, yaknow? *grins*

Any and all help would be GREATLY appreciated.

http://www.marchingworld.com/

I got parts for utena costume a few years ago.

Our other shakos for my HS band were white "qtips" or "elephant tampons"

http://www.marchingworld.com/pg022.htm for the page

If these dont' suffice do a search on marching band supply

Appreciate it! (Why am I not surprised that you were the one to supply it? *grins*)

And why does it figure that the one that MIGHT match my specks is the pricier one? *chuckles ruefully* It'd need to be shaved, too.... Hmmmm.......

Thanks again, hon!

There's more material involved, I would guess :D

and yes I am band geek..here me uh, geek...

Like I said you can search for more places to see if you can find a better price. or even try ebay...