Kuroshitsuji (Black Butler)

Kuroshitsuji (Black Butler)

Kuroshitsuji ("Black Butler") is a popular manga following the adventures of a boy (heir and master of a successful toy corporation -- and a secret government law enforcement responsibility) and his decidedly inhuman butler in Victorian England.

Ciel Phantomhive is a mere twelve years old, but he holds his own against both corporate threats and menacing underworld figures.  He has more than a bit of help from the ever-smug Sebastian, whose trademark phrase "I am but a butler" can also mean in the original Japanese, "I am a demon of a butler."  Pun intended; Ciel's opponents have been warned.

Red-haired Grell brings a whole new kind of murderous danger to the London streets.  Ciel and Sebastian track down Victorian drug lords, combat rival enterprises, and even unmask Jack the Ripper.  And they all offer a delightful chance at Elegant Gothic dress-up.

These are found object costumes, consisting of found or easily modified pieces.  Sebastian's cutaway is an authentic antique Victorian coat; his trousers are vintage sailor pants.  Ciel's costume includes a purchased coat, Goodwill store "knickers," and lots of ruffles.  Grell's vest was modified from a Goodwill find and his red coat was borrowed for Dante (Devil May Cry).

Photos by the wonderful Elemental.