Sometimes the costume you expect to love… isn’t the one you end up wearing.
This experience completely flipped my expectations. When planning for the Shining Ball at The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado (the very location that inspired Stephen King’s The Shining), I had a clear vision of what I thought I would wear. I was sure it would be the Grady twin dress. But what actually happened was the exact opposite.
The Concept
This trip was centered around visiting one of the most iconic inspiration sites in horror history. The Stanley Hotel is where Stephen King stayed, and that stay ultimately inspired The Shining. Being there in person adds a completely different layer to the story. It’s not just something you read or watch, it’s something you can physically experience. That’s a huge part of why I create content the way I do. You can go somewhere… and suddenly feel inspired to create something of your own.
The Two Looks
I went into the trip with two outfit options that I had already received and packed ahead of time. I made sure I had everything I needed before traveling, but I intentionally did not open or try on either dress at home. Instead, I waited until I was in my hotel room at The Stanley to:
- Open the packaging
- Try both dresses on for the first time
- Decide which one I would wear
That moment alone made the experience feel more immersive, like I was fully stepping into the setting before making the final choice.
- The Grady Twin Dress (Cosplay #039)
This was the one I fully expected to wear.
It’s based on one of the Grady twins from The Shining, making it:
- Recognizable
- Thematic
- Perfect for the event
It felt like the obvious choice going in.
- The Overlook Carpet Dress (Cosplay #040)
The second option was much more casual, a dress inspired by the iconic carpet pattern from the Overlook Hotel.
This one was:
- Inexpensive
- Lightweight
And something I originally saw as more of a backup option or something to wear the day after the party.
The Unexpected Outcome
When I tried both dresses on in the hotel room, I was genuinely surprised. The Grady twin dress, which I had built up in my head, didn’t fit or move the way I expected. Meanwhile, the carpet-pattern dress:
- Fit better
- Felt more comfortable
- And looked more flattering overall
It was one of those moments where you stop and think: How is the simpler, less “official” option… the better one? But it was. And that’s the one I ended up wearing to the Shining Ball.
Practical Reality Check
The Grady twin dress wasn’t bad in terms of quality… it just wasn’t practical.
I noticed:
- Limited flexibility
- Difficulty raising my arms
- It didn’t feel like something I could comfortably dance in
That’s a major factor for events like this. A costume can look perfect visually, but if it doesn’t move well, it changes the entire experience. If I were to improve it in the future, I would:
- Tailor it to better fit my body
- Possibly add a zipper for easier wear
- Reinforce the seams for durability
Right now, it’s more of a stored piece than something I would actively wear out.
The Event & After
The event itself was an incredible experience. Being surrounded by people who appreciate The Shining and its history creates a very specific kind of atmosphere; one that feels immersive without needing to be overdone. The next day, I shifted into something more relaxed. Because of the dry climate, I refreshed my clothes and wore:
- Leggings
- A Stanley Hotel t-shirt from the gift shop
That shirt has become one of my favorite subtle pieces. It’s one of those: “If you know, you know” items Some people recognize it instantly, while others just see a regular shirt. Plus, I did need something to wear since the dress was supposed to be for the day after the party.
Final Thoughts
This experience was a strong reminder that:
- Expectations don’t always match reality
- Fit and comfort matter just as much as appearance
- Sometimes the simplest option is the best one
It also reinforced something I’ve come to really appreciate:
- You don’t always need a full, literal cosplay.
- Sometimes a reference (like a pattern or detail) is just as powerful, especially in the right location.
Costume Notes & Condition
The Grady twin dress is currently stored and may be altered in the future to improve fit and mobility. The carpet-pattern dress has become part of my regular wardrobe and is something I plan to wear during warmer seasons.
Important note:
The Grady twin dress does not include socks, so you’ll need to add: White knee-high socks or white tights. Some may think they are included but they are not.