This is the big reason I've never done cosplay. I was primed to think this way growing up (bullies), and then getting more into fandom and finding it's a magnification of media standards of "attractive" persons, and therefore not a space where everyone who loves the material can enjoy it the same way, was discouraging. Anyway, I empathize completely.

I totally agree with those who have said the execution of the costume is what makes or breaks it, but when it feels like most of the comments/looks you get are the gross, negative ones, it's not the easiest day to get through.