Viral Cosplay

[masterofveggies]

Hello! First post to the com and I have a question. I'm going to be cosplaying pre-timeskip Viral from Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann at Youmacon this year, and me and my friend are really stuck as to how to go about making his shoulder pads and belt. I was wondering if anyone here has done/knows/has done something similar and would be able to make some suggestions. We're open to pretty much anything. Thanks in advance!
(Ref: http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y259/thepixelized/viral.gif )