My Dress-Up Darling has become one of the most anticipated anime series this winter. Adapted from the popular manga by Shinichi Fukuda, it tells a sweet coming-of-age story that connects cosplay culture with traditional arts.
Socially awkward Wakana Gojo has a talent for making traditional Japanese hina dolls but keeps his hobby secret out of embarrassment. However, popular girl Marin Kitagawa discovers his amazing sculpture skills and recruits the reluctant Wakana to help bring her cosplay dreams to life by making her handmade costumes.
As these two artistic souls from very different backgrounds bond over creating cosplay masterpieces, they soon find themselves falling in love while learning to embrace their true passions.
Fans of heartwarming stories about people finding connection through creativity will surely fall for this hot new series from Studio CloverWorks. It also provides a fascinating look into complex crafts like dollmaking and sewing, along with humor and a slice-of-life romance.
1. Ijiranaide, Nagatoro-san
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Telecom Animation Film
One day, Senpai goes to the library after school and catches the attention of a super sadistic junior! The girl who playfully torments Senpai is named Nagatoro.
She’s a bit annoying but cute at the same time. Even though her teasing can be much, Senpai still wants to be around her.
The main guy is shy and awkward around the girl, similar to Gojo. Nagatoro and Marin share the guy’s interests and enjoy teasing him with playful and sometimes unintentional flirtation.
These anime also have some fanservice moments thrown in.
2. Runway de Waratte (Smile Down the Runway)
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Ezo’la
Chiyuki Fujito dreams of becoming a model at the Paris Collection. The only issue is that people keep telling her she’s too short for it!
But you know what? She doesn’t let that stop her. Then there’s her classmate, Ikuto Tsumura, who isn’t exactly rolling in cash but dreams of becoming a fashion designer.
One day, Chiyuki drops a line about it maybe being “impossible” for him, and it gets him thinking about giving up. Can you believe it?
This story is about these two going after their dreams, even when faced with negativity. Just like My Dress-Up Darling, they’re both diving into their passions, especially in fashion.
3. Horimiya
- Episodes: 13
- Studios: CloverWorks
Hori appears to be the epitome of a social butterfly at school, but her real life is that of an introverted homebody. On the other hand, Miyamura, who wears a gloomy expression, conceals a tender heart beneath piercings and tattoos.
Their paths cross by chance, leading them to unveil aspects of themselves never seen before. Could this unexpected connection evolve into something more?
4. 3D Kanojo: Real Girl
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Hoods Entertainment
Hikari Tsutsui, an unpopular guy immersed in his otaku world, is partnered with Iroha Igarashi, the school’s “bad girl,” during a pond-cleaning task. Iroha, disliked by girls and adored by boys, takes an unexpected interest in Hikari.
Despite her seemingly carefree attitude, Iroha proposes they form a relationship, sparking an unusual connection between the shy Hikari and the bold Iroha. This dynamic mirrors the relationship between Gojo and Marin in “My Dress-Up Darling.”
5. Hajimete no Gal
- Episodes: 10
- Studios: NAZ
Junichi Hashiba, nearing the end of high school, finds himself in a panic as he lacks a boyfriend. To address this, his friends encourage him to approach Yukana Yame, a fashionable gyaru girl.
Similarly, “My Dress-Up Darling” features a gyaru girl, Marine Kitagawa. Both anime series also incorporate various fan service elements into their narratives.
6. Welcome to the Ballroom
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Production IG
Fujita, feeling adrift in middle school without friends or interests, has his life take an unexpected turn when he’s saved from a gang by a ballroom dance instructor, not a karate master.
Despite reluctance, Fujita attends beginner dance classes and discovers his inspiration: a talented teenage dancer named Shizuku. This marks Fujita’s introduction to the thrilling world of competitive dance.
7. Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend
- Episodes: 13
- Studios: A-1 Pictures
Tomoyo Aki, a part-time high school otaku, experiences a life-changing encounter with Megumi Kato, a stunning girl. This chance meeting sets off a complex web of relationships involving Eriri Spencer Sawamura, a childhood friend, and Kasumigaoka Utaha, a renowned literary genius.
The story explores into the world of eroges, exploring the journey of a small doujin circle through challenging territories reminiscent of Marin and Gojo’s experiences in “My Dress-Up Darling.”
8. Tonikaku Kawaii (Fly Me to the Moon)
- Episodes: 12
- Studios: Seven Arcs
The story revolves around a protagonist named NASA, whose name is written with the character “Hoshizora” (“Starry Sky”). NASA encounters a beautiful girl named Tsukasa on his high school entrance exam day.
The two female protagonists are charming and adorable, making this anime a delightful choice for those seeking a sweet and fun romantic comedy that might give you a case of the warm fuzzies.
9. Blue Period
- Episodes: 12
- Studios: Seven Arcs
Yatora, a dedicated and studious student, leaves behind a life of dry learning and proper manners in pursuit of a new passion: painting. Similar to My Dress-Up Darling, Blue Period revolves around high school students who share a love for art.
Both anime explore the artistic process, the creation of art, and the relationships that develop among the characters.
10. Wotaku ni Koi wa Muzukashii
- Episodes: 12
- Studios: A-1 Pictures
Wotakoi is a romantic comedy that revolves around individuals who are passionate about their hobbies. The anime features interesting characters with great chemistry and is considered more mature than other romantic comedy anime.
Like My Dress-Up Darling, Wotakoi explores trivia and insights about otaku culture, adding depth to the storytelling.
