My Dress-Up Darling: From cosplay romance to cultural phenomenon

My Dress-Up Darling (Japanese title: Sono Bisque Doll wa Koi wo Suru) has evolved from a niche manga into one of the most beloved anime series in recent years. With its unique blend of cosplay, romance, and self-acceptance, the series has gained a massive following worldwide and continues to inspire anime fans and cosplayers alike.
Written and illustrated by Shinichi Fukuda, My Dress-Up Darling began serialization in 2018 in Young Gangan magazine.
The story centers around Wakana Gojou, a shy high school student passionate about making traditional hina dolls. His life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Marin Kitagawa, an energetic classmate and dedicated cosplayer.
When Marin discovers Gojou’s sewing skills, she convinces him to help her create cosplay costumes.
Their collaboration slowly blossoms into a heartwarming romance, exploring themes of passion, acceptance, and personal growth.
In 2022, the My Dress-Up Darling anime adaptation by CloverWorks introduced the series to a global audience.
The show was praised for its high-quality animation, relatable characters, and its authentic depiction of cosplay culture.
It quickly became one of the top trending anime of the year across streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Netflix (in selected regions), and Amazon Prime Video (Japan).
The anime's success not only boosted manga sales but also inspired a wave of cosplay among fans, especially of the main heroine Marin Kitagawa, who became a breakout character and a favorite among cosplayers and anime enthusiasts.
As of 2025, the My Dress-Up Darling manga is still ongoing, with the romantic plot between Marin and Gojou progressing steadily.
The anime’s first season ended on a high note, and the confirmed production of Season 2 has reignited excitement among fans.
While no official release date has been announced, expectations are high for a continuation that maintains the emotional depth and visual brilliance of the original.

You can watch My Dress-Up Darling on several streaming platforms.
All major episodes, including simulcasts, are available on Crunchyroll.
The series is also accessible on Netflix in select countries. In Japan, the complete series is streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
For collectors, Blu-ray and DVD box sets are available through Sentai Filmworks and other retailers.