My Dress-Up Darling Season 2 is Adorable

At long last. The queen has returned.

The first season of ‘My Dress-Up Darling‘ was a very pleasant surprise for me back when it came out. It’s a perfect slice of rom-com fun, with fantastic characters, solid animation, and some ear-worm music. Never did I think a fan-service anime could be so wholesome, but by god, this show puts a smile on my face!

Now, three years later, it’s back. Airing alongside ‘Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus‘ and ‘Dandadan‘ season two. Hopeless romantics (me) were eating good this last Summer!

Season two carries on where the first left off. Introverted hina doll maker Wakana Gojo is still making cosplay outfits for Marin Kitagawa, class queen, model, and woman of culture. In their efforts to make the perfect outfits, they meet new friends, hone their craft, and get swept up in many slice-of-life shenanigans. All the while, poor Kitagawa tries to find the courage to confess her feelings to Gojo.

Unfortunately, I’ve had the manga spoiled for me. So I knew well in advance that the romance wasn’t going to progress this season. If you’re hoping for a massive change in the status quo, such as a confession, you’ll be disappointed. But if you just want more ‘My Dress-Up Darling‘, you’ll be more than satisfied.

While the romance doesn’t progress, Gojo’s character arc most certainly does. After a full season of being an anxious wreck, our favorite tailor is finally straightening his spine! Watching him gradually become more comfortable not just around Marin, but people in general, makes for an incredibly satisfying character arc.

The school festival arc is undoubtedly the highlight. For just about the whole show, Gojo has been terrified of interacting with his classmates in any way. But when they step in to share his spotlight, we see that they’re all perfectly friendly and understanding people. With their support, he finally gains enough confidence to leave his shell. Plus, the new characters add some fun dynamics to the cast.

There are so many sweet and wholesome moments in these episodes that put the biggest, dumbest smile on my face. Juju suffering through a horror group cosplay just to make Shinju happy. Akira’s hilarious bait-and-switch into being Marin’s most obsessed fan girl. Nowa going absolutely ballistic singing karaoke. Literally any scene with Kitagawa. The cheerful vibes are as strong as they’ve ever been.

One thing I especially love is how this series highlights the positivity of cosplay culture. The artistry and skill that goes into creating an outfit. How it helps people become more comfortable with themselves, overcome their trauma, or just make friends and have fun. I wouldn’t be surprised if this becomes an entry point for those looking to get into the hobby. The sales pitch is so good I considered biting.

Unfortunately, I’ve already made the mistake of getting into Warhammer 40,000. My hobby money is devoted only to the Emperor of Mankind.

Animation wise, this season is a huge step up from the first. Not only is it more fluid, seamlessly blending 2D and 3D elements, but it’s also far more creative! There are whole multi-minute sections that completely change the art style! It was fun enough seeing in-universe games and anime. But when they brought out the fuckin’ PUPPETS, I knew I had a masterpiece on my hands!

As for the music, it’s largely par for the course. There are a few new tracks, but most of it is recycled from season one. It’s perfectly fine, but not especially memorable. At least not for me. But at least the new OP and ED are pretty solid.

Season two of ‘My Dress-Up Darling‘ was exactly what I wanted it to be: more of a good thing. It was a highlight of my week for the whole Summer season. It might not have gone as far as I wanted, but with how much it brightened my days, I can accept that.

Only now I need to find something to fill the void. Like finally painting my Warhammer minis. Because if there’s one thing this show has taught me, it’s that painting dolls is the peak of masculinity.