CloverWorks has been known to produce multiple anime every season in recent years, and it appears to be on a trajectory to establish itself as a powerhouse studio. The first season of My Dress-Up Darling had its imperfections from time to time but the animation quality was always stellar. Let's be honest, for a franchise like this to succeed, it needed uniqueness, diversity, style, and artistic expression. After all, it's based on a story about cosplaying and any show revolving that theme needs to make a strong impression right out of the park. Season 2 is no different as the first few episodes remind us the colorful cast of character we grew fond of.
Anime lover Marin Kitagawa returns as not only the poster girl but continously devote her time into her love and interests. By love, it also reaches to the romantic side when it's obvious she fell for Wakana Gojo. If you remember from the first season, the two built a bond from a common interest that slowly but surely grew into a close friendship. However, Marin wants more than just being friends and the mixed signals she sends to Gojo becomes more and more noticable with every episode. Gojo himself also feels the stress of his work this season. Just from the first episode alone, he deals with multiple problems that stems from Marin's Halloween themed outfit. Indeed, season 2 tests Gojo not just in his skill to make cosplay outfits but challenges of his relationship with Marin. It's tested throughout the entire season ranging from misunderstandings from both sides. Truly, a rom-com like this can't be complete without those.
My Dress-Up Daring has a creative character cast that you know would exist in this type of rom-com. Marin's friends are gyarus who shares a common interest of cosplaying. Even though some of their ideals differ from one another (noticably Juju), they are supportive of her. Season 2 introduces Amane Himeno, a character who can be somewhat relatable to Gojo. As a crossdresser, he had to step out of his comfort zone and be who he wants to be rather than feel like being judged. Gojo was in that position before as he felt he couldn't live up to expectations. This season sees his confidence grow more not only through his experience but also because of his commitment to Marin and the world of cosplay. It's inspiring but also slightly sad knowing Gojo overworks himself at times. Because let's face it, his life is far from relaxing with the presence of cosplaying, Marin, and everyday drama revolving around him.
Some might call this anime as a cash-in for the popularity based off of the first season. However, My Dress-Up Darling has established itself as its own brand with the diverse range of colorful cosplaying outfits. The show truly respects the world of cosplaying with its vivid details and outfits. Marin is the poster girl and represents the very fabric of cosplaying. There's no better role she'd be in as the main female protagonist as she adds endless possibilities about what its truly like to be a cosplayer. Gojo's character bond with her emphasizes on their importance through that important connection, and potentially developing into something more. Whether Gojo is experimenting with new ideas or remaking projects into something better, the two are the heart and soul of the franchise. With season 2 here, this was the ideal show to put two characters together in a world of cosplaying.