My Dress-Up Darling is a romantic slice-of-life manga by Shinichi Fukuda. It centers around the unlikely friendship and eventual romance between Wakana Gojo, a shy high school boy who loves making traditional Hina dolls, and Marin Kitagawa, a popular, energetic gyaru who’s obsessed with anime, video games, and especially cosplay. --- Plot Summary Wakana Gojo lives a quiet life, passionate about crafting hina dolls—a traditional Japanese art he learned from his grandfather. Due to a traumatic childhood experience where he was mocked for his interest, Gojo hides his passion and isolates himself from his peers. One day, his life changes when he meets Marin Kitagawa, a confident and lively girl who discovers Gojo’s sewing skills. Unlike others, Marin is not judgmental. Instead, she’s thrilled—because she wants to cosplay as her favorite characters but doesn’t know how to make costumes. She asks Gojo to help her create cosplay outfits. Gojo, though hesitant and self-conscious, agrees. This marks the beginning of their close bond. Marin introduces Gojo to the world of otaku culture and cosplay, while Gojo helps her bring her characters to life with his tailoring skills. As they work together on various costumes and attend cosplay events, their relationship deepens. Gojo slowly gains confidence, overcomes social anxiety, and opens up to the world. Marin, on the other hand, starts falling for Gojo—attracted not just to his skills, but to his kindness and authenticity. Throughout the story, new characters are introduced, including other cosplayers like Sajuna Inui (Juju), a famous cosplayer with a tsundere attitude, and her younger sister Shinju. These characters bring new dynamics to the cosplay world and to Gojo’s development. The manga explores: The growth of self-confidence Romantic tension between Gojo and Marin The behind-the-scenes of cosplay crafting (wig styling, makeup, props, photography) The struggle of being true to oneself in a society full of judgment As the series progresses, Marin's feelings for Gojo become clearer, and Gojo starts to realize his own feelings, though he remains shy and reserved. The manga doesn’t rush the romance, instead focusing on emotional growth, shared passion, and trust. --- Themes Cosplay culture and artistic expression Self-acceptance and personal growth Nontraditional gender roles Love that develops from friendship and mutual respect .#mydressupdarling #manga - @oreki_huotaro