Top 5 anime like My Dress-Up Darling for cosplay and romcom fans

John Dave T. Rossel

John Dave T. Rossel

Itching for some more anime like My Dress-Up Darling? Check out our recommendations.

While waiting for the next chapter on the story of Gojo and Marin in My Dress-Up Darling, you might be craving for another anime to watch with the same flavor. We can’t blame you for that. It is nice to see wholesome, sometimes spicy moments of two people coming together over a common hobby. It’s got that warm, fuzzy feeling of a good romcom anime. On top of that, we also get a bit of fun facts about the meticulous detail of making costumes and how it feels to roam around conventions.

With that said, you might be itching to find some anime that follows the same format as My Dress-Up Darling. Here are our top picks you should definitely check out.

1. Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku

Wotakoi is about working adults who enjoy oktaku culture (Image via Aniplex Channel on YouTube)
Wotakoi is about working adults who enjoy oktaku culture (Image via Aniplex Channel on YouTube)

Episodes: 11 with 3 OVAs

I’m putting Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku here because it’s my personal favourite. Also, it’s about a wholesome adult utako life, something most of us can relate to. This charming romcom follows Narumi, a fujoshi trying to keep her nerdy side a secret at work. On the other hand, there’s Hirotaka, her childhood friend, who is a hardcore gamer. The series blends slice-of-life comedy with genuine romantic moments. On top of that, we also get to see the ups and downs of dating as grown, working adults. While it focuses less on cosplay, it shares My Dress-Up Darling’s knack for sharing hobbies and the relationships they inspire. 

2. Monthly Girls’ Nozaki-kun

This anime presents the life of a manga artist in a comedic way (Image via Crunchyroll)
This anime presents the life of a manga artist in a comedic way (Image via Crunchyroll)

Episodes: 12

Monthly Girls’ Nozaki-kun is a comedy goldmine. The story follows Chiyo, a high school girl who finally builds up the courage to confess to her crush. However, the twist is that his crush is actually a shoujo manga artist. She ends up helping him with his work, leading to a series of hilarious misunderstandings and quirky character moments. The romance kinda moves slowly. However, this anime’s mix of creative passion and comedic chemistry will feel right at home for My Dress-Up Darling fans.

Horimiya

Two polar opposites falling in love? Sounds familiar (Image via Crunchyroll)
Two polar opposites falling in love? Sounds familiar (Image via Crunchyroll)

Episodes: 13 main episodes, another 13 for side stories titled "Horimiya: Missing Pieces"

Hori, an achiever and popular girl, and Miyamura, the nerdy, quiet boy, seem like complete opposites at school. However, a chance meeting reveals they both have sides they keep hidden. The more time they spend together, the stronger their friendship becomes. Eventually, their relationship blossoms into a touching romance. The more time they spend together, the stronger their friendship becomes, blossoming into a heartwarming romance with doses of humor and wholesome moments. My Dress-Up Darling fans will appreciate how the series honors embracing each other's quirks.

Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You

It's a classic romcom that got a third season back in 2024 (Image via NIS America)
It's a classic romcom that got a third season back in 2024 (Image via NIS America)

Episodes: Season 1 - 25 Episodes, Season 2 - 12 Episodes, Season 3 - 12 Episodes

Misunderstood for her spooky appearance, Sawako, not to be confused with Sadako from The Ring, struggles to connect with classmates. This was the norm until she met the kind and outgoing Kazehaya. Their gentle, slow-burning romance blossoms alongside Sawako’s journey toward confidence and friendship. It’s a heartfelt pick for those who enjoyed the emotional sincerity of My Dress-Up Darling.

Hokkaido Gals Are Super Adorable!

It has a gyaru character in it (Image via Crunchyroll)
It has a gyaru character in it (Image via Crunchyroll)

Episodes: 12 Episodes

Transfer student Tsubasa from Tokyo is smitten with Minami, a stylish, lively Hokkaido "gal" with a gentle soul. Their romance is cute, affectionate, and full of cultural quirks found in Japan's snowy north. Like Marin and Gojo, this pair stands out from the rest through their blending of opposing personalities and true love. The female protagonist happens to be a gyaru as well, so that's a bonus.

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