SHUYO: My Dress-Up Darling
By: Daniel Rivera
Credit: CloverWorks
What does it really mean to call something or someone beautiful? What is the true value of passion and beauty? And are you willing to put in the work and make sacrifices in pursuit of it? These questions are at the heart of the story told by Wakana Gojo and Marin Kitagawa in My Dress-Up Darling.
Since childhood, Wakana Gojo has admired hina dolls, holding them in such high regard that the word “beautiful” carries deep meaning for him. But after being harshly judged by a childhood friend for his interest, he became withdrawn and ashamed of his passion. Though he continued to pursue doll-making in private, he chose to hide this side of himself from his classmates—until a chance encounter with Marin changes everything.
Marin, a lively and confident gyaru, stumbles upon Gojo’s sewing skills and surprises him—not with ridicule, but with praise. For the first time in years, someone other than his kind-hearted grandfather sees value in his passion.
Marin then shares her dream of cosplaying her favorite character, despite lacking sewing experience. When she shows Gojo her homemade attempt, he offers an honest (and unintentionally harsh) critique that nearly moves her to tears. Still, she boldly asks him for help in creating a proper costume.
Gojo agrees, and what begins as a simple request turns into the foundation of a meaningful friendship. Despite their stark differences in personality and lifestyle, they find common ground in their love for creativity. As they collaborate, both characters begin to grow—Gojo slowly opens up to the world, while Marin gains a deeper appreciation for the effort behind the art she admires.
Their journey explores themes of vulnerability, acceptance, and the courage it takes to chase your passion in a world that may not always understand it.
So—how far will this friendship go? Could it become something more? And can Gojo keep up with Marin’s boundless energy and appetite for life?
Now’s the perfect time to find out. My Dress-Up Darling Season 2 is currently airing! Catch both Season 1 and 2 to follow Gojo and Marin’s heartfelt and hilarious journey.
Gojo Wakana
Gojo is a high school student and an aspiring hina doll craftsman. Despite his tall stature, he is shy and struggles with self-confidence. After being mocked for his passion as a child, he kept it a secret for years. That changes when he meets Marin, who embraces his talent and encourages him to help her create costumes for cosplay.
Credit: CloverWorks
Kitagawa Marin
Marin is a cheerful, energetic gyaru and Gojo’s classmate. Though they had only spoken once before, she discovers him using the school’s sewing machine one day. Fascinated by his skills, she asks him to help make her dream cosplay a reality. Passionate about anime and games, Marin’s open-mindedness and warmth help draw Gojo out of his shell.
Credit: CloverWorks
Inui Sajuna (Juju)
Sajuna, known by her cosplay name “Juju,” is a passionate cosplayer who specializes in magical girl characters. After seeing Marin’s cosplay online, she tracks down its creator, Gojo, and proposes a collaboration. While she can be blunt and a little standoffish at first, she gradually opens up. Deep down, she’s caring and incredibly devoted to her younger sister, Shinju.
Credit: CloverWorks
Inui Shinju
Shinju is Sajuna’s younger sister, though her tall height often causes people to mistake her for an adult. Much like Gojo, she’s quiet and shy, but she plays an essential role behind the scenes. As her sister’s photographer and editor, she takes great pride in her work, capturing each cosplay with precision and love.
Credit: CloverWorks
Gojo Kaoru
Kaoru is Wakana’s grandfather and guardian following the death of Wakana’s parents. A skilled hina doll craftsman himself, he serves as both a mentor and parental figure. Though he’s dedicated to his craft, he genuinely cares about Wakana’s well-being and supports his grandson’s interests, even those outside the world of hina dolls.
Credit: CloverWorks
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