My Dress-Up Darling season 2 episode 3 review: Cosplay, connection, and heartfelt moments

Time of India

22-07-2025

Source: Crunchyroll
My Dress-Up Darling season 2 episode 3, released on 19th July 2025, continues to win hearts with its heartfelt storytelling, emotional depth, and realistic take on the cosplay community.
This episode dives into Gojo and Marin's evolving connection while introducing a standout new character, Amane Himeno, whose bold presence adds fresh energy and important commentary on identity and self-expression. Viewers of Episode 3 will find this review insightful, as it explores key moments of emotional growth, romantic tension, and cultural relevance. Whether you're here for the character development or cosplay inspiration, episode 3 delivers on all fronts.
Are Gojo and Marin more than friends in My Dress-Up Darling?
Source: Crunchyroll
The episode opens with a strikingly honest question from Nowa: are Gojo and Marin actually dating? It's a fair inquiry given how close they've become. Gojo, always modest and cautious, quickly denies it, too quickly, in fact. While his response comes from a place of humility, it unintentionally hurts Marin, who is left wondering if he might even dislike her.
Marin's reaction reveals her hidden vulnerability. Despite her confident and bubbly exterior, her feelings for Gojo run deep, and his casual dismissal leaves her momentarily shaken.
However, that emotional distance is soon bridged by a selfless act from Gojo: when Marin falls ill, he skips school just to take care of her. When her friends stop by unexpectedly, he even hides on a freezing balcony to avoid being seen, prioritising her comfort over his own.
These gestures quietly affirm just how much he cares for her, even if he can't yet admit it out loud.
Amane Himeno brings bold cosplay energy to My Dress-Up Darling season 2
The episode takes a new turn as Marin and Gojo visit a cosplay event where they meet Amane Himeno, an experienced and stylish cosplayer who leaves Marin in awe.
Himeno's character brings a fresh dynamic to the story, not just for their impressive costume skills but for the confidence they exude as someone who cross-dresses in a society that still struggles with gender norms.
Himeno gives Marin and Gojo a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of cosplay, from advanced makeup techniques to sourcing the right materials for building costumes. One humorous and eye-opening moment involves a playful reveal of how cosplayers can achieve 'bigger boobs' without chest pads, highlighting the ingenuity and craft of the community.
What stands out most in this segment is Gojo's growing interest, not just in the technical aspects of cosplay, but in Himeno's story. Listening intently, he learns that Himeno, assigned male at birth, used to feel insecure and was often misunderstood. But discovering the world of makeup and cosplay helped Himeno embrace a version of themselves that felt more authentic. That transformation gave Himeno confidence, even in the face of personal rejection, including a girlfriend who couldn't accept him for who he was.
Source: Crunchyroll
Emotional vulnerability shines in My Dress-Up Darling Season 2's latest episode 3
This part of the episode hits close to home for Gojo, who sees a part of himself in Himeno. Like Himeno, Gojo often feels out of place, worried about not fitting into social norms or being accepted for his interests. Himeno's unapologetic self-expression and refusal to be defined by others' expectations leave a strong impression on him. It's a moment of quiet inspiration, one that may encourage Gojo to be more confident in his own passions moving forward.
The episode closes with a more introspective tone as Gojo ponders how different his life is from Marin's. He questions whether someone as radiant and outgoing as her could ever truly be part of his world. But the final scene adds a dash of humour, ending on a light-hearted note that reminds us why this anime continues to charm its audience: it's never too heavy, even when it touches on serious emotions.
My Dress-Up Darling Season 2 Episode 3 is a beautiful blend of character development, gentle romance, and cultural commentary. It shines a light on the cosplay world with sincerity and respect, breaking down stereotypes while celebrating creativity and self-expression. The episode's message is clear and uplifting: let people be who they are and love what they do, as long as it doesn't harm anyone. In a society where self-expression is often met with judgment, this series serves as a comforting reminder that acceptance, kindness, and understanding go a long way.
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