The world of romance manga has its fair share of heartwarming stories, but few have captured readers' hearts quite likeMy Dress-Up Darling. Shinichi Fukuda’s beloved series has been a refreshing blend of romance, passion, and creativity, making it a standout in the genre. However, to the shock of fans everywhere, the manga is now set to end with Chapter #115 on March 21, an announcement that has left many fans feeling blindsided.
Given how well the series has been developing, this abrupt ending feels like an injustice. Fans were hoping to see moremoments of Wakana Gojo and Marin Kitagawa’s journey together, especially since their relationship had only just begun to evolve. Romance manga often takes their time exploring relationships, showing milestones, and deepening the character’s love for one another. The sudden ending ofMy Dress-Up Darlingrobs its characters and fans of that opportunity, making it feel almost incomplete.
A Romance That Deserved More Time
Gojo and Kitagawa’s Story Is Getting Cut Short Before Its Prime
One of the most frustrating aspects ofMy Dress-Up Darlingending is how premature it feels. The series had not shown any signs of reaching a conclusion, and there was no formal indication of a final arc. Typically, long-running romance manga allows readers to see couples progress in their relationships, experiencing key moments like first dates, deeper emotional struggles, or even glimpses into their future.My Dress-Up Darlingseemed to be setting up for this, only to cut its story short.
It’s Official: Anime’s Best Rom-Com Will Return With Season Two in 2025
Season Two of My Dress-Up Darling was announced during the airing on Season One, and a release window for the anime has finally been revealed.
The relationship between Gojo and Kitagawa has been a slow burn, developing naturally over time. Many fans were eagerly anticipating how they would grow as a couple and how Gojo’s insecurities would continue to evolve alongside Kitagawa’s unwavering confidence and affection. Instead, the series is ending right when their romance is really getting started. With so many potential storylines left unexplored, it is hard not to feel that the manga is ending far too soon.
Fan Reactions of Disappointment and Speculation
Fans Are Not Happy, And For Good Reasons
Unsurprisingly, the response toMy Dress-Up Darling’ssudden ending has been overwhelmingly negative. Many fans have expressed their frustration, pointing out how rare it is for a romance manga to end right when the main couple has officially gotten together. The typical structure of the genre involves deepening romantic relationships post-confession, not cutting them off before they have a chance to flourish.
There has also been speculation about why the series is ending so abruptly. Some fans have questioned whether Fukuda is facing personal health issues or external pressures that have forced the manga to end earlier than expected. However, no official statements have confirmed such reasons. Regardless of the cause, the lack of buildup to the finale has left a sour taste in the mouths of long-time readers who expected a more fulfilling conclusion.
What My Dress-Up Darling Could Have Been
Missed Opportunities in Kitagawa and Gojo’s Story
If given more time,My Dress-Up Darlingcould have easily continued for another few years, diving deeper into the lives of its characters. Kitagawa and Gojo’s relationship still had so much room for development, from learning more about their growing emotional connection to dealing with challenges in their respective passions of cosplay and doll-making. Seeing them support each other through these journeys would have cemented the manga as one of the greats in the romance genre.
Additionally, a longer manga could have allowed for new character arcs,further exploration of Kitagawa’s modeling aspirations, and even glimpses into their futures. Fans were excited to see how Gojo and Kitagawa would live life as a couple beyond the initial excitement of their confession. Instead, the story is shaping up to be an abrupt ending that feels like a missed opportunity to tell a truly complete love story.
My Dress-Up Darling is A Beautiful Story Cut Short
The End Feels Like a Beginning
There is no denying thatMy Dress-Up Darlinghas been one of the most charming romance manga of recent years. Its blend of heartfelt romance, lovable characters, and passionate creative expression has made it beloved by many. However, the decision to end it so suddenly is undeniably disappointing. Fans wanted more time with these characters, moments of growth and love between Kitagawa and Gojo, and a more satisfying resolution to their journey.
While the anime’s upcoming second season may give fans some comfort, it cannot change the fact that the manga’s ending feels rushed. The frustration is justified because romance stories deserve the chance to fully develop their characters and relationships.My Dress-Up Darlingwas just getting started, and now, it is already over. And that is a heartbreak that no fan was prepared for.
