Liked My Dress-Up Darling? Watch these 10 romance anime next
If you fell in love with My Dress-Up Darling and are craving more heart-fluttering romance, quirky chemistry, and slice-of-life sweetness, you're in the right place. My Dress-Up Darling is one of the most talked-about romance anime in recent years, blending cosplay passion, wholesome storytelling, and adorable romantic tension.
Whether you're drawn to shy boy–bold girl dynamics, artistic dreams, or emotional slow burns, there's plenty more where that came from. This list features the best romance anime like My Dress-Up Darling to binge in 2025, from recent hits to hidden gems that capture the same emotional spark.
10 Romance animes to watch if you liked My Dress-Up Darling
Horimiya
Source: Crunchyroll
Quiet boy meets popular girl with a secret side. This anime explores the ups and downs of high school romance with honesty, humour, and emotional payoff.
It's a feel-good story that adds more depth to the classic opposites-attract trope. If you love sweet, character-driven romances with occasional emotional gut punches, this one's a must-watch.
Kubo Won't Let Me Be Invisible
Source: Crunchyroll
This gentle romantic comedy follows a shy boy who believes he's invisible—until a sweet, persistent girl starts noticing everything about him. Like Gojo, the protagonist learns to value himself through someone else's attention.
It's soft, slow, and full of moments that'll make your heart melt.
Tomo-chan Is a Girl!
Source: Crunchyroll
If you loved Marin's boldness, Tomo will charm you instantly. This gender-role-reversing romcom is all about a tomboy trying to confess her feelings to her clueless childhood friend. It mixes comedy with heartfelt moments and keeps things light without losing emotional impact.
Insomniacs After School
Source: Crunchyroll
This underrated emotional romance features two insomniac teens forming a bond under the stars.
It shares Dress-Up Darling's slow-burn softness, realism, and focus on finding peace through creative expression. The visuals are calming, and the story is full of quiet, heartfelt moments.
A Galaxy Next Door
Source: Crunchyroll
A struggling manga artist suddenly finds himself engaged to a mysterious girl from another world. It's quirky, wholesome, and ideal for fans who enjoy gentle, awkward love stories with a magical twist. The fantasy elements are subtle, allowing the emotional story to shine.
The Dangers in My Heart
Source: Crunchyroll
An edgy but deeply emotional story about a dark-minded loner and a popular girl. This series takes the romance slow but hits deep, with gorgeous animation and psychological depth. It's perfect for viewers who enjoy unusual pairings and characters with hidden layers.
More Than a Married Couple, But Not Lovers
Source: Crunchyroll
A high school pair forced to pretend they're married for a school project end up catching real feelings. If you liked the emotional teasing and slow intimacy in My Dress-Up Darling, you'll love this.
It's playful, awkward, and full of unexpected emotional payoff.
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End
While not a romance in the traditional sense, Frieren's emotional journey and subtle bonds offer the same kind of heartfelt development fans love in Dress-Up Darling. It's a beautiful, introspective anime about grief, connection, and learning how to feel.
My Love Story With Yamada-kun at Lv999
Source: Crunchyroll
A gamer girl gets dumped and meets a stoic pro-gamer—romance and chaos ensue. Packed with funny moments, strong character arcs, and great chemistry, this one delivers a satisfying balance between comedy and emotional growth.
The Apothecary Diaries
Source: Crunchyroll
Part mystery, part slow-burn romance, this beautifully crafted anime features clever dialogue, political intrigue, and a unique love dynamic. It's not cosplay, but it's captivating in its own right, especially for fans who love smart female leads and elegant storytelling.
Still missing Marin? Maybe rewatch My Dress-Up Darling or dive into the manga while waiting for Season 2. Either way, these shows will keep your heart full and your watchlist loaded!
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