10 Most Fashionable Anime Of All Time

Anime has become a massive influence in many aspects of pop culture, from art, design, fan culture, and especially fashion. Spanning across genres and intended audiences, many shows can inspire watchers with their own closet and how they present themselves.

Whether the series is centered around clothing or not, iconic styles and subcultures are often incorporated into anime for interesting and alluring stories. Wearing clothing is an everyday task, and many find purpose and joy in making blouses, pants, dresses, and shoes mean more. How the narrative incorporates clothing and how illustrators choose to portray character design and styling can make the anime stand the test of time, as its fashion influence lives beyond screen time.

10 Princess Jellyfish

Animated By Brain’s Base, Based On The Manga By Akiko Higashimura

When an insecure, awkward woman meets a stylish princess, clothes become a mode for confidence and growth in Princess Jellyfish. This fashion-forward 2010s show is filled with girly, frilly, layered, and whimsical looks. It also is greatly reminiscent of the memorable 2000s shojo girl aesthetic. Characters mix fun and impactful colors with soft textures for more fashion-forward outfits.

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10 Best Fashion Manga

While most people may associate fashion with glamorous outfits, these manga titles prove that fashion can play an important role in anyone’s life.

Stand-out patterns and jewelry paired with beautiful makeup also bring the look to the next level. At times, watchers see the darker, everyday fashion of other characters that make the other outlandish outfits stand out even more. Mixing modern with the beauty of Japanese traditional clothing, this lovely series made its mark with noteworthy outfits.

9 Soul Eater

Animated By Studio Bones, Based On The Manga By Atsushi Ohkubo

Soul Eater is an anime series set in the Death Weapon Meister Academy, where students train to become meisters and weapon partners to hunt evil souls. The protagonist, Maka Albarn, along with her living weapon partner Soul Eater, aim to transform Soul into a powerful Death Scythe. The series explores their battles against various supernatural threats and the complex dynamics within the academy.

Release Date

April 7, 2008

Seasons

1

Cast

Laura Bailey , Micah Solusod , Brittney Karbowski , Monica Rial , Todd Haberkorn , Jamie Marchi , Cherami Leigh

Franchise(s)

Soul Eater

Writers

Akatsuki Yamatoya

Directors

Takuya Igarashi

Creator(s)

Atsushi Ohkubo

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Soul Eater’s fashion is a definite standout to fans of Visual-Kei, streetwear, and gothic alt groups. The illustrators nod to these subcultures by adding a bit of edge and spookiness mixed with Christian iconography and ghostly symbols. Some characters take a cheery route despite the gothic overtone, adding brighter colors and contrast to their ensemble, like Soul Evans.

In contrast, others lean fully into the Tim Burton-esque inspiration, donning dark colors and neutrals with edgy jewelry and weapons like Death the Kid. Author and illustrator Atsushi Ohkubo’s quirky art style is a perfect match for his unique characters and story. With each drawing’s dynamic posing and perspective, the outfits are a standout piece that fashion lovers instantly remember.

8 Lovely Complex

Animated By Toei Animation, Based On The Manga By Aya Nakahara

Lovely Complex may not be the most popular series in the shojo genre, but it definitely has hard-hitting outfit choices that are iconic among fans. With shojo-inspired outfits becoming more popular in sub-categories of the fashion community, this sweet and hilarious anime is one many look to for ingenuity and fun in clothing. Main characters Risa and Otani both stand out in their early 2000s outfits, sporting clashing patterns, layered fabrics, and special accessories.

The other personas also give off an air of nostalgia through their clothing alone, which is an enjoyable twist for the modern consumer. Whether seen in the anime, manga, or especially the official promotional art, Lovely Complex’s fashion is undeniably cute, whether it be the more sporty, street-style, or feminine ensembles.

7 Neighborhood Story

Animated By Toei Animation, Based On The Manga By Ai Yazawa

Neighborhood Story is a 1995 Japanese anime series that follows Mikako Koda, a high school student with aspirations to become a fashion designer. Set in an arts school, the show explores the dreams, friendships, and romantic entanglements of Mikako and her friends. Directed by Atsuko Kase, it captures the essence of youth and creativity amidst the backdrop of a vibrant, artistic community.

Release Date

September 10, 1995

Seasons

1

Creator(s)

Ai Yazawa

Cast

Shiho Niiyama , Wakana Yamazaki , Kyousei Tsukui , Toshiyuki Morikawa , Yoko Kawanami , Yusaku Yara , Yumi Tôma , Chizu Yonemoto

Franchise(s)

Neighborhood Story

Writers

Aya Matsui

Directors

Atsutoshi Umezawa

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Having the dream to become a fashion designer from a young age makes Neighborhood Story’s main character Mikako the perfect character to look for inspiration. This series is vibrantly illustrated with a girly color palette mixed with Japanese street style. The characters play with body proportions as well as patterns, item details, and accessories from different time periods for a distinct and interesting combination.

Being one of author and illustrator Ai Yazawa’s series, the detailed and deep understanding of fashion elements, pairing, and their impact is easily understood. Luckily, the interest does not only come from the protagonist but her friend group as well. Each person has a unique look, taking from different sub-cultures for a dynamic and entertaining designer ensemble. This mid-90s anime is fantastic in its own right, but modern animation technology could give its clothing the revamp this shojo classic deserves.

6 Yu Yu Hakusho

Animated By Studio Pierrot, Based On The Manga By Yoshihiro Togashi

Yu Yu Hakusho follows Yusuke Urameshi, a teenager who becomes a Spirit Detective after being resurrected from an untimely death. Alongside allies, he tackles supernatural investigations and combats otherworldly threats, uncovering mysteries within the Spirit World. The series blends action with themes of redemption and friendship.

Release Date

October 10, 1992

Seasons

4

Cast

Nozomu Sasaki , Shigeru Chiba , Megumi Ogata , Nobuyuki Hiyama , Yuri Amano , Hisako Kyôda , Mayumi Tanaka , Ai Orikasa , Sanae Miyuki

Character(s)

Yusuke Urameshi , Kazuma Kuwabara , Kurama/Shūichi Minamino , Hiei , Keiko Yukimura , Genkai , Koenma , Shizuru Kuwabara , Botan

Creator(s)

Yoshihiro Togashi

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Yu Yu Hakusho surprises watchers looking for a thrilling shonen watch with its fashion-forward character design. The cast is seen in streetwear pieces as well as classy, tailored looks, all while they investigate demons and supernatural threats to the human world. Despite its more subdued nature, what the men lack in drama and over-the-top styling, they make up for with interesting cuts, cool layering, and sophisticated minimalism.

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Even in the more wearable outfits, the color and accessorizing are never too garish or ill-placed. The characters all suit their preferred style and have their clothes embody their energy. Perhaps reminiscent of the premier time, the hairstyles also elevate the look. This series’ intention may have been to create a supernatural martial arts adventure, but its men’s wear has become recognizable on its own.

5 Bleach

Animated By Studio Pierrot, Based On The Manga By Tite Kubo

Bleach

Bleach is a multimedia franchise created by Tite Kubo. The franchise started as a Japanese manga series. Ichigo Kurosaki is the main protagonist who is granted the powers of a being called the Soul Reaper. The success of the manga led to two anime TV shows, four feature-length animations, and several video games. 

Created by

Tite Kubo

First Film

Bleach: Memories of Nobody

Cast

Johnny Yong Bosch , Michelle Ruff , Stephanie Sheh , Jamieson Price , Derek Stephen Prince , Wally Wingert

Character(s)

Ichigo Kurosaki , Rukia Kuchiki , Orihime Inoue , Yasutora ‘Chad’ Sado , Uryu Ishida , Renji Abarai

Video Game(s)

Bleach: Blade Battlers , Bleach: Soul Resurrección , Jump Force

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Written and illustrated by Tite Kubo, Bleach’s edgy and trendsetting character design has become well-known in the anime community. Although the cast ensemble’s black uniforms are also impressive, the fashion really comes to light in the styling seen in manga covers, casual panels, and official art.

Ichigo Kurosaki may be the most exalted male character for styling, and fans can definitely see why. He and his friend crew are all illustrated masterfully with cool color palettes, layering, accessories, and poses. They don’t shy away from combining patterns, mixing up silhouettes, and wearing interesting textures and pieces. Many watchers look to Bleach for inspiration and can incorporate its fashion into their own lives.

4 Nana

Animated By Madhouse, Based On The Manga By Ai Yazawa

Nana is a Japanese anime television series based on the manga of the same name by Ai Yazawa. The show follows the lives of two women named Nana who meet on a train to Tokyo and end up living together. While they share the same name, their personalities, ambitions, and backgrounds are vastly different, unfolding a narrative of friendship, love, and the pursuit of their dreams in the bustling city.

Cast

Rebecca Shoichet , Kelly Sheridan , Matthew Erickson , David A. Kaye , Brian Drummond

Release Date

April 5, 2006

Seasons

1

Streaming Service(s)

Hulu

Franchise(s)

Nana

Writers

Tomoko Konparu

Directors

Morio Asaka

Creator(s)

Ai Yazawa

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Nana may be one of the first anime titles to come to mind when thinking about influential and iconic fashion. Combining feminine flare with punk rock energy, this josei stands as a cornerstone for its genre as well as anime-inspired fashion. Ai Yazawa makes another hard-hitting series with impactful characters, heavy themes, and moving lessons. Adding on to its poignant narrative, the styling of each character has become imprinted into the fashion community.

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Protagonist Nana Osaki greatly adores the famed brand Vivienne Westwood with her corset tops, plaid prints, and unique shoes and jewelry. Hachi adds a girly and spunky contrast to the other main woman. Each male character also respectively adds their own flare to the show with interesting haircuts, chains, leather, studs, and the like. Nana stays in the hearts of many, and all can agree that its fashion is some of the best to be found in anime.

3 Paradise Kiss

Animated By Madhouse, Based On The Manga By Ai Yazawa

Paradise Kiss is another Yazawa josei icon following proper high schooler Hayasaka Yukari who befriends a group of fashion design students. This particular cast ensemble and protagonist are perfect models for fashion fans. Combining dandyism and glam-rock-inspired fashion, many sport dapper tailored tops and trousers with classy hats and ties. Other times they wear fun patterns, layered ruffles, and are lined with furs and lace.

The gems and chains do not overwhelm the story, yet add to each persona’s individuality and cohesion. Ultimately the story depicts the frightening yet fulfilling journey of defying expectations and the beauty of pursuing one’s dreams. The group’s passion for fashion makes this a fun watch and makes Paradise Kiss one of the most fashionable anime to watch.

2 Sailor Moon

Animated By Toei Animation, Based On The Manga By Naoko Takeuchi

Teenager Usagi Tsukino is an ordinary clumsy schoolgirl until she meets a talking cat named Luna, who transforms her into Sailor Moon, a soldier destined to save Earth from the forces of evil. Usagi must find the moon princess and protect Earth with other girls awakened as Sailor Soldiers. Together, they fight to prevent otherworldly and mystical forces from wreaking havoc, all while balancing the everyday challenges of being a teenager in school.

Release Date

March 7, 1992

Seasons

5

Streaming Service(s)

Hulu

Cast

Kotono Mitsuishi , Aya Hisakawa , Michie Tomizawa , Emi Shinohara , Rika Fukami , Tôru Furuya , Keiko Han , Kae Araki , Yasuhiro Takato

Writers

Sukehiro Tomita

Directors

Junichi Sato , Kunihiko Ikuhara

Creator(s)

Naoko Takeuchi

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Sailor Moon is undeniably an icon in many respects, and fashion may be one of the most memorable aspects. This series has influenced the fashion industry in mass, adding its recognizable elements to merchandising, branding, and design. With each of the magical girl characters designed with a unique color palette and identity, it’s easy for watchers to take each for independent inspiration.

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Author and illustrator Nakao Takeuchi has done her due diligence in incorporating high fashion as well as trendy everyday wear. Outfits from Chanel, Thierry Mugler, Christian Lacroix, Versace, and Christian Dior are seen in the story and official art. Manga covers are also designed with glamorous outfits and poses. The 90’s style and play with gender norms for clothes make Sailor Moon an all-time fashion classic.

1 Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure

Animated By Studio David, Based On The Manga By Hirohiko Araki

Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is a Japanese multimedia franchise created by Hirohiko Araki. It follows the adventures of the Joestar family, spanning generations, each with unique abilities and battling supernatural enemies. Known for its eccentric characters, distinctive art style, and creative battles, it includes manga, anime, games, and merchandise.

Created by

Hirohiko Araki

TV Show(s)

JoJo Bizarre Adventure

Character(s)

Will A. Zeppeli , Jonathan Joestar , Giorno Giovanna , Jotaro Kujo , Joseph Joestar , Jolyne Cujoh , Johnny Joestar , Josuke Higashikata , Gyro Zeppeli

Video Game(s)

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure , JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: All Star Battle R

If one anime jumps off the page and into the foreground of one’s mind for fashion, it’s Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure. ‘Luxurious’ and ‘flamboyant’ are just a few descriptors for this supernatural series. Written and illustrated by Hirohiko Araki, this story is renowned for absurd poses to pair with exuberant clothing. Throughout all seasons, many people are seen with bright colors and patterns, shiny and flowy fabric, ornate belts and headpieces, and equally extravagant makeup and hairdos.

An exaggerated, humorous drama needs equally dramatic character design. It greatly reflects the author’s individuality, creativity, and knack for fashion’s campy elements. Fans can’t help but love each character’s unrepeatable style which represents who they are as a person, which is one element of fashion that makes it special.