When misunderstandings are common, common sense often vanishes. Regardless of one's intentions, perceived context often defines one's capacity to navigate the maze of uncertainty that rests ahead. In MY DRESS-UP DARLING v10, Marin and Wakana join another group cosplay effort, but this time, not everyone has the same level of enthusiasm.
As with before, the manga does a spectacular job addressing odd, awkward, or outright difficult social and cultural topics adjacent to cosplay and fandom in general. Of note here: commentary on body dysmorphia, gendered currency of pop success, and hard-work validation. Sajuna and Shinju Inui (Juju-san and her big, little-sister photographer) step in to help, but Juju-san is equally petrified she's not a good fit for a certain character in addition to being scared she'll let down her overeager sister. Akira Ogata, the prop-maker, doesn't mix well with those whose confidence could easily be construed as egotism. Meanwhile, outside of cosplay, Marin has convinced herself it's time she confessed her affections for Wakana . . . only to misread the motions and accidentally plot to give her body to the young doll-maker on a random night.
MY DRESS-UP DARLING v10 isn't a particularly engaging volume, but it is fun. Perhaps this is what happens when a comic book hits its stride and possesses no real pressure to meander toward a concrete conclusion. For example, Akira's anxiety is an interesting subplot, and could well manifest into genuine disinterest (e.g., Akira can't stand being in the same room with Marin), but readers aren't provided any clues as to whether the author plans to pursue this angle in future volumes. Amane, the crossdresser, smooths things over, but it's very clear that Akira is highly selective about who she trusts and why. Most interestingly, Akira and Wakana get along just fine.
The manga's constant teasing of a legitimate Marin-Wakana relationship gets a punch in the stomach when the young man is forced to spend the night due to delays at the local train station. Marin's hyperactive tendencies send her mind into overdrive when, at the store, she sees Wakana sorting through assorted late-night accoutrements (e.g., energy drinks, which are shelved next to boxes of deluxe-branded condoms). Ah, to be young and stupid. And yet, a day or so later, Marin's emotional breakdown over how she'd feel if Wakana rejected her is an earnest contrast to the book's generally unassuming, teasing nature.
The current volume does include a few misfires. The constant integration of secondary characters without a formal introduction or casual reminder as to who they are is troublesome. A character sheet or inset panel reiterating quick-tips would greatly improve the manga's readability (read: Miyako, ponytail, is gregarious and does make-up; Suzuka, mid-length bob, is another cosplay friend of Marin's). Speaking of which, a scene in which Suzuka repeatedly eggs on Wakana to tell her what he thinks about the game they're cosplaying, after he clears it, is broadly, and almost incomprehensibly awkward. One truly can't tell if the woman is being rude, creepy, or hunting for innuendo.
MY DRESS-UP DARLING v10 is another simple, casual read. The cast of unique personalities is fun, if underdeveloped, and the burgeoning dynamic between Marin and Wakana is entertaining, if still unfulfilled (e.g., Wakana still hasn't met Marin's father).