Best anime outfits
One thing that I think is really missing from a lot of Western media is memorable costume design. Sure, when Halloween comes around, it’s hard to miss the Vaders, the Sparrows and the odd Bruce Lee black-and-yellow jumpsuit. But, for the most part, Hollywood character outfits can feel a bit uninspiring.
Then there’s anime. In the world of Japanese animation, there’s an abundance of intention, symbolism and creativity woven into almost every outfit design. And it’s no surprise that A LOT of these fits have become so iconic that you can recognise them from something as simple as a pair of shoes – come n’ get your toes out, Naruto!
With that said, you lot need something more to read. So, here are some of my favourite anime fits.
5. Getō Suguru – Jujutsu Kaisen
After abandoning his Jujutsu High school uniform (and his moral compass), the worst of all curse users upgrades himself to a traditional Buddhist aesthetic that perfectly matches his self-righteous ideals.
Layered underneath his dark-navy jikitotsu is a majestic gojō-kesa, with deep-green panels and mustard-yellow edging, which acts as a poetic nod to the name of his former best friend turned rival, Satoru Gojo. On his feet, Geto wears white tabi socks - shiro-tabi - and a pair of traditional flat sandals - zōri.
It’s hard to tell if this monastic outfit is a strategic guise or a genuine expression of his belief that he is a gifted higher being who stands above the human race.
4. Son Gohan – Dragon Ball
Though I do adore his look after he takes up his father’s iconic bright-orange martial-arts gi, I think we can all agree the young prodigy’s dress sense peaked during the Cell Games.
Here, Gohan wears an outfit modelled after his best friend, mentor and (might as well be) second dad, Mr. Piccolo. He sports Piccolo’s indigo Demon Clan gi - a sleeveless vest up top and baggy pants down below - as well as his Namekian-style shoes. Around his waist sits a blue sash that matches his dear green-compadre, though coloured red in the original manga. And finally, pointed shoulder pads, finished with a long, billowing white cape (Yes, Gohan, we see the cape!).
It’s interesting to note that Gohan wears this gi immediately after training with Goku in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. You might think he’d take on his father’s look. But perhaps he simply wasn’t ready to embrace that role as Earth’s mightiest protector, assuming his dad would be the one to save the day. But Gohan would eventually prove himself - and everyone else - wrong.
3. San – Princess Mononoke
The Princess of the Spirits opts for a much more primal and tribal look - what Tarzan could've been if could think past the loincloth.
San wears a dark-navy tunic underneath a beige, apron-like singlet, along with some simple, handmade leather or fabric boots. The clothing is relatively plain and practical, leaving her arms and legs free for climbing, running and fighting.
However, the daughter of wolves bears some striking accessories. Blue armbands, a black headband crowned with a small white disc, and a string of stark-white fangs threaded between dark beads, which almost feel like a primitive talisman.
San’s most distinctive features come from her striking red mask, complete with huge circular eyes and a long, tribal-looking design, and the giant white wolf pelt draped over her shoulders and head, giving her the appearance of an untamed creature of the forest.
The child of Moro’s appearance is equal parts intimidating, feral and wonderfully weird. It blurs the line between girl and beast - and that’s the beauty of it.
2. Kaneda Shōtarō – Akira
Leader of the rebellious teen biker group, the Capsules, Kaneda also takes the lead in the best-dressed stakes in the Akira franchise.
Sporting his signature crimson biker ensemble - burgundy leather boots, heavy knee-padded trousers, long leather gloves and a high-necked shirt - Kaneda’s outfit combines traditional biker gear with the cyberpunk aesthetic of the dystopian Neo-Tokyo the ungovernable teen has grown up in.
And no, I have not forgotten to mention the centrepiece of the ringleader’s iconic fit. Of course, I’m talking about the scarlet-red motorcycle jacket with the provocative large pill emblem emblazoned on the back.
So simple. So stylish.
Whether it’s Ye drawing outfit inspiration or your favourite film director recreating his iconic biker slide, Kaneda’s impact and dress will forever stir creative souls.
1. Alucard – Hellsing
Nosferatu. The Count. The No-Life King. The Vampire Hunter. Alucard goes by many names, and quite mystically, many faces. However, his most common appearance is arguably the best.
As a loyal servant to England’s top anti-demonic fighting force, the Hellsing Organisation, Alucard’s dress sense is quite butler-esque. He scrubs up with a double-breasted, dark-charcoal Victorian suit, plus a pair of long, sturdy boots. Given the Vampire King has lived for hundreds of years, it makes sense that he opts for a more… traditional look.
The Night-walker’s outfit extends to some blood-red pieces that certainly help make his appearance more sinister. There’s the dramatic long coat, where he conceals his two armour-piercing pistols; his fedora, which gives him a gentlemanly look; and finally, a voluminous cravat to continue his antique aesthetic.
Alucard’s white gloves hold narrative importance. They carry the Hellsing insignia and associated inscriptions, as well as a specialised pentagram seal used to restrict Dracula’s full demonic powers.
Throw in some Léon: The Professional-inspired sunglasses to hide his dazzling, fiery-orange eyes, and the King of Vampires is ready for London Fashion Week.
Comments