For fans of romantic comedy and the intricate world of cosplay, the return of My Dress-Up Darling has been one of the most highly anticipated anime events of the year. The series, which charmed audiences with the heartwarming relationship between Wakana Gojo, a shy Hina doll craftsman, and Marin Kitagawa, an outgoing gyaru who loves cosplay, has officially launched its second season. The excitement surrounding each new installment is palpable, leading many to inquire about specific episodes, such as “Episode 18.”
The Anticipated Return of Marin and Gojo
The first season of My Dress-Up Darling captivated viewers in early 2022, quickly becoming a breakout hit for its engaging characters, detailed animation of cosplay, and tender romantic development. Following its success, a sequel was announced in September 2022, generating significant buzz among its dedicated fanbase. After a period of eager anticipation, it was officially confirmed that My Dress-Up Darling Season 2 would premiere in July 2025.
The second season officially began airing on July 5, 2025, with episodes released weekly. Crunchyroll has confirmed that it is simulcasting the new season, making episodes available to international audiences shortly after their Japanese broadcast. The returning staff includes director Keisuke Shinohara and head writer Yoriko Tomita, with the main voice cast, including Hina Sugita as Marin Kitagawa and Shoya Ishige as Wakana Gojo, reprising their roles.
Understanding the Episode Count
While the first season of My Dress-Up Darling consisted of 12 episodes, a standard length for many anime cours, anime series sometimes employ continuous numbering across seasons or have extended cours. The expectation for Season 2 was also a single cour, typically around 12 episodes.
However, for those specifically seeking “My Dress-Up Darling Season 2 – Episode 18,” it’s important to clarify the numbering system. When anime series continue, new seasons often pick up the episode count where the previous one left off, or they reset to Episode 1 for each new season. In the case of My Dress-Up Darling Season 2, the episode numbering appears to continue from the first season’s total, meaning Episode 18 is indeed a part of the currently airing second season.
Episode 18 Release and Availability
For fans tracking the latest developments, My Dress-Up Darling Season 2, Episode 18, was officially released on August 9, 2025, and is currently available for streaming. New episodes of the series are typically released on Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. PDT / 12:30 p.m. EDT on Crunchyroll, with English subtitles released first, followed by English dubs at a later date.
This episode continues the evolving relationship between Gojo and Marin, delving further into their shared passion for cosplay and the deepening emotional connection that has resonated with so many viewers. As the season progresses, viewers can anticipate more elaborate cosplay challenges, character development, and heartfelt moments that define the series. The anime’s source material, the manga by Shinichi Fukuda, recently concluded in March 2025, suggesting that the anime adaptation will continue to cover the remaining story arcs.
With Season 2 now in full swing, My Dress-Up Darling continues to deliver the blend of romance, comedy, and creative passion that made its debut season a global phenomenon.