Updated on October 31, 2:21 p.m. (GMT+8): Improved relevancy.

When it comes to anime waifus, which one attracts you the most — cute or cool girls?

Titular protagonist Shikimori from “Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie” is both. She has an adorable and sweet appearance, but as the series title suggests, she also has a hidden, badass side to her.

Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie (Summer Outfit Ver.) Standard Edition 1:7 Scale PVC Figure
Credit: Miyuki
VIEW PRICE: Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie (Summer Outfit Ver.) Standard Edition 1:7 Scale PVC Figure

Breaking gender stereotypes in anime, Shikimori shined as one of the best girls of the Spring 2022 season, alongside Spy x Family’s Yor Forger and Kaguya-sama: Love is War’s Kaguya Shinomiya.

Anime singer and Japanese model Akase Akari has cosplayed all three above-mentioned waifus.



Akase Akari stuns anime fans with her perfect Shikimori cosplay

Akari’s Shikimori cosplay saw her don the character’s high school uniform layered with a plain black sweater.

But what impressed us was the J-pop singer’s attention to detail. While the cosplay looks simple at first glance, Akari has been nothing if not meticulous, pairing vivid blue contact lenses with a long, pink wig.

The wig’s bangs were also parted into three sections, exactly the way Shikimori wears her hair.

Wallpaper for Shikimori's Not Just A Cutie anime
Credit: Doga Kobo

Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie follows the story of high school sweethearts Izumi and Shikimori, and is based on the romantic comedy manga series by Keigo Maki.

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Credit: Kawaii Anime Merch Manga For Men Women Kids
VIEW PRICE: Eat Sleep Anime Gaming Repeat Kawaii Otaku Anime Manga T-Shirt

Shikimori is also extremely protective over Izumi. The anime’s pilot showcased her ultra-fast reflexes and strength. She has saved Izumi from countless hazards both big and small, such as almost getting hit by a speeding car, almost getting hit on the head by an eraser, and a falling sign.

Shikimori cosplay by Akase Akari
Credit: Akase Akari

The series aired on April 9 with a total of 12 episodes. Fans can check out Akari’s other cosplays on her Twitter account (@akase_official).

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