May 27, 2024
Since there are no reviews of this manga, I thought that even one that isn't the most thought out will at least add something.
In case you don't know, the word "coordinate" is used in Japanese fashion circles to describe a deliberately put together outfit. The idea is that anything can be an outfit, but true fashion is coordinated. You will see this word used in the west talking about japanese fashion, or jfashion for short. As a jfashion fan, I really wanted to check this manga out when I saw it for cheap second hand online. It is only four volumes, which I like, because
...
I honestly have trouble finishing manga that are even just a bit longer than that. I think that is a strength of this story, that it doesn't over stay it's welcome.
The story is about a country girl named Mame, who is unfashionable and awkward in a lot of ways, who got scouted to be a model because of her beautiful, yet "every girl" aura. The story starts as she gets a new manager who helps her break out of her shell. The two other important characters are Noel, who is a half Japanese model who works for the same company and a fledgling designer with her own small indie fashion brand. These are the 4 characters who all get an arc in the story, which honestly mostly consists of them being introduced, showing their past in a flashback and then having them realise something about said past right afterwards. Very simple storytelling, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. Although surface level, the characters are distinct enough, pleasant and interact well with each other. Mame gets the most development, which is obviously great since she is the main character.
Overall I'd say rather than the story, the main selling point of this manga is the atmosphere it gives off. I read this series in few sessions at cafes, waiting for my order. It's a very relaxing, cute little manga to take your mind off of things and not have to think too deeply about. The story doesn't go deeply into the mechanics of a modeling agency at all, because it isn't interested in that. It's a story about Mame learning to gain confidence and go easy on herself through the power of modeling, mirroring the soft healing effect the manga wishes to provide to its readers.
As for complaints, we unfortunately have to talk about the art. Not because it's BAD, but because it simply isn't showstopping, even though that feels unfair to fault something on. The art style could be a little more memorable to be honest, the characters designs are rather plain. Even though this series isn't extremely stylistic, I do think that they just aren't unique enough. This might be on purpose, or at least not a priority of the author, so maybe that's a non issue for them or for some readers, but I always think that it's a shame.
Next the fashion designs. Again, they don't necessarily stick with me. And since this is a fashion manga, that is really something I can criticise the series for. But on the other hand, tthey are definitely good outfits and you can tell the auuthor genuinely loves fashion, I just think it could have been a bit stronger. There's a lot of varied styles throughout the series, which is definitely fun to see. The drawings I loved the most where the ones of the indie fashion brand. You can tell that those definitely have the most effort put into them.
To end on a positive note, I do have to say i do love the colours and the softness of the coloured illustrations, it's definitely what convinced me to buy the series!
So there you have it, I hope that gave some insight. I gave the series an 7/10 because I score mainly based on enjoyability, and I definitely did feel happy reading this.
TLDR; Very avarage manga that doesn't really stand out in anything, but is perfect for a relaxing read, with an atmosphere suited best for those who are really into shoujo manga abouut (j)fashion.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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