Anime fascination, an obsession with Japanese animation, is a trend that is currently sweeping the US, giving birth to a subculture phenomenon. But what are what items are considered to be the best gifts for anime fan girls? To know just what to buy for your favorite anime fan girl, you must first know a little bit about anime, also called Japanimation.
What is Anime? Anime is a general term used by Westerners to describe Japanese cartoon art. It is closely related to the term Manga, which means Japanese art style comics and Hentai, which is a style of adult Anime. Most Anime fans like a specific type of Anime; just because something is Japanimation does not necessarily mean that an Anime fan will favor it. Buying a gift for an Anime fan requires knowing the personality of the fan, knowing what style of Anime they like, and knowing what artists are their favorites.
Anime fascination in the west started around the 1980’s when children’s cartoons like G-force, Voltron, and Robotech were introduced. From there, the fascination grew as imports like Sailor Moon and Ah, My Goddess! developed early but loyal followings. Today, the Anime subculture has grown to include fan art, conventions, and lots of fun merchandise.
Black and White Striped Socks are usually seen on Goth chicks, but many anime fan girls also enjoy wearing them. Why? There are several Anime characters, especially fairies, who wear striped socks. Anime fanboys love to see them on the ladies as well. You can find these socks in many Goth and Anime stores in both knee high and thigh high variations.
Obitsu or Dolfie Customizable dolls are the ultimate toy for an Anime fan girl. Ball jointed dolls are somewhat expensive, but they open the door to a new level of Anime fandom, offering a creative outlet for anime fans to invent their own Anime characters. Whether you buy the dolls piece by piece or select an already-made doll on an auction site like eBay, any anime fan girl would squeal at the thought of owning one. If you have a little extra cash to spend, the Super Dollfie is a really sturdy, pose able doll that any anime fan girl would appreciate.
Framed Art Cels are great gifts that not only look nice on an apartment wall, it might also increase in value for the recipient in the future. Cels of exciting scenes or favorite characters are good choices. Be sure to purchase cels only from reputable dealers. You might even find one that has been autographed by the artist!
Customized Anime Caricatures are fun and thoughtful gifts. Many artists will draw a commissioned figure for a reasonable price with just a photograph as reference. Be sure to have the drawing professionally matted and framed to best preserve your gift.
Fairy Tale DVDs like The Snow Queen (Yiki no Joou), directed by Osamu Dezaki are beautiful examples of anime gifts just about every Anime fan girl would love. When the plot is a classic one or one involving a mushy love story. Anime Fringe reviewed The Snow Queen last year and seemed impressed. Anime fans who have also reviewed the film have expressed that it is a definite must see.
The Fruits basket Kyo vs Yuki Courier bag is a definite delight for Anime fan girls who love the durability and adore the image of Kyo and Yuki (a cat and mouse) on the flap. Comic Fusion carries this messenger bag, which is 14″ x 11″ x 3.5.
Cosplay items are things used to dress up as Anime or video game characters. Cosplay is more common in Asian countries than in the West, but Western Cosplayers are on the rise. In Japan, Cosplay is an incredible intricate subculture with contests. Like the club kids of the 80’s, Cosplayers love to party and gather. Cosplay gifts include props like plush Anime dolls (Moogles, cactuar, etc.), colorful wigs, and character outfits like schoolgirl uniforms.
Imported Capsule Toys (Gashapon) are great little collections that are common in Asian arcades. They vary in themes from film characters to video game monsters. Collections of these toys can be found on eBay or any shop that imports Anime toys and collectibles.
Back Issues of Animerica from VIZ are great reference books for Anime fans. In addition, VIZ carries some of the best Anime apparel like the ultra-adorable Piyo Piyo t-shirt from Maison Ikkoku.
The Hello Anime! Documentary DVD is a great DVD for Anime fans by bringing fans closer to the people who bring them their daily dose of toons. Hello Anime! looks into Western Anime history and how certain films have included the beauty of Anime in mainstream films. It is a must have for any Anime fan who wants to learn more about where Anime comes from.
If you know a girl is into the fantasy of Anime, be sure to find out what kind of Anime she prefers, and use that information to pick out the very best Holiday gift possible. For personal assistance in choosing a good gift, go to your nearest comic store and ask to speak with someone who knows Anime. Most comic book stores employ at least one person who knows about this fascinating art form. Happy Holidays!
