Hey there all of you up and coming fashionista’s of Japan! Or at least that seems to be what this weeks topic centers around so why not check out a great anime centering around that same genre? That’s right, I’m talking about Paradise Kiss, a fun and heart-wrenching story about a teenage school girl and her run-in with the world of fashion, modeling and love.

With great poppy and catchy song from singers like Franz Ferdinand and Tommy February6, who couldn’t love this elaborately colored and edge of your seat series? Honestly, after watching just one episode it was nearly impossible to just stop myself there until the entire span of 12 episodes had been unloaded and played through.

Follow Yukari as she slowly begins to break away from the hold of her mother and school life, discovering not only an entire new world but also a new part of herself as she battles with love-interest, notoriously charismatic George, university exams and learning how to balance all of it together with her new self. You won’t help but to laugh and cry along as you discover new things and gain a taste for the fashion industry all in one!

This anime is recommended for ages 15+!

To become part of the Parakissu trend and watch the first episode, don’t miss checking out these great sites:

Youtube: Paradise Kiss Episode 1 of 1
Funimation Presents: Paradise Kiss
Anime News Network: Paradise Kiss

Of course there is! And this weekend, one of our own group is going to experience it firsthand. So, by next week we’ll have all the juicy details of what REALLY happens at these Anime-Fests! Everyone dresses up as their favortie anime characters and there’s a great time to be had by all. The following is some up-and-coming conventions on the east coast for any who are interested:

• Anime Weekend Atlanta:
  • Sept. 19-21, 2008
  •  Renaissance Waverly Hotel & Cobb Galleria Centre Atlanta, GA
• New York Anime Festival:
  • Sept. 26-28, 2008
  • Jacob K. Javits Center New York, NY
• Tsubasacon:
  • Sept.26-28, 2008
  • Riverfront Ballroom & Conference Center Huntington, WV
• Chibi-Pa:
  • Sept.27-28, 2008
  • Palm Beach County Convention Center Palm Beach, FL
• Anime USA:
  • Oct. 10-12, 2008
  • Hyatt Regency Crystal City Arlington, VA