The Bleach series is renowned in the anime community for its distinct approach to supernatural events and thrilling, unforgettable battles. Its overall visual representation only enhances these elements. Tite Kubo's unique art style has become instantly recognizable in the world of anime and manga.
A prime example of the series' exceptional visual design can be seen in the diverse costumes worn by its characters. Whether in the manga, anime series, or official artwork, it would be an understatement to describe the cast of Bleach as fashionable. However, there are a select few outfits that truly stand out and catch the eye.
7 Rukia's Bankai Kimono
The Thousand-Year Blood War arc captivated fans with intense conflict and highly anticipated Bankai abilities. Among these abilities, Rukia’s Hakka no Togame stood out as the most noteworthy, showcasing impressive powers and an eye-catching appearance. Upon activation, Rukia transitions from her usual black kimono to an intricate white outfit adorned with ice flower ornaments and striking ribbons. The outfit's design and color scheme create the illusion that Rukia herself is composed of ice, a fitting representation as she freezes everything within her vicinity when Hakka no Togame is unleashed.
6 Orihime's Fourth Opening Outfit
Orihime's delightful mannerisms bring a constant sense of lightness and comic relief to the series. This cheerful demeanor is also evident in her clothing choices. When not in battle, Orihime typically opts for a more casual wardrobe, consisting of blouses, shorts, and skirts.
However, in the fourth anime opening of Bleach, Orihime's attire deviates significantly from what fans are accustomed to seeing her wear. She is depicted wearing a dark leather jacket, capris, and a pair of sneakers. This ensemble is an exact replica of the one Orihime wore in an official color spread by Tite Kubo, which also showcased Ichigo, Rukia, Sado, and Renji.
5 Byakuya's Spirit Society Outfit
In the mobile game Bleach Brave Souls, multiple characters are depicted wearing Japanese yokai-themed outfits in a parallel universe known as Spirit Society. For instance, the renowned captain Byakuya Kuchiki's attire bears resemblance to a tengu, a yokai known for its protective or destructive nature.
While tengu often manifests as a protective spirit in Japanese mythology, the somber hues of Byakuya's costume, alongside his merciless demeanor in battles, unequivocally convey his formidable presence. This impression is further accentuated by intricate elements like the horned circlet adorning his head and the crimson mask held in his hand, lending him a demonic visage.
4 Nanao & Nemu's Cheongsam Dresses
In Bleach's fourth opening, not only Orihime receives a wardrobe upgrade but also the stoic lieutenants Nanao Ise and Nemu Kurotsuchi in Episode 89. Towards the end of the opening, Nemu and Nanao can be seen wearing stunning blue and black Cheongsam gowns with beautiful light-colored patterns. These formal Chinese attires perfectly complement their studious personalities, making it an exceptional choice.
3 Lisa Yadomaru's School Uniform
School uniforms have been a mainstay in anime, and Bleach is no different. However, Lisa Yadomaru's sailor school uniform stands out with its vibrant colors compared to the more Western-style uniforms of Karakura High School.
Although Lisa is not a student, her choice of the school uniform, along with her red glasses, gives her a scholarly look that complements her mature personality. When she becomes the Captain of the Eighth Division following Yhwach's defeat, her new uniform appears to draw inspiration from her original outfit in the Arrancar arc.
2 Mashiro Kuna's Jumpsuit
Mashiro's vibrant personality and dynamic fighting style are perfectly reflected in her eye-catching attire, much like Lisa. Her jumpsuit, gloves, and boots, in striking shades of white and orange, bear a striking resemblance to the iconic outfits seen in Super Sentai shows like Kamen Rider.
The Super Sentai influence becomes even more evident when observing Mashiro's uniquely designed Hollow mask, resembling that of an insect. This gives her the striking resemblance of a white Power Ranger. Interestingly, the entire group of Visored individuals can be likened to the Power Rangers, but Mashiro's resemblance is particularly strong.
1 Ulquiorra Cifer's Trenchcoat
In spite of the intense atmosphere at the time of its release, the twenty-third opening of Bleach, titled "Stay Beautiful" by Diggy Mo, portrays both the Gotei 13 and Aizen's army as ordinary individuals leading their daily lives. However, even in this casual depiction, the stoic and formidable Espada Ulquiorra Cifer maintains his distinctive personality and a similar fashion sense. Ulquiorra, donning a lengthy and gray trenchcoat, gives off an aura reminiscent of a character from a detective film during his brief appearance in the "Stay Beautiful" ending. Coupled with the gloomy backdrop, it undeniably reinforces the notion that even in a human form, Ulquiorra would likely remain an emotionless recluse.