Chu-Bra!! [Season 1 Episode 5]

Chu-Bra!! Season 1 Episode 5: The Swimsuit Showdown That’s More Than Just Fanservice

Let’s cut to the chase: if you’ve ever rolled your eyes at anime that uses “puberty humor” as an excuse for cheap panty shots, Chu-Bra!! Episode 5 might surprise you. Sure, there’s plenty of the show’s signature cheeky fanservice—like when Nayu accidentally flashes her classmates while reaching for a volleyball—but this episode digs deeper than just lace and frills. It’s a slice-of-life gem that turns a middle school swimsuit contest into a quiet celebration of self-acceptance, and honestly? The fan reactions on MyAnimeList say it all.

First, let’s set the scene. The Underwear Research Club (yes, that’s their actual name) decides to host a “swimsuit fitting workshop” for the school’s sports festival. Nayu, our fearless protagonist who once wore black lace panties on her first day of school, is determined to prove that swimwear isn’t just about looking cute—it’s about feeling comfortable in your own skin. Her friends jump in: Kiyono, the bold one who rocks a red bikini like she owns the beach; Yako, the tomboy who’d rather wear basketball shorts than a frilly one-piece; and Haruka, the shy artist whose swimsuit is covered in… pink ruffles. Wait, pink ruffles? That’s where the fan drama starts.

Over on MyAnimeList, the episode sparked a heated debate about—you guessed it—Haruka’s ruffles. One user ranted, “They’re too kiddy-ish… It looks like a swimsuit for an 8 year old!” But another fired back, “The ruffles are a little cute ornament! Haruka acts like a kid sometimes, so it fits her.” Here’s the thing: that’s exactly the point. Haruka’s swimsuit isn’t a fashion fail—it’s a reflection of who she is. She’s the girl who still doodles in her notebook during class and gets flustered when someone compliments her art. The ruffles aren’t childish; they’re her. And when she walks onto the pool deck, even the haters have to admit she looks happy. That’s the magic of Chu-Bra!!—it doesn’t force its characters to “grow up” fast. It lets them be 13.

Then there’s Yako, the group’s resident DFC (flat-chested) queen. Fans went wild for her: “Yako’s swimsuit got the least annoying color pattern and fits her character perfectly!” one user gushed. Yako’s choice? A simple navy blue one-piece with a sports bra top—no frills, no fuss. She’s the girl who’d rather play soccer than gossip, so why would she wear something that slows her down? The episode doesn’t mock her for not having curves; it celebrates her for owning her body. When she does a backflip into the pool and yells, “This swimsuit doesn’t ride up when I move!” you can’t help but cheer. Finally, an anime that gets that comfort matters more than cleavage.

But let’s not forget the elephant in the room: the fanservice. Yes, there are panty shots. Yes, Nayu’s black lace makes a cameo (under her swimsuit, duh). But here’s the twist: it’s never mean-spirited. When Nayu trips and her swimsuit slides down a little, the joke isn’t on her—it’s on the boys who stare. The Underwear Research Club even hangs a sign that says, “No perverts allowed!” It’s like the show is winking at you, saying, “We know this is silly, but let’s have fun with it.” As one reviewer put it, “The fanservice is so casual, it feels like hanging out with your friends who just happen to be into cute underwear.”

What makes Episode 5 stand out, though, is its heart. The climax isn’t a big competition or a dramatic confession—it’s Nayu sitting with a group of first-years who are scared to wear their swimsuits. She tells them, “Your swimsuit should make you feel like you.” One girl admits she hates her one-piece because it’s too baggy, so Nayu helps her tie a knot in the side to make it fit better. No speeches, no tears—just a small act of kindness. And the fans noticed: “That scene made me cry a little,” one user wrote. “I remember being that scared to wear a swimsuit in middle school.”

Let’s be real: Chu-Bra!! isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for complex plot twists or intense action, you’ll be bored out of your mind. But if you want a show that feels like hanging out with your best friends after school—gossiping about bras, laughing at stupid jokes, and learning that it’s okay to be a little weird—this episode is perfect. It’s not about “growing up” or “being cool.” It’s about realizing that your body is yours, and whatever you wear (even pink ruffles) is awesome as long as it makes you smile.

So, what’s the verdict? Fans are split on the fashion, but everyone agrees on one thing: Episode 5 is Chu-Bra!! at its best. It’s funny, it’s relatable, and it doesn’t take itself too seriously. And let’s be honest—we could all use a little more of that in our lives. Whether you’re team Ruffles or team Sporty, this episode will make you want to grab your favorite swimsuit (no matter how “kiddy” it is) and run to the pool. Just don’t forget the sunscreen.

Final Score: 8/10 — Ruffles included.