There's that breathtaking sensation of finality again. When you realise that what Kishi has drawn in those sketches could very likely be their official designs, it takes a moment for the images themselves to sink into your mind. They can't be altered unless the mangaka wills it.
Gaara looks as if he could pass himself off as a civilian in those clothes. They don't exactly permeate with the grit and extravagance of combat attire. It does seem odd that he would wear tight-fit leggings with an equally skinny long sleeved buttoned shirt in a society where most people wear loose-fit robes to combat the heat and wind when they're not wearing the standard issue vest, turban, and jumpsuit. The again, Gaara's clothing preferences have always been eccentric compared to those around him.
Lee appears to be virtually the same besides his clothing and a more chiseled impression in his facial features. He and Choji both give off the vibe of having become physically hardened warriors. I'd like to know if Lee is finally capable of unlocking all of the gates. He has his work cut out for him if he's aiming to surpass Guy.
It seems like Tenten is taking a page out of Sakura's book by using an assortment of old styles - a qipao dress that emphasises the legs, boots that extend up towards the knees (these look somewhat longer though), and a sash tightly framing the midsection. She looks very attractive with those clothes. A bit more revealing than what's usually expected of Tenten, but I think it signals an emotional strength of her to wear whatever she likes while showing off her physical appeal at the same time - it's the opposite of Hinata's faint-heartedness and the desire to shroud herself from the prying eyes of people who might criticise her (a reflection of her reclusive nature).
Back to the tried and true designs for Temari. Apart from an extended skirt, her clothing has about the same visuals as her 16 year old self during the Sasuke Retrieval arc. The most astonishing overhaul to her appearance is the face. She looks somewhat regal, but with a glint of danger and shrewdness in her eyes. I think I prefer her face the most out of all the characters in this batch of sketches.
As someone else said, it seems like the women have received more attention compared to the men. Their appearances have changed dramatically and they look far more appealing now.
Edited by Atheck, 29 August 2014 - 04:53 AM.
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The Gold Saints
