Haven’t you heard? Sakamoto is an awesome guy; he’s super cool, good looking, smooth and perfect in every sense of the word. All the girls want to date him and all the guys are jealous of him. Sakamoto Desu Ga? is an anime about Sakamoto’s everyday routine, in the classroom and after school, documenting all the shenanigans that come his way. Many have attempted to topple his effortless charisma, but fail to achieve his standing. As they observe and mimic his every move or even try to knock him down, everyone wonders how Sakamoto’s got that swagger.

From playing the arm flute in the most sensual way possible, to making moms swoon over him because of his soap opera actor looks, Sakamoto is a guy that can do it all without even trying. Confident, maybe arrogant, and most definitely impeccable, Sakamoto is someone you can’t stand being around, but nonetheless, someone you can’t help but stop and stare at. His flawlessness is why we’ve chosen him to start off our list of classy anime characters!

Sword Art Online accounts the story of a huge release and gameplay for the virtual MMO game, Sword Art Online. Highly popularized, with media throwing itself into a raving frenzy, gamers anticipated the day when the game was finally out to play. As it arrives, participants enter the game, having a blast, until they realize a “glitch”; the game doesn’t have a “logout” button. Causing a great deal of confusion, everyone gathers at the common area, where the Game Master Akihiko Kayaba confronts them. The GM announces that he purposely did not make a ‘logout’ button to test players’ strengths and abilities. Moreover, as the virtual world affects them wholly, harm inflicted would take effect in the real world. Many are frightened by this circumstance, but emerging from the ranks, Kazuto “Kirito” Kirigaya takes the lead, having knowledge of gameplay as a beta tester. Here, we watch Kirito face various challenges, meet new players, and gain levels and experience.

Asuna Yuuki, in the beginning, had her head in the game, totally focused, and absolutely fearless. After meeting Kirito, Asuna’s perspective on life and companionships changed drastically, in that she held the value of life at a higher standard, especially when it comes to helping others in need. Asuna is very proud and focused, but also extremely kind and helpful. Quickly gaining notoriety in the SAO world, Asuna makes the list due to her classy, respectable qualities.

A classic, staple, anime of the 90s, Sailor Moon centers on the life of Usagi Tsukino, an average 14-year-old girl. As a normal junior high-schooler, she experiences the usual trials of getting so-so grades, daily lectures from the parents, and to top it all off, has a whiny, ditzy, and immature personality that is sometimes unbearable to most! Nonetheless, Usagi tries her hardest and remains optimistic when times get rough. However, on one of her off days, Usagi encounters a talking black cat named Luna. Luna tells her that she has the power to transform into Sailor Moon, a magical girl, who must unite with and fight alongside other Sailor Scouts in order to save the world from the forces of the Dark Kingdom. So in the name of the moon, watch these sailor soldiers fight for love and justice!

Tuxedo Mask, whose alternate identity is Mamoru Chiba, fights alongside Sailor Moon and the Sailor Scouts when they need the most help and protection, always getting them out of a bind. Tuxedo Mask’s handsome attire includes a black tuxedo, black cape, black top hat, white dress shirt, white gloves and a white mask to conceal his identity. For defense, Tuxedo Mask throws rose darts at his opponents and also utilizes a gentleman’s cane. Super dreamy and charming, no gal would mind being saved by the likes of classy Tuxedo Mask.

The Studio Ghibli film, The Cat Returns, follows Haru Yoshioka, who instinctively saves a cat from getting hit by a car. Unbeknownst to her, Haru happened to save not just any cat, but the prince of cats from the mystical kingdom of cats. Extending their gratitude, the cats of the kingdom give Haru many wonderful cat gifts, going as far as to extend the prince’s hand in marriage. In this unlikely union, Haru seeks the help of some notable “purrfessionals” to get her out of this situation. Following this event, the citizens of the cat kingdom kidnap Haru. Additionally, the clock is ticking, as Haru is turning into a cat! Consequently, it is up to the purrfessionals, Baron and Muta, to save Haru and restore balance in the cat kingdom.

Baron Humbert von Gikkingen is a sophisticated purrfessional who works at the Cat Bureau. An anthropomorphic cat, donning a top hat and tux, with assistance from Muta, he aids Haru in her dilemma with the Cat Kingdom. As the chaos ensues within the Kingdom, the Baron remains completely composed, keeping a cool head, as he always suggests sage advice for their next plan of action. Eloquent and wise, the Baron is a classy gentleman that one can rely on for anything.

The story of Kuroshitsuji, also known as Black Butler, follows Ciel Phantomhive, a young man of noble stock who makes a deal with a demon, later recognized as Sebastian Michaelis. The deal entails keeping him alive to avenge the murder of his parents. In this time, Ciel also serves as Her Majesty the Queen’s “Guard Dog”, keeping a close watch on underground criminal activities. Ciel and Sebastian are an unshakeable pair. As we watch this close Master and Butler relationship, we will regret seeing the day Sebastian reaps Ciel’s soul as part of the deal.

Sebastian Michaelis is one hell of a butler! Ciel and Sebastian have great chemistry and watching the two of them interact with one another is incredibly entertaining. With abilities that surpass the average house butler, Sebastian demonstrates the highest regard for loyalty and service; ensuring that the household runs smoothly and that all of Ciel’s needs are met. Acting with the utmost courtesy and looking so fresh and clean, remember that if crossed the wrong way, Sebastian will show you his dark side!

In a world filled with magic, Fairy Tail begins by following a young girl named Lucy Heartfilia. In this magical world, by participating in various jobs, guilds are recognized, gaining notoriety and status. Lucy has her heart set on the famed Fairy Tail guild and, luckily, receives her chance when she encounters one of its members, Natsu. Fairy Tail tells the journey of Lucy and her guild-mates on a myriad of adventures. In Lucy’s pilgrimage towards becoming a strong mage, Mirajane Strauss, one of Lucy’s guild-mates, as well as a mage, is very present. The dynamic of each member of the Fairy Tail guild provides positive attitudes and energies to stimulate personal growth in this world of magical competition.

Mirajane is a popular favorite in the anime community, as she is one that exhibits both brains and beauty. When she was younger, Mirajane was not always known as the girl she is recognized as now among her guild-mates, but as someone who was aggressive, hot-tempered, and all around sporting a bad attitude. After a series of tragic events lead to her magical skills disabling, Mirajane blossomed, for the best, into a loving and caring individual, treating both friends and strangers with kindness. Acting as a maternal figure for the guild, she is very protective of her guild family, rarely showing any hostilities unless provoked.

The year is 1924, set in the Southern European country of Sauville. In this area, we are in attendance at Saint Marguerite Academy, an institution meant for the best and brightest minds. New policy has allowed for foreign exchange students to attend. As a result, we are introduced to Kujou Kazuya. Hailing from Japan, Kujou comes to Saint Marguerite in an attempt to bring honor to himself and the family name. However, more goes on here than what Kujou expects. One day, as Kujou goes to research at the school library, he encounters a peculiar yet beautiful doll-like girl named Victorique de Blois. Pleased to meet his acquaintance, Victorique is gifted with her “fountain of wisdom”. Intrigued by one another, Victorique and Kujou are bound to solve the many mysteries that unfold at the academy.

Call her the girl version of Sherlock Holmes, Victorique displays her classy ways with intellect, showing off her impressive investigative, strategic, analytical, and reasoning skills. Victorique can also be described as charismatic, fluent in the art of persuasion in order to manipulate others into doing whatever she wants easily. Holding herself on a higher level than the average human, she has every right to hold her chin high, leaving us speechless with her extraordinary abilities.

Re:ZERO is a story about Subaru Natsuki, your everyday average kid, who suddenly gets transported into a mysterious, fantasy world. As he encounters the very strange and bizarre in his new environment, Subaru unexpectedly bumps into an enchanting silver-haired beauty named Emilia, a gal who is on a quest to recover a stolen item. Enthralled by this damsel in distress, Subaru comes to her aid and assists her in her quest. When they finally determine where the thief has taken her item, they unfortunately are killed in the vicinity. However, moments before this tragedy occurs, Subaru reaches out to her only to find that he has appeared in a familiar surrounding. How is it that history is repeating itself? Watch and see to find out!

Emilia is a gorgeous silver-haired half-elf girl who is warm-hearted, good-natured, and puts the needs of others before her own. Emilia is a candidate to become the next ruler in the upcoming royal election, but can only qualify once she recovers the stolen insignia stolen by Felt. As she is dedicated to becoming a representative for the people, Emilia’s diligence makes her classy, labeling her as a leader that everyone can rely on.

Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is a distinctively riveting anime chronicling the traditional Japanese form of comedic storytelling, Rakugo, which means, “fallen words.” The story occurs between the past and present, as it spotlights various artists who strive to keep this form of entertainment alive. Moreover, we get to experience the dynamic and unique forms of Rakugo demonstrated by Yakumo “Kikuhiko” Yuurakutei, Sukerouku “Shin” Yuurakutei, Konatsu, and newcomer, Yotarou. As viewers observe the artists’ dedication and audience engagement, we are shown the very many trials and tribulations each of these men and a woman encounter in order to do what they’re truly passionate about.

Apprenticed under Yakumo Yuurakutei (VII), Shin differs as a performer from Kikuhiko because his style and form of storytelling is more charismatic, personable, and very avant-garde in comparison to the traditional style that has been passed on for generations. With a number of reasons to share why artists love to perform, Shin endlessly reveals to viewers that Rakugo is life because of the audience’s overall reaction to his storytelling. Even though he is a single act, his performances from start to finish create a booming presence.

Your Lie in April follows the life of Kousei Arima, a piano prodigy and notably known as the “human metronome”. After the death of his mother, who played a significant part in his piano career, Kousei begins to suffer from an ailment, rendering him unable to hear the sound of his music. Because of this condition, Kousei stops playing the piano. As some time has gone by, Kousei then has a different outlook on being a pianist when he meets Kaori Miyazono, a lively and effervescent violinist. With her help, Kousei rediscovers his true passion for piano and the feeling he gets from doing what he loves. In this anime, we observe characters that are really intense and animated, driving viewers to root for this duo’s success.

Kaori is a stunning individual who became a shining beacon during Kousei’s grave situation. Free-spirited, brave, and encouraging, Kaori’s constant optimism beamed rays of hope to those around her even though her own life was slowly deteriorating. As she saw Kousei as an inspiring and talented musician to collaborate with, Kaori’s classiness resonates elegance, support, and passion unparalleled by the other artists surrounding her. With that being said, Kaori ranks number one on our classy anime characters list, as she stands in a class of her own.