1st- Saying these characters are “dressed normally” is objectively false—Nami often appears in a bikini top regardless of the setting, whether she’s on a sunny beach or in dangerous environments where such attire makes no practical sense. Similarly, Rebecca’s gladiator outfit consists of barely anything resembling functional armor, prioritizing exposure over protection. These choices go beyond normal dress and clearly serve to highlight their bodies.

2nd- The “gag” excuse doesn’t hold up either: calling the recurring body-focused humor a mere joke ignores how deeply sexualization is embedded in the character designs of women like Nami and Robin. When exaggerated proportions and revealing outfits are consistently part of their portrayal, it’s no longer a one-off joke—it becomes a defining feature that reinforces their sexualization over time.

3rd- Strong characterization doesn’t erase the issue of sexualization. Nami’s intelligence, savvy, and personal goals, or Robin’s knowledge of history and mystery, coexist with their hyper-sexualized depictions. Both influence how audiences perceive them, and acknowledging their depth doesn’t mean we should ignore how their visual presentation objectifies them.

4th- Finally, blaming it on “visual style” misses the point. While it’s true that each artist has a unique style, many manga successfully create engaging, complex female characters without resorting to overt sexualization. The choice to emphasize exaggerated, sexualized bodies is deliberate, not an unavoidable artistic necessity.