Brace yourself for a fashion revolution that has taken the world by storm—Korean fashion. Blame it on the rise of K Drama and K-pop, which have captivated audiences through social media, web series, and that one crazy Blackpink fangirl you know. The influence of Korean fashion is everywhere, as seen in the recent H&M and Zara collections that have wholeheartedly embraced “the look.” But what exactly is this particular look that everyone has been raving about?
In recent years, Korean designers and brands have stealthily made their way into the global fashion spotlight. A quick Google search of “Korean Fashion Aesthetic” will give you a flurry of photos, predominantly featuring outfits in muted tones, dainty dresses, and oversized pieces, ranging from preppy to streetwear iterations. While this indeed encompasses the K-Style aesthetic, let’s break down the mix of design aesthetics that make K-Style what it is today.
Style: Preppy School Girl
Our K-Drama Reference: Strong Woman Do Bong Soon
Picture a mash-up of private school uniforms and college sports club athleisure. We’re talking tennis skirts, knitted vests, crisp white button-downs, tailored trousers, and loafers with socks. The secret? Don’t cling to head-to-toe tightness. Pair a fitted top with relaxed bottoms, or vice versa. And the cherry on top? Top it off with a baseball cap or beret for ultimate style perfection.
Do Bong Soon proves that greatness comes in small sizes, but her fashion game is a delightful contradiction. From the wardrobe of an everyday millennial, she rocks adorable preppy plaid coats and layered checkered dresses, perfectly capturing her bubbly personality.
Retro Feminine
Our K-Drama Reference: It’s Okay to Not be Okay
If you’re a fan of waist-cinching midi dresses, this aesthetic is your calling. Embrace a modest yet timeless vibe with ’40s or ’60s-inspired silhouettes. Puff sleeves in muted or pastel shades are a must. Go for A-line or shift dresses in gingham, plaid, checks, or sweet floral patterns. Complete the look with Peter Pan collars, pussy bows, high-neck ruffles, and square necklines—sleeves are non-negotiable, of course.
Enter Go Moon Young, bringing back the enchanting ‘cottagecore’ aesthetic. She effortlessly blends soft delicate floral dresses with refreshing ruffles and earthy tones, offering a slice of simplicity and sophistication. It’s time for a wardrobe revamp, girl!
Oversized Streetwear
Our K-Drama Reference: Itaewon Class
The best part of this K-style? There are no rules. This genderless aesthetic celebrates pieces that look fabulous on anyone. Picture sweatpants, beanies, bucket hats, oversized shirts, roomy shorts, high-waisted wide-leg trousers, bralettes, and the coolest sneakers. The key is to conceal that feminine silhouette. When you want to unleash your sexy side, forget about skin-tight outfits and instead opt for a cropped top or experiment with your beauty look.
Enter Jo Yi Seo, the rebel of Itaewon Class. She’s tough, stubborn, and oozes badassery – and her fashion sense reflects it perfectly. With her edgy leather jackets and effortlessly cool oversized blazers, she defines biker chic in the most awe-inspiring way. Hold on tight, because Itaewon Class has redefined street style in a way that you simply can’t miss out on!
Soft Office Core
Our K-Drama Reference: Suspicious Partner
Unleash your soft girl aesthetic even in the office with this look. Think fresh and sophisticated neutrals and pastels, breaking away from the sea of black. It’s all about exuding chicness and intelligence without overpowering. And during winter, a tailored coat or blazer is your go-to for both warmth and style. Embrace feminine ensembles that boast impeccable tailoring, showing the world that you mean business with every step.
Whoever said office attire couldn’t be fashionable clearly hasn’t met Eun Bong Hee, the vibrant and determined lawyer. She effortlessly brings the formal-chic aesthetic to the workplace, rocking youthful shorts and suit combinations that redefine the game. With a modern twist to her sartorial choices, her unique styling perfectly complements her offbeat personality, leaving us craving more of her bold and statement-making looks.
Power Dressing
Our K-Drama Reference: Vincenzo
Who can resist the allure of a fabulous blazer look? Korean fashion knows how to rock it – whether it’s an oversized jacket or a sleek, tailored piece cinched at the waist. The best part? You don’t have to go full corporate for this. It’s all about pairing trousers with a plain tee or layering a blazer over a comfy sweatshirt and pants. Want to go all out? Opt for a complete button-down, blazer, and trousers ensemble, but add a touch of edginess with sneakers.
With her killer stilettos and unwavering confidence, Hong Cha-young, the fierce lawyer from Vincenzo, never fails to make a lasting impression. She struts her stuff in fiery power suits and dresses that scream both power and fashion. Luxury brands perfectly complement her witty and bold personality, proving that style and substance go hand in hand.
Which Style Is The One For You?
In the vast world of Korean fashion aesthetics, there is a K-Style that resonates with every individual. Whether you’re drawn to the sophistication of office chic, the edginess of streetwear, the whimsy of cottagecore, or the timeless elegance of retro-inspired fashion, embrace the K-Style that reflects your personality and allows you to express yourself with confidence.
So embrace this fashion revolution, let your wardrobe shine, and get ready to turn heads with your sassy, fun, and undeniably cute Korean-inspired outfits. It’s time to step up your fashion game and make a stylish statement with Korean fashion aesthetics.
