Here are some Korean fashion trends you absolutely need to steal
Love all things pastel, adorable and edgy? Then click on for some K-trends to steal!
By June Chen -
Yes, we are talking preppy fashion, the return of the baseball caps, retro band tees and much more. So, what are you waiting for? Click through for the full #deets.
Image: Style Nanda
Most of us will probably remember that denim skirts were once incredibly popular. But looking this good? The key to wearing a denim skirt in style is to keep it simple by introducing just one or two pattern, at the most. Keep it high waisted with an oversized top if you’re going for the preppy look.
Image: Style Nanda
READ MORE: 10 fashionable ways to wear Spring colours and 8 effortless tips on changing up office wear to date night ready
Or go the slightly edgier route with this high-waisted denim skirt from J.W Anderson. Pair it with an oversized white blouse that’s neatly tucked in. Complete the look with a pair of sneakers for a casual chic look. You’ll be luncheon-ready with a colourful clutch for that final touch.
J.W. Anderson, Asymmetric ruffled denim midi skirt, $383 from Net-a-porter
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We see vintage band tees all over again, thanks to the resurgence of streetwear and a general sense of nostalgia for the 90s. The Koreans aren’t interested in the grungy look, though; instead, they’ve given the same vintage band tee a most adorable spin. Play around with the outfit by matching it with neutral tones and feminine accessories like frilly socks and slip-in loafers.
Image: Style Nanda
READ MORE: 10 fashionable ways to wear Spring colours and 8 effortless tips on changing up office wear to date night ready
Don’t limit yourself to only a T-shirt because this Metallica swing dress is just as amazing! Too grunge for your tastes? No problem. Simply wear a ruffled turtle neck or high-neck loose top underneath the dress and accessorise with a ribbon headscarf.
ASOS, Metallica swing dress with eyelets, $63.35
Maje, Ruffled cotton-poplin blouse, $156 from Net-a-porter
ASOS, Flamingo print headscarf, $12.67
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The Koreans have shown us that the best part of having a boyfriend is that you can “steal” their clothes and wear them as your own. We kid, of course. But we really stand by the idea of oversized clothes; try rocking a boyfriend’s blazer with a soft cotton tee and jeans.
Instagram: @stylenanda_korea
READ MORE: 10 fashionable ways to wear Spring colours and 8 effortless tips on changing up office wear to date night ready
Besides, the borrowed-from-the-boyfriend look is really comfortable to be in. So grab yourself a pair of boyfriend’s jeans, like this luxe version from Saint Laurent. Wear it with a loosely fitted feminine top to retain a girly touch, then complete the look with a sexy pair of stilettos or embellished kitten heels.
Saint Laurent, Boyfriend jeans, $518 from Net-a-porter
ASOS, Top with spliced shirt detail, $46.45
READ MORE: 10 fashionable ways to wear Spring colours and 8 effortless tips on changing up office wear to date night ready
Korean street-wear is justifiably famous for being daring, provocative and eye-catching. Remember the pleated tennis skirt and baseball cap craze? Yes, that. And nope, the sportswear trend is nowhere near its end – not when celebrities in luxed up bomber jackets and other sports-inflected pieces are spotted every season on the streets of the biggest fashion weeks.
Instagram: @stylenanda_korea
READ MORE: 10 fashionable ways to wear Spring colours and 8 effortless tips on changing up office wear to date night ready
The sheer mesh overlay gives the street-wear dress a quirky accent; to keep it K-inspired, match it with splashes of pink or any other bright colour you fancy. The most important point, however, is to keep it pretty and soft. For that, we suggest a smiley pink cap from Lazy Oaf and soft pink strap sandals from Dr Martens. Pull on a pair of white ankle high socks or fishnet stockings and you’ll be good to go.
Adidas, Originals black midi dress with sheer mesh overlay, $116.13
Dr Martens, Romi soft pink strap sandals, $160 from Lazy Oaf
Lazy Oaf, Go Away Cap, $50
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It’s wondrous how Korean fashion can toggle between adorably sweet and effortless feminine chic so easily. A change of a top, a new lip colour, the addition of accessories and there we go, flowy soft femininity at its best.
Instagram: @stylenanda_korea
READ MORE: 10 fashionable ways to wear Spring colours and 8 effortless tips on changing up office wear to date night ready
Pair your sneakers and high waisted jeans with this classy one shoulder ruffled top from Self-Portrait. We love the layers and ruffles; when paired with drop-down gem earrings and sneakers, you’ll look just as effortless and chic as the Korean ladies lunching at Garosu-gil.
Self-Portrait, Off-the-shoulder ruffled striped cotton-poplin top, $277 from Net-a-porter
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Instagram: @sora_pppp
We know, when you think of thigh-high boots, Kim K immediately pops up in your head. But she’s all curves and sex appeal while the K-wave’s spin on thigh-high boots is more street style and edgy. We love how Park So Ra has styled her thigh high boots with a windbreaker top and maroon turtleneck. Singapore might get a little too hot for all those layers, so we suggest an oversized top for maximum ventilation and coolness instead.
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The pink on these pair of boots is just lovely: Not too striking, but just enough to make a statement. To avoid looking too gaudy, keep everything simple with no prints or clashing hues: We’re thinking an oversized white T-shirt with high-waisted denim shorts. Throw on a delicate necklace and you’re good to go.
Balenciaga, Spandex thigh boots, $1,350 from Net-a-porter
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Need we say more? Fishnet socks are so on-trend right now. To keep it quintessentially Korean, add a splash of pastel courtesy of your sneakers and you’ll be sorted for the day.
Instagram: @stylenanda_korea
READ MORE: 10 fashionable ways to wear Spring colours and 8 effortless tips on changing up office wear to date night ready
We love this pair of pink fishnets from Asos. Pair these with embellished loafers and a shift dress. Then, complete your ensemble with an embroidered bomber jacket and a clutch for all your essentials.
ASOS, Oversized fishnet ankle socks in pink, $8.45
READ MORE: 10 fashionable ways to wear Spring colours and 8 effortless tips on changing up office wear to date night ready