The Korean Wave is taking the world by storm in the fashion industry, and we’re all here for it. As the girls of Blackpink lead the way as global ambassadors of top Maisons, it’s unlikely that the allure of Korean stars will be ceasing anytime soon. Most recently, G-dragon, was spotted at the Chanel Cruise 2023 show, while It-girl Hyuna showed off her style prowess modelling Loewe’s fall/winter 2022 pre-collection.
Celebrity clout aside, one can’t help but think of streetwear whenever South Korea is brought up—i.e. the bread and butter of the fashion trends easily sighted while walking along the streets of Seoul. Ultimately, the coolest testament to dressing down—recently seen from the street style snaps at Seoul Fashion Week 2022. And even on a global scale, the influence of streetwear has also been radically expounded on the runways, with luxury brands like Kanye West’s Yeezy, as well as Balenciaga leading the charge.
But besides looking to the biggest names in fashion for some style inspo, it might be worth checking out the emerging style mavens in Seoul that are absolutely killing the streetwear game—simply with their day-to-day outfits. From top music producers to celebrity stylists, here’s who to follow on Instagram.
1 / 5
Code Kunst
Undoubtedly the most sought-after music producer in Korea in 2022, Code Kunst‘s bold ensembles reminiscent of classic hip-hop streetwear have earned him his stripes as a certified street style star. From bright knits to graffiti prints, the producer isn’t one to shy away from statement pieces. A quintessential Code Kunst fit is never complete without stylish headwear, think: colourful beanies, printed bucket hats, toned down baseball caps to top it all off.
2 / 5
Cheri
In her career as a celebrity stylist, Cheri has garnered nationwide attention for her work with Korean A-listers like HyunA, Jessi and Kang Daniel. With a knack for styling retro-futurism looks, cut-outs and Y2K pieces make frequent appearances in her OOTDs. Her all-black Matrix-inspired ensemble features some major cutout action and a silver hardware belt t0 tie the red-pilled look together.
3 / 5
Dustin
A fashion influencer on Instagram, Dustin‘s sophisticated styling of elevated basics never comes close to treading on boring. Unique tailored silhouettes on top of artful layers goes a long way in his fits. A master in accessorising, here Dustin rocks a Balenciaga cap and sunnies, along with a forest green Telfar tote to compliment the neon green Bottega boots.
4 / 5
Nara
Nara‘s unconventional style speaks for itself. Merging street grunge with feminine details, the celebrity stylist was first recognised for working with the first-ever openly gay K-pop idol, Holland. Often pairing biker jackets with chunky footwear, the stylist effortlessly channels motorbike grunge with a 90’s hiphop twist.
5 / 5
Seol-ppeu
Founder of the Korean label ‘Unbutton’, Seol-ppeu‘s day-to-day looks reflect the style undercurrent in Korea. From school-girl chic to a 90’s girl-group aesthetic, the entrepreneur and influencer pulls together wearable and versatile staples you can recreate for everyday wear. Elevate a simple hoodie and slouchy cargoes by tapering down the silhouette at the ankle with a pair of classic platform boots for an extra edge.
