Aside from compelling plots and eclectic characters, if there’s one thing that you can bank on K-dramas for, it’s stylish characters. In the world of South Korean entertainment, K-drama stars not only captivate audiences with their acting prowess but also set trends with their impeccable fashion sense.
From power suits that command attention to whimsical dresses that defy convention, these leading ladies have become style icons, influencing fashion trends both locally and globally. Below, we break down some of the most iconic K-drama looks we’ve seen on our favourite characters over the past few years, whose style ended up stealing the spotlight.
Ko Moon-young from It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020)
Ko Moon-young from “It’s Okay To Not Be Okay” was a massive breakout role for actress Seo Ye-ji, and for an iconic reason – her fashion. From flamboyant and flashy to mellow and minimalist, her wardrobe is a visual feast. Spot floral prints complemented by iconic flare sleeves, vintage feminine prints, subtle ruffles, and corsets courtesy of brands like Dior, Zimmerman, Peter Do, Isabel Marant, Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin, and Fendi, and more. Elegant earrings in gold, pearls, and diamonds, as well as edgy, oversized shades, complete the look.
Jang Man-wol from Hotel del Luna (2019)
From high vintage to modern glamour, Jang Man-wol from “Hotel del Luna” has got all the looks covered. IU’s wardrobe in the show, reportedly, cost over 10 million Korean won (approximately RM27,400). This is evident through the brands that she wore, which include the likes of Chanel, Nina Ricci, Zimmermann, Givenchy, Gucci, Dior, Miu Miu, Versace, Chloe, and Max Mara. From shoulder pad dresses and double-breasted trenches to capes, silken gloves, and floppy hats, her impeccable styling screams sheer drama.
Yoon Hye-jin from Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021)
Even when she’s no longer living in the city, Yoon Hye-jin from “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” pulls off stylish designer outfits. Serving some major looks in a wide range of dreamy neutrals and pastel tones, she effortlessly cracks the code to look casual-chic at all times. Think puffed-sleeve dresses, white button-downs and long skirts. She doesn’t shy away from bright greens and red shades as well, often adding a pop of colour to her outfits, either through her bag or scarf. Spot brands like Hermes, Roger Vivier, and Alexander McQueen.
Jung Seo-hyun from Mine (2021)
Jung Seo-hyun from “Mine” works as an art gallery director, and as such, her outfits are dripping with elegance. Every episode feels like a fashion runway with her donning every sophisticated piece. Her impeccable executive style looks include avant-garde silk shirts, sleek suits, and dresses from brands like Alexander McQueen, Bottega Veneta, Max Mara, Salvatore Ferragamo, Dior, and Louis Vuitton. To complete her look, bags by Hermès, Cartier, and Burberry made appearances.
Hong Hae-in from Queen of Tears (2024)
As the CEO, Hong Hae-in from “Queen of Tears” is a walking masterclass in power dressing. Picture a closet overflowing with sleek pantsuits and blazers in bold colours, courtesy of brands such as Chanel, Balmain, Alexander McQueen, and Valentino, to stunning jewellery sets from Tiffany & Co. and Chaumet to add a finishing touch of power and elegance. Her outfits are paired with arm candies from Valentino, Dior and Celine. Every detail is phenomenal, with each piece meticulously tailored to accentuate her confidence.
Baek Ah-jin from Dear X (2025)
Portrayed by the enchanting Kim Yoo-jung, Baek Ah-jin from “Dear X” plays a woman whose confidence and dark psychotic tendencies seem to crystallise through her wardrobe. Structured dresses, razor-sharp tailoring, and sweeping red-carpet gowns from the likes of Balmain, Weekend Max Mara, Fendi, Etro, and Alexander Wang are on display. She dials up the elegance with key accessories and pieces like a Bvlgari top-handle bag, Etro knee-high boots, Fendi sunglasses, Bvlgari’s iconic Serpenti necklace, as well as Fred earrings and necklaces.
