South Korea has quickly established itself as a major fashion hub, rivaling cities like Paris and Milan, with its annual Seoul Fashion Week. With a booming fashion industry worth 20 trillion won and the rise of KPop artists and K-drama actors and actresses, Korean fashion has gained immense popularity worldwide. Men, in particular, have taken a keen interest in Korean fashion, drawing inspiration from their favorite idols and actors.
While emulating the Korean fashion style may seem effortless, it actually requires a great deal of effort to look as stylish as the Korean men. From picking the right outfit to finding the perfect shoes, there's a lot to consider. That's why many men prefer to follow the latest Korean fashion trends for guidance.
The Trendiest Clothing Items
Bucket Hats
Once considered a fashion disaster, bucket hats have made a strong comeback in recent years. Many Korean idols and actors have embraced this trend, effortlessly pairing it with casual and streetwear styles. Bucket hats add a touch of edge and flair to any outfit, making them a must-try trend in 2020.
Basic Shirt
When it comes to timeless fashion, nothing beats a basic shirt. Versatile and easy to style, a basic shirt can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Pair it with denim or slacks for a casual date, or tuck it in and add a belt for a more formal look. The possibilities are endless, making it a wardrobe staple.
Polo Shirt
The addition of a collar instantly elevates a polo shirt, making it a go-to option for a smart casual look. Tuck it in and pair it with slacks or denim for a formal ensemble, or dress it down with shorts and sneakers for a more casual vibe. A polo shirt is a versatile item that every man should have in his closet.
Long Sleeves Polo
With the right styling, long sleeves polo can look simultaneously cool and hot. Layer it over a thin sweater or shirt paired with slacks, jeans, or shorts for a casual look. For a more formal outfit, button it up and pair it with a coat and slacks. Long sleeves polo is a simple yet striking fashion statement that will surely impress.
Straight Cut Jeans
Riding the Hallyu fashion wave, straight cut jeans are all the rage. They provide a comfortable and stylish option for a simple Korean outfit. Pair them with graphic tees or any simple tee for a trendy look. Experiment with different styles, such as tattered versions, to add an edgier vibe.
Dark Wash Jeans
For a flawless fit, dark wash jeans are the way to go. They complement any body type and can be styled casually or formally. Pair them with a graphic tee and sneakers for a casual look, or dress them up with a long-sleeve polo, tuck, and a belt for a more refined ensemble. Dark wash jeans are a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
Slacks and Trousers
Slacks and trousers are essential pieces that can be worn on a wide range of occasions. Whether you're going for a casual, smart casual, or professional look, slacks and trousers have got you covered. Pair them with a plain white shirt, graphic tee, or a knitted sweater, and finish off the look with sneakers or loafers.
Leather Jackets
A classic and timeless item, leather jackets are a must-have for every man. They add a cool and stylish touch to any outfit and can be worn during fall and winter. Layer a leather jacket over a white shirt and pair it with dark denim pants and boots for a chic look. Take inspiration from KPop idols for different ways to wear a leather jacket.
Puffer Jackets
Practical and stylish, puffer jackets have seen a huge boom in popularity. They provide warmth and comfort, making them perfect for winter. Dress them down with a casual outfit or dress them up with formal wear. Oversized and color block styles are currently trending, adding an extra element of style to this winter essential.
Trench Coat
The trench coat has evolved into one of the most iconic South Korean fashion pieces. It adds an air of sophistication to any attire and showcases the male profile. Whether you're attending a premiere or going about your daily life, a trench coat is a stylish choice that will make you feel like the protagonist of your own life drama.
Loafers
Loafers are essential wardrobe pieces that add sophistication and edge to any outfit. While not categorized as formal shoes, they can impressively complement a coat and tie ensemble. Loafers strike the perfect balance between formal and casual, making them a versatile option for various occasions.
The Trendiest Patterns and Styles
Monochrome
Dressing in one hue from head to toe is undeniably cool and effortlessly chic. The monochrome trend dominates the Korean fashion scene, combining neutrals and denims to create stylish looks. Experiment with different shades and tints within the same color family, and play with textures to add variety to your outfit.
Oversized Shirts and Jackets
Oversized clothing exudes a cool and casual vibe, reminiscent of the '90s grunge era. Pair oversized shirts and jackets with slimmer or skinnier bottoms to balance the look. Tucking in or partially tucking the oversized garment adds further style. This trend is perfect for those who want to make a statement and showcase their confidence.
Stripes
Stripes are a favorite pattern in Korean fashion, worn by both men and women. Mix stripes with solid colors and textures to create a harmonious and relaxed outfit. For a classic stripe look, opt for a black and white striped polo shirt paired with black skinny jeans or shorts. Complete the look with a baseball cap or a denim jacket.
Multiple Layered Clothing
Layering is a sustainable and chic style that allows you to create new looks from your existing wardrobe. Experiment with different combinations to find a style that suits you. Start with lighter materials and work your way out to create balanced and proportional layers. Layer a jacket over a long-sleeve polo or a mid-thigh coat, and pair it with shorts, long socks, and black shoes for a statement look.
Rich Business Man Look
The rich business man look exudes confidence, class, and refinement. Keep the color palette neutral, and opt for a plain wool shirt, plaid pants, and an iconic coat. Complete the look with a designer bag and stylish sunglasses. This ensemble will turn heads and make you feel like a protagonist in your own life drama.
Half-Tucked Shirt
A simple half tuck can instantly elevate a shirt and add edge to your outfit. Experiment with different styles and pair a half-tucked shirt with long sleeve polos, black slacks, loafers, or casual bottoms. This style is perfect for those who want to achieve a casual streetwear look or add a touch of sophistication to their attire.
Athleisure
The athleisure trend combines high fashion pieces with casual athletic wear for a comfortable yet stylish look. Strike a balance between gym-ready pieces and more refined items to make the athleisure style your own. This trend is gender-neutral and suitable for anyone who wants to look effortlessly chic.
The Logo Craze
Logos have become increasingly bolder and more prominent in Korean street fashion. Brands like Gucci, Chanel, and Supreme are popular choices among fashion enthusiasts. To style logos successfully, focus on showcasing one brand at a time and keep the rest of your outfit minimal. Consider incorporating printed scarves for a more subtle approach.
Ripped Denim
Ripped denim continues to be a popular trend, adding a touch of edge and versatility to any outfit. Balance is key when styling ripped denims. Pair them with refined-looking tops or go all out with ripped denim on ripped denim. Experiment with different tear sizes and find a style that suits you.
Neon
Neon colors have become a popular choice in Korean fashion, adding vibrancy and excitement to outfits. Embrace bursts of neon colors and make a statement. Pair neon pieces with relatively simple outfits to make them stand out. Confidence is key when rocking this bold trend.
Mix & Match
The mix and match trend allows for complete creative freedom. There are no rules when it comes to combining different pieces and experimenting with new looks. Anything goes with this trend, making it perfect for those who want to break free from fashion conventions and make a unique statement.
The Loud Colors
Korean fashion has always been unapologetic when it comes to experimenting with bold colors. Embrace vivid and bright hues like brilliant greens, light blues, and bright reds. The key to successfully wearing loud colors is to balance the intensity and combination of colors. Consider your skin tone and hair color when choosing colors that complement your overall look.
Don't be afraid to try new trends and infuse them with your own style. Fashion is about expressing yourself and boosting your confidence. Have fun, experiment, and create unique looks that reflect your individuality. Keep up with the latest Korean men fashion trends, and level up your style in 2020!
