What comes to mind when you hear ‘K-Fashion’? Perhaps you think of pastel-toned feminine styles or minamilist chic. However, did you know that streetwear is popular in Korea? In fact, Korea has such diverse style, the nation has become a fashion capital in its own right. Walk the streets of Hongdae or other university districts and you’ll see so many people dressing their own personal style. Here’s the 4-11 on Korean streetwear trends.
Korean Streetwear and Alternative Fashion
Alternative fashion describes fashion that is set apart from mainstream trends, typically representing subcultures like punk, goth, retro and hip-hop. Would you define ‘street’ as mainstream? Especially now that it is such a popular trend? In Korea, these fashion subcultures are often thrust into the spotlight when prominent public figures, like K-Pop idols, are seen wearing them. Alternative Fashion is becoming the new mainstream!
Nonetheless, these 3 brands stand alone in their commitment to alternative fashion. They may unabashedly print controversial images or phrases on their clothing or cling religiously to their use of dark tones. However, whether you like it or not, it is a way for folk to express themselves through their clothing, which is extremely liberating. Let’s take a look.
dydoshop
The epitome of Korean streetwear, this online shop specializes in striking prints, reminiscent of artwork. Dydoshop pieces are all designed to make a statement. However, the clothing is also extremely wearable and functional for everyday use. If you’re looking to turn heads, this is the place to go.
Dydoshop is a popular brand with prominent influencers and YouTubers and even BLACKPINK’s Jennie. Anyone with an eye for street fashion cannot deny the unique flare of dydoshop clothing. Some of their representative items are their mockneck-and-arm warmer set, double-layered off-shoulder top and mockneck top. Dydoshop’s creations seem to stand above all others in the Korean street fashion industry. However, if some of their designs are too out-there, they have a collection of simple print tube tops, still with the dydoshop flare of course.
Whether you’re looking to dress up or down, you’re sure to find at least one closet favourite from dydoshop. Find that perfect holographic bag or pearl chain. Add some refreshing new style or colours into your wardrobe!
GODASHIN
Another online street clothing brand, GODASHIN’s signature is comfy, dress-down items such as sweatshirts, joggers and t-shirts, all in monochrome. Their USP? Quirky greyscale designs. I personally love their t-shirt image of a plush cat doll holding a knife, alongside the caption “don’t hate black cats.” Interestingly, GODASHIN founder has a black cat of her own that she loves, which clearly carries over into her creations.
Even more unique, GODASHIN sells non-fashion merchandise too, like AirPods, phone cases, stationery, mugs and even a candle with the image of the signature black cat. Additionally, GODASHIN’s designs are personal creations of the founder. Individuality is a key driver of their work. While GODASHIN has a dark vibe at first glance, there are many adorable hidden gems to be found. If you like this kind of vibe — or love black cats — this is the brand for you.
Though Godashin has a darker vibe at first glance – and there are a lot of pieces that push it prominently further – there are also adorable items to be found within the offerings, and even plain, normal ones suitable for everyday usage.
If you like this vibe – and if you love black cats, search no longer – this is the brand for you.
604service
Probably the most ‘out-there’ brand featured on this list, 604service is everything you think of when you hear ‘alternative.’ Offering all manner of unique items, such as netted coverings and clothes made of colored velvet, the image 604service presents of itself isn’t exactly one of everyday wear. However, everyone in the fashion industry is taking notice all the same. Perhaps it is because their items are just so unique. They’re not for everyone, but they’ve got an audience and know how to keep them.
For more mainstream tastes, 604service also offers comfy clothes such as t-shirts and hoodies with their signature avant-garde art prints on it. However, even these items have their signature darkness on it. Prints include a moody rendering of photos of tattooed people, abstract montages and childlike scribbles.
604service is definitely a standout in the industry and is leading the pack away from the mainstream styles everyone wears. Try it out if you’re fair game – fashion is all about experimentation, after all.
Click Here to read about the brand behind the ‘My Cat is a Rockstar & I’m the manager’ ball caps seen all around Korea.
