With the continued interest of the Korean public in Street Girls’ Fighter a set of trends has sprung up inspired by the series. The series depicts hip-hop dancers who have eccentric Y2K-inspired styles. However, among the many trends, none are as bizarre and captivating as tooth gems.
Origins
Small, sparkly tooth gems are considered part of the Y2K trend in Korea. The trend is inspired by early 2000s fashion. It is full of all things shiny and cute. As a result, tooth gems come in a variety of different charms. Popular ones include tiny hearts, stars, and butterflies. Furthermore, shapes can also be made by arranging smaller gems together. Song Hee-soo’s signature look features a sparkly cherry on one of her canines.
Some of the people at the very forefront of the trend in Korea are Turns member and Street Girls’ Fighter contestant Song Hee-soo, LaChica members Rian and Gabee, as well as internationally recognized high fashion model Bae Yoonyoung.
However, tooth gems were originally made popular overseas by celebrities and Gen Z teenagers. Many compare them to the grills worn by rappers and hip-hop artists in the west. However, tooth gems are a more accessible form of self-expression than grills. They are a fun, albeit a less commitment-heavy form of self-modification.
Where to Get Your Own Tooth Gems
Here are some of the well-known tooth gem artists catching the wave and rising with the trend. They provide this relatively obscure service to the Korean public.
Toothgem Bana
Located in Hongdae, Toothgem Bana has become the most popular tooth gem artist in the country. They gained popularity after designing Song Hee-soo’s iconic cherry jewel-encrusted smile.
Additionally, having trained under a professional dentist, they promise a safe and painless experience. They have a large selection of gems and stones to choose from. So, you can be sure to find something that matches your own style.
Bana’s Instagram page is full of their prior work done, as well as review shots from satisfied customers. One look at the unique and personality-filled designs on their page would entice anyone to try out this trend.
Attica Toothgem
Another frontrunner in this niche market is Attica Toothgem. They run a studio based in Itaewon. Attica has a wonderfully curated Instagram page. It features colorful, conceptual graphics alongside pictures of their work done. It is extremely tasteful accentuating the alternative styles and the diversity of their clients.
Their customers aren’t afraid to ask them to take it to the next level either! Many of their Instagram pictures feature breathtaking designs that could only have come from the hands of a true pro.
Disclaimer
Some dentists advise against tooth gems. It may be erosive to the enamel. Plus, if the gems are not applied by an expert using the correct glue, the gems can damage your teeth. However, many other dentists say that it is relatively safe with the proper materials and adhesives – proceed at your own risk.
Are you looking for more Y2K inspired Korean trends? Click Here to learn about two trail blazing brands leading Korean early 2000s trends
