The Rise of Korean Fashion: A Growing Influence in the West

Over recent years, Korean fashion has had a steady rise in prominence, thanks to its unique blend of streetwear, avant-garde designs and focus on ethics. There was a time when if you'd have asked me to name an Asian fashion house, only Yohji Yamamoto would come mind. Now its becoming more of a mainstream phenomenon, with brands like AJO BY AJO, Ader Error, Juun.J and Andersson Bell enjoying their time in the spotlight.

Collaborations with brands such as Puma, Canada Goose (both Juun.J) and Zara (Ader Error) have no doubt been a driving force in this, but another major factor is undoubtedly the rise of K-pop. Korean popstars have become global stars and fans worldwide understandably want to follow the trends set by their idols.

Korean fashion stands out for its ability to merge tradition elements with modern aesthetics. The bold use of colour, oversized and exaggerated silhouettes, and androgynous styles challenge conventional western fashion norms, offering something fresh and exciting. This especially appeals to younger generations who not only want to emulate their K-pop idols, but also express individuality and experiment with new styles.

Also, the rise of social media has amplified Korean fashion's reach. Influencers and fashion bloggers are now frequently showcasing Korean brands, while platforms like Instagram and TikTok provide virtual global runways where the latest trends can be near-instantly shared and adopted.

The west is becoming increasingly conscious sustainability and ethical practices, and the ethos' of alot of Korean brands resonate with this. Korean fashion tends to focus on quality over quantity, promoting a slower, more thoughtful outlook on consumption. It's worth noting too that many Korean brands opt to manufacture in Korea, arguably reducing their carbon footprint in the process while maintaining a level of control over the quality of the product.

It's clear that this is only the beginning for Korean fashion; and I for one couldnt be happier!