Is Seoul, Korea The New Fashion Capital?

Paris. London. New York. Milan. All of these great cities have been dubbed the Fashion capitals of the world at some point throughout history. Possibly because they birthed some of the most renowned designers, brands or trends.

Yet who knew that beyond the chic stance of the French or the sharp bespoke tailoring of the Italians, was an effortless swag possessed in the Far East by Seoulites.

Long story short, I wanted a change from London, picked up my crap and moved to Seoul, South Korea. I’m exploring some would say. Potential early mid life crisis in the opinion of others…Personally, It’s still up for debate. It’s week three and after getting to grips with a new language, culture and food, there are something’s I’ve missed about home; Fashion week and the events surrounding it being one of them.

I missed London fashion period. Until I started to really observe and take in what was going on around me. Who was wearing what and why?

With a biased and slightly elitist outlook on style, I’ve never really looked towards Korea for anything other than skincare and K rap.

Granted, the majority of the Asians at my university had this clean, minimalist approach towards dressing. I assumed it was down to their enthusiasm for the industry. The obnoxious Westerner in me never twigged that they might actually have a better handle on uncomplicated swag than we do.

Forgive me, because I know, there’s hundreds of a dope Asian designers out there. But I’m talking about everyday, off to work, your commute on a night out type swag. Style is very much present here in Seoul with 90’s street wear and logo-ridden monochrome being worn by all, and not just those in the fashion pack.

You don’t have to look too far to find at least 10 people wearing the same clean-cut box blouse. Did I mention trend culture was big here? In one day and out the next, so keep up! It is ridiculously easy to find clothes in Korea, and it seems that while they have their own selection of top designers, the phrase fast fashion here is an understatement.

Layers and logos seems to be what’s hot. What’s more, it is the seemingly effortless art of looking good without trying that gets me. It is easier to spot those who are unfashionable than those trying to make a fashion statement.

From the ajummas (old ladies) down to the toddlers, Koreans got the West beat. Upon further research, Seoul does have a fashion week. I’ll continue to watch and learn. Get ready world, Seoul’s coming for you.

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