K-beauty is an ever-evolving scene of breakthroughs and improvements. The sheer number of options to choose from, plus ever-changing trends, can make it hard to know where to start in building a skincare collection suitable for the season. Here are our picks for the best in K-beauty’s top current trends: technological gadgets for optimal product application and clean, safe ingredients.

New beauty gadgets for winter 2017

1. Tok Stick

KRW 75,000, blog.naver.com/beuon

Tok Stick offers a new take on the derma rolling trend with an innovative design, featuring ultra-thin, hollow point, gold-plated needles that more effectively deliver nourishing ingredients directly into the skin. The ability to load the Toc Stick with your favorite ampoules and serums make it extremely versatile and personalized. Pack this into your suitcase for the ideal skincare travel companion this season.

2. Ray:Dear

KRW 120,000, raydear.com

Ray:Dear is a local Korean brand that has put the benefits of LED thermal light therapy into an incredibly convenient, small device for at-home use. A firm fixture at K-Beauty expos in 2017 and incredibly popular with make-up influencers in-the-know, this tiny light therapy device claims to minimize fine lines and wrinkles through low-level LED therapy. It’s the perfect pick me up for dull, winter skin.

3. Royal Skin Mask

KRW 4,000, royalskin.com

The Royal Skin Real Mask Series make a small but crucial improvement on your basic paste mask. By simply encasing the paste in a double layer of sheet-mask material, the product remains ultra moist, and cleanup is as easy as removing the mask. A particular beauty-blogger favorite is the Natural Boryeong Mud Powder Real Mud Mask. The simple solution gives all the benefits of a real mud mask, without the messy removal process – perfect for a winter-evening pampering session!

4. Etete Cutie Stamp Set by Clean Green

KRW 55,000, urains.com

Beauty line Etete by emerging brand Clean Green includes an ingenious ampoule delivery system that helps keeps each skincare product application airtight and free from oxidation. A large stamp-like sponge is loaded with individual, unopened cartridges of the Etete ampoule solution, so that each use is as effective as a newly opened bottle. Genius!

Breakthroughs in simple, safe ingredients 

5. Wishformula Night Night 365 Sea Water Sleeping Pad Mask

KRW 28,000, wishformula.co.kr

Wishformula is a quirky Korean brand increasingly known for its use of naturally fermented ingredients. This Night Night 365 Seawater Sleeping Pad Mask helps the skin to retain every ounce of moisture, while also plumping with concentrated sea water, collagen, hyaluronic acid and macadamia oil to soothe.

6. Leegeehaam Hyal B5 Ampoule

KRW 28,000, lghmall.co.kr

Leegeehaam is the original skincare line formulated by Korea’s first ever certified dermatologist, Lee Ji Hamm. The brand is formulated free of parabens, silicones, colorants, alcohol or mineral oils, and this new Hyal B5 Ampoule utilizes five separate types of hyaluronic acids to thoroughly penetrate and hydrate parched skin. The product is also packed with vitamin B5 to moisturize, heal and protect.

7. Purito Seabuckthorn 70 Cream

KRW 18,000, purito.co.kr

Carefully following the EWG (Environmental Workers Group) ingredient safety scale and only incorporating ingredients branded level one or two, Purito ensures its products are both safe for the skin and for the environment. This Seabuckthorn Vital 70 Cream is formulated with 70 percent Seabuckthorn extract (a berry rich in vitamin C) as well as orange peel and macadamia seed oils for maximum moisture and enrichment this winter.

8. A.by Bom Ultimate Time Return Eye Serum

KRW 28,000, abybomcos.com/kor

A.by Bom began making waves in the K-beauty scene with their cute sheet-masks, but have gradually expanded their product line-up to include a range of items boasting simple, clean, and effective ingredients. This Ultimate Time Return Eye Serum utilizes pharmaceutical-grade ingredients as well as green tea and aloe vera extracts from the jewel of Korea, Jeju Island. The resulting formula is a mixture between a serum, oil and a gel that thoroughly douses the eye area with intense moisture on cold, dry days.

9. BLITHE Golden Apricot Pressed Serum

KRW 39,000, myblithe.com

Blithe is a well-loved brand in Korea that has always been proud of its paraben, synthetic dye and fragrance-free formulation. The Gold Apricot Pressed Serum is the latest in their line of highly concentrated, slow-cooled fermented serums, and is infused with 31 percent apricot extract, a blend of powerhouse antioxidants and turmeric to soothe while protecting delicate skin.

Written by Dot Moore

While most have heard of the big names in Korean streetwear – Nohant, KYE, SJYP and Hyein Seo to name a few – it is harder to keep up with the plethora of smaller brands regularly appearing (and disappearing) in the local scene. The street fashion industry globally is fierce, and Seoul is no exception. Across the Peninsula, there is an ocean of local designers incorporating hip-hop, skate culture and Japanese style, and fighting to establish themselves in the market.

We’ve picked out a few of the coolest underground names to keep your eye out for in Seoul and beyond.

Nylon Cross Bag in Olive, KRW 58,000, Mischief

Mischief

In an industry largely targeted towards male consumers, Mischief was one of the first Korean streetwear brands to actively promote streetwear for women. Founded in 2010 and offering collections along a “vintage casual athletic” feel, Mischief has accumulated an impressive global following, with big names in global fashion media, such as Highsnobiety touting the brand. Directors Jieun Seo and Jiyoon Jun are irrefutable cool kids on the block, heading regular collaborations with other popular names in Korean underground music and art, including IAB Studio and 360 Sounds.

instagram: @mischiefmakers | www.mischief.co.kr

ACID Tee in Orange, KRW 38,000, The Internatiiional

The Internatiiional

The newest brand on this list, The Internatiiional officially launched earlier in 2017, after a launch party at Euljiro hot-spot Clique Records. The brainchild of two local graphic designers and a DJ – who met while collaborating for the dance-party-crew YMEA in Seoul – the brand understandably targets themselves towards party-goers and those in the underground music scene. The Internatiiional’s trademark “Welcome to Acid House” t-shirt, available in a variety of neon colors, can already be spotted on the Instagram accounts of musical influencers both at home and abroad, and the brand regularly collaborates with local producers and DJs for events in Seoul.

instagram: @theinternatiiional | www.the-intl.net

Square Quilting MA-1 Jacket in Yellow, KRW 159,000, Brown Peanut

Brown Peanut

Cute brand name aside, Brown Peanut describe themselves as by and for “skaters, punks and hip-hop heads”. Their newest collection sees a variety of sweatpants, quilted bombers and beanies for the winter season, all at affordable prices. Launching in 2016 with a selection of dark-toned, understated staples, Brown Peanut’s 2017 collections see a more youthful and lighthearted approach, with a playful lookbook peppered with checked skater shorts and brightly-colored branded tees.

instagram: @brownpeanutofficial | www.brownpeanut.com

Velvet BDRM Baseball Cap in Yellow, KRW 38,000, Badroom

Badroom

New kids on the block Badroom launched in the fall of 2016, with a collection of casual hoodies, long-sleeved tees and overalls for men in muted tones. With bravely emblazoned NSFW slogans making the brand’s pieces instantly recognizable, director Hui-Gyeong Ju says he hopes to encompass “youth and weirdness” and offer a fashion statement for those “outside of the norm”. Badroom’s 2017 collections saw an expansion into womenswear, with lookbooks scattered with retro crop-tops and oversized unisex t-shirts with a distinctly tropic feel.

instagram: @badroom_official | www.badroom.co.kr

LMC EMB Sweatpants in Red, KRW 89,000, Lost Management Cities / Layer

LMC

A favorite among other local brand designers, Lost Management Cities is owned and operated by Korean streetwear giant Layer, and was launched in 2015 as sister-brand to Liful. Taking a new global city each season as inspiration, LMC produce contemporary and simplistic designs for both men and women. With a military influence running through recent lookbooks, we recommend a heavy-duty knit jumper from the Fall/Winter 17 collection as the perfect addition to your cold-weather wardrobe. LMC is available at Layer online and flagship Seoul stores.

instagram: @lostmanagementcities | www.lostmanagementcities.com

Half Zip-Up Anorak Jacket in Red, KRW 59,500, Royallife

Royallife

It’s not just Seoul coming through with awesome streetwear-newly-launched Royallife is fast becoming a favorite with the hipster crowds in Busan. Headed by ex-director of Generalworks, Seongjin Park, Royallife offers a selection of outerwear and accessory designs with a clean-cut, retro vibe. Choose from block colors and simple styles for no-nonsense items bound to become staples in your casual closet. Available online or at LAKickz in Hongdae.

instagram: @royallife_crew | www.royallifecrew.com

Written by Rhiannon Shepherd

Sandra Meynier-Kang, Seoul’s first foreign, sustainable fashion CEO, talks brand priorities, dancewear, and Marilyn Manson

Having majored in fashion in Paris, Sandra Meynier-Kang originally came to Seoul in 2008 on a temporary trip. Unexpectedly, she “fell in love with the city”, and returned in 2010, this time to live.
Meynier-Kang’s first foray into the fashion industry in Korea was as marketing manager for local brands PLAC Jeans and Cres E. Dim. She was selected as a finalist in the popular Korean television program “Top Designer” in 2012 and went on to launch her own ready-to-wear fashion label, SMK, in 2014. She has been consolidating the sustainable and ethical forces that drive the brand ever since.
“I wanted to make the SMK brand in a way that respected the human, animal and natural world. Although we as fashion designers may not be able to do this perfectly yet, I am determined to keep experimenting; to keep trying new techniques. Everything I do comes back to this same philosophy. If I can’t stick to it, I’d rather quit.”

Four priorities

SMK now operates under four, distinct brand priorities: animal protection, local and ethical production, eco-friendly and innovative textiles, and charitable donations. Five percent of the brand’s profits from each season go to Korean animal charity CARE.
Meynier-Kang oversees the entire manufacturing process of each product, from design, to production, to sales. All of her items are produced in Seoul at ethically certified factories and ateliers. “The important thing is that I want to see who is making my clothes,” she says. “I want to go there, to know the people, to bring them some biscuits. I want to keep my eye on the whole process.”
Even SMK’s packaging is sustainable; Meynier-Kang and her staff sew together thick pages from past look-books to create bags for the clothes, while pouches for smaller items are made from leftover fabric.
In the past, Meynier-Kang gained inspiration for her thematic, seasonal collections from a wide range of things. The SS17 collection saw a selection of animal-print pieces under the theme “Speciesism” – a collaboration with Seoul’s pet photography studio, Thank You Studio – while SMK’s FW15–16 collection was inspired by Marilyn Manson’s album “Mechanical Animals.”
“I once made a coat for Marilyn Manson,” Meynier-Kang laughs. “He was such a big inspiration to me growing up.”

Move to dancewear

These days, Meynier-Kang has moved on from thematic collections, and instead dedicated the brand to another of her long-term passions: dancewear. Starting this year, SMK’s focus has shifted toward jumpsuits, leggings, bralettes and leotards in demure and classic tones, and all created sustainably.
“Dancewear allows me to be far more interactive with my customers,” she says. “They wear my pieces to dance or work out in, and they come back and tell me what they loved, or didn’t love.”
“I really enjoy creating dancewear. I realized this route was the perfect fit for me, when I truly found myself having fun.”
As Korea’s fashion industry continues to find its feet in a highly-competitive global market, Meynier-Kang’s eco-friendly fashion expertise is proving in high-demand. “I’m planning to branch out into eco and innovative textile consulting next year,” she says. “There are lots of European brands who wish to source their ethical materials in Korea, and lots of Korean brands in Seoul who wish to make themselves more sustainable. I hope to help them achieve that.”

More Info.
www.sandrameynierkang.com

Written by Rhiannon Shepherd

If there’s one word that keeps cropping up in conversations on global fashion trends, it is ‘Korea’. When it comes to setting the world-stage for innovative fashion, Seoul is helping lead the pack. In recent years, the bustling metropolis has joined the ranks of such cities as Milan, New York, and Paris, and each season, the buzz around Seoul Fashion Week continues to grow.
This month sees the much-anticipated Seoul Fashion Week SS 2018 take place once again at the DDP, with both well and lesser-known names in the industry setting the scene this season for what’s to come. For fashion-followers lucky enough to have front row seats to the shows, there is sure to be an array of amazing local talents to enjoy. For those of us not so lucky, here’s a round-up of what to expect.

“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.”
– Rachel Zoe 

Nasty Habit

Launched in 2012, Nasty Habit is a label known for its quirky mixing of textiles and unique concept ideas. Designer Greem Byun, who graduated in Textile Art and Fashion Design from Hongik University, experiments with concepts of high-fashion, along what it means to be ‘nasty’, and the result is a menagerie of eccentric, fun, and unbalanced pattern designs. Pulling inspiration from such materials as Trainspotting and Alice in Wonderland, this brand’s fresh perspective on uniquely wearable collections is sure to catch the attention of influencers and fashionistas alike. With last season’s collection including layers of faux fur and tartan, we’re looking forward to seeing what new combinations are in store this time.

Chaos From Undermind

Among the labels to watch this season is Chaos From Undermind, a temporary menswear label run by the visionary Young Jae Cho. Known for its unabashedly edgy, dark vibe, this label has pushed the envelope in previous seasons. Indeed, one past SFW saw models ushered down the runway adorned with realistic cuts and bruises – as if sporting fresh battle wounds from a Black Rebel Motorcycle Club concert gone array. Incorporating asymmetry, leather, an abundance of straps, and oversized silhouettes, this brand is truly reminiscent of a longed-for, 90s ‘goth kid’ ideal.

YCH

With a ‘unique understanding of the strength in femininity’, designer Yoon Chun Ho of YCH has been a growing favorite in past seasons at Seoul Fashion Week. YCH at once embodies contemporary, current trends, while invoking an aristocratic fashion-feel of past ages. Playing with silhouettes, and mixing cascading layers with extravagantly designed sheer overlays, each of Yoon’s pieces sway between modern, punk design, and a bygone era of elegance.

“Jewelry is like the perfect spice – it always compliments what’s already there.”
– Diane Von Furstenberg

Studio 1064

Accessories can make-or-break a look, and no Korean brand arguably knows this better, than Studio 1064. Encapsulating the idea that jewelry can bring harmony to an outfit, designer Noh Sodam uses delicate craftsmanship combined with innovative design and fine materials, to create pieces of almost ethereal quality.
The studio’s name is derived from the exact temperature – 1064 degrees Celsius – at which gold melts, and epitomizes the brands ability to hit the mark of perfection, without excess. One stand-out collection is ‘Movement of the Light’; a selection of pieces that would look at home in MoMA, New York.

DE LA LUNE

Mixing high-end jewelry with a streetwear feel, brand DE LA LUNE embodies a new standard in feminine fashion. Designers Park Mi-young and Song Seung-hyun make it their mission to keep DE LA LUNE at the cusp of breaking new trends in the world of fashion accessories.
Effortlessly layered to drench wearers in finely tuned pieces, or worn as stand-alone touches of glimmer, DE LA LUNE’s earrings and neck pieces could easily be imagined on the likes of FKA Twigs or Grimes. With minimalist designs and a keen eye for exceptional materials, DE LA LUNE is definitely a brand to watch out for this time around at Seoul Fashion Week.

More Info.
Seoul Fashion Week FW17
October 16th – 21st 2017, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul
www.seoufashionweek.org

Written by Dot Moore

Seoul is well known for its plethora of quirky animal cafés, but these days “one-stop shops” are making waves in locales that actually have some style. Seoul’s dog, cat, raccoon, sheep and Hello Kitty cafés may have offered novelty Instagram opportunities, but were not necessarily known for serving up much in the way of flavor.
“One-stop shops,” however, offer everything you’d find in a fashionable clothing, accessory, or cosmetics store, but with an added twist. Whether it be an adjacent café, restaurant or art exhibition, these shops are the perfect solution for those days when a simple shopping spree is just not enough.
While these stylish cross-over stores are popping up all over Korea, they are best visited in the capital. Seoul’s retailer game is strong. Ditch the meerkats and venture through Myeong-dong, Hannam-dong and Garosu-gil for our first picks in this fantastic new trend.

MYEONGDONG

Style Nanda Pink Hotel & Pink Pool Café
Style Nanda’s new flagship store is called the “Pink Hotel.” Eccentrically reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel, each floor is styled like a different part of an actual hotel. This multi-level store has it all – and for a good price.  While clothing tends to be “free size,” there are a variety of sizing options for jeans and shoes. Accessories and make-up are plentiful, with Style Nanda’s 3CE line of cosmetics located on the first and second floors. The store designers have missed no details in this pink, gold, luxurious location, from the artistic hotel key display in the lobby to the wacky, tiled vibe of the coffee shop. The Pink Pool Café offers an extensive menu of espresso-based beverages, hot-chocolates, milkshakes, fresh fruit and vegetable juices, ades and teas, as well as a signature collection of slushies topped with colorful cotton candy.

37-8, Myeongdong 8-gil, Jung-gu | 02-752-4546 | Monday–Sunday ,11 a.m.–11 p.m.

Innisfree & Green Café

Beyond the massive ground floor of natural beauty products from “the Hawaii of Korea,” Jeju Island, you’ll find the second and third floor of this impressive store dedicated to the Green Café. Lush, green shrubbery adorns the walls and tables, while the combination of green tones and wooden furniture makes one feel like they’re dining in a forest, rather than one of the most saturated parts of the city. Go for the sheet masks, stay for the healthy eats. The Green Café offers natural juices and layered salads as well as sweet Jeju treats like green tea bingsu (and tiramisu) and volcanic rock bread. Bonus(es): The store also boasts a Virtual Reality Experience, and the fourth floor is a handy space for travelers to leave luggage for the day. If you need a break from flashing lights, beckoning retailers and greasy street food, this is the place to go.

13, Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu | 02-776-0117 | Monday–Sunday, 9 a.m.–11 p.m.

GAROSUGIL

Gentle Monster

The Gentle Monster store in Garosugil (alongside the ones also in Gangnam, Bukchon, Busan and Daegu) is like its very own art gallery. Each location of the sunglasses shop, known for its quirky and colorful styles in metallic and acetate, has its own artistic concept. Whether or not you’re not in the market for a pair of designer sunnies (styles vary in price but average around KRW 250,000), the shops themselves are works of art and well worth a visit. Snap a selfie with curved wooden walls and dynamic, modern sculptures supporting the accessory styles.

23, Apgujeong-ro 10-gil, Gangnam-gu | 070-5080-0196 | Monday–Sunday, 12 p.m.–9 p.m.

Skinfood & Skinfood Café

While Skinfood may sound like something straight out of “Hannibal,” the brand actually offers a delightful selection of plush cosmetics and skincare, with store interiors themed along seasonal scents. Skinfood brands itself as “the first cosmetic brand to root itself in food.” This store-cum-café offers a place to shop for skincare, alongside a coffee shop well aligned with the brand vision. The café is also a surprisingly more affordable alternative to many of the surrounding eateries in the glitzy Garosugil neighborhood. What’s more – the food is good! Think tons of avocado and real red velvet cake.

37 Apgujeong-ro 12-gil, Gangnam-gu | 070-8668-4191 | Monday–Sunday, 11a.m.–10 p.m.

HANNAMDONG

Theory

Theory is American brand of men’s and women’s sophisticated styles. Seoul now joins Paris, London, Tokyo, Shanghai and Hong Kong with its own pop up Theory shop in Hannam-dong. Styled as a giant shipping container, the shop itself offers a variety of basic, tailored pieces for the urban professional. As simple as their apparel, the location also offers a peaceful garden café. Enjoy your java on their AstroTurf in the back-yard where, if you’re lucky, you may also catch a movie showing. As the brand states, “We’re popping up in Seoul: Visit our new concept store to shop the latest collection and chill out with a cup of coffee on our outdoor patio.”

255, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu | 02-544-0065 | Monday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

Written by Kate Carter Hickey Instagram: @torontoseoulcialite

The summer weather in Korea can be a nightmare for skin troubles. Battling the sweltering heat during the most humid months of July and August, many Seoul expats find their skin woes to be at their worst. Adding a few essentials to your summer skincare routine, however, can make a big difference. More important at this time of year are lotions and potions that will help calm, heal, balance and protect.

Luckily, Korean skincare systems rarely disappoint, and cropping up on cosmetic shelves the peninsula over are new and innovative ingredients designed to combat and control skin that suffers during the summertime. In addition, the vast range of sunscreen types available in Korea offer a convenient solution for maintaining all day protection for any skin type.

Charlotte Cho, cofounder of Soko Glam (www.sokoglam.com) and editor-in-chief of The Klog (www.theklog.co) says, “I’m obsessed with all the latest sun care coming out of Korea. There is always something new and interesting happening, so there is never a dull moment with K-beauty!”

We take a look at some of the top beauty picks for your skin this summer.

Sunscreen

As your first and best line of defense against damaging UVA/UVB rays, sunscreen takes absolute priority during these sun-soaked months. Finding a formula that has the highest amount of protection without causing breakouts and clogging your pores, however, can be a challenge. Many new sunscreens are formulated with ultra-moisturizing yet light ingredients for optimum levels of hydration, helping ensure a supple and clear complexion.

1. Make p:rem Blue Ray Sun Gel SPF 50/PA+++, a mattifying gel, is formulated with chia seed extract for moisture and contains Niacinamide which doubles as a skin brightener. Its formula is unique in that it also, literally, cools the skin’s temperature by several degrees!
2. Huxley Secret of Sahara: Sun Safe Cream SPF 50/PA++++ offers the highest protection with added moisture from prickly pear seed oil. As a bonus, this product is certified “green” by the environmental workers group (www.ewg.org).
3. Aromatica Calendula Non-Nano UV Protection SPF 30/PA+++ is a hypoallergenic/organic formula infused with calendula, green tea, coconut oil and shea butter. Ideal for sensitive skin, it’s even safe for children and pregnant women.

After-sun

Should your skin find itself suffering after a little too much time in the sun, try one of many new products focused on helping calm and heal irritated skin.

4. Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream is formulated with guaiazulene. derived from chamomile oil and Centella asiatica, which calms and hydrates red and irritated skin.
5. Dr.Jart Cicapair Re-Cover is a mint-toned cream that helps to calm skin with traditional tiger grass (Centella asiatica) and acts as a color-correcting light BB cream to neutralize redness.
6. Holika Holika Aloe 99% Soothing Gel is your skin’s best friend, should you accidentally find yourself cooked like a lobster this summer. A crowd favorite, this product contains 99 percent fermented aloe vera juice as well as extracts from watermelon, cucumber and ever-popular Centella asiatica.

Moisture

Although it may seem counterintuitive to apply extra lotion to your face during this humid heat, it is actually vital to keep your skin moisturized during a heat wave. The key is to identify ingredients that plump and hydrate without clogging pores. For this reason, many Korean and global brands are turning to alternative sources of hydration, rather than the usual “filler” ingredient, water. Charlotte Cho says, “I am all about products containing birch juice, which is one of the most hydrating ingredients and often replaces water in formulation. Water does not provide the level of nutrients, amino acids and hydration that birch juice can bring, which is why a lot of Korean products are starting to use birch juice instead.”

7. Cosrx Oil-free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion made from 70 percent birch sap calms and hydrates acne-prone skin without clogging pores
8. Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil Essence’s primary ingredient is prickly pear seed oil, which is high in linoleic acid and also contains ingredients such as yerba mate leaf, quinoa and camu camu. It absorbs quickly into the skin with no greasy film.
9. Erborian Seve de Bamboo Eye Matte utilizes bamboo sap to hydrate the delicate eye area as well as bamboo fibers to lock in moisture while creating a matte finish
10. Olivarrier Fluid Oil contains 100 percent squalene derived from only the highest potency olives, to mimic the skin’s natural barrier. Squalene is an ingredient tipped to be big over the coming months in Korean skincare.

Anti-blemish

If you do still find yourself burdened by the occasion blemish or acne prone skin, K-beauty also has you covered.

11. A’pieu Cica Clear Spot Patch are hydrocolloid patches that soak up moisture and oil to speed up the healing process, while protecting delicate skin during a breakout
12. Medicube Red Serum Plus is a powerhouse cocktail of acne-fighting ingredients! Formulated with colloidal sulfur and ovalicin to help control sebum production as well as ingredients such as salicylic acid and 19 botanical extracts to further combat acne.
13. Mizon Acence Blemish Out Pink Spot contains both a calamine-based, dual-layered solution for calming and another layer of AHA/BHA-infused liquid to slough away blackheads and dead skin cells.

More Info.

1. Make p:rem Blue Ray Sun Gel SPF 50/PA+++ KRW 22,000 | 2. Huxley Secret of Sahara: Sun Safe Cream SPF 50 PA++++ KRW 28,000 | 3. Aromatica Calendula Non-Nano UV Protection SPF 30/PA+++ KRW 22,000 | 4. Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream KRW 21,900 | 5. Dr. Jart Cicapair Re-Cover KRW 42,000 | 6. Holika Holika Aloe 99% Soothing Gel KRW 6,300 | 7. Cosrx Oil-free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion KRW 19,000 | 8. Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil Essence KRW 43,000 |  9. Erborian Seve de Bamboo Eye Matte KRW 36,1000 | 10. Olivarrier Fluid Oil KRW 36,000 | 11. A’pieu Cica Clear Spot Patch KRW 2,800  12. Medicube Red Serum Plus KRW 39,000 | 13. Mizon Acence Blemish Out Pink Spot KRW 18,000

Written by Dot Moore

Written by Zakiyya Latif

The spring-cleaning season is over! So, you’ve scaled down your wardrobe to the pieces you enjoy, wear regularly and that fit your style. You’ve gotten rid of the “donate” and “throw away” piles that have been taking up space in the middle of your floor. Great! Now what?

After decluttering, it’s worth investing in a few staple items to fill the gaps in your closet. The conundrum of the overflowing wardrobe with nothing to wear can easily be avoided with a few simple and well-thought out purchases. Although the temptation might be to maintain variety, resist! Avoid the trap of buying throw-away pieces that won’t be wearable past this season, and instead look for adaptable items that will upgrade your style, making your summer outfits “pop” both this year and the next. The key to keeping your newly-minimalized closet space well-curated is to select clothes and accessories that are simple, classic and, most importantly, versatile.

Lucky for those of us looking to simplify our shopping choices, in response to a growing global demand for fashion with more long-term wearability, a minimal “eco-chic” aesthetic is emerging in both fashion design and home décor. This trend can be seen both in Korea and abroad. Whether plain in color, with neutrals, solids and muted tones over bold colors and loud prints, or minimal in actual number of wardrobe items, minimalist fashion is becoming increasingly popular. Less, in the case of a truly sustainable wardrobe, is most definitely more.

Quality materials such as metal, leather and natural fabrics paired with earth-tones and plant textiles have created a fresh ease in fashion. Modern minimalist design incorporates both organic and architectural shapes, allowing for a wide spectrum of style choices.

Join the many individuals consciously investing in well-made, versatile pieces, as opposed to reaching for fast fashion that appeals to fleeting trends. Keep your daily looks fresh and well put-together with these 5 essential items to add to your de-cluttered summer wardrobe.

Large shoulder bag

For a classic bag that can be worn day or night, look for a simple leather shoulder bag. Canvas or woven shoulder bags offer a more relaxed style, while natural, lightweight fiber bags are perfect for the summer season. Shoulder bags are not just for the beach! Available in a variety of sizes, patterns and shapes, you will most certainly find the perfect eco-bag to match your look.

Bass Bag, KRW 138,00, 4deaworks.com

Oui Rope Bag, USD 20, cherrykoko.com

Mixed metal

Mixing gold, copper, brass and silver jewelry can really update and diversify your look. Choose jewelry that can easily be worn together daily, mixing both metals and designs for a unique flare. Pair thin bangles with thicker rope-twisted bracelets, or a thin gold chain necklace with a thick silver choker. Experiment with different pieces until you find the combination that works best for you.

Chained Collar Necklace, USD 258,  anthropologie.com

Set of Multi-Gold Rings, KRW 54,400, bimbaylola.com

Patterned scarf

Adding a patterned scarf is the perfect way to break up neutral colors in your outfit. Scarves are hugely versatile, and can be styled in an infinite number of ways. Get creative. A square scarf casually wrapped around the neck will give the same outfit a completely different look when tied around the head as a turban. Choose a scarf with colors that contrast but also complement the shades in your wardrobe.

Blue Bird Print Scarf, KRW 86,400, bimbaylola.com

Patterned Scarf, KRW 11,000, hm.com/ko_kr

Casual leather sandals

A stylish sandal is a must-have summer essential. This season, instead of springing for heavily embellished sandals that risk going out of style quickly, invest in well-designed, minimalist leather pair. Pass on the rivets, studs, rhinestones and tassels often quick to loosen, fall off or break. Instead, a sleek and casual mule, slide or espadrille will transition between both day and night time and give you a polished look from head to toe!

Leather Slide Flat Sandals, USD 111, us.asos.com

Slim Lace Up Espadrilles, KRW 31,800, stylenanda.com

Long, breezy, belted jacket

For those days that start off warm and then turn breezy, a thin trench coat, kimono or duster jacket is an essential addition to your minimalist wardrobe. When choosing one of these layering pieces, keep in mind the color palette of your current closet. Choose nude, khaki or gray, depending on the shades you usually wear.

Y.A.S. Tall Crane Printed Kimono Wrap, GBP 70, asos.com

Linen Trench, KRW 119,000, zara.com

Minimalist Fashion Inspiration

For more minimalist fashion inspiration, check out these style and lifestyle bloggers on instagram:

@oraclefox: high-end, minimalist fashion

@i.hyun: earthy, sustainable styling

@yeelaine_: simple, stylish streetwear

Areum Park is changing the way Korean women think about lingerie, one well-fitting bra at a time

“You know when you just feel confident, because you know you’ve got amazing lingerie on?” smiles Areum Park, designer and CEO of Lingerie Taxte, “That’s the feeling I want women to have when they wear my designs.”

Now 28, Busan-native Park made the move to Seoul eight years ago. Although she majored in PR, Park decided to switch to textiles post-graduation and began studying at one of only two lingerie-design academies in the city.

“The first time as an adult I bought myself some underwear that made me feel great, I knew that this is what I wanted to create.”

Park’s interest in women’s fashion started through a blog she kept in her early twenties. “I wrote about many things to do with womens’ lifestyle,” she says, “From clothing, to self-image, to issues about ‘plus-sizing’ in Korea.”

“Korean lingerie often comes as a set,” Areum explains. “But how often are we women actually the same size on the top and the bottom?”

“It’s almost impossible to find commercially produced underwear that really fits our bodies. We’re made to think that we’re the ones shaped strangely, when actually it’s not the case at all.”

Park designs all of her items at her home-cum-studio space in Itaewon, before creating a sample to give to local manufacturers. Simple yet undeniably beautiful, they’re the kind of pieces you’ll want to keep all to yourself.

“Comfort and confidence are the most important to me,” says Park, explaining her preference for Tencel; an environmentally friendly, sustainable fabric that is super soft on the skin. She also places the labels on the outside of her designs.

It’s been two years since Park launched Taxte. Although she gains inspiration from luxury European brands like La Perla, as well as vintage underwear, Park says she wants her pieces to remain as accessible as possible. “I want many women to be able to buy and enjoy my designs. Even if made to order, I’m not interested in hiking my prices.”

“I want wearers to feel comfortable in their own skin,” she says. “No matter their size, I want women to look at themselves and think, ‘Hey, I’m also beautiful.’”

Taxte bras are priced at KRW 38,000, and panties KRW 16,000 – 19,000. Sizes available range from A to D cup/80 – 110. Bespoke sizes are also available.

More Info

Order via the blog
blog.naver.com/taxtetaster
or via email taxtetaster@naver.com
Follow Park on Instagram @taxtetaster

Written by Rhiannon Shepherd

Spring is here and style is in the air. Here are the top five styles you can’t miss this season. No really, you won’t miss these! They’re everywhere right now!

1. The floral dress

I don’t think it’s possible to walk two blocks in Seoul this spring without seeing someone in a calf-length floral dress. It’s the one piece to have this season. Floral dresses embody the feeling of spring, with vibrant patterns and flowing skirts mimicking an oh-so-cool breeze blowing through your hair.

 2. Frayed raw-hem jeans

Irregular length, tattered hems because neat hems are for squares … or circles in this case (because leg openings are circular. Get it? Bad joke?). These jeans pair well with pretty much any kind of shoe, so the trend is bound to stick around until fall, when you can pair them with a cute ankle bootie, too.

3. The slip dress/slip top

Showing a lot of skin above the waist is more of a no-no in Korea. But not to worry, layering is super-in right now. Layer a solid basic under a slip dress to complete a chic, early 2000s look. Don’t feel like wearing a dress? Then a blouse version can be equally as chic!

 4. Exaggerated sleeves

Big flouncy sleeves are in and designers like The Studio K know this! Long gone are the days when too-long sleeves were rolled up to the elbow; now it’s a fashion statement for your sleeves to cascade beyond your wrists.

 5. Irregular button-up blouses

I’ve seen basic blouses this year turned into high fashion by simply skewing them off-shoulder or sporting them backwards. Whichever you choose, make sure to wear it with confidence!

Written and Photographed by Nailah @nerd_n_niceclothes