Korean Crash Course: Street Fashion (Autumn)

It is a well-known fact that Korea is among the most beauty-conscious of all nations. As such, there are some very strict guidelines for what Koreans, especially those in their teens and twenties, are expected to wear in public. Of course, these rules may be violated as long as one does not wish to be asked on a date ever, by anyone (joking...sort of).

Men

• Age 15 - 22: This is a fashion gray zone. The young male may adopt many fashion styles, ranging from preppy to punk. However, all jeans must be skinny jeans.
• Over 22: Option One: Suit. In fact, there is no other option.

Women

• Age 15 - 22: There are two options for the fashionable young lady. The first is what I call Street Stylish. This look generally involves a short, high-waisted skirt, a vest, or similar trendy piece. Required piece: high heels. The second option is Punk Stylish. This look requires skinny jeans and a t-shirt with a graphic design or ironic slogan. While this look can also be paired with high heels for an extra-stylish vibe, it is more often paired with colorful sneakers.
• Age 23-55: Women in this age group should opt for the Sexy Professional look by day but may switch to Street Stylish in the evening. However, Punk Stylish is a bit immature and tends to be out of the question. The key pieces of the Sexy Professional look are a high-waisted, knee-length, form-fitting skirt and high heels.
• Over 55: The fashionable but elderly Korean lady will follow a very strict clothing formula. The woman will wear pants and a t-shirt, and a sweater if it is chilly. Either the pants or the shirt must be patterned. There must be at least one extremely vibrant color involved. If it is a sunny day, the lady may opt for a bedazzled plastic visor to protect her face from the sun (example). Shoes are generally extremely short, chunky heels.
  

Other Tips: Referencing the US with your Wardrobe

• If a baseball cap is worn (on the teenage male or Punk Stylish female), it should be a New York Yankees baseball cap. These can be purchased at any Korean hat stand.
• NYPD gear is also strongly encouraged. This can be purchased in Korea at a variety of locations.
• In fact, any t-shirt referencing an American city is encouraged. While New York is preferable, shirts from such varied places as Indiana and Lancaster, PA have been sighted.

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